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2023: Don’t Dream About Muslim-Muslim Ticket,Christian-Christian Ticket,Northern Christian Elders To Tinubu, Others

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A group, Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has described as insensitive and selfish, thoughts of fielding a Muslim-Muslim ticket for presidency in the 2023 general elections, warning that such moves will be massively resisted.

NOSCEF expressed this in a statement, signed by its chairman, Engineer Ejoga Oyinehi Inalegwu, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday December 14, 2021.

Tinubu  Commissions Kano Anti-Corruption Office
“The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) read with concerns the reported meeting of a frontline politician with some Northern Elders, advocating a Muslim/Muslim ticket, if given the Presidential ticket and many days after, the report has not been refuted.

“We wonder which Northern Elders were in the said meeting.
Let us recall the Chief Abiola Alhaji Kingibe Muslim-Muslim ticket that won the election in a military imposed two-party system in 1993. Majority of Nigerians, including myself voted for that ticket because, a vote for that ticket was a vote for fairness, equity, justice and power rotation between North and South, South East and North East,” the statement said.

They submitted that at the previous election, Alhaji Shehu Shagari (North West)/Dr. Ekwueme (South East) ruled Nigeria and Abiola/Kingibe therefore, meant power shifting between North and South and in the North, power shifting from North West to North East and in the South, from South West to South East.

“Remember there were no other alternatives since it was a two party system.

“Therefore, the same injustice, inequity, marginalization that Nigerians fought against to vote a Muslim–Muslim ticket cannot now be promoted by voting same Muslim-Muslim or Christian- Christian ticket,” it said.

They explained that Nigerians in 1993, bent over backward to vote and affirm with one voice, that the ill of religious and regional differences were more tolerable than injustice, inequity and marginalization.

“Northerners across religious lines voted for Chief Abiola from the south, and expected that thereafter that it would only be fair, for power to shift back to North East or North Central.

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“The voting pattern re-echoed Fayemi’s saying that “ unity cannot endure where injustice, marginalization and inequity thrives”. It was a vote against injustice and marginalization,” they recalled.

NOSCEF said that it is deeply concerned about this kite being flown again.

“When we remember the speculated rift between Senator Bukola Saraki and the clique that had pressed in 2015 for a Buhari/Tinubu Muslim-Muslim ticket, which Saraki and many like-minded patriots had considered insensitive in the Nigerian state.

“Linking it with the North West, would remind observing Nigerians, who have seen how a similar insensitivity has deepened the divide and mistrust in the North West state,” they pointed out.

The group said that they had identified with the President in his call for unity and therefore, condemn in strong terms, any move that will further aggravate the lines of divide for selfish political gains at the expense of a peaceful and united Nigeria.

“We appeal to all Nigerians across party, regional, ethnic and religious divides to rise up and mobilize the citizenship against any inconsiderate politician or political grouping, seeking to promote exclusion and marginalization of any section of our country.

“Those that do not wish Nigeria well have no business seeking its leadership,” they warned.

They added that such politicians will make every attempt to manipulate Nigerians as a people, through double talks and deceit but, “we trust that God who put us together for a great nation, will defeat them in all their antics/craftiness and bring to pass the expectations of true and patriotic Nigerians seeking a truly united and prosperous Nigeria.”

They therefore, tasked Nigerians to pray that anyone who plans to rise to power in Nigeria, by fueling the embers of discrimination, using the instrumentation of religious ethnic differences will fail, because God is greater and wiser than any manipulation of man.

“NOSCEF being mindful of the various crisis that has bedeviled our nation to date calls on all Nigerians to be vigilante and prepared to defeat the enemies to our peaceful co-existence without regard to party affiliation and persuasion.

“Remember that loyalty to the nation Nigeria, ranks far above loyalty to any party.

“The nation is in dire need of a selfless, considerate, sensitive, honest, transparent leader who will unite, bind, heal the wounds that have posed a great danger to our corporate existence as a nation, integrate and foster lasting bonds of unity of our dear country.

“We need politicians across party lines and all peace loving Nigerians across religious, regional and ethnic divides to reject politicians sowing seeds of further polarization and work for/align with inclusiveness, unity, equity, fairness, justice.

“This might even entail going against regional and party affiliations to drive home the point that power is giving in trust for the good of the people not for self centered ambition.

“Anyone that is seeking the highest political office of the land at the expense of the peace the nation and building of tolerance amongst the diversity of our country, cannot lay claim to being a patriot and would therefore have no business being encouraged or voted to such a position.

“NOSCEF enjoins Nigerians to continue to pray for our country,” it concluded.

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Prominent Kano Politician Ibrahim Little Sues Danagundi, Ibn Sina Over Hisbah Establishment

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A chieftain and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Ali Amin “Little,” has filed a legal action at the Kano State High Court challenging the establishment of an Independent Hisbah body in the state.

It will be recalled that Little had earlier written to the concerned parties, urging them to suspend the move in the interest of peace and stability in the state. A copy of the letter, addressed to former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, was also sent to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf; Baffa Babba Danagundi; Haruna Ibn Sina; and the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to his Executive Assistant and Media Aide, Adnan Mukhtar, Little decided to seek legal redress following what he described as the respondents’ persistence and insistence on proceeding with the establishment of the Independent Hisbah.

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“Dissatisfied with their recent actions and continued insistence on moving forward with the establishment process, Little approached the Kano State High Court to seek redress,” Mukhtar said.

Those listed as respondents in the suit include the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, the Kano State House of Assembly, the Attorney General of Kano State, the Kano State Hisbah Board, Baffa Babba Danagundi, and Haruna Ibn Sina.

In an official statement posted on his Facebook page, Little said:

“I have today instructed my lawyers to file an action challenging the establishment of an Independent Hisbah in Kano State. This follows my recent letter to the parties concerned and their insistence on proceeding with the establishment of the Independent Hisbah.

 

“I believe this move is an attempt to disrupt our peaceful coexistence at a time when the state is facing security challenges.

 

“The peace of Kano State remains our utmost priority.

Kano Sabuwa, In sha Allahu.”

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Commissioning of Kano State Online Media Chapel Marks Historic Milestone in Journalism

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By: Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo, ANIPR

The commissioning of the Kano State Online Media Chapel at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano State Council Secretariat marked a defining moment in the history of journalism practice in Kano State. The event reflects the continuous evolution of the media profession in response to digital transformation and modern communication realities.

The ceremony attracted prominent personalities from journalism and government circles, underscoring the importance of online media as a vital component of information dissemination, public enlightenment, and democratic engagement in contemporary society.

NUJ National President’s Remarks
In his keynote address, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, described the commissioning as a progressive step aligned with global best practices in journalism, where digital platforms now play a central role in shaping public opinion and narratives.

He emphasized that the Online Media Chapel was not established merely for recognition, but to instill discipline, professionalism, and ethical compliance among online journalists operating within Kano State and beyond.

“Journalism remains a noble profession that demands responsibility, truthfulness, and accountability, regardless of whether it is practiced through print, broadcast, or online platforms,” Abdullahi stated. He cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms for misinformation, character assassination, and unverified reports, warning that such practices pose serious threats to societal peace, national security, and the credibility of the profession.

The NUJ President charged members of the Online Media Chapel to see themselves as ambassadors of responsible journalism, committed to accuracy, balance, and fairness in all their reports. He assured that the national body would continue to provide guidance, support, and policy direction to ensure online journalists are fully integrated into the union’s professional framework.

Kano State Government’s Position
Delivering his remarks, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described the commissioning as a timely intervention in the state’s information ecosystem.

He noted that the Kano State Government recognizes the influence of online media in shaping public perception and applauded the NUJ for organizing practitioners under a structured and accountable platform.

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The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment under the leadership of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, FNISE, to sustaining a healthy relationship with the media as partners in governance and development. He urged online journalists to use their platforms to promote peace, unity, and developmental initiatives, stressing that responsible reporting remains a key pillar for social stability and economic growth.

“Freedom of expression must go hand in hand with respect for the law, ethical standards, and cultural values,” Waiya emphasized, assuring the chapel of the ministry’s readiness to engage constructively with practitioners to ensure accurate dissemination of government policies and programs.

NUJ Kano State Council’s Perspective
Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the NUJ Kano State Council, Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, welcomed guests and described the day as historic for the council and online media practitioners.

He explained that the decision to establish the Online Media Chapel was borne out of the need to accommodate the growing number of journalists operating on digital platforms within Kano State.

Comrade Dederi noted that the chapel would serve as a platform for capacity building, ethical regulation, and collective engagement, aimed at improving the welfare and professional competence of its members. He reiterated the council’s commitment to fostering unity among all chapels under the NUJ umbrella, emphasizing that journalism thrives best in an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect.

Online Media Chapel’s Commitment
Speaking on behalf of online media practitioners, the Kano State Chairman of the Online Media Chapel, Comrade Abubakar Abdulkadir Dangambo, described the commissioning as a dream fulfilled and a turning point for online journalism in Kano State.

He expressed gratitude to the NUJ leadership at both state and national levels for formally recognizing online journalists as critical stakeholders in the media industry.

Comrade Dangambo pledged that members of the chapel would operate with professionalism, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility to the public. He emphasized that the chapel would prioritize training, mentorship, and internal regulation to ensure members uphold the ethics of journalism at all times.

He further stressed the collective resolve of members to combat fake news, hate speech, and sensational reporting that could undermine social harmony, calling on online journalists to see the chapel as a platform for unity, self-discipline, and continuous learning in line with global journalism standards.

Conclusion
The atmosphere of the event reflected shared optimism and commitment by all stakeholders toward strengthening journalism practice in the digital era. Participants expressed confidence that the Online Media Chapel would contribute positively to professional development, public trust, and credible information dissemination.

The establishment of the chapel was widely acknowledged as a proactive response to the challenges and opportunities presented by digital journalism. The commissioning ceremony concluded with a collective call for ethical journalism, unity among practitioners, and sustained engagement in advancing the role of the media in national development.

The Kano State Online Media Chapel now stands as a symbol of progress, professionalism, and adaptation, reflecting the enduring relevance of journalism in a rapidly changing digital world.

 

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Sharada Highlights Africa’s Security Concerns at Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum

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Hon. Sohan Dasgupta, Former Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, with Hon. Shaaban Sharada.

 

 

As the 31st Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum (PI-SF) concluded, participants exchanged ideas on pressing global security challenges and explored actionable solutions aimed at making the world a safer place. The forum brought together lawmakers, security experts, and policymakers from across the globe to deliberate on strategies for peace, intelligence cooperation, and stability.

Speaking after the meeting, Hon. Shaaban Ibrahim Sharada, former Chairman of Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence, emphasized the importance of leveraging such platforms to address Africa’s unique security concerns.

Sharada, who also serves as the Forum’s Director for African Parliamentarians Engagements and a member of its steering committee, noted that discussions at the event were particularly relevant to Nigeria and the wider African continent during this challenging period.

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“I engaged in meaningful discussions on peace and stability in Africa, particularly in my country, during this trying moment,” Sharada stated. He expressed optimism that the knowledge gained at the forum would be communicated back to stakeholders within his jurisdiction, fostering collaboration with PI-SF to strengthen Africa’s security architecture and promote global understanding.

Sharada said there is the need for African leaders to take advantage of international platforms like PI-SF to build partnerships that can help tackle terrorism, insurgency, and other transnational threats. He stressed that Africa’s security challenges require not only local solutions but also global cooperation, given their impact on international peace and stability.

The Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum has become a key gathering for legislators and security professionals worldwide, providing a space to share experiences and develop strategies to counter evolving threats. With Sharada’s active role in bridging African parliamentarians and the forum, Nigeria’s voice continues to resonate in global security dialogues.

 

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