“Minister: No Fanfare for President Tinubu’s One-Year Anniversary”

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced that there will be no elaborate celebrations to mark President Bola Tinubu’s one year in office. Instead, low-key activities will be held to commemorate the anniversary.

Speaking at a World Press Conference on Wednesday to kick off “Ministerial Sectoral Updates” as part of the anniversary activities, Idris emphasized that the prevailing national mood precludes any form of extravagant celebration.

He stated, “There won’t be any form of celebrations; there will be sectoral briefings.”

Idris underscored the critical role of the media in the Nigerian project and urged journalists to report responsibly and patriotically. He emphasized that while press freedom is vital, it comes with responsibilities.

Highlighting President Tinubu’s commitment to press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, the Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to keeping the public informed about its policies and achievements.

Addressing concerns about the proliferation of fake news, Idris urged the media to collaborate with the government in combating this phenomenon, which he likened to a more significant threat to the nation than cancer.

The Minister’s remarks reflect a pragmatic approach to marking the President’s anniversary amid the challenges facing the nation, underscoring the importance of responsible journalism and constructive engagement in national development.

“Emir of Kano Pays Courtesy Visit to Awujale in Ogun State”

The Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, made a significant diplomatic visit to the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. This visit holds particular significance as it occurred shortly after the celebrations marking the Awujale’s 90th birthday and his remarkable 64 years on the throne.

During the momentous birthday celebration, President Bola Tinubu bestowed upon the Awujale the prestigious title of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON), the second highest title of honor in Nigeria. This recognition underscores the esteemed status of the Awujale and his significant contributions to the nation.

The Emir of Kano’s visit aims to further strengthen the longstanding friendly relations between the Awujale and the late Alhaji Ado Bayero, the former Emir of Kano. In a letter personally penned by the Emir and dated May 19, 2024, titled “Notification of our visit to Ijebu Ode Kingdom,” the purpose of the visit was articulated. The Emir expressed the intent to pay homage to Oba Adetona in honor of his birthday and to celebrate his remarkable achievements during his lengthy reign.

The letter emphasized the desire to reinforce the cordial relationship that has endured for many years between the Awujale of Ijebuland and the late Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero. It also served as an opportunity to extend felicitations to Oba Adetona for reaching the milestone age of 90 years and for his impressive 64 years on the throne.

The Emir’s visit signifies not only a gesture of respect and solidarity but also a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and mutual admiration between the traditional rulers of Kano and Ijebuland. It underscores the importance of fostering harmonious relationships among Nigeria’s diverse cultural and traditional institutions for the collective progress and unity of the nation.

Former Senator Shehu Sani has sharply criticized northern leaders for what he perceives as a lack of seriousness in addressing the security challenges plaguing the region. Sani’s comments come in the wake of disturbing reports of violence perpetrated by bandits and terrorists in Zamfara and Plateau States, where dozens of farmers have been brutally killed.

Highlighting the alarming escalation of violence, Sani drew attention to the recent atrocities committed by bandits in Zamfara, where 30 farmers lost their lives, and in Plateau State, where 50 farmers were brutally slaughtered. These incidents underscore the urgent need for decisive action to stem the tide of insecurity ravaging communities across the region.

Sani also pointed out a concerning trend in the attendance of the Northern Governors Forum, a platform crucial for coordinating efforts to tackle security challenges in the region. According to Sani, 12 governors were conspicuously absent from the forum’s last meeting held in April. This absence, he argues, reflects a lack of commitment and seriousness among northern leaders in addressing the pressing security concerns affecting their constituents.

The former lawmaker’s remarks underscore a growing frustration among stakeholders over the perceived ineffectiveness of northern leaders in curbing the escalating insecurity in the region. The spate of attacks on innocent civilians, particularly farmers, highlights the urgent need for concerted efforts and decisive leadership to restore peace and stability in northern Nigeria.

Sani’s outspoken criticism serves as a call to action for northern leaders to prioritize the security and well-being of their people, urging them to demonstrate greater commitment and resolve in addressing the root causes of insecurity and implementing effective measures to safeguard lives and property in the region.

“Security stakeholders in Nigeria have issued a resounding call for stricter penalties to be imposed on individuals behind jailbreaks in the country. This urgent plea was articulated during discussions held in Abeokuta on Wednesday. Highlighting the severity of the situation, it was revealed that seventeen coordinated attacks have targeted key prison facilities of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) across various geopolitical zones from 2015 to 2024.

Paul Ayeni, a retired commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), expressed dismay over the prolonged delay in resolving the case of three masterminds of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Minna, Niger, jailbreak which occurred in 2018. Drawing attention to the recent escape of 119 inmates from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger, in April, Ayeni criticized the NCoS’s explanation attributing the incident to adverse weather conditions. He emphasized that the government’s failure to swiftly administer justice contributes to the recurrence of such incidents, urging authorities to apprehend other perpetrators and expedite legal proceedings against them. Ayeni went as far as recommending death penalties for those found guilty of orchestrating jailbreaks.

Adetokunbo Shonibare-Ayantunji, the founder of Useful Youth Vision Concepts (UYVC), emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in addressing jailbreaks. She proposed regular integrity tests and background checks for NCoS personnel, along with the implementation of a Whistleblower Policy to report suspicious activities. Shonibare-Ayantunji advocated for the dismissal and prohibition of public office for personnel found colluding with criminals.

Pastor Ikeh Nworah of the Pentecostal Faith Missions (PFM) echoed the sentiment of eradicating corruption within the NCoS. He called on the government to publicly identify and shame corrupt personnel within the organization. Additionally, Nworah urged increased funding for NCoS personnel and the installation of enhanced security features such as CCTV cameras, motion sensors, and fortified perimeter walls equipped with electric fencing.

These impassioned pleas underscore the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to tackle the persistent challenge of jailbreaks in Nigeria.”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reassured foreign investors of a peaceful and secure environment for their ventures. This assurance was reiterated in separate meetings with the Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, and the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency, Annika Hahn-Englund.

Wike expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment of the FCT Administration’s accomplishments in infrastructure development and security within the capital city. He extended a warm reception to investors from Rwanda and Sweden.

Moreover, Wike stated that President Bola Tinubu had instructed him to ensure the safety and comfort of all foreign missions in Abuja. He underscored his administration’s willingness to collaborate with foreign investors, offering assistance to those arriving in Abuja from various countries.

Wike also outlined plans to collaborate with Rwandan investors on environmental management and explore potential partnerships with Swedish investors in digital technologies and transportation.

“We are pleased that you recognize our efforts in enhancing infrastructure and security in Abuja. It is imperative for us to ensure convenience for all foreign embassies,” he remarked.

Christophe Bazivamo, the Rwandan High Commissioner, noted that investors from Rwanda are keen on addressing environmental issues in Abuja.

Similarly, Annika Hahn-Englund, the Swedish Ambassador, emphasized Sweden’s interest in strengthening the longstanding bilateral ties with Nigeria. She highlighted Sweden’s proficiency in digital technologies and transportation management, expressing interest in potential collaborations with the FCT Administration.

Pro-democracy advocate Omoyele Sowore strongly criticized the temporary closure of Banex Plaza in the Federal Capital Territory by the Nigerian Army. This closure came in response to an attack on soldiers over the weekend, allegedly carried out by a group of hoodlums.

Sowore expressed his disapproval of the action, deeming it unjustified and excessive. In a statement released on Wednesday, he urged the Nigerian Army to refrain from allowing off-duty military personnel to wear uniforms, citing instances where such individuals have been implicated in serious offenses.

He highlighted the unprecedented nature of civilian spaces being shut down due to a disagreement between soldiers and civilians, stressing that even during military rule, such measures were uncommon. Sowore pointed to recent incidents such as the leveling of Okuama village in Delta State and the arbitrary abduction of journalists as examples of military overreach.

He emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of such repressive actions, including the arbitrary shutdown of markets, asserting that these practices are unacceptable and detrimental to civil liberties.

Justice James Kolawole Omotoso of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shaibu, permission to join the Speaker of the state assembly in the lawsuit challenging his removal from office. Additionally, the Judge ruled in favor of Shaibu, allowing him to include his successor as a defendant in the lawsuit.

In a ruling delivered on Wednesday concerning a motion on notice filed by Shaibu, the Judge agreed with his counsel, Ayotunde Ogunleye SAN, affirming that both the Speaker and the new Deputy Governor are indispensable parties in the litigation.

The Judge emphasized that according to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, the Speaker’s involvement is crucial to the impeachment process, thereby necessitating their presence in court to ensure that any orders issued are legally binding on them.

Consequently, the court granted permission to the former Deputy Governor to amend his originating summons in the suit, incorporating the names of the Speaker and the Deputy Governor as the 9th and 10th defendants, respectively.

The hearing for the substantive suit has been scheduled for June 3, following the Judge’s directive for expedited proceedings.

The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy has allocated ₦290 million for the installation of solar street lights in Musawa Local Government Area (LGA). Musawa happens to be the LGA of the current minister, Hannatu Musawa.

This provision is outlined in the ministry’s 2024 budget, approved by President Bola Tinubu earlier this year. Alongside this, ₦3.7 billion has been allocated for research and development, as reported by Daily Trust.

Furthermore, specific allocations in the budget include ₦98 million for a “Nigerian pavilion” at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival in France. Additionally, ₦150 million has been designated for an “art culture information desk” at Abuja International Airport, with ₦26 million set aside for miscellaneous expenses like refreshments and publicity.

The Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, established by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aims to foster growth in the creative economy.

In related news, the Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld the appointment of Hannatu Musawa as Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy by President Bola Tinubu. Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment, ruling that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to bring the case to court and that, even if they did, it lacked merit.

The case, which questioned the eligibility of Musawa’s appointment due to her alleged status as a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was brought forth by the Incorporated Trustees of Concerned Nigeria, along with Chief Dr. Patrick Eholor and Thomas Marcus.

However, the defendants, including President Tinubu and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), argued that Musawa’s appointment followed due process and was in accordance with existing laws. They contended that holding an NYSC certificate or completing the program is not a mandatory requirement for ministerial appointment.

Musawa’s legal team further argued that the primary plaintiff lacked legal standing and failed to demonstrate a specific injury warranting their exclusive right to pursue the lawsuit.