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Amnesty International Demands Immediate Release of Shafi’u Tureta Over Social Media Post on Sokoto Governor

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Amnesty International has issued a fresh demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Shafi’u Tureta, who was arrested and allegedly unlawfully detained on the orders of Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu. Tureta’s arrest followed his reposting of a viral video showing a lavish birthday party held for the governor’s wife, which has sparked a heated debate about freedom of expression in Nigeria.

According to Amnesty International, on August 26, 2024, Tureta was hastily arraigned before a Sokoto magistrate court and subsequently remanded in prison. The human rights organization alleges that the process was rushed, suggesting it is part of a broader plan to keep Tureta indefinitely detained as punishment for exercising his right to free speech. Amnesty described the action as a clear attempt to stifle dissent and suppress criticism of the government.

Tureta’s reposting of the video, which had already gone viral before he shared it, appears to be the primary reason for his arrest. The video, which reportedly depicted an extravagant celebration, has been a source of controversy, with many online users criticizing the lavish display of wealth during a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship. Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration, however, has taken a heavy-handed approach by targeting Tureta, a move Amnesty International says is emblematic of a growing intolerance towards dissent.

Amnesty International strongly condemned the actions of the Sokoto state government, calling Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s crackdown on critics “frightening” and unacceptable in a democratic society. “No one should be punished solely for expressing an opinion that is contrary to that of the government or its officials,” the organization stated, adding that the governor’s actions are in direct violation of fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression.

The human rights group expressed deep concern that Tureta’s detention is part of a broader pattern of silencing dissent in Sokoto state. Amnesty called on the Nigerian authorities to ensure that individuals are not punished for peacefully expressing their views, regardless of how critical they may be of those in power.

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“The targeting of Shafi’u Tureta and other critics by the Sokoto state government is nothing short of an attempt to silence dissent and suppress freedom of expression, particularly of those who hold and express views critical of the government,” Amnesty International said in a statement.

The organization urged the Nigerian government to uphold its international obligations, particularly in protecting the rights to freedom of expression and opinion. It also called for greater transparency in the handling of Tureta’s case and for the release of any other individuals who may have been wrongfully detained for similar reasons.

The case has sparked outrage on social media, with activists and citizens alike calling for Tureta’s immediate release and condemning the Sokoto state government’s actions as an abuse of power. Many have expressed concerns over the growing climate of fear for those who speak out against the government in Nigeria, warning that such actions set a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression in the country.

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Governor Yusuf Signs Laws Establishing Four New Agencies in Kano

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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has signed into law four landmark bills that establish new agencies designed to strengthen institutional frameworks and accelerate sustainable development across the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

The newly signed laws provide for the establishment of the following agencies:

1. Kano State Protection Agency (KASPA)

2. Kano State Signage and
Advertisement Agency (KASIAA)

3. Kano State Information and Communication Technologies Development Agency (KASITDA)

4. Kano State Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (KASMEDA)

These laws, which are now part of the Kano State legal framework, are expected to stimulate innovation, support small businesses, regulate signage and advertising, and enhance public protection and service delivery.

Governor Yusuf described the signing as a significant step toward realizing his administration’s vision of a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant Kano.

He emphasized that the new agencies will play a crucial role in job creation, investment attraction, and the efficient implementation of government initiatives.

“Our mission is to lay a solid foundation for a greater Kano. These laws go beyond policy — they are key instruments of transformation that will help drive our development agenda,” the Governor stated.

He also issued a strong warning that violations of the provisions of these laws will be met with strict penalties, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring compliance.

The establishment of these agencies reflects Governor Yusuf’s continued efforts to reform public institutions, improve governance, and position Kano as a leading center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth.

 

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Ganduje Welcomes Former Kano SSG and NNPP Members into APC

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Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially received prominent members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) who have defected to the APC. The announcement was made through a statement shared by Aminu Dahiru, Special Assistant to Dr. Ganduje, on his Facebook page.

Among the notable figures welcomed into the APC fold are Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South; Rt. Hon. Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, a member of the House of Representatives for Rano/Kibiya/Bunkure constituencies; and Dr. Baffa Bichi, the former Secretary to the Kano State Government (SSG). Also joining the APC are Hon. Badamasi Ayuba, a former member of the House of Representatives for Danbatta/Makoda constituencies.

Other defectors include Hon. Abdullahi Sani Rogo, Rt. Hon. Zubairu Hamza Masu, Hon. Muhammad Diggol, Hon. Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada, and Hon. Abbas Sani Abbas, further strengthening the APC’s political base in Kano State.

Dr. Ganduje expressed his enthusiasm for the new members, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration within the party. The defection of these influential politicians is seen as a strategic move to bolster the APC’s presence and influence in Kano State ahead of upcoming political engagements.

The statement highlighted the APC’s commitment to inclusivity and its readiness to welcome individuals dedicated to the party’s vision and goals. With the addition of these prominent figures, the APC aims to consolidate its position as a leading political force in the region.

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This development marks a shift in Kano’s political landscape, as the APC continues to attract key players from rival parties, further solidifying its dominance in the state.

 

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11 Million Nigerians living With Diabetes-Medical Expert

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A medical expert from Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Prof. Zubairu Iliyasu, has said that more than 11 million people are currently living with diabetes in Nigeria, with many more remaining undiagnosed.

Iliyasu cited recent statistics during his keynote address at the 14th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Association of Clinical Endocrinologists of Nigeria (ACEN), on Thursday in Kano.

The conference, themed “Endocrinology and Public Health”, brought together medical experts from across Nigeria to discuss the increasing prevalence of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases in Nigeria and Africa.

Iliyasu emphasised the urgent need for widespread public sensitisation on adopting healthier lifestyles to combat the growing threats of diabetes and obesity.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Professor Emeritus, Musa Borodo, lamented the high cost of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

He underscored the importance of strategies aimed at reducing the burden of illnesses such as diabetes and obesity.

According to him, the conference will help fine-tune efforts toward public enlightenment and disease prevention.

In his address, the President of ACEN, Dr Williams Balogun, called on the government and stakeholders to invest more resources in combating non-communicable diseases.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to developing effective strategies to tackle the growing health challenge.

This meeting will unveil a variety of ideas and research aimed at ensuring that the challenges of diabetes and obesity are thoroughly addressed,” he said.

Declaring the conference open, the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran, described the gathering as timely.

He pledged the state government’s willingness to partner with medical associations like ACEN in the fight against diabetes, obesity, and other public health challenges.

He urged participants to develop actionable resolutions to curb the alarming rise in diabetes and obesity nationwide.

The conference, which attracted participants from across the federation, aimed to present innovative ideas and research findings toward addressing the twin challenges of diabetes and obesity in Nigeria.

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