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It is too late for the late comers: A response to a so -called “Quranic reciters Group”..

Published

1 year ago

on

Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai

As the saying goes, remember not only to say the right thing in the right place,but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.” Benjamin Fr

And according to Aretha Franklin ” you cannot define just one thing . You can’t just forget all these wonderful and good things that a person has done because one thing didn’t come off the way you thought it should come off.”

The sayings above will serve us as a guide for seriously taking caution when uttering a false accusation as everyone will always get what they deserve at the end.

Mischievous remarks for whatever reason against the person of Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i, could be said to be too late, as the former Governor already stands tall and has gone far beyond the reach of his enemies.

The allegation that El-Rufa’i hates Qur’anic reciters alone clearly shows where the  Quranic reciters group through its spokesperson Sheikh Sidi Ali stand in the eyes of the public.

One might keep on wondering how comes reciting the glorious Quran (a highly rewarding act of Ibadah) became something to be used for worldly gains? Forming an association in the name of Quranic recitation means such “reciters” use it for a purpose other than earning rewards from the Almighty Allah.

Is Quranic recitation a source of earning a living? What is the status of non members who recite the Quran? Again, are their actions and utterances in accordance with the teachings of the Glorious scripture claim to read?.

Without convincing answers, the religious knowledge they claim to have as well as their actions direly need to be examined.

Their utterances and allegations are controversial and inflammatory in nature whereas their body language and outbursts are indirect answers to the questions above.

As such, it reveals clearly what they represent in terms of their character.Their actions are an indirect display of  ignorance with regards to Islamic teachings and political arithmetics.

So, it is considering the dirty contents of the statement issued by the spokesperson of the Quranic  reciters organization by Shiek Sidi Ali describing Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i as divider and who have no place in public service.

Where was this coalition when the Middle Belt Forum alleged that Malam Nasir was working with another group to turn Nigeria into a Muslim country?

They may wish to also refer to another statement by the  Christan Association of Nigeria, CAN Kaduna State chapter around March 2023 to ascertain who are real dividers and who promote religious politics that eventually will lead to losing conscience, compassion and progress.

The gravity of the accusations by the group spokesperson Sheikh Sidi Ali is indeed a serious one because false accusations are worse than backbiting.

It’s certain that this transgression is the most wicked of attacks upon the prestige of a person or believer.

Allah SWA  the most high said ” And whoever commits a fault or a sin, then accuses one innocent, he indeed takes upon himself the burden of calumny and manifest sin”

He also said” surely (as for) those who speak evil of Allah  and his apostle, Allah has cursed them in this world and hereafter, and he has prepared for them a chastisement bringing disgrace “

Similarly, holy prophet Muhammad S.A.W said

“Anyone who falsely accuses a believer, male or female of what is not in him on the day he will be raised, he will remain in Tinat Khabal until he is released from it.”

Rasul S.A.W also said: “Anyone who falsely accuses a believer Allah will imprison him in the pus from sexual organs of prostitutes, until he is released from what he said.”

As the old saying goes, knowledge is power and every Muslim is obligated to seek knowledge regardless of their gender, age and social status .

Before one utters a word let him check and cross check. If Allah decrees goodness for a person, He gives him  the understanding of the religion.

The  Quranic reciters Group needs to know that Islam is not only a belief, but it is also a complete way of life.

It’s the identity that Muslims worldwide must hold firmly and practice strictly,as stipulated in the Glorious Quran.

No matter the situation, a Muslim is a brother to Muslim.

As a religious or community leader, one should be mindful of what comes out of his/her mouth as disgruntled politicians could indirectly use them.

Also, their romances with certain groups of politicians in Kaduna would earn them nothing but loss of conscience and dignity.

Religious groups should not allow themselves to be used for mischief making or achieving selfish political interests.

For instance, the protest by some few elements  under the group who called themselves Secure the Nation that the Senate should not clear Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i for ministerial appointment is obvious.

The issue raised by atrocious members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria as well as mischievous allegations of revocation of land titles and allocating the same to family members is laughable.

From all indications, these are indirect political issues being peddled through so-called Groups and coalitions.

El-rufai seems the most criticized politician in Nigeria for no reason than being bold to take difficult decisions no matter whose ox is gored.

That Notwithstanding, he is admired and respected by right thinking citizens who are guided by their conscience.

As such, whether or not his haters like it or not, he is and will continue to remain not only relevant but a key player in the nation’s political space.

His track record is there for anybody to see. Surely those who watched his seamless screening at the Senate chamber must have realized this. His nomination for ministerial appointment by President Bola Tinubu and eventual screening by the Senate have put  shame to the politico-religious associations .

For now, they have two options, repent and seek forgiveness from Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i and the almighty Allah for  the mischievous allegations that attract Allah’s punishment or continue with what they have started while shame and failure await them at the end of their actions.

Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai wrote in from Kano, Nigeria

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Opinion

Let President Tinubu Rename University of Lagos After Gowon, Not Abuja

Published

4 days ago

on

December 18, 2024

By

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

 

 

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

I was not happy when Northwest University Kano was renamed to Yusuf Maitama Sule University, as student leaders of that University then, we followed the interest of the students who were also not happy with the renaming at that time for one reason; the renaming was politically motivated, to hurt the founder of the institution Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. I was busy mobilising students to protest, the next day I was invited to the DSS for questions where I spent hours and all the people we were mobilising the protest together ran and dissociated themselves from it. I have no option but to plead with the DSS to release me, assuring them that not a single student would protest the government’s action.

The renaming has affected many students who are seeking admission abroad; it’s Northwest University on my transcript and Yusuf Maitama Sule University on my certificate. This is kinda confusing and not good at all.

Politicians should immortalise individuals in their new projects not existing ones. The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is not good for the university’s alumni.

The President should have found a new project or built a new University by naming it after the former Head of State.

I don’t support the idea of playing politics by renaming our universities and this happens mostly in Nigeria.

Imagine waking up renaming the University of Maiduguri to Mohammed Goni University, Yobe State University to Ibrahim Geidam University, the University of Ibadan to Abiola Ajimobi University, the University of Lagos to Lateef Jakande University.

It will be bad for the alumni of the aforementioned universities to come across this.

Why is this only happening in Africa? Look at Makerere University in Uganda, it was established in 1920 but despite Yoweri Mosevenni’s long reign; he didn’t for once attempt to change it to even his name for selfish reasons.

He didn’t think of renaming the Entebbe International Airport after him but in Nigeria, we have this culture of renaming everything after individuals.

If you want to be immortalised, leave a lasting legacy as Gowon did in establishing NYSC. That enough is Okay and better than naming an institution after him.

President Tinubu should have renamed the University of Lagos after Gowon, not Abuja. I’m sure his people will reject this not for any reason but because of the large number of people that will be affected by it.

The University of Abuja Alumni were all crying over this painful decision.

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Opinion

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya: Champion of Civil Society and Good Governance in Northern Nigeria

Published

5 days ago

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December 16, 2024

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Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, is an influential Civil Society figure in Kano State and Northern Nigeria. He is currently serving as the Executive Director, Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), he has dedicated many years of his civil society activism as advocate for the promotion of democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, peace building and women empowerment

Amb. Waiya, holds number of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Master’s in Public International Law at Maryam Abacha, American University, Maradi, and he is currently pursuing a doctor of philosophy at Skyline University, Kano in International Relations

In the course of his career, he held several positions and managed a number of projects. He served as the Director, Alhilal Foundation, from 2003 to 2007, an organization which focused on women empowerment, through basic literacy and skills acquisition. He later coordinated the North West Zonal Office of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Foundation. Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, led and coordinated a number of Local Government Councils Elections Observation missions across 19 Northern states.

In 2011, Waiya managed the Campaign against Drug Abuse under the auspices of Northern Youth Assembly, a youth driven platform with leadership structures in the Nineteen Northern States. He served as Secretary, for both, Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign and Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Child Abuse, a project which was coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser, Child Welfare and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. His involvement in election observation coordination missions and various public engagements, highlights his commitment to civic engagement towards community development, democracy and good governance

Waiya’s extensive experience includes free consultancy support services to numerous Government Ministries and Agencies such as: Kano State Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development, Kano State Ministry for Community and Rural Development, office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Child Welfare, Ministry for Special duties, office of the special adviser, joint security services. He has facilitated numerous training workshops and seminars, impacting his knowledge, skills, experience on the community, particularly for community based organizations

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In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to several key positions, such as the President, of the Kano Civil Society Forum, Chairman of the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks, Convener, Nigeria for Peace Project, Managing partner, United Nigeria Project, Head of Secretariat, Kano Peace Committee, Secretary General, National Action for Women Agenda,(NAWA), chairman, Board of Trustees, Northern Youth Assembly, (Majalisar Matasan Arewa) Fellow, Institute of Security and Strategic Studies, Fellow, Institute of International Peace and Secure Society, Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Financial Management, member, Commission of Inquiry on Missing persons, member, Implementation Committee, on the Recommendations of the Report of the Commission of inquiry on missing persons, member, Commission of Inquiry to investigate, various political violence and cases of missing persons, that occurred in the State from 2015 – 2023, member, Commission of inquiry to investigate protest, arson and destruction of public and private properties that occurred from 1st – 10th August, 2024 Amb. Waiya, served as Consultant on various government projects, such as: Kano State Security Trust Fund, Safe Corridor, Campaign against Drug Abuse, across the 44 Local Government Council Areas. Amb. Waiya”s active participation in peace building, policy advocacy and legislative reform has continued to impact positive change in Kano State, the North and Nigeria at large.

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Opinion

“I Transition to PR and Digital Marketing to Transform Brands Globally” – Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

Published

6 days ago

on

December 15, 2024

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As 2024 comes to a close, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah reflects on his journey from journalism to public relations (PR) and digital marketing. With over a decade of experience in media and communications, Ibrahim’s transition was fueled by a desire to empower businesses—starting with Northern Nigeria but extending globally—to build impactful narratives and achieve sustainable growth.

“Every brand, regardless of location, deserves access to the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world,” Ibrahim says. “My goal has always been to bridge the gap in strategic communication, ensuring that no business is left behind.”

From Journalism to Strategic Communication

Ibrahim’s illustrious journalism career spans over a decade, during which he served as a Senior Reporter at TVC News, covering critical developments, including the Kano State Government House for three successive administrations. His work involved breaking major news stories, producing multimedia content, and engaging audiences through digital platforms.

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“I’ve always been passionate about communication, but I realized I wanted to do more than report stories—I wanted to help brands craft their own,” Ibrahim shares. “That’s what led me to pivot into PR and digital marketing.”

To equip himself for this new journey, Ibrahim pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Master’s in Public Relations from Bayero University, Kano. He further honed his expertise with a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration and a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Skills Institute. These credentials underscore his commitment to mastering the art of strategic communication.

Empowering Brands Through Ayrah Media Concept

As the CEO of Ayrah Media Concept (AMC), Ibrahim leads a PR and creative agency that provides businesses with tailored solutions, including PR consulting, social media management, corporate campaigns, and digital marketing.

“My vision is to empower brands to connect with their audiences, tell compelling stories, and achieve global relevance,” Ibrahim explains. “Through AMC, we’re showing businesses—whether in Northern Nigeria or beyond—that they can reach new heights with the right strategies.”

In 2024, AMC worked on several impactful campaigns, including Ibrahim’s role as a Lead Consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, where he developed and executed PR and communication strategies to amplify the project’s impact.

Changing Perceptions and Building Bridges

Transitioning into PR and digital marketing came with challenges, including shifting perceptions about its value.

“Many businesses see PR and digital marketing as optional rather than essential,” Ibrahim says. “But the results are transformative. Strategic communication is not just about visibility; it’s about building trust, credibility, and lasting connections with your audience.”

This philosophy drives Ibrahim’s approach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes—whether local startups or established corporations—can access high-quality PR and marketing services.

Looking Ahead

Ibrahim’s vision for the future extends far beyond regional boundaries. While his roots and passion lie in Northern Nigeria, his focus is on creating strategies that resonate globally.

“Brands in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, or even New York share a common goal: to connect with people and make an impact,” he says. “My mission is to ensure that every business, regardless of size or location, has the tools and strategies to achieve that.”

In 2025, Ibrahim plans to document his professional journey in a book that will explore his experiences as a journalist and PR expert, offering insights into the evolving landscape of communication and its role in business success.

A Message of Gratitude

As he reflects on the year, Ibrahim expresses his gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “I’m incredibly thankful to my mentors, collaborators, and clients who have believed in my vision. Together, we’ve shown that impactful communication has the power to transform lives and businesses.”

With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is poised to lead the way in redefining PR and digital marketing, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.

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