Kebbi Customs intercepts 104 percels of Indian Hemp, 99 Diazepems, other items

 

By Our Reporter

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Kebbi Area Command, has intercepted contraband items worth N37.820 million, which includes 104 parcels of Indian hemp of laptop size of 1kg each, 99 diazepam tablets and 70 packs of tramadol in the state.

Other items seized by the customs and now handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA) includes 1,275 litres of PMS, 107 bags of foreign rice, 52 Jerry cans of vegetable oil, two vehicles.

Customs Area Controller, Dr. Ben Oramalugo who disclosed this while speaking with newsmen at the command’s headquarters, Birnin Kebbi  said   a middle age indigene of Birnin Kebbi, Suleiman Yusuf was arrested with the items along Kamba-Kyangakai road in the state.

According to the Controller, on Sunday, the 11th June, 2023 based on a tip off from a well meaning citizen about a vehicle conveying offensive goods into the country, the Customs Command’s officers and men swung into action and at about 1005Hrs through stop and search along Kamba-Kyangakwai Road, the officers and men were able to identify the vehicle suspected to be carrying the illegal concealment.

He said after a thorough search and examination, the white vehicle mentioned matches the description of the suspected vehicle with Chassis No:  IHGRC3KEA246069 and fortunately, one hundred and four (104) parcels (laptop size of 1KG each) of cannabis sativa and ninety nine (99) 5mg diazepam tablets was found concealed in the vehicle driven by the suspect of middle age named Suleiman Yusuf (popularly known as Babangida). In a similar event, an abandoned seizure made of 70 packs of tramaking/tramadol (225mg) and 260 diazepam tablets (5mg) was captured on Monday, the 5th of June 2023 at about 1117hrs at Kamba/Rijiyar Maikafi bush path by the same patrol team but no suspect was apprehended.  

"The offensive goods along with the suspect were brought to the Command's Headquarters for further investigation. 

"The items valued at thirty seven million eight hundred and twenty thousand (₦37, 820,000) and the suspect will be handed over to the NDLEA Kebbi State Command for further necessary action.

He noted that "the effect of drugs on particularly our youth cannot be over emphasized. In addition to the harms it inflicts on its direct users ranging from low self esteem, depression, suicidal thoughts and mental health problems, it's also the catalyst for almost all criminal activities our country is plagued with. We therefore cannot fold our arms and watch our youth descend to the lowest ebb of moral decadence."

The controller however maintained that Items seized within the period under review are, "104 parcels of cannabis sativa (Indian hemp) and 99 diazepam tablets (5mg) as mentioned above, 70 packs of Tramaking/Tramadol (225mg) and 260 diazepam tablets (5mg), 107 foreign parboiled rice (50kg), 38 bales of secondhand clothing, 1,275 litres of PMS, 52 jerry can of vegetable oil ,  1 honda accord 2011 and  1 used Opel Vehicle, among others."

He added that "the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the items stands at sixty four million six hundred and thirteen thousand five hundred and ninety four (₦64, 613, 594)."

I'll consult tradtional rulers, major stakeholders before embarking on project-- Kebbi gov

 

From Editor

The Governor of Kebbi State,  Dr Nasir Idris  has assured that he would consult with traditional rulers and major stakeholders in the state before awarding any contract to avoid misplacement of priority.

He made the disclosure when he received the Emir of Zuru, retired Maj-Gen. Muhammad Sani-Sami on a courtesy visit at Government House, Birnin Kebbi.

The governor said: "We will consult with traditional rulers before embacking on any project to avoid misplacement of priority in project execution.

"We want to execute projects that have direct bearing with people. We don't want a situation where Government will execute a project that is not the priority of people."

Dr Nasir Idris solicited the support and cooperation of all and sundry to be able to bring the desired change across all sectors of the economy.

The governor described Zuru people as hard working individuals who always committed to fetching for themselves.

"Everybody knew that Zuru are not lazy people, they are brave people who always stand on their feet. Farming remained one of their major sources of income but security challenges is dragging the business backward. 

"We will do everything possible to restore peace in Zuru land. The present administration will tackle the issues of insecurity head-on, particularly in Zuru emirate, to enable people not only go back to their farms but also comfortably sleep with their two eyes close," he noted.

Idris assured people of the state that his administration would not victimise anybody for not supporting his gubernatorial ambition during the 2023 general elections.

He said: "As a leader, you stood firm to ensure our victory, yet, we knew some people refused to vote for us. However, being a teacher, I have forgiven everybody including those who voted for us and those who didn't vote for us.

"Everybody should come forward and contribute his quota on ways to move our people and our dear state forward. I have made some promises in your emirate and by the grace of God Almighty we are going fulfil these promises."

While appreciating the Emir for the visit, the governor noted with satisfaction that the monarch was the first traditional ruler in the state to personally pay a congratulatory visit on him.

Earlier, the Emir told the governor that they were in Government House not only for a congratulatory visit but also to re-afirm their solidarity, loyalty and support to the new administration.

The monarch expressed optimism that as a technocrat and a seasoned unionist, he had no doubt that the governor would bring positive changes to the state.

He said: "We believe you will bring to bear your experiences and leadership to build a better and more prosperous Kebbi State to put endless smile on the faces of people of Kebbi given your track records of achievements.

"We hope the issue of insecurity in Zuru emirate, lack of good roads and other infrastructure will be among your priorities when you settle down. The current security situation on the area has been so alarming, our farmers are being chased out of their farmlands." 

End

NYCP backs Akpabio, says Christian Senate President 'll balance power, unite Nigeria

 

 

From Abdul Alabi

The Northern Christian Youth Professional (NCYP) has said that a Southern Christian Senate President would contribute significantly to the balance of power and representation in the highest echelons of government. 

The group argued that the current composition of the Nigerian government, with both the President and Vice President being Muslims, underscores the need for balance and diversity in key leadership positions.

In a terse  statement issued by Isaac Abrak, the NCYP Chairman, he called upon all Senators, particularly those of Northern extraction, to recognize the importance of unity and national cohesion, noting that  Nigeria's strength lies in its ability to embrace its diversity and harness it for the collective development of our great nation.

According to Abrak, appointment would promote religious equity and equality, ensuring that the Christian community's voice is heard and respected.

 He said,  "in the spirit of fostering unity and embracing religious pluralism, we endorse President Tinubu's support of Senator Godwin Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin as suitable candidates for the esteemed position of Senate President and Vice President respectively.

"The NCYP firmly believes that a Southern Christian Senate President would contribute significantly to the balance of power and representation in the highest echelons of government. This appointment would promote religious equity and equality, ensuring that the Christian community's voice is heard and respected.

"We call upon all Senators, particularly those of Northern extraction, to recognize the importance of unity and national cohesion. By rallying behind Senator Godwin Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin, we can send a powerful message of inclusivity, religious harmony, and shared governance to the entire nation.

"The NCYP encourages all Nigerians, regardless of their religious background, to support this cause and actively engage in the democratic process. We implore citizens to exercise their voting rights responsibly and make informed decisions that align with the values of equity, unity, and progress.

"Our organization remains dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence and fostering understanding among all religious communities. We firmly believe that Nigeria's strength lies in its ability to embrace its diversity and harness it for the collective development of our great nation.

"The NCYP extends an open invitation to all Nigerians, civil society organizations, and political leaders to join hands in championing a Nigeria that upholds the principles of equity, equality, and unity. Together, we can build a future where all citizens are heard, valued, and respected.

"The Northern Christian Youth Professional (NCYP) remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting fairness and inclusivity within the Nigerian political landscape. As an organization representing the interests of Northern Christian youths, we advocate for the equitable distribution of power and representation among all religious groups.

June 12: ANIM celebrates Tinubu, Shetima, Nigerians

 

From Editor

The APC National Integrity Movement (ANIM) has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his vice Senator Kashim Shettima   on the occasion of the 2023 democracy day celebrations.

ANIM which consists of former NEC members, former Members of Legacy Party, some serving and past Zonal Leaders, serving and past members of National Assembly, serving and past members of State Housed of Assemblies,

serving and past members of BOT of government MDAs and Parastatals and some serving and past State Commissioners of the APC stock

In a statement signed by the National Leader of the group, Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Sa'adu Fakai appreciate Nigerians for believing in the administration of Tinubu which has exhibited readiness to address all the critical challenges bedeviling the Country. 

Abubakar said, within few days in office, President Tinubu has taken some sensitive decisions including signing into law the electricity bill, a sign of great things ahead.

 In his words " We want Nigerians to be patient with the Tinubu administration as it has the best strategy to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, poverty reduction and job creation.We are confident that hardwork will be rewarded as those who tirelessly worked for the victory of our great Party will not be forgotten especially with the appointment of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, a rear party man who understands the rule of the game.

 The group called for prayers across all faith in support of the Tinubu administration, insisting that Nigeria got the best at this time and to get the best result, all hands must be on deck.

Be a trustworthy person, Kebbi governor tasks new Accountant General

 

By Editor 

The Kebbi State Governor,  Dr Nasir Idris has charged the newly appointed Accountant General of the state, Alhaji Aminu Zoramawa to be a trustworthy person in discharging his duty.

The Governor, who gave the charge while receiving a delegation of Zoramawa and Zabarmawa communities in Kebbi who paid him a thank you visit at Government House, Birnin Kebbi said the charge was imperative considering the importance of trust in handling finances.

Dr Idris, who was represented by his Deputy, Sen. Umar Abubakar-Tafida, said: "We are happy to receive this kind of crowd for a thank you visit. However, your thanks should first of all be to Almighty Allah, our creator, who made it possible for us to win the election.

"I want to use this medium to inform this gathering that the God Almighty that paved way for our success is the one who selected him to become the state AG. He became by the will of Almighty not by anybody's wish.

"I urge the new AG to be honest, truthful, sincere and trustworthy in discharging his duties because it is not a small office. This office requires dedication, commitment and trust for the state to move forward," he said.

In a statement by Ahmed Idris, the governor's Chief Press Secretary, (CPS) he said  the governor assured that the present administration in the state would do everything within its power to bring positive development in all ramification.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Alhaji Abubakar Gari-Malam said they were in Government House to show appreciation for selecting one of their own for the position of Accountant General.

He said the crowd represented the family, friends and associates of Aminu Zoramawa in view of his good and excellent character worthy of emulation by all.

Gari-Malam assured that the new administration in the state would never regret appointing him because, "Aminu is an honest, sincere and trustworthy person, he is a man of the people who engages himself in assisting people especially those in need." 

Responding in an interview with Journalists shortly after the visit, the new AG appreciated his creator who made it possible for him to clinch the position.

He assured that he would discharge his duties to the best of his ability to facilitate rapid growth and development of Kebbi in general.

While soliciting support and cooperation form his subordinates and all other co-workers, Zoramawa appealed for prayers from all to enable him deliver the goods diligently.

Gov. Idris inaugurates 10th Kebbi Assembly

 

By Editor

Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, on Thursday inaugurated the 10th Kebbi State Assembly at the chambers of the legislative complex in Birnin Kebbi. 

This was contained in a statmenet signed by Ahmed Idris, the chief press Secretary to the Governor 

The inauguration, the 10th members of the assembly elected the member representing Zuru Constituency, Alhaji Muhammad Usman-Zuru, as the Speaker of the Assembly.

Usman-Zuru was elected through a nomination and secondment by Adamu Birnin Yauri, representing Ngaski constituency and Muhammad Garba-Augie, representing Augie constituency, respectively.

Idris, represented by the Clerk of the assembly, Alhaji Sulaiman Shamaki, cited section 105 subsection 3 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended. 

"The section confers on the governor the powers to dissolve the previous assembly (in this case the 9th) and simultaneously proclaim the 10th which will begin by electing principal officers of the house.

"My duty this morning is to officially dissolve the 9th Assembly and inaugurate the 10th Assembly so that you can commence your first session. 

“Whereas it is provided in section 105, subsection 3 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

 "That the person elected as governor shall have the power to issue a proclamation for the holding of the first session of the state assembly immediately after being sworn in. 

“Therefore, I, Dr Nasir Idris, Governor of Kebbi State, in the exercise of the powers bestowed upon me by section 105 subsection 3 as aforesaid, and of all other powers enabling me on that behalf hereby proclaim that the first session of the 10th Kebbi State Assembly holds at 11:00 am on this day, Monday the 8th of June, 2023, in the Kebbi State House of Assembly Complex, Birnin Kebbi," he said. 

Idris solicited the cooperation of the lawmakers in administering the state and providing good governance to Kebbi state. 

The assembly also elected the lawmaker representing Bagudo East constituency, Muhammad Samaila, as Deputy Speaker.

Samaila was elected through a nomination by a lawmaker representing Sakaba constituency, Salihu Dan- Goje, and seconded by Abubakar Imam, representing Koko/Besse constituency.

Speaking shortly after the oath of office, Umar-Zuru, promised to do their utmost best deliver against all odd. 

He thanked members for electing and entrusting him with the legislative responsibility, assuring them that he would not betray the confidence of the people of the state.

Contempt: Gora threatens EFCC's Bawa, Inspector General of Police With Legal Action

 Contempt: Gora threatens EFCC's Bawa, Inspector General of Police With Legal Action

The Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) Cash Flow Abi Ltd, Dr Philemon Ibrahim Gora , has threatened to dragg the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crime Commission, (EFCC) Abdulradheed Bawa and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba to Court if they fail to obey the recent court injuctions. 

It could be recalled that the Abuja division of the Federal High Court under Justice Ahmed Mohammed, has given permission to Gora and his financial institution, 'Cashflow Abi Network', to file a suit compelling the EFCC, its Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa and the Inspector General of Police to comply with the judgment of the court in suit No FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2018, relating to his alledged fraud case that got him incarcerated for years now.

Justice Mohammed equally granted leave to the applicants to apply for an Order of Mandamus compelling or mandating the Respondents to withdraw and or discontinue charge Nos. FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2018: FRN vs Philemon Ibrahim Gora & Anor and FCT/HC/CR/203/2018: FRN vs Philemon Ibrahim Gora & 2 Ors in that the aforesaid charges were instituted in contravention of paragraph 14 of the Terms of Settlement adopted as Judgment of this court delivered on 12th July 2013 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/7/2013 aforesaid.

In addition, the court further granted leave to the Applicants to apply for an Order of perpetual injunction pursuant to paragraph 14 of the Terms of Settlement adopted as Judgment of this Court on 12th July 2013 restraining the Respondents their officers, servant, agents and any other person deriving authority from the Respondents from trying, continuing the trial, arresting, detaining or prosecuting the Applicants in charge Nos. FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2018 and FCT/HC/CR/203/2018 and other matters related to the aforesaid charges.

Responding to the judgement, in a press statement issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday, Gora said that the court verdict is a symbol of justice for the common man.

He added that the distractions by the Anti-graft Agency and the Nigeria Police Force, (NPF) is a deliberate ploy to sabotage his efforts for empowering the less priviledge in the society.

Gora, said "Over the years , the EFCC in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, unnecesarily exerting charges upon me and my Foundation, whom by every standard had meet up what is required to stay in Business.

“We therefore concluded that this is not an anti corruption driven case and cannot be part of the moves aimed at fighting corruption or attack fraudulent activity in the Nigeria economy and financial sector but a witch-hunt on the personality of Dr Gora

 “It is simply a pure malicious and politically motivated prosecution , keeping me under EFCC locked for more than 2years without bail, it's  aimed at undermining my humble background and the  humanitarian services, we are offering to the society"

"Those behind my long suffering and calculated incarceration will definitely meet the wrath of God in this lifetime. God has always fought my battles. No matter how much  fabricated mischiefs, will not and cannot stand the test of justice.”

The Humanitarian also backed the Governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello, said "just recently , the Kogi state government accused the EFCC boss, Abdulrasheed Bawa , that no matter how his godfathers tried to shield him from facing the consequences of disobeying court order, he must join others in the correctional centre to be purged of contempt.

"They described why the EFCC’s laughable excuse for not obeying a court order that committed him to prison for contempt, which the Commission gave at a press conference in Abuja , the Kogi state government noted that unless his conviction was set aside or vacated by the Court or a higher court, he remained a convict.

"We also noted that anytime we try to insist in the empowering program by doing the right thing and why we stand on doing the  right thing, the system will always come after us. This is another case of desperation to fight Dr. Philemon Gora, because of his stance on reducing the gab between the extremely rich class and the helpless poor masses. 

"The fact remained that hence Bawa, had allegedly “been found to be a vindictive tormentor of the innocent and a hater of justice, we expect that ,he should comply with the judicial system otherwise, these are enough to make over 60,000 clients of Cash flow , for an unending protest!”

"We advice that Bawa, should stay on the lane of social justice and fight against corruption in the best way of international practices and not  breach human rights at will and whose human rights credentials seems questionable"