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MBF cautions Deposed Kano Emir Sanusi to refrain from unguarded comments

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***Asks FG to set up independent probe into alleged killillings of herdsmen in Nasaraw

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has cautioned the deposed Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi Lamido to refrain from dishing out inflammatory statements that are capable of generating ill feelings against his targets just as in the recent case of Benue State Governor.
The Forum was speaking against the backdrop of the alleged killing of no fewer than 37 herdsmen in Rukubi community of Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State on Wednesday, January 26, 2023.
Since the incident, there have been conflicting reports on what actually transpired especially with the deposed emir Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, recent fueling of the raging inferno when he accused the Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, as the architect of the killings.

A statement by the National President of the Forum
Dr. Pogu Bitrus said he completely disagree with the deposed Kano emir who is reputed to possess a penchant for inflammatory statements and even actions in the past, especially the murderous incident during the Gen. Sani Abacha regime.

Pogu called on Lamido to exercise caution and desist from doing anything that is capable of undermining peaceful co-existence of Nigerians.

He also advised the former emir to allow the security agencies to do their jobs and stop fueling crises where there is none.
“It becomes contemptible when those who are expected to moderate their views before members of the public and promote the peaceful co-existence of communities are the same people inflaming passion in a bid to enthrone chaos and anarchy in the country.

The President called on the Federal Government to set up an independent probe of the Nasarawa killings with photos and pictures of the slain herders and also their cattle as bombs don’t discriminate so as to ascertain the claims by the Nasarawa state governor and others alike.
“We also call on President Muhammadu Buhari to probe the killings of unarmed and defenceless citizens in various states of the Middle Belt Region in the interest of justice and fair play.
“Governor Ortom’s traducers must desist henceforth from accusing him falsely on a matter he is not involved as he remains the leader of Benue State who is not willing to let down his resolve in standing up for the democratic rights of his people in particular, and Nigerians in general.

“For equity and justice to hold sway, Nigerian leaders must learn to treat all citizens across political, ethnic and religious divides. We must eschew enthroning the supremacy of one ethnic nationality over others if we ever hope to build a just nation for all.”

“Governor Abdullahi Audu Sule of Nasarawa declared on Thursday, January 26, that the herdsmen were killed through what looked like as drone attack. The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) said since the military was the only authority to deploy drone attack; the Federal Republic should wade into the matter to bring the culprits to book.

“We are aware that the Nigerian Air Force undertook an operation
against terrorist targets in areas bordering Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba in the same period. Also, there was no report of cattle casualties mentioned in any of the reports in spite of the claim that the victims are Fulani who just redeemed their cattle from the Benue State Government.

“Amidst the confusion that have trailed these killings, the deposed emir of Kano, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, recently added fuel to the raging inferno when he accused the Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, as the architect of the killings.
“In what was seen as reprisal attacks, militant herdsmen mounted attacks on Benue communities bordering Nasarawa, shortly after Governor Sule announced the killings without any shred of evidence to prove his claim.

“On Thursday last week, Governor Ortom informed Nigerians that there were premeditated plots by some highly-placed persons to assassinate him over the recent killings of herdsmen in Nasarawa State. He cautioned against inflammatory statements over security matters, stressing that Benue State is not involved in the alleged killings.

“As the umbrella body of ethnic nationalities in the Middle Belt, the Forum is at a loss why the Nasarawa governor would just allege such a grievous crime without any proof to buttress his claim. While the MBF is opposed to any form of extra-judicial killing, we are shocked at the statement by the Kano deposed emir attempting to rope Dr Ortom on an issue that he (Sanusi) is not competent to speak on.

“Since the introduction of the anti-grazing law in Benue, there has been no love lost between Governor Ortom and supporters of murderous herdsmen who have always seen the promulgation of the law as targeted against them. In the wake of the enactment of the law, MACBAN and other Fulani groups vowed to ensure the anti-grazing law remains ineffective.

“More worrisome, there have been sparks of violence among border communities between the two states that often culminated into destruction of lives and property.
“All these orchestrated violence are aimed at weakening the resolve and commitment of the Benue State Government to implement the anti-grazing law described by the herders as obnoxious.

“We find the inconsistent reports on the recent alleged killings of Nasarawa herdsmen as yet another ploy to rope Governor Ortom into a matter he is completely innocent of. For those who should know, deploying drone attacks is completely the responsibility of the Federal Government. There has been no shred of evidence to suggest that the Benue State Governor is involved in the alleged attack.

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Personality

Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN: A Philanthropic Trailblazer in Kogi State

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Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has established himself as an unwavering advocate for community development, philanthropy, and social empowerment in Kogi State.
His tireless efforts to address societal challenges and improve the lives of vulnerable groups have left an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
Chief Onoja has consistently provided food items and clothing to widows and elderly citizens, ensuring that they are not left behind amid economic challenges.
This yearly initiative served as a lifeline for many who struggle to meet their basic needs.
Through a regular financial support scheme, he provided stipends to vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly, helping them afford essential needs such as healthcare and food.
Chief Onoja’s dedication to improving lives extends to building homes for senior citizens, offering them security and dignity in their later years.
Chief Onoja has taken a proactive approach to community infrastructure, personally funding the grading and maintenance of a vital 23.5-kilometer road connecting Ogugu, Emenega, and other communities.
This road has improved transportation, trade, and access to education and healthcare, boosting economic activity in the area.
In 2023, Chief Onoja launched a ₦100 million scholarship fund to support students at all educational levels, including those pursuing professional programs like law.
This initiative has opened doors for many deserving students to achieve their dreams without financial constraints.
He has also invested in education by constructing classroom blocks at Community Secondary School in Emomoka, Ogugu, ensuring students learn in a conducive environment.
Chief Onoja’s sponsorship of the Unyi Ogugu football tournament provided a platform for youth engagement, promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition while fostering unity among communities.
Every year, Chief Onoja organized free medical outreach programs to address the health needs of Kogi residents, ensuring access to basic healthcare for those who may not afford it otherwise.
Following security challenges in his community in 2023, he funded the establishment of a Civil Defence Corps outpost equipped with modern facilities and vehicles.
This initiative has restored peace and security in the area, allowing residents to live without fear.
Chief Onoja has funded the construction and renovation of religious institutions, including the largest Catholic sanctuary in North Central Nigeria at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ogugu. His contributions foster spiritual growth and provide modern facilities for worship.
Chief Onoja also assisted young couples by providing financial support for wedding attire, ensuring they begin their marital journey with less financial burden.
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has demonstrated that leadership is not defined by titles but by impactful service to humanity. His initiatives reflect a deep sense of responsibility, empathy, and commitment to the betterment of society.

In a world often driven by personal ambition, Chief Onoja’s decision to prioritize service over political aspirations sets him apart as a leader of rare integrity. His legacy is one of hope, empowerment, and transformation, inspiring others to give back to their communities selflessly.

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Senator Echocho applauds Governor Ododo’s Transformative Leadership, at birthday anniverssary

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Isah Jibrin Echocho and Usman Ahmed Ododo

Senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, Isah Jibrin Echocho has joined the people of Kogi State in celebrating the birthday of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, commending his transformative leadership and people-centered governance.

In a heartfelt tribute, Senator Echocho described Governor Ododo as a visionary leader whose policies have laid the foundation for inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and social progress across the state.

Echocho, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mikail Ibrahim, highlighted the governor’s pragmatic approach to governance, emphasizing his strides in job creation, poverty alleviation, and community empowerment programs as key drivers of positive change.

The senator praised Governor Ododo’s humility and dedication, describing him as a unifier and reformer whose governance style continues to inspire confidence among the people.
He expressed optimism that the governor’s administration would sustain its momentum to build a legacy of prosperity and stability.

Echocho stated:
“As we celebrate this special day, we acknowledge Governor Ododo’s steadfast commitment to making Kogi State a model of progress and unity. His leadership has become a beacon of hope, fostering development and improving the welfare of citizens.”

He further pledged support for the governor’s administration, affirming his readiness to collaborate in driving initiatives that would reduce inequality, boost economic opportunities, and empower communities.

“As partners in governance, we remain committed to complementing the governor’s efforts in implementing policies that will uplift the people and enhance the state’s development trajectory,” Echocho added.

The senator also used the opportunity to urge residents of Kogi State to remain supportive and united, emphasizing that sustainable progress requires collective responsibility and partnerships between leaders and citizens.

While extending prayers for good health, longevity, and wisdom for the governor, Senator Echocho reaffirmed his belief in Governor Ododo’s ability to lead Kogi State into a new era of prosperity and growth.

“Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. May your leadership continue to inspire hope, drive development, and unite our people toward greater achievements,” he concluded.

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Peter Obi Mourns Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, describes him as a “True Democrat”

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Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
Obi described him as a “true democrat” and a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic history.

In a heartfelt statement, while writing on his X-Handle, Obi described Nwosu as an outstanding academic and a courageous defender of democratic principles, particularly during his tenure as NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993.
Obi emphasized Prof. Nwosu’s pivotal role in organizing and upholding the 1993 presidential elections, a process widely regarded as one of the fairest in Nigeria’s history.
“For his role in that election, Prof. Nwosu’s name will remain indelible in the history of Nigerian democracy,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor however lamented the state of Nigeria’s current electoral process, noting that despite the resources and technology now available, the integrity and commitment to democracy exhibited by Nwosu under less favorable conditions have not been replicated.
Obi praised Nwosu for his adherence to truth and electoral transparency, contrasting it with the current challenges in Nigeria’s democratic system.

“Unlike today, when professors are sometimes procured to aid electoral malpractice, Prof. Nwosu applied the principles he taught as an erudite professor of Political Science, conducting an election that remains a benchmark for integrity,” Obi said.

Obi called for more leaders like Nwosu, who he described as willing to risk their lives for the sake of democracy.
He also prayed for God’s forgiveness for Nwosu’s shortcomings and for strength for his family and all those mourning him.

“May God Almighty grant Nigeria the likes of Professor Humphrey Nwosu in future elections,” Obi concluded, reaffirming his belief that a new and better Nigeria is possible.

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