The Peoples Daily Newspaper has announced the death of its Katsina State Correspondent, Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, who passed away after a brief illness. The announcement has deeply saddened the journalistic community and the people of Katsina State, where Funtua was well-known and respected for his work.

Lawal Sa’idu Funtua’s passing occurred in Katsina State, and his remains are set to be conveyed to his hometown of Funtua for burial at 3pm today. Colleagues, friends, and family members are expected to gather to pay their final respects and honor his memory.

Funtua’s work as a correspondent for Peoples Daily Newspaper was marked by his dedication to reporting on issues affecting Katsina State and its residents. He was known for his commitment to truthful and unbiased journalism, which earned him the respect and admiration of both his peers and the public.

In a statement, Peoples Daily Newspaper expressed its condolences and paid tribute to Funtua’s contributions to the field of journalism. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our Katsina State Correspondent, Lawal Sa’idu Funtua. He was a dedicated journalist who served the people of Katsina with integrity and professionalism. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” the statement read.

The announcement also included a heartfelt prayer for Funtua, asking for Allah’s forgiveness and that Jannatul Firdaus be his final abode. “May Allah forgive him and make Jannatul Firdaus his final abode,” the statement concluded.

The loss of Lawal Sa’idu Funtua is a significant blow to the journalistic community in Katsina State and beyond. His contributions to the profession and his unwavering commitment to truth and justice will be remembered and cherished by those who knew him and followed his work.

Renowned human rights lawyer Barrister Abba Hikima has advised the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, not to stop advising the federal government simply because they are no longer friends. Hikima made this statement on his verified Facebook page, emphasizing the importance of the Emir’s role in providing guidance on economic matters.

“You shouldn’t stop advising the federal government just because you stop being friends,” Hikima stated. He highlighted that Emir Sanusi firmly believes Nigeria’s current economic woes are both “predictable” and “avoidable,” and recognizes that the federal government lacks credible experts to offer viable economic solutions that could bring relief to Nigerians.

Hikima expressed concern that Emir Sanusi chose to forgo his moral responsibility and remained silent due to the strained relationship with the federal government. “Emir Sanusi, who firmly believes that Nigeria’s current economic woes are both ‘predictable’ and ‘avoidable,’ and who recognizes that the federal government lacks credible experts to offer viable economic solutions that could bring succor to Nigerians, chose to forgo his moral responsibility and kept mum, simply because the federal government stopped being friends with him?” Hikima questioned.

The lawyer’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the role of traditional leaders in advising the government on critical issues affecting the nation. Hikima urged Emir Sanusi to rise above personal differences and continue to provide valuable insights for the betterment of the country.

The Federal Government has issued a press release in response to recent remarks made by His Highness, Emir Of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The press release, dated January 16, 2025, was signed by Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation.

The Federal Government acknowledged Emir Sanusi’s right to express his opinion, whether in the form of commendation or criticism. “First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run,” the statement read. However, the government found it amusing that a leader from an institution that values forthrightness, fairness, and justice would publicly admit to withholding the truth due to personal interest.

The press release emphasized that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. “This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated,” the statement noted.

The government highlighted the temporary pains currently experienced as a result of these reforms, which Emir Sanusi himself acknowledged as a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management.” The press release detailed the measurable progress already being delivered by the reforms, including the unification of exchange rates, increased foreign reserves, and the removal of the fuel subsidy, which has allowed for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a shift in loyalty,” the statement read. The government urged the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.

The press release called for unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders to rebuild Nigeria. “Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust,” the statement emphasized.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. “The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders, while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else,” the statement concluded.