Opinion

My Parting Point With Buhari

Published

2 years ago

November 25, 2021

To all those who insulted me because of what I wrote on Buhari on 17th September 2016, apology accepted! Allah ya yafe mana baki daya 😁.

……….

Marzuq Ungogo

Before it’s too late I believe we should all add our voices to happenings in Nigeria. Perhaps the presidency will feel the 2019 continuity agenda is threatened and wake up from this slumber. It’s apparent these days that either the president is shielded away from knowing what is happening to the country and its people or he knows it and decided not to do anything about it. And before I proceed, let me make it clear to the “oversabis” who will start ascribing meaning and judgement that Nigeria is greater than all of us and to many of us altruistic motives exist. Let’s go into some of the things making many of us hopeless these days;

1. Too much ado about the past; a week can’t pass these days without a top government official telling us why Nigeria is where it is. For Allah’s sake we all know how it is, otherwise we wouldn’t have changed it. Why worry us with “16 years” nonsense excuse all the time??? Is the government suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder of dwelling on the past?? What are you doing to provide the change you promised? When will we move and look forward? Are we still campaigning for the 2015 election??

Plot to remove Jigawa Speaker thickens, as serving Senator from the state is fingered in the process

2. Confusion and incoherence; this government has more than 10 times so far contradicted itself. What ministers tell us is different from what Femi Adesina will say. Garba Shehu too can contradict Adesina. And above all Buhari himself will say completely different thing. From China trip to updates on Twitter, Nigerians have been subjected to either misinformation or confusing information on almost everything. Nothing is clear.

This at best shows confusion or incoherence on part of the government at best or at worst insincerity. But what is most annoying is the several reckless statements devoid of logic or reasoning made by several ministers. I have since decided not to take Audu Ogbe and many others in this administration seriously anymore. They ain’t just worthy of my time. I am avoiding hypertension.

3. The economic team; Buhari formed economic team late and he himself has several times mentioned that the country doesn’t need it. That means the president is ignorant of the current economic practice globally and largely oblivious of the dire situation in the country. But then he went ahead anyway to form the team. Why then form a team the country doesn’t need??? But then the economic team itself is made up of the Vice President and so many other people we know ain’t economists or people we are confident can meaningfully chart a way forward for us. This shows unseriousness to the core.

4. Economic plan; so far there is no written or documented long and short term economic plan for the country that is widely known. I want to believe the ambiguous article published by minister of finance in pages of newspapers can’t pass as an economic plan. The policies themselves made on banning imports ain’t real policies per say because there is no roadmap for food sufficiency of time limit. We just woke up and saw laws edicted by presidency and supported by other arms of government. I think policy will include a roadmap and strategic plan. Of course the story of rice from Kebbi and that of Dangote mill is encouraging. But are they policies or part of the roadmap or merely dividends of a programme??? Ain’t Dangote an opportunistic capitalist sensible enough to invest and on the long run we will know he’s doing it for profit not charity.???

We all learnt that recession is often unavoidable and no one can prevent what has already occurred. But sincerely we feel it’s either not managed the right way or we are simply not told. Either way, it’s wrong. The government in democracy doesn’t only need to do the right thing but it’s also its duty to make it known to stakeholders who gave it the mandate and trust -the citizens. But even if we were not told, if there is something “tangible” we would have touched or felt it.

5. Injustice; many of us didn’t vote or worked for Buhari’s success for him to turn Nigeria into Canada within weeks. We all believe he’s “Mai Gaskiya”, and at least justice will prevail

We all know the shortcomings of Nigerian legal system. But certain injustices are not necessarily doing of the judiciary. Nepotism is still pronounced and those of us who know or learnt about happenings in the villa are aware of the untouchable family and friends circle created by the president.

The situation is the same in Almost all parastatals and ministries. While the children of the poor were encouraged to farm and forced to register with N-power and its 20,000 salary the often less brilliant children of the elites are secretly recruited into CBN, FIRS and so on. The presidency without sensitivity to the trust people have it even had the audacity to refute the claim which everybody knows is truth. No apology so far, only rainin hankali

I am not saying government should employ everybody, but when all vacancies are advertised and clear transparent process ensued in all employments, people will have more confidence in the government and the democratic process. Quite alright many children of the poor who studied in Sokoto may not outshine graduates of Surrey in recruitment exams, but the fact that a merit based system is in place will instill hope and people will work harder.

6. Slow pace; in a fast developing world, any player who wants to catch up has to do it at an accelerated pace. We claim to be catching up to compete globally and fail to produce results. All projections made are in years the government is long forgotten so that if they don’t come to pass no one will be blamed. I am not advocating rush work, but certain things we all know are better at a fast pace. Why will it always has to take us long to accomplish what more developed and less developed countries do at a shorter time???

7. Wrong Approach; sustainable development is wholistic. Although certain things like power drive development in all sectors, growing individual sectors in a wholistic manner is what will translate in to better Nigeria. But even energy and power that would have stimulated economic growth are yet to get the president’s deserved attention beyond the mystical “body language”. Sectors like health, environment, technology and aviation are all left to collapse completely with attendant consequences. What he hear daily from education ministry so far is a ban on post-UTME. The president promised free tertiary science education, it’s 3 months to the end of the year 2016 and nothing is seen.

These are just some and there are so many others. I believe we can’t #StandWithBuhari anymore, we can only stand for Nigeria and ensure right thing is done. I also know if Buhari leads by example, takes full responsibility, ensure justice and show more seriousness, people will change. That’s just where the change should begin.

Opinion

Why They Are Afraid Of Ganduje

Published

2 days ago

April 23, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

By Abubakar Umar

While preparing to pen this write up I just scrolled the news and read that the Kano High court that ordered the suspension of the APC National chairman Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje have vacated the order pending the determination of the suit on 30th April.

From the look of things and with his glowing political clout since he joined politics in the second Republic Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje the former Governor of Kano state is giving sleepless nights to many politicians particularly from his home state of Kano where the melting pot of Nigerian politics emanated from.

No vex his emergence as the National chairman of Nigerias ruling party has brought down the evil machinations of some politicians who sees Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as a stumbling block to their political ambition at the national stage .

The administrator cum politician as many people will attest to knew very well that interms of experience and political calculations he has no match especially from the North West political zone where the National chairman hails from .

They know very well that the national working committee of the party and President Asiwaju Bola Ahmad Tinubu have done the right calculation by placing an elder politician and a two term Governor of the most difficult state to Govern in the whole Nigeria as the chairman of the Nigerian ruling party.

They knew very well that his stature has made him one of the most visible and hardworking APC National chairman since its formation in the year 2013.

The conscripted script being played by agents of destabilzation in order to make the ruling party irrelevant can only be done if they try to use some political zealots with the aim of making the National Chairman look like someone who can not sail through their evil conspiracy .

It was understood that the only way the NNPP Governent in Kano will change it’s political nest is to cut down the tree that is supposed to give it a shade but instead of humbling themselves and submit themselves to the party’s National Secretariat in which Dr. Ganduje is the leader they starte beating about the bush like a child’s play.

Dr.Ganduje had since humbled them politically and by visiting the state on January 25 ,2024 to invite them to the ruling party without vengeance .

He extended the hand of friendship that politics is is the ability to make sacrifices and compromise .

It was that compromise and sacrifice that made some of his political foes make accomplishments they never dream to achieve but still they are not grateful with the his sacrifice and patience .

Today the courts have vindicated by Dr.Abdullahi Umar and the APC national stalwarts across the country who are comfortable with the leadership style of Dr.Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Opinion

Celebrating Emir Sulu -Gambari at 84

Published

3 days ago

April 22, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari ,Emir Of Ilorin

By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo

Today the highly revered Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu -Gambari CFR marks 84 years birthday.The former Jurist ascended the throne of his forefathers on Monday and he was also born on Monday. What a coincidence!

Being alive up to the age of 84 is a rare opportunity for anyone who really appreciate the homongous favour of the Almighty.The Chancellor of Bayero University Kano is an example of an Emir with a digital disposition and inclination.He believes so much in the progress of individuals and the entire Ilorin Emirate.

Dwelling so much about his career as a retired Justice of Court of Appeal may not be necessary as many are aware of it.The Emir stands out as a man who had made Ilorin as a City to move away from the old ways of doing things even in terms of education. He has encouraged scholarship in all ramifications. Be it in Islamic perspective and western education. Emir Sulu Gambari is the first University graduate to have ascended the throne in more two centuries of Ilorin Emirate history .

Before his ascension to the throne of his progenitors, Ilorin had a handful of professors but today they’re as many as possible.He has achieved a lot but you know traditionally such may not be made public.

Mai Martaba has provided purposeful and impactful leadership, this can be captured in the words of Abubakar Imam, the National Secretary of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union IEDPU thus:

“The Emir has always taken care of the welfare and wellbeing of the ordinary people of his Emirate in words and actions. For instance, he initiated a Fund through which money was raised to address the immediate needs of the downtrodden people and residents of the community. The Fund was chaired by the Danmansani of Ilorin, Engr Sulaiman Ayinde Yahaya Alapansanpa, FNSE, while the immediate past National President of IEDPU, Alhaji Aliyu Otta Uthman, fsi, was the Alternate Chairman. Over 15,000 individuals from all the nooks and crannies of Ilorin Emirate benefited from the Fund during the course of the perilous COVID-19 epidemic, which rocked the humanity about five years ago. It will also be recalled that the Emir purchased 400 bundles of corrugated iron sheet, which was distributed to the less privileged members of the community who were affected by a devastating rainstorm in 2021. The then IEDPU President was given the task of getting the item delivered at the footsteps of the victims of the natural disaster”

Before the coming of Emir of Ilorin, University of Ilorin was not a place an Ilorin indigene can gain admission into easily.In fact, only few had opportunity to school there at that time.But Emir Sulu -Gambari and other stakeholders ensured that an indigenous Vice Chancellor was giving opportunity to lead the Ivory tower for the first time,in person of Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem, the Talba of Ilorin Emirate .May Allah continue to grant Professor good health and plenty baraka. Professor Oba cannot even mention all those he has assisted, because the numbers are huge.

Today, there is fairness in the issue of admission into university of Ilorin.The standard was established by the administration of Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem and has been sustained by his successors.

Eminent sons and daughters of Ilorin Emirate are already sending their warmest messages to the Emir.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has rejoiced with the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of Kwara state traditional rulers Council

The Emir, according to the Governor, “has remained a father to all while also deploying his rich experiences and networks to support not just the people of the Ilorin Emirate but also the people of the state as a whole.

The Governor prays to Allaah to give His Royal Highness good health and long life, and continue to uphold him upon goodness in his service to the people of the Emirate”

The Turaki of Ilorin Emirate and Senator representing Kwara Central senatorial district, Senator Saliu Mustapha has also congratulated the His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary

Senator Mustapha described the revered Emir who is a retired eminent jurist as “an ambassador of peace with an admirable style of leadership”

He affirmed that since the respected monarch’s ascension to the throne of his forefathers in 1995 as the 11th Emir of Ilorin, he has brought a lot of development and glamour to the entire State.

While extolling the emir’s humility and modernized vision for his domain and the country at large, Senator Mustapha prays God Almighty to grant the royal father more years of worthy service to his people and humanity in good health.

Furthermore,Honourable Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency also greeted the Emir “His Royal Highness has exemplified wisdom, compassion, and integrity throughout his reign, serving as a beacon of hope for the people of Ilorin and beyond. His visionary leadership has brought about tremendous growth and development, with a keen focus on fostering unity and inclusivity amongst his subjects. His unwavering dedication to our collective well-being is a testament to his selflessness and genuine concern for his people”

Under his guidance, Ilorin has witnessed a remarkable transformation, with strides made in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and socio-economic development. His Royal Highness’s commitment to fostering a harmonious and prosperous society has played a pivotal role in shaping the Ilorin of today – a thriving community that takes pride in its rich cultural heritage while embracing the promise of a brighter future”

Similarly, A former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulwahab Oladimeji Issa has felicitated the Emir of Ilorin.He extolled the Emir thus,”his uncommon leadership qualities” and prayed that God grants him many more years of service to the people of Ilorin emirate and Nigeria.

“As you mark your 84th birthday anniversary which comes up today Monday, April 22nd, 2024, I write, on behalf of my family to extend warm felicitations to Your Highness.

“Only recently, you marked twenty-eight years of unquantified success on the throne as the Emir of Ilorin. Your uncommon leadership qualities and evident faith in the peace, unity, progress, and prosperity of the Ilorin emirate and beyond, have combined to make you one of the most highly respected monarchs in Nigeria today.

“As you continue to use your exalted throne to build bridges of friendship and harmony across Kwara state and the nation, it is my prayer that Almighty Allah grants you many more years of abounding health, prosperity, and enduring fulfillment,” he added.

Hajiya Arinola Lawal also felicitates Emir of Ilorin on 84th birthday anniversary,
“I extend my warmest wishes and heartfelt prayers to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin, on the occasion of his birthday

I beseech Allah to grant His Royal Highness a long and prosperous reign on the throne of his fathers, filled with peace, stability, and blessings for the Ilorin Emirate”

Meanwhile, LT Col Ramat Suleiman also joined the league of prominent Ilorin Emirate sons and daughters to celebrate the Emir Sulu -Gambari at 84.She described the Emir as a father to all and a lover of peace.The first Ilorin Emirate woman to have attained the rank of LT Col in the military extolled the Emir as a leader with great vision and prayed to Allah to grant him good health and more years ahead on the throne of his forefathers.

Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem,Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, Honourable Moshood Mustapha,Former Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Hajiya Tundun Alanamu, Barrister Oba Magaji and others have also greeted the Emir at 84.

By way of conclusion,without mincing words Ilorin Emirate has witnessed tremendous transformation under the leadership of Emir Sulu -Gambari in all facets of the Emirate since his ascension in 1995.I wish the Emir a prosperous, healthy and pious 84th birthday anniversary and more years ahead Insha Allah.

Sheeeehuuuu.Walahu ya’simuka minna nas

abdurraheemsaaddembo@gmail.com

Opinion

For Adamu A Zango:Simple Solution To Your Compounded Problems

Published

5 days ago

April 21, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Adam A Zango

Tijjani Muhammad Musa

I usually don’t like writing on celebrities except if the issue borders on religious matters. Even so, it’s not any trivial matter that makes my ink flow. For me, talking to stars is like calling on someone who has taken a turn.

But once in a while, I do make an exception when it comes to situations that need prompt intervention towards saving a soul that’s heading to the edge of the abyss. I have succeeded on one or two cases though. AlhamdulilLaah

And lately, with so much misfortunes befalling guys in the Arewa entertainment industry, most especially Kannywood, one can’t help but smell the unpleasant stench in the air, and thus whiff the hand to ward it off.

This brings us to the latest trending issue of Adamu A Zango’s depression crisis. Those concerned about him have been raising alarm on social media of an impending doom that could likely befall him if he is not counselled on time.

Well, it’s that serious. Many say he needs help urgently and beg those who can to approach him and save actor cum musical icon from himself. Those close to him should as a matter of urgency do. For us from afar, we can only submit thus:

The perfect solution to Adamu A. Zango’s problem and dilemma much as some wouldn’t want to hear it can be found in the Holy Qur’an Surah Al-Anbiya (21) verses 83-84 where Allaah SWT Says:

83. And (remember) Ayyûb (Job), when he cried to his Lord: “Verily, distress has seized me, and You are the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy.”

84. So We answered his call, and We removed the distress that was on him, and We restored his family to him (that he had lost) and the like thereof along with them as a mercy from Ourselves and a Reminder for all those who worship us.

Again relate to the same Surah Q21:87-88 which brings forth how Yunus AS was able to free himself from utter hopelessness into Allaah’s Grace and Mercy. Note the Promise of Allaah SWT to grant others who worship Him similar grace if they should repeat same du’a.

So Adamu, first you must prepare your mind by connecting to your Lord, sincerely seeking His Graceful intervention in your matters. How? Sincere repentance is key and subsequently seek for forgiveness for all your bad deeds.

Next abstain from all acts of disobedience to Allaah. Thereafter, perform 2 raka’at of Salah, after which you should engage in DhikrAllaah, reciting the du’a of Ayub AS in Q21:83 and Yunus AS in Q21:87

Finally, form the habit of reciting the Qur’an and listening to it on a regular basis. Always perform your 5 daily obligatory prayers in congregation and keep off anybody or anything that will constitute a distraction to your focus on your developing a close relationship with your Lord Allaah AWJ.

If you can take these few simple, but highly challenging steps and implement them in your life, it is a guarantee that you will be free from all these stresses and distresses to a life of unprecedented peace bi iznilLaah..

But as a Kannywood and Hausa music celebrity, this solution though simple as it may seem might be the most difficult thing for you to adopt. And I believe you know why. And that sadly is where the problem truly lies.

Unless one is ready to embrace a change of lifestyle from his or her norm to Allaah’s laid out norms, things in life will keep challenging their peace and tranquility of the person.

Hope this helps .

Tijjani Muhammad Musa is the chairman Association of Nigerian Authors Kano branch