Justice Husseini Baba: A Beacon Of Excellence In The Judiciary

Justice Husseini Baba, a renowned judge of the FCT High Court, has earned a reputation as a paragon of judicial integrity, wisdom, and fairness. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and delivering justice to all who appear before him.

Hailing from Kogi State, Justice Baba was born on February 12, 1960. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of Maiduguri in 1983 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984. He holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from the University of Lagos, acquired in 1991.

Throughout his illustrious career, Justice Baba has presided over numerous high-profile cases, showcasing his exceptional legal acumen, sharp intellect, and ability to navigate complex legal issues with ease. His courtroom is renowned for its atmosphere of calmness, respect, and inclusivity, where all parties feel heard and valued.

As the presiding judge of the FCT High Court, Justice Baba has achieved numerous milestones, including:

- Implementing innovative reforms to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the court, resulting in a significant reduction in case backlogs and waiting times.

- Introducing technology-driven solutions to improve court operations, including digital filing systems and virtual court proceedings.

- Establishing specialized courts for specific cases, such as sexual and gender-based violence, to ensure tailored justice and support for victims.

- Spearheading training and development programs for judges, lawyers, and court staff to enhance their skills and knowledge.

- Strengthening collaboration with law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to combat corruption and promote the rule of law.

- Enhancing access to justice for marginalized communities through outreach programs and legal aid initiatives.

Beyond his judicial duties, Justice Baba is a mentor, teacher, and inspiration to many young legal professionals. He has shared his wealth of knowledge and experience through various lectures, workshops, and publications, contributing significantly to the development of the legal profession.

The legal community and beyond have taken notice of Justice Baba's exceptional service. He has received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious "Judge of the Year" award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the judiciary.

Justice Husseini Baba is a shining example of judicial excellence, integrity, and dedication. His unwavering commitment to upholding the law and delivering justice has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and the legal community at large. As a beacon of hope and inspiration, he continues to serve as a role model for judges and legal professionals everywhere.

Cmr. Usman Okai Austin CCA,

Public Affairs Analyst,

Writes From Abuja

Kano Emirate: Group Commends Police, Other Security Agencies for Adhering to Court Order

By Dansu Peter 

The Northern Agenda (NA) has saluted the Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies for pledging to adhere to the court order stopping the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano. 

The group said the Police and others have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting the judiciary in the Kano Emirate case. 

Recall that the state Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, during a joint security press conference said security agencies will enforce the court order restraining the state government from dissolving five newly created Emirates in the state.

In a statement signed by Alhaji Salisu Sabo, the group said the security agencies have demonstrated remarkable professionalism and dedication to their duties by complying with the court order. 

Sabo said this solitary action has prevented potential unrest and violence, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are protected and a recognition of the importance of the judiciary in our democratic system. 

The group also reminded the governor that the judiciary which he wants to blackmail today stood by him and his questionable mandate as Governor of Kano State.

“In a commendable display of professionalism and dedication to upholding the law, the Nigerian Police Force has pledged to comply with a court order halting the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano, despite the Kano State government's initial disregard for the ruling. This move is a significant step forward in promoting the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria,” the statement said. 

“The Kano Emirate case has been a subject of controversy, with various factions vying for power and control. However, the court's decision to halt the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano was clear and unequivocal. Unfortunately, the Kano State government initially chose to ignore this ruling, threatening to undermine the authority of the judiciary and the rule of law.

“In this context, the Nigerian Police Force's decision to comply with the court order is a breath of fresh air. By upholding the law and respecting the judiciary's decision, the police have demonstrated a commitment to democratic values and the protection of human rights. This move also sends a strong message to all parties involved that the rule of law will be respected and enforced, regardless of political or personal interests.

“The security agencies actions are particularly commendable given the sensitive nature of the case and the potential for unrest and violence. By prioritizing the maintenance of public order and safety, the police have ensured that the situation does not escalate further, and that the rights of all parties involved are protected.

“This development is also a testament to the growing independence and assertiveness of the Nigerian judiciary. The court's decision to halt the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano was a bold move, and the police's compliance with the order demonstrates a recognition of the judiciary's authority and impartiality.

“We urge the police and other security agents to continue on this path and work towards building trust and confidence with the public. We also call on all parties involved in the case to respect the legal process and allow the courts to make decisions without interference or intimidation. 

“The judiciary must be allowed to function independently and impartially, without fear or favour. Any attempt to undermine the judiciary or ignore court orders will undermine the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria.”

Kano Emirate: Islamic Scholars, Clerics Hail Judiciary, Security Agencies for Denouncing State Govt, Sanusi

By Dansu Peter 

In a rare show of solidarity, Islamic scholars and clerics in Kano State have commended the judiciary and security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and order in the Kano Emirate crisis.

The scholars and clerics praised the judiciary for its prompt intervention in the crisis, which they said helped to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.

They made this known in a statement jointly signed by Khalifa Sheik Lawi Atiku Sanka, Khalifa Nal Abdulkadir Ramadan, Prof Abdullahi Pakistan, Mallam Yusuf Ahmad Gabari, Mal Lawan Abubakar Triumph, Sheik Mal Mohd Bakari, Imam Usaini Yakubu Rano, Imam Jamilu Abubakar and Professor Ibrahim Muazzam Maibushira.

The Isamic leaders also hailed the judiciary over its judgement halting the dissolution of the Kano Emirate and subsequent reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano. 

“On behalf of the Islamic Scholars and Clerics (Ulamas) of Kano State, we express our heartfelt appreciation for the crucial role played by the judiciary and security agencies in maintaining peace and stability in Kano State. We commend them for upholding the rule of law and ensuring a return to peace in the state,” the statement said. 

“We urge the Executive arm of Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusif, and the Speaker of the State House of Assembly to exercise caution and refrain from making decisions that may jeopardize the state's stability and exacerbate the suffering of the people of Kano State, who have already endured enough due to previous negative decisions and misguided policies.

“We are particularly grateful to the judiciary and security agencies, who have been the last hope for the people, standing strong and protecting the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We commend our patriotic President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmad Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and separation of powers, and his vital role in maintaining peace in Kano State and the country at large. We appreciate his efforts and exemplary leadership.

“We emphasize the importance of respecting the rule of law and the need for all arms of government to work together in harmony to ensure peace, stability, and progress in the state. Let us work together to build a brighter future for the people of Kano State, where justice, peace, and prosperity reign supreme, and where the rights and dignity of all citizens are upheld and respected.”

Africa's Infrastructural Revolution/May '29, By Richard Odusanya.

By Richard Odusanya 

Across the continent of Africa, economic growth and development have gained significant momentum in recent years. But with growth comes a challenge: building and funding the infrastructure to support it. Therefore, it throws-up some pertinent question: the first question which is where will the funding for Africa’s infrastructure come from? 

Secondly, with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) underway, another question that remains largely unanswered pertains to the extent to which Africa has positioned itself to take full advantage and the implications of the 4IR for Africa, given the capacity of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to change and shape the continent of Africa?

Third and most importantly, in all honesty, does Africa appear like investment destination of choice without Infrastructural Revolution? The three questions and perhaps many more are likely to be agitating the minds of our compatriots home and abroad.

Undoubtedly, Africa is in dire need of modern railway infrastructure to propel the continent to rapid development. In addition, transportation costs keep rising due to fluctuating fuel prices. Therefore, for the purpose of maximization in infrastructure, it is clear that there is a need for massive investment in key transportation areas, particularly, the rail sector in Africa. Railways are critical to creating continental value chains and trade corridors. 

As such, failure to achieve the set goal will be considered failure of leadership in Africa. Because railroads provide a means for goods to be transported from one location to another, as well as allowing for the transfer of information and knowledge across different countries in the continent.

Furthermore, efficient rail transportation in Africa, particularly, in these era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Railways has the potential to transform Africa’s economy, increase its productivity and enhance its global trade. In doing so, it would dramatically improve the wellbeing of African citizens. Study shows that the lack of physical infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa is still keeping many investors at bay. Let me share an example: the cost of transportation in Africa is on average 50 – 175% higher than other parts of the world as a result of poor infrastructure. 

Additionally, about 60,000km and 100,000km of new roads are required to provide effective intra-continental connectivity in Africa by 2030. The current pace of infrastructure development in Africa cannot keep up with rising demand from communities and markets, subsequently having an impact on Africa's competitiveness and participation in global markets. Particularly, in these era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Consequently, the poor state of infrastructure has led to the reduction of national economic growth by 2% annually in most African countries and as much as 40% reduction in industrial productivity. This means that with proper arrangements, railroads can help create regional integration, which in turn accelerates inclusive economic growth through increased efficiency and lower costs as the continent takes advantage of the 4IR.

Let me at this point reminiscence and flash back to May 29, 2023. In my contribution through an article that was specifically dedicated for the inauguration of the new government then with the title: "Nigeria We Hail Thee' or 'Arise O Compatriots" of which was widely published by local and international media organizations, the contribution was targeted at reawakening our consciousness as a people and as a nation. Thankfully, it received the attention of the government and a few days ago was passed to law by the Federal House of Representatives (HoR). 

Also, as a patriot, my prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), which goes thus: "Today as the destiny of Nigeria is handed over to President Tinubu. I join my faith with millions of our compatriots home and abroad in praying for the wisdom of king Solomon, knowledge and understanding to pilot the affairs of the nation to heal the wounds, embrace all entities for a feel of inclusiveness and to move the nation to a progressive development" in this vein,   it is important to join hands together for the purpose of rebuilding hope and trust in ourselves.

Before I proceed, I need to be clear: Nigeria is currently experiencing its worst economic crisis in a generation, this is based on empirical evidence. One year down the line, Nigerians may still not have experience significant change. But, it is not all doom and gloom for Nigeria. For example, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 2.98% (year-on-year) in real terms in Q1 2024. This growth rate is higher than the 2.31% recorded in the Q1 2023 and lower than Q4 2023 growth of 3.46%. ~ Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Lest I forget, Nigeria, at some point in history, was a country where foreigners used to come for medical and educational tourism in the 60s and 70s, has now become a shadow of its old self. Long-story-short: the foundation of where we are today, as a nation was recklessly laid by successive administrations through profligacy recklessness and corruption. Obviously, It didn't start on May '29, 2023. Yes, we made mistakes, but there's no point in crying over spilled milk. We've got to move on, rebuild our nation from the ruins of the past. This is where the campaign about Mind Restructuring becomes inevitable.

Undoubtedly, Nigerians are going through tough times. However, the situation that we found ourselves, in all honesty are basically self inflicted. Yes! The nation is bleeding and there is hunger in the land. Somehow, there is great advantage for nations that produces good citizens and leaders, but, sadly, becomes a pipe dream for Nigerians. The attributes of good citizens and leaders are a combination that has eluded Nigeria for very long time. Even those who are not yet Presidents want to live in opulence without the commensurate effort at earning what is required for such a life! 

Therefore, it is time, for us to begin to interrogate issues with open minds. Somehow, those who are not Presidents, or governors, when making choices, mostly gravitate towards what they condemn. Those who live on others, as many Nigerians like to do, would live on the State if they get the opportunity. Because majority of our people want to live rich without the resources to do so, and then we complain about so-called leaders, who are nothing but a reflection of the society that raised them. This is the sad realities of our beloved country Nigeria.

In conclusion, and to further drive home the point of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, AFRICA'S INFRASTRUCTURAL REVOLUTION and the Nigerian DEBACLE. Permit me to share with you the profound words of Orji Uzor Kalu, the senator representing Abia North Senatorial District. Speaking on the floor of the Senate chamber, a couple days ago. OUK, eloquently posited: "If we don't revamp the steel industry in Ajaokuta, Kastina, Alaja, Jos and Aluminum in Akwa Ibom, there's no way we can talk of industrialization in Nigeria."

OUK continued: "Aba and Nnewi has the human resources to engage in any form of manufacturing but the steels are not available. There is nothing that can stop Nigeria from dedicating a one year budget to rebuild our steel industries. The job creations we are always talking about lies in the steel industries.The country can be great if we do the right thing"

In my view, one of the right things is to improve upon the content and quality of our human capital especially at the low-income levels because, in the final analysis, they are the ultimate users of this infrastructure and can make or break them

Finally, I like to make specific reference to the speech of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, president of the Republic of Uganda, who in an address to the 'AFRICA HEADS OF STATES SUMMIT' in a 19:06 video clip Museveni succinctly captured the essence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in the African context and how best to reason and think developmentally.

Also, on this'd 25 May, 'Africa day 2024.' I am privileged and honoured to dedicate this article "Africa's Infrastructural Revolution.." a day which commemorates the historic event in 1963, when African nations came together to form the Organization of African Unity, the precursor to the African Union (AU). It is a day to celebrate the many successes and progress made throughout the continent while recognizing each nation's challenges.

Richard Odusanya

[email protected]

Kano Emirate: Protesters Storm NASS, Presidentail Villa, Seek Tinubu's Intervention to Avert Breakdown of Law and Order

By Dansu Peter 

A group of concerned citizens and stakeholders across the country gathered on Friday at the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly Abuja, calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing crisis affecting the Kano Emirate.

The protesters, who marched peacefully, carried signs and banners expressing their concerns about the escalating situation in Kano. They urged President Tinubu to use his good offices to resolve the crisis and ensure the restoration of peace and stability in the state.

Recall that Governor Abba Yusuf dissolved the five Emirates Council and reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano. This came after the governor signed the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024 into law.

Under the auspices of the Concerned Patriots of Nigeria, the group said Governor Yusuf has taken his abuse of office to another level by dissolving the traditional council. 

“A lot had been going wrong in the state but the Concerned Patriots of Nigeria had thought it best to allow Kano state to sort out its thorny issues. However, Thursday’s brash actions of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, who sacked five emirs to reappoint Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi as the 14th Emir of Kano has awoken us to the urgency of raising the alarm about the destructive excesses of the state governor, “ coordinator Abdullahi Muhammed Saleh said. 

“Since being sworn into office, Governor Abba Yusuf has a string of loutish acts that run like a hardened criminal’s rap sheet. All in the name of rubbishing his predecessor, he started with a demolition spree that has served to impoverish the people whose lives he took an oath to improve. Thus he proved himself to be anti-people.

“The governor then attempted to destroy the structures of political parties in the state. The impish fanaticism with which he pursued this illicit mission saw him intruding into the structure of other political parties, including hiring some charlatans who purportedly suspended the national chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, who is interestingly his predecessor. Thus he proved himself to be anti-democratic.

“This latest stunt of sacking five emirs to install his acolyte was achieved by manipulating the Kano State House of Assembly, which he had successfully turned into a rubber stamp for endorsing his illegal acts. He has eroded the autonomy guaranteed by the separation of powers as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). 

“It is inconceivable that any right-thinking person will descend low to the point of manipulating the traditional institution for political gimmicks. The humiliation meted out to the five emirs was most unbecoming and we have cause to believe that Abba Yusuf has set the stage for using the traditional institution as ancient and as esteemed as that of Kano for a political seesaw will continue since his successor will revert to the five emirates. The Kano governor has thus proven himself to be the anti-traditional institution leader.”

The Concerned Patriots of Nigeria, therefore, condemned the actions of the Kano State Governor in the strongest terms possible given its anti-reason disposition. 

“The governor’s choice of actions flies in the face of reason and has no place in a sane and civilised society. We urge Governor Yusuf to retrace his steps and stop further undermining the peace of Kano state and by implication the peace in Nigeria,” the statement added. 

“We also condemn the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) – dominated Kano State House of Assembly that they have cemented their place as a conclave of shame to have reverted into a mere rubber stamp for the megalomanic tantrums of the state governor. 

“They, alongside Governor Yusuf, have taken their desperation to an extent that could set the ancient city on fire and cause breaches in the land. We are here today to appeal to President Tinubu to intervene in the Kano Emirate crisis. 

“The situation would deteriorate by the day, and we need the President's urgent attention to prevent further breakdown of law and order. We believe that President Tinubu's intervention is crucial at this critical moment. We are counting on his leadership to find a lasting solution to the crisis and ensure peace returns to Kano State."

More photos 

NELFUND: Step By Step How to apply for FG student loan

By Dansu Peter 

HOW TO APPLY FOR STUDENT LOAN...

CREATING AN ACCOUNT 

Step 1: visit nelf.gov.ng

Step 2: Click on the "Apply Now"

Step 3: Click on “Get Started”

Step 4: Answer the questions on this page to continue by clicking on “Yes, I am a Nigerian” 

Step 5: Verify your educational information. You would be required to select your school from a dropdown and provide your matric number to check if your school has uploaded your details. 

Step 6: Click the “Verify with JAMB” and enter your JAMB details in the screen.

(Students whose NIN has not been registered with JAMB will have an input field where they can enter their NIN for validation.)

Step 7: Create an account by entering your Email address, Password and Confirm Password in the fields provided and click “Create Account”.

Step 8: Click the email verification link sent to your email.

This concludes the process of creating an account.

HOW TO COMPLETE YOUR PROFILE 

After successful registration, log in by clicking the “LOGIN” button.

Step 1: Enter your email address and password to Login.

Step 2: Click on the “Proceed to Contact Details" button.

Step 3: Update contact details with the current information of your Phone Number, Full Residential Address, State of Residence and Local Government Area of Residence and click “Proceed to Educational Details”

Step 4: Update your educational details by selecting your Higher Institution and inputting your Matric Number, then click “Proceed to Account Details”

Step 5: Verify your BVN by entering your BVN, select your Bank Name and enter your Account Number. Click “Save Changes” to complete your profile.

LOAN APPLICATION 

Step 1: Click on the “Request for Student Loan” button at the top right of the screen on the home or loans page after logging into the application.

Step 2: If you want an upkeep loan, click the check box, and click Continue, if all you need is the institutional charge, click the “Continue” button.

Step 3: Upload supporting documents. The admission letter is compulsory which the Student ID and Institution Invoice are optional.

Click the checkbox for the policy and declaration and click “Continue”

Step 4: Read the loan overview and click the check boxes for both the Terms & Conditions and GSI Mandate then click “Submit Application”

Step 5: Click on the “Loans” button to view the status of your application.

Benue: Political Parties Raise Alarm Over Authoritarian Rule, Anti- Democratic Policies of Fr. Alia's Government

By Dansu Peter 

The Coalition of Political Parties in Benue State and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) have raised alarm over authoritarian rule and anti- Democratic policies of Reverend Father Alia in Benue state.

The group while releasing its  one-year assessment report on the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia in Abuja on Thursday described it as  the worst since the return of democracy in 1999.

The parties are the Accord Party,  APGA, Zenith Labour Party, Boot , APM, NRM, APP, ADC as well as the NNPP

Tor Aondofa Paul of the National Rescue Movement,  Simon Ogbe of the Zenith Labour Party and  Bishop Benson Ijachi   of the  Accord Party who addressed the media said the governor has failed in security, transparency and accountability.

They further lamented that the administration has become synonymous with corruption, disregard for the rule of law, unfulfilled promises, abuse of office as well as thuggery.  

"We all know that the primary responsibility of every government is the protection of lives and property. Since Governor Alia assumed power, the security situation in Benue State has deteriorated as compared to how it has been in the last four years. Since he assumed office, no single operational vehicle has been bought for the security agents in Benue State to support their operations in the state," the statement said.

"We have witnessed a massive influx of cows and armed Fulani herdsmen in the state despite the existence of the law prohibiting open Grazing in Benue State. These herdsmen are complicit in the renewed insecurity in the state as they have been fingered in several killings and attacks on innocent Benue people in Guma, Logo, Gwer-Wesr, Makurdi, Otukpo, Agatu, Apa, Gwer-East, Kwande, Ukum and Ado local government areas of the state. Just a few weeks ago the chief of staff to former governor Samuel Ortom, Pastor Terwase Orbunde was attacked on his farm along the Welfare quarters - Mobile Police barracks road in the heart of Makurdi. While Orbunde survived the attack with bullet wounds, his wife and house help were kidnapped. They were only released a few days later after a ransom was paid to the herders.

On corruption, transparency and accountability, the statement added: "The Alia administration is notorious for total disregard for due process and the rule of law. Shortly after Governor Alia assumed office, the governor without constituting an executive council awarded a contract to the tune of N6 billion, an amount which is 120 times higher than the approval limit of the governor at the time the contract was awarded. Most of these contracts were neither approved by the previous Benue State Executive Council nor captured in the 2023 budget.

"We are all witnesses to the governor's total disregard for the rule of law. Less than 4 weeks in office, the governor sacked and replaced democratically elected local government council chairmen and councillors in the state with a caretaker committee despite a judgment by the National Industrial Court restraining him from doing so. Governor then went further to approach a court of coordinate jurisdiction (Benue State High Court) seeking to set aside the judgment of the National Industrial Court, Makurdi Division, which restrained him from sacking the 23 elected local government chairmen and councillors.

"In Benue State today, Governor Hyacinth Alia has not disclosed the wage bill of the state, all the revenue accruals to the state from Federation Allocation Account Committee (FAAC), internally Generated Revenue (IGR) grants and Special Interventions from the FG. Even the palliatives from the federal government to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal were only disclosed after much pressure from the opposition for the governor to do so.

"The administration of Fr. Hyacinth Alia has failed to meet up with his social contract with the people of Benue State. The promise to return the Internally Displaced Persons, (IDPs) to their ancestral homes, and clear all the salary and pension arrears within 100 days have remained a mirage. The governor is doing the opposite of what he promised during campaigns.

"Under the reign of Governor Hyacinth Alia, abuse of freedom of speech, threat to fundamental human rights and gagging of the press is the order of the day. Just a few weeks ago, the member representing Vandeikya/Konshisha in the House of Representatives, Hon. Sesoo Gboko was forcefully stopped from worshipping his creator (God) at a Thanksgiving organized in his honour at Tsuwe Daka, Shangev-Tiev, Konshisha local government area of Benue State by thugs allegedly sponsored by the caretaker chairman of Konshisha local government area, Philip Achua and the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde.

"Up till now, Governor Hyacinth Alia has not condemned the violation of the fundamental human rights of the federal lawmaker by his appointees. The right of political parties to assemble freely has also been taken away from them. In Benue State, the governor for selfish reasons, has placed a ban on political gatherings, where people perceived to be his opponents, including members of his party(APC) are barred from meeting because of their loyalty to the Secretary of the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume."

On the resurgence of thuggery: "Thuggery disappeared from Benue Politics in 2015. From May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023, thuggery was not part of Benue Politics as no political party patronized thugs as those dared to indulge in acts of thuggery were dealt with according to the law, be it under an APC or PDP administration.

"However, with the emergence of Hyacinth Alia as governor, thuggery has been elevated to the status of a state religion. The administration of Rev. Fr. Alia has reintroduced thuggery in the state under the guise of Benue State Central Youths. A good number of the so-called central youths are reputed for criminality and thuggery."

The group, therefore, called on President Bola Tinubu to beam his searchlight on the state of the affairs in Benue State and intervene to curtail the executive rascality, corruption, abuse of the fundamental rights of Benue citizens, total disregard of the rule of law and all the anti-democratic tendencies of the Alia administration.

Late Principal , FGC Jos, Mrs Christy Ajara Illah(Nee Aduku) , Funeral Rites Begins May 31

By Abubakar Yusuf 

The Funeral arrangement for the Late Principal, Federal Government College , Jos in Plateau State, Late Mrs Christy Ajara Illah( Nee Aduku) has been announced.

A family statement jointly released by the late Matriach's family members on Monday tagged transition to glory and issued by John Illah, the husband and Makoji Aduku for the family said the final burial of our late Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunty, Friend and Frand Mother,  begins on Friday, May 31st , 2024,  with a Christian Wake Mass at St. Louis Parish, Jos Plateau State at 5:30pm.

Mrs Christy Ajara Illah who died after a brief illness in Jos , Plateau State according to the schedule of movement, stated that body leaves Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital, Jos to Idah  on June , 5th , 2024, by 6am, for a Christian Wake Mass at her family residence, Amichi Aikoye Street, Sabon- Gari, Idah to be held at 7:30pm.

The family statement also said the funeral mass will be held on Thursday , 6th , June , 2024 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Idah, Kogi State at 10am , with interment following immediately at Okete -Ugbola, Idah.

However, a reception for the dignataries who troop into Idah for the late Mother's burial will hold immediately after interment at J.F. Aduku Compound in Idah. 

The Late Principal FGC Jos, Mrs Christy Ajara Illah (Nee Aduku) was the wife of Professor John Sani Illah, a renowned Professor of Theatre Arts in the University of Jos and one time Director General, Arts and Culture in Kogi state.She is a very dear sister to Sir Emmanuel Makoji Aduku.