Hon. Yusuf Ahmad Badau, Member of the House of Representatives for Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency
By Sagir A.bdullahi K/Huguma
In the spirit of Ramadan, Hon. Yusuf Ahmad Badau, Member of the House of Representatives for Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency, has once again demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of his constituents by distributing essential food items to various groups within the community.
The food palliative initiative, aimed at easing the challenges faced by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan, saw beneficiaries from diverse sectors, including the Drivers Union, Hunters Association, Persons Living with Disabilities, Okada Groups, Hisba Corps, and political appointees who were recently relieved of their posts. Additionally, APC members and individuals across Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency received bags of rice as part of the gesture.
Speaking during the distribution, Hon. Badau emphasized the importance of supporting the less privileged, especially during Ramadan. He reiterated his dedication to the people of Bagwai and Shanono, promising to continue providing assistance to improve their livelihoods.
Hon. Badau also called on wealthy individuals in the constituency to emulate the gesture and extend a helping hand to those in need during this sacred period.
Alhaji Mamuda Isa Bagwai, a Director in the Legislator’s office, highlighted that the annual food palliative distribution is a testament to Hon. Badau’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of his constituents. He urged the people to continue praying for the success of their elected leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity and support for sustainable development.
Beneficiaries, including representatives from the Disabled Association, community groups, and individuals, expressed their gratitude to Hon. Badau for his humanitarian efforts. They pledged their continued support and cooperation in his quest to bring more democratic dividends to the people of Bagwai and Shanono.
This initiative underscores Hon. Yusuf Ahmad Badau’s dedication to fostering a spirit of compassion and solidarity within his constituency, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Sagir Abdullahi Kwanar Huguma Media Officer
By Abbati Bako, Political Strategy and Communications Consultant, IPRC Nigeria
The intricate dance of politics has once again taken center stage in Nigeria’s Senate, as President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Natasha engage in a battle of wits. This spectacle raises questions about the true nature of their conflict: is it a genuine disagreement or a cleverly crafted strategy for the upcoming 2027 elections? Take note that politics is a game of strategy and again as opined by Professor Albana Azmanova that “politics is a game between vision and practicality” and this writing understands that this happen in both advanced and less advanced democracies like Nigeria.
In the world of politics, strategy is key, and both positive and negative tactics are employed to achieve success (Former US President Bill Clinton vs Monica Lewinsky’s case in the early 1990’s is an excellent example in America). This is true for both advanced and less advanced democracies. The situation unfolding between Akpabio and Natasha is a prime example of this complex game. Political strategy is one of the 57 key elements and principles of the game.
Recently, Akpabio found himself at the center of controversy after cautioning Senator Natasha to refrain from shouting, likening the Senate to a nightclub. This remark sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning Akpabio’s words as sexist and derogatory. In response to the backlash, Akpabio issued a public apology to Natasha. What a game of strategy! Hence, the case is still not yet over.
However, the question remains: was Akpabio’s initial comment a genuine mistake or a calculated move to garner attention and sympathy? As the 2027 elections approach, it is essential to examine the motivations behind the actions of Nigeria’s political leaders.
In the midst of this drama, one thing is clear: the fate of Nigeria’s democracy hangs in the balance. As the country navigates the complexities of its political landscape, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and discerning. Only time will tell if Akpabio and Natasha’s imbroglio is a genuine conflict or a cleverly orchestrated political strategy towards the elections in the year 2027.
*Accusations and reactions Akpabio vs Natasha:
The rift between the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), has escalated, with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment and political victimization.
*Allegations Against Akpabio:
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio made unwelcome advances toward her and later obstructed her legislative work after she rejected him. Speaking in an interview with Arise Television, she alleged that the Senate President deliberately blocked her motions from being heard, particularly her motion to investigate corruption at the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi state.
She recounted an incident on December 8, 2023, when she and her husband attended Akpabio’s birthday celebration in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. During a tour of Akpabio’s residence, she alleged he held her hand and made an unsettling remark: “Now that you’re a senator, I will create time for us to spend quality moments here. You will enjoy it.” Can this be a fact or is it a political shenanigans? Can this happen in front of her husband? Meaning that there’s many questions to ask.
Feeling uncomfortable, she pulled away as her husband approached. Later, she confided in her husband, who advised her against visiting the Senate President’s residence alone. Akpoti-Uduaghan further claimed that after rejecting Akpabio’s advances, she faced political obstruction, including deliberate delays in allowing her motions on the Senate floor. She alleged that Akpabio once told her: “Natasha, I am the Chief Presiding Officer of the Senate. You can enjoy a whole lot if you take care of me and make me happy. ”She dismissed the statement and left his office. Her motion was only eventually heard when the Deputy Senate President His Excellency Barau I. Jibrin presided in Akpabio’s absence.
*Dispute Over Senate Seating Arrangement:
Related issues on Natasha allegations: Atiku Abubakar the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate warned Senate leadership that “We’re not satisfied with only suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – Akpabio’s kinsmen Natasha: “We are not in a Banana republic”.
The controversy intensified last week when Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her Senate seat. Upon arriving at the chamber, she found her nameplate removed and her seat reassigned. Hence, the imbroglio started from there up till this week.
She viewed the move as an attempt to sideline her, asserting that it was part of a broader pattern of harassment against women in positions of power who refuse to comply with certain expectations.
She stated, “Some senators warned me that the seat reassignment was a trap. I invoked Order 10, which allows senators to raise concerns about violations of their rights. However, the Senate President refused to let me speak. ”The Senate later referred her case to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions for investigation, with the committee given two weeks to present its findings. Yesterday the Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Despite the fact that initially the Federal High court has given an order for not take any action against Senator Natasha. Can this happen in advanced democracies? Yes it did happen as mentioned above between former president of the United States of America Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky in the early 1990s when the case dominated the political space all over the world.
*Midnight Phone Call Allegation
Akpoti-Uduaghan also claimed that on July 23, 2024, at 12:14 AM, she received a midnight phone call from Senate Leader Michael Bamidele Opeyemi, during which she overheard Akpabio’s voice in the background. According to her, Opeyemi told her: “If the Senate President goes down, I will go down too.”
She woke her husband and asked if this was a threat, stating that security agencies could extract their conversations if needed. She alleged that Akpabio later called her directly, referring to her as “Princess of the Senate” and expressing anger over public backlash against him. Can we call this as a politics of integrity?
*Akpabio’s Wife Responds
Meanwhile, Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, has dismissed the allegations as false and malicious. Speaking to journalists, she described her husband as a disciplined and respectful man, noting that he has a long history of supporting women’s inclusion in government.
She maintained that she was present on December 8, 2023, at the family residence in Uyo and insisted that no such incident occurred. “Our families have enjoyed a cordial relationship long before Senator Natasha’s marriage. These allegations are entirely false,” she said. Mrs. Akpabio vowed to seek legal redress over the matter, urging women to refrain from making baseless accusations.
To be continued insha’Allah Dr. Abbati Bako, political strategy and communications consultant and alumni of Kent University, UK and Students’ mentor and Treasurer @Kano Chamber of Commerce and can be reached abbatibako@gmail.com
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, held a meeting with the Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, General Yunus-Bek Evkurov, at the Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja, on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
The discussions focused on strengthening the longstanding bilateral defence relations between Nigeria and the Russian Federation.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, visited the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Interior, Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed, has successfully secured permanent and pensionable federal employment opportunities for 175 constituents from the Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency of Katsina State. The beneficiaries have been recruited into various public and civil service roles across the country.
The employment placements span several key federal agencies, including the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Federal Medical Centres, and Federal Teaching Hospitals. Specifically, 42 constituents have been recruited into the Federal Fire Service, 18 into the Nigeria Immigration Service, over 100 into the Nigeria Police Force and Nigerian Army, and 15 into Federal Teaching Hospitals and Medical Centres nationwide.
This transformative initiative reflects Hon. Ahmed’s steadfast commitment to addressing economic challenges and fostering self-sufficiency within his constituency through job creation and empowerment programs.
During the presentation of appointment letters to some of the beneficiaries, Hon. Ahmed reaffirmed his dedication to combating unemployment and poverty in the Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency. He emphasized that this humanitarian effort is devoid of political motives and is solely aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of his constituents.
The lawmaker highlighted his primary focus on ensuring that graduates from his constituency secure meaningful, permanent, and pensionable employment or are empowered through skills acquisition and training programs. He also reiterated that the employment of youths and his ongoing skills acquisition initiatives are designed to provide young people with opportunities to enter the workforce and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Hon. Ahmed congratulated the 175 beneficiaries on their new roles and urged them to approach their duties with dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering efficient and effective service.
This initiative marks a significant step toward reducing unemployment and empowering the people of Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency, further solidifying Hon. Ahmed’s reputation as a leader dedicated to the welfare and progress of his constituents.
The Kano State Government has constituted a White Paper Drafting Committee to review and provide the government’s position on the recommendations made by the Commission of Inquiry regarding incidents of breach of peace, destruction of public and private properties, looting, arson, and killings that occurred in August last year.
Chairing the inaugural session on behalf of the state governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Farouq Ibrahim, emphasized that the committee is tasked with thoroughly examining the report and making further recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
Alhaji Umar Farouq Ibrahim described the events as a bitter experience, stating that the loss of lives and destruction of properties worth billions of naira had set the state back significantly. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to taking all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence, rebuild the economy, and ease the suffering caused by the crisis. He further highlighted the importance of the committee’s work, expressing confidence in its members’ expertise to ensure a prompt and appropriate response.
Committee Members
The six-member committee is chaired by:
(1)Alhaji Dan Asabe Yahaya – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Internal Security and Special Services, Kano.
(2)Alhaji Aliyu Yakubu Garo – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Kano.
(3)Dr. Hadi Bala – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Kano.
(4)Barrister Salisu Marmara – Ministry of Justice, Kano.
(5)Mallam Yahaya Umar – Director, Planning, Research, and Statistics, Kano State Pension Fund Trustee (to serve as Secretary).
(6)Jamilu Usman – Assistant Secretary II, REPA Directorate, SSG’s Office (to serve as Assistant Secretary).
Speaking on behalf of the committee members, Alhaji Dan Asabe Yahaya expressed gratitude to the Kano State Government and His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for entrusting them with such an important assignment. He assured that the committee would work diligently to justify the confidence placed in them.
Musa Tanko Muhammad Information Officer, SSG’s Office, Kano 04/03/2025
Comrade Nura Magaji Sumaila Commissioner for Public Procurement, Project Monitoring, and Evaluation
By Sagiru Ado Abubakar
Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, has issued a directive to contractors handling the 5-kilometer road projects across the 44 local government areas, mandating them to complete the projects within five months.
The Commissioner for Public Procurement, Project Monitoring, and Evaluation, Comrade Nura Ma’aji Sumaila, announced this today during an inspection visit to Warawa Local Government Area.
As part of his statewide monitoring tour to assess the progress of the ongoing projects, the commissioner also visited Minjibir and Ungogo local governments. He expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work in Minjibir but urged contractors in Warawa and Ungogo to expedite efforts to meet the governor’s directive.
“A meeting was held, and an agreement was reached between His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the contractors to complete the projects within five months,” the commissioner stated.
“The governor personally engaged with the contractors to understand the challenges affecting project execution, and it was agreed that work would be completed within the stipulated timeframe,” he added.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of adhering to the agreement and assured that monitoring visits would continue every two weeks to track progress.
The current completion levels of the projects stand at 95% in Minjibir, 85% in Ungogo, and 47% in Warawa.
Additionally, the commissioner inspected the ongoing renovation of Minjibir General Hospital. He commended the contractor’s efforts and encouraged him to maintain the momentum.
Sagiru Ado Abubakar, Information Officer, MPPPM&E, Kano
A prominent chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Alhaji Abduaziz Maituraka, has launched a daily feeding programme to support 1,000 individuals during the holy month of Ramadan. The initiative, aimed at providing meals to the APC needy and other members of society, underscores Maituraka’s commitment to uplifting the Muslim Ummah and ensuring that the less privileged observe fasting with joy and dignity.
Speaking at the launching of the programme, Maituraka emphasized that the initiative is designed to provide sustenance throughout the entire month of fasting. Under the arrangement, 500 people will be served a plate of food daily during Iftar (breaking of fast), while an additional 500 will receive meals during Sahur (pre-dawn meal).
“The feeding programme was introduced as part of my contribution to the Muslim Ummah and to assist the needy in observing fasting with joy,” Maituraka stated. He further revealed that the programme, which was initiated two years ago, is fully sponsored by his foundation. “For the last two years, we have introduced this feeding programme during the fasting period. We will sustain it and even expand it to cover more people in the coming years,” he added.
Maituraka also commended the Katsina State Government for implementing similar initiatives and urged wealthy individuals to emulate such efforts in supporting vulnerable communities.
Earlier at the event, the Chairman-elect of Katsina Local Government, Alhaji Isah Migidad, praised Maituraka for his foresight and dedication to sustaining the programme. Migidad called on Muslims to use the sacred period of Ramadan to pray for lasting peace in Katsina and across Nigeria.
The feeding programme has been widely applauded as a significant step toward alleviating hunger and fostering communal solidarity during Ramadan. Maituraka’s foundation remains committed to expanding its reach and impact in the years to come.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje CON, chaired The Sun 2024 Awards ceremony.
The event was held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, on Saturday.
Presenting awards to the awardees Ganduje said that the awards were well-deserved.
He also congratulated all the awardees, praising The Sun Awards for consistently recognizing distinguished Nigerians who have excelled in their respective fields.
He said that some of the economic policies implemented by the administration of President Bola Tinubu are gradually yielding positive results.
He praised Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
Ganduje said, “The efforts of the current administration under the leadership of our dear President, Bola Tinubu, who has been working hard to address security and global socio-economic challenges, I am happy to say that some of the hard economic policies implemented have gradually yielded positive results.”
Ganduje thanked The Sun Publishing Limited for inviting him to chair the event, describing it as an honour.
He praised The Sun Awards for consistently recognizing distinguished Nigerians who have excelled in their respective fields.
He also emphasized the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion and driving societal change.
He said, “The media has become an integral part of our daily lives, playing a vital role in providing information, educating the public, and reporting on important events.”
Aminu Dahiru is the SSA to the National Chairman on Visual Communication&Events
In a move aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of farmers, Rano Local government council has distributed free fertilizer to 600 farmers.
The fertilizer distribution program, which was held at councíl Secretariat is part ofRano local government council]’s efforts to support small scale farmers in the area.
Speaking at the occasion the chairman of the council Mal.Muhd.Naziru Yau said the program aims to increase crop yields, improve food security, and enhance the overall well-being of farming communities.
“We are committed to supporting our farmers and ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to thrive,” said Naziru.Yau
“This fertilizer distribution program is just one example of our efforts to promote agricultural development and improve the livelihoods of our people.”added Ñaziru Yau
The chairman thanks governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for initiating programmes aims at boosting agriculture.
On his part the head of agriculture and natural resource Rano local government Mal.Hassan Abdu Garko said beneficiaries were drawn from.ten wards of the local government to support them on dry season farming.
Mal.Hassan Abdu calls on the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the input.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries Mukhtar Seramis Rurum thanks Ñaziru Yau for the gesture.
Rabiu Khalil Kura is the Zonal information officer Rano Zone Kano State
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