Opinion

Zamfara banditry: Why PDP can’t purge itself of guilt

Published

3 years ago

January 8, 2022

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By Lawali Zaki Imrana

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State, went on what is obviously a self-righteous drive recently with its call on Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle to resign his position in order “to save the state from collapse”.

To put its message across the party, had to embark on a show of shame by assembling journalists in a desperate but failed move to paint Matawalle in a bad light.

The press conference was addressed by no other person but the sacked former Executive Secretary of the state’s Zakkat and Endowment Board, Prof Kabiru Jabaka. And the PDP’s grouse against the governor which triggered the press conference was his perceived “lukewarm attitude to the suffering of the rural people who are at the receiving end” of banditry activities in the state. Isn’t this laughable to say the least?

When did the PDP begin to empathize with the suffering of the rural people in the state? How can the PDP which is the mastermind of the banditry which has caused a lot of havoc across the state for many years suddenly become the pro-people’s advocate over night?
However, the people of the state cannot be fooled by their antics, they know that this sudden display of emotion does not actually come from the heart.

The smear campaign against Matawalle can be likened to a final struggle of a sinking ship whose captain has lost all hope of survival. It’s public knowledge that the PDP in the State has been on life-support since the defection of Governor Matawalle and it takes just a switch of the button for its funeral to be announced.

And ahead of 2023 general elections, the party’s days of reckoning will soon come.
But who will blame PDP for its onslaught against Matawalle? The party, as analysts are wont to argue, have every reason to be bitter. Beyond ensuring its demise by joining the APC, Matawalle has shown that improving the living condition of the people is not negotiable; he has equally proved that bandits are not faceless and ghosts as the peole were made to believe in the past by bringing them out from their hideouts to negotiation table for dialogue; he has been able to send the message that bandits are defeatable.

So the PDP and its key members who have been hitherto benefiting from chaos orchestrated by the bandits have every reason to be pissed and even envious over the turn of events in Zamfara State.

During the so called press conference, Prof Jabaka also accused Matawalle of traveling to Niger Republic to “watch wrestling competition while the state is burning on daily basis without concern”, while also lamenting the state of education with the closure of schools. Jakada in the same breathe, acknowledged the importance of collaboration with the government of Niger Republic in stemming the tide of banditry in the state but said the timing of Matawlle’s visit to the neighbouring country was wrong. Now our learned professor seems confused here isn’t he?

At least, he understands that getting the support of our neighbours in routing out what is clearly a transborder crime is important, but saying that a sitting chief executive will just abandon his duty post and the masses he swore to protect and has been doing so even at the detriment of his own life, was absurd. And for the professor to have gone public with such notion and utterances shows how low people of supposed high standing could descend to score political point.

Another issue that put the make-believe high integrity of the professor to question is his sudden concern for the long closure of schools owing to the security situation in the state. As an academic, a distant observer would feel that the professor’s ‘concern’ was borne out of love for his calling, but every Zamfara person knows that his position is another failed gimmick aimed at throwing dirt at Matawalle since he was the same man that threw the thought of the deprived to the bushes when while as Chairman of the Zakkat Board, he pocketed the funds meant for the underprivileged, orphans and widows only to start printing posters to show his interest in a senatorial position, come 2023.

It is a failed attempt because every Zamafarian knows that the PDP’s hands are soiled deep in the lingering bloodbath in the state. A look at the party’s hierarchy in the state tells the glaring story of an ownership between the father and a son.

General Aliyu Gusau is a well known top notch of the party at the national level, while his son, Mahdi Ali Gusau is its leader in the state.
During a recent press conference by the APC in tne state, its Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Yusuf Idris alleged that General Gusau’s involvement in bandits activities in the state is deep.
Over the decade, there have been speculations that banditry was just a mere cover for activities of certain highly placed individuals who are profiting from the large deposits of goldmines in the state.

These individuals have been in the shadows, directing activities behind the scene, plundering the state dry of it’s huge mineral deposits while obliterating their footprints with the blood of the innocents. Mention are made of influential politicians, top military officials serving and retired, highly connected businessmen in hush voices, operating as cartel in this massive plunder of our commonwealth.

But the APC briefing of Tuesday, January 4th has given us something to ponder about and thrown up many questions begging for answers. Above all it dragged our very revered General to the court of public opinion which only him can wriggle himself from.

Many are wont to give the revelation by the APC a political colouration by dismissing it as mere opponent’s rant but the accusations are two weighty to be so waved aside. And that is why it is imperative for the security agencies to immediately initiate an investigation into the matter to unravel the true situation of things.

As we await the federal government or the accused to initiate the probe, as citizens the General and his co-travellers owe us an explanations on some of the issues raised during the media interface. We need to know whether the General has a stake in the mining operations in the state as was alleged. The clarification we seek does not amount to questioning his right to invest and own property in his home state but in view of the immense threat mining prospection posed to the citizens both environmental and security wise, but to put the record straight.

That gold mining is linked to insecurity is common knowledge. The rush for Zamfara gold has come with a steep price which the citizens have continued to pay daily with their blood. So there is need for him to clarify whether he is part of the cartel running things there to our detriment.

Apart from the general insecurity thrown up by activities of bandits, there is also the environmental degradation caused by the exploration activities by miners. Large chunk of our farm lands are already under threat with greater portion already lost in the areas that serve as mining.

The unfortunate development has been undermining our position as one of the leading food producers in the country. This is in addition to the health hazards caused by mining activities and its implications on the citizens especially the youth and women who served as labour hands and have died as a result of lead poison related diseases.

Supposing the General is even involved as has been alleged, does he control 70 percent of the operating licences and owned several sites? This is important because it will give insight into how much havoc he is causing us economically and otherwise.

Another issue the General needs to clarify is whether he aided or is aiding the activities of illegal miners of Chinese nationals in the state. In one of such cases, 11 Chinese nationals allegedly brought by him were said to have been released on bail after their arrest, to his son who is the deputy governor.

Why would the deputy governor stand as surety for arrested Chinese illegal miners if the family has no link to them? It was learnt that the resort to illegal miners was as a result of the stoppage of mining activities by the federal government as a measure to halting insecurity in the state.

Despite government effort to stem the rising insecurity, more Chinese nationals are being smuggled in to carry out the nefarious activities.

In 2020, 125 of illegal miners were arrested by the joint task force in one operation alone.
We all know how illegal mining caused the demise of 163 people between March and June in 2010 in the state due to lead poisoning which polluted water sources including wells and rivers. Yet certain elements are hellbent in allowing such activities to thrive for their own shellfish interests.
Lawali Zaki Imrana, writes from Kofar Nasarawa, Kano, Kano State.

Opinion

Between President Tinubu and Governor Namadi of Jigawa State

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2025

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Malam Umar Namadi

By Adamu Muhd Usman

The third American President, Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809), once said, “The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government.” He also stated, “That government is the strongest of which every man feels himself a part.” Inspired by these quotes, I feel encouraged to appeal to His Excellency, the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi (FCA), also known as Dan Modi, on certain critical issues affecting the state. These matters weigh heavily on me, as they directly impact the people of Jigawa, and the governor is in the best position to address them. If revisited and resolved, they will significantly benefit a large segment of the populace.

Currently, Jigawa State lacks substantial federal government presence in this democratic dispensation. Almost all the projects directly impacting the people are state-led initiatives executed by your administration. While intervention funds and empowerment programs are shared across states, they are often not visible or enduring. What Jigawa needs are sustainable projects or programs that benefit the majority of its residents—irrespective of tribe, religion, political affiliation, or nationality.

Jigawa is an agrarian state with over 3,000 hectares of Fadama land capable of feeding the nation, yet it has remained neglected for over 40 years. President Tinubu’s administration has failed to complement the state government’s efforts in executing capital projects, which could have supported Malam Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda and improved the people’s well-being. The federal government’s neglect of Jigawa is evident, and it has taken the wisdom, experience, and determination of Governor Namadi, with the help of God, to execute key projects during these challenging times under Tinubu’s administration.

It is worth noting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the 2023 presidential election in Jigawa, with Tinubu securing more votes than Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This obligates us to appeal to our governor to advocate for federal support, particularly for the promises made by APC and President Tinubu to Nigerians.

Take, for instance, the Hadejia Irrigation Project or Hadejia Irrigation Scheme, initiated in 1980 under the Shagari regime, nearly 45 years ago. The project, intended to irrigate over 2,000 hectares of farmland, remains underdeveloped. This administration has the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to progress by allocating funds in the 2024 or 2025 budgets to revitalise the project. With proper funding, the Hadejia River Basin could significantly contribute to national food security. Jigawa farmers already grow crops like rice, cowpeas, wheat, and vegetables, which could yield 3–4 harvests annually with improved varieties and irrigation.

Unfortunately, the federal government appears to pay lip service to critical issues affecting the economy and the people of Jigawa. I urge Governor Namadi to leverage his experience, moral values, and close relationship with President Tinubu to push for the federal government’s intervention on these pressing matters. He should continue to appeal, remind, and advocate until tangible results are achieved.

During Dr. Sule Lamido’s tenure as governor, he actively lobbied the federal government under Presidents Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan for projects like the Federal University Dutse (FUD), the Federal Medical Centre, and the reimbursement for the Dutse airport construction. His efforts even led to a ₦10 billion allocation for the Hadejia Irrigation Project, though it remains incomplete. Governor Namadi should follow this example and persist in lobbying for federal support.

Another urgent issue is the reconstruction of the Hadejia-Gamayin-Kafin Hausa-Jahun-Ajingi-Gaya-Wudil federal road. Despite efforts by previous administrations, including Sule Lamido, the road remains in disrepair. This road connects Jigawa and Kano states and serves as a vital link to the northeastern region. Given the cordial relationship between Governor Namadi and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf Kabir, as well as Vice President Kashim Shettima’s influence, there is an opportunity to collaborate and push for the road’s reconstruction.

The road, which leads to Sule Lamido University Kafin-Hausa, has become a death trap, with frequent accidents and armed robberies. It also serves as a crucial route for transporting farm produce and livestock from rural to urban areas. Its reconstruction would promote education, economic growth, and social development, while reducing insecurity. I appeal to Governor Namadi to prioritise this project and secure federal support.

Lastly, Governor Namadi should remind President Tinubu about ensuring equitable representation of Jigawa indigenes in federal appointments and opportunities. Allegations persist that Jigawa’s quotas in federal agencies and commissions are often sold or allocated to individuals from other states. Your Excellency, please investigate and address this issue to ensure fairness and transparency.

May Allah continue to unite, protect, and bless Jigawa State.

Adamu Muhd Usman
Kafin-Hausa, Jigawa State

Opinion

Celebrating the selfless contributions of the President, Emnamu Foundation

Published

3 days ago

January 27, 2025

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Emmanuel N. Musa

By Wilberforce Edward

In a world where kindness and compassion seem to be fading, individuals like Mr. Emmanuel N. Musa, President of Emnamu Foundation, remind us of the transformative power of humanity. Through his tireless efforts, Mr. Musa has been a beacon of hope for countless lives across Nigeria.

Based in Kala’a, Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Emnamu Foundation has been a driving force for positive change under Mr. Musa’s visionary leadership. His unwavering commitment to empowering the unemployed youth, supporting the aged, and uplifting indigent communities has earned him a reputation as a true humanitarian.

Mr. Musa’s selflessness and generosity have touched hearts and transformed lives across several states in Nigeria. His dedication to creating opportunities for the marginalized and vulnerable is a testament to his character and compassion.

As we celebrate Mr. Musa’s remarkable contributions, we are reminded that one person can make a difference. His story inspires us to embrace our shared humanity and strive for a world where kindness, empathy, and generosity are the guiding principles.

We salute Mr. Emmanuel N. Musa for his outstanding work and encourage others to follow in his footsteps. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

Opinion

Island of Harmony: Praslin, Seychelles, Where Humans and Animals Coexist in Perfect Peace

Published

3 days ago

January 27, 2025

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By Lamara Garba

Tucked away in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the town of Praslin some 120 km from Mahe the capital city of Seychelles is a haven of peace and harmony.

This picturesque town is home to a unique and fascinating phenomenon – humans, animals, and birds living together in perfect synchrony.

Unlike in Nigeria where human lives have no value whatsoever as evident by the frequent incidences of wanton destruction from the hands of bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers and sometimes even from the “accidental discharge of fire arms” from the security forces, in Praslin, it was a completely the opposite situation.

As you stroll through the streets of Praslin, you’ll notice a striking absence of fear or aggression between the different species. Birds flit about, perching on shoulders and arms, while giant tortoises amble along, unafraid of the humans around them. Even the town’s dogs and cats seem to have made peace with the island’s wildlife, often lounging together in the shade.

What catches my attention was the way I noticed birds picking from the ground while I was pursuing them, but they never entertain any fear of aggression from me, rather, they seems to be unmindful of my presence and instead, busy with their business of picking items for their stomach

Therefore, this remarkable harmony is no doubt, a manifestation of the peaceful nature of the inhabitants of Praslin in particular and the good governance of Seychelles.

The island nation has long been committed to preserving its unique environment and promoting sustainable tourism. As a result, Praslin has become a model for eco-friendly development and community-led conservation.

Visitors to Praslin can’t help but be enchanted by the town’s laid-back atmosphere and the warm hospitality of its people. Whether you’re exploring the island’s stunning beaches, hiking through the lush forests, or simply soaking up the tranquility of the town, Praslin is a true gem of the Indian Ocean.

Perhaps in a world often marked by conflict and division, Praslin stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through peaceful coexistence and responsible governance. As you leave this enchanting town, you can’t help but feel inspired by the possibility of a more harmonious world.