News
5thAugust, 2024.
His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
The Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces,
State House,
Aso Villa, Yakubu Gowon Crescent,
Three Arms Zone, Asokoro,
Abuja, F.C.T, Nigeria.
Dear Mr. President,
OPEN LETTER TO MR. PRESIDENT: FAILURE TO ADDRESS THE STATE OF THE NATION ON THE NATIONWIDE PROTEST, DELIVERED SUNDAY 4TH AUGUST, 2024
By Hamza N. Dantani Esq
I am a proud citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, legal practitioner and a politically conscious and concerned compatriot. I write this open letter to you with a deep sense of passion, untainted patriotism and good intent for Nigeria.
Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart that I pen these words, deeply concerned about the severe hardships that have engulfed our nation. So, if there are established protocols regarding the mode of communicating to you, sir, with the greatest respect, I wish to dispense with them. This is because the subject matter of this letter is so weighty and compelling that it requires I disregard all preambles and go straight to the point.
Your Excellency, I set my alarm clock for 6:30 am for 4th August 2024, to ensure that I did not miss your much awaited address to the nation on the current protest across the nation which started on 1st August 2024 and is to last till 10th August 2024.
Disappointingly, your address left so much to be desired, as it totally failed to address the concerns of citizens.
The nationwide protests, driven by dire issues of hunger, insecurity, and rising costs of living, speak to the untold hardship Nigerians are facing at this very moment. From the city of Kaduna to the Lagos Metropolis to the ancient city of Kano, Nigerians trooped out en masse, in exercise of their constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly, to ventilate their grievances. Although the protests have been largely peaceful in some areas, it has been hijacked by hoodlums in other places and turned violent, as some fellow citizens have tragically lost their lives. This situation is deeply troubling and demands immediate and effective action from your administration.
As you well know, the primary purpose of government, as provided for in section 14 (2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), is the security and welfare of the people. Furthermore, subsection 2(a) of the aforementioned section declares loudly that “sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria from whom government through this Constitution derives all its powers and authority.” In addition, the oath of office in the seventh schedule of the Constitution which you took when you assumed office states that you will discharge your duties always in the interest of the well-being and prosperity of the country. Mr. President, Nigerians are groaning under the yoke of poverty!
The public outcry and the demands for relief- specifically, the reduction of fuel prices, food prices and the costs of governance- reflect critical issues that require urgent and thoughtful responses. However, your address, which focused on enumerating your achievements in office and tagging the protests as political, failed to address these pressing concerns. Hunger and hardship, not politics, are the unifying factors in these protests. Remember you made the popular statement “let the poor breathe; don’t suffocate them.”
Before you assumed office on May 29, 2023, many Nigerians connected with you as an activist who empathized with the pain of the masses. I can vividly recall that in 2012, when the government of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan marginally increased the pump price of petroleum products, you led protests against that policy.
Nigerians are now surprised that you have surpassed the same leader you criticized in causing more pains to Nigerians. It has not helped matters that amid the pains and suffering Nigerians are currently facing, you have stated flatly in your address that there will be no review of the policies that have impoverished Nigerians.
Mr. President, it is imperative for any leadership to recognize and address the grievances of its citizens, particularly when their basic needs and safety are at stake.The current dissatisfaction among the populace is a clear indication that your administration’s approach is not aligned with the needs and expectations of the people. And as the father of the nation, it is your duty to listen to your people. After all, the voice of the people is the voice of God.
I urge you to reassess your policies, although well-intentioned but suffocating for Nigerians, and take tangible steps to address the demands of the people. My piece of advice as one who wants the best for this country is that, formulating and implementing effective strategies to reduce the cost of living and improve governance transparency are essential for alleviating public suffering and restoring confidence in your government. In the meantime, Mr. President should reduce the price of fuel to at least meet Nigerians half-way.
Neglecting these issues that affect the common man on the street not only exacerbates the current crisis but also poses significant risk of further instability. The continued disregard for the people’s needs and lack of adequate response to their legitimate concerns are recipes for disaster, which could have long-term repercussions for both this administration and the nation as a whole.
We can learn from recent history in Kenya. On June 18, 2024, young Kenyans took to the streets to oppose the proposed tax reforms introduced in the 2024 Finance Bill that had been submitted to the Kenyan parliament by President William Ruto’s government, marking a significant shift in the landscape of youth activism and advocacy in Africa. On 26 June, 2024, President Rutobowed to the will of the people and withdrew the Finance Bill, 2024. Further, the President proposed spending cuts and agreed to expenditures to benefit ordinary Kenyans.
I hope that you can borrow a leaf from President Ruto who listened to his people and take this opportunity to prioritize the well-being of your citizens and act decisively to address their needs. Your leadership and commitment to resolving these critical issues will play a crucial role in the country’s path forward.
I thank you for your time and commitment to a renewed hope for Nigerians. Please accept the assurances of my highest professional regards.
Signed
Hamza N. Dantani Esq
Legal Practitioner
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
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