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HAWUL AT A GLIMPSE 1

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2 years ago

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by Inuwa Bwala

By the time I depart as the Chairman of Hawul Local Government Area of Borno state, I may have garnered enough imputes to write about the enclave and her people.

But I want to start with a glimpse at the jinx that surrounded Azare, the local government headquarters, and how it is being broken.

Created in 1991 along with other local government areas across the country, Hawul Local Government Area of Borno state has an interesting and intriguing history behind it.

Prof Babagana Unara Zulum Arena and shopping complex, completed.

 

Perhaps the most intellectually sophiscated, productively ingenious, culturally boisterous, highly industrious but politically unpredictable and sadly developmentally retarded untill recently, of all the Local Governments.
Azare, the local government headquarters, even as the face of the local government, has been a glorified village: bereft of facilities that qualify it as centre of attraction.
There might never have been a conscious effort to develop it, in the erroneous belief that one day the local government may be split and Azare may revert to a virtual nomans land.
All the main towns, which serve as ward centres of the 12 wards in Hawul, are far ahead of Azare the Local Government headquarters, in terms of infrastructure and population.

Water point. Katsina close to Lawan Birma Residence

 

All the elites from Hawul, including me, prefer to concentrate our development efforts in our immediate towns or in Biu, the largest town in southern Borno, at the expense of Azare.
Workers posted to Azare prefer to take up accommodations in surrounding towns, in the absence of beffiting houses to rent in Azare.
The few Government built houses have given way under consistent wind and rainstorms in the face of poor maintenance culture.

Eng. Ibrahim Idris Garba Memorial Clinic, Ngwa, completed.

For over forty years, the citizens were often sold the gimmick that there was no water fllowing underneath the earth in Azare.
At a point, attempts were made to lay pipes from other communities into Azare, all in an attempt to further mystify the water story.
Indeed, the social media was awash with stories of people ferrying water from valleys into Azare; long after the jinx had been broken.
The water story in Azare was deliberately orchestrated to score political points and to further portray the town as unsuitable for citting the headquarters of Hawul.
The only road, which is a federal highway that passes through Azare from Biu to Gombi, is a virtual death trap.
Travellers plying the road are at the mercy of so many odds. Communities along the road tell stories of lamentations of neglect and deprivations.
The stories sounded rather too scary when I was asked to go and change the narratives; first, as a transition chairman and later as a caretaker chairman.
Coupled with the task of midwifing an election that was tension soaked, the assignment at first looked impossible.
I was torn between having to convince a population that was hoodwinked into believing my party was a bad product, and having to work against a hypocrisy that wanted me to fail, even as members of my party, and further thinking of giving water to the Azare community that believed there was no water under their own soil, the task looked daunting.
So, in the first four weeks of my assumption of duty, when the Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Visited and looked at me straight in the eyes and before the Azare community, ordered me to provide water to Azare-Tasha, I was at my wits end how to do it.
It was rather baffling that a few meters away from the community water was flowing from a borehole within a Church premises, but for the community, the story was different. But then, I took up the challenge and punched the first two sites without success. On a third trial, water started gushing out at less than a hundred meters. That water still flows: in a community that was told to resign their fates.
That feat began to break the water jinx. Since then, any visitor to Azare in the last one year should be telling a different story from the gory picture painted above.
Today, there are not less than 30 functional water boreholes in Azare; all oozing out water, for human and animal consumption, and even gardening.
We immediately embarked on massive borehole repairs beyond Azare; including private and public borehole, j6st to gather goodwill. We drilled new ones in other locations, all of which only marginally impacted the usually unpredictable lot.
Again, when we looked around, the local government secreteriat, where I was expected to operate, was in tatters. Staff morale was down, and there were no companies with whom to work, as they seldom come around.
To attract life back into the secreteriat, we opened a staff register in each department and ordered workers to sign in on reporting to duty and to sign out at the close of work.
That trick worked out as every worker immediately reported to work, and we started having people around whom we assigned to do jobs of bringing life into the secreteriat.
We commenced distributing palliatives to attract attention and even resorted to nocturnal visits in the community to win over friends.
We could not do much to Azare enough to change the narrative in the first stanza, but we were able to prove that the story about water under their soil was a mere facade.
Today, Azare is beggining to wear a new look, courtesy of a few structural developments, we undertook.
The local government secreteriat wears a new look after the rainstorm disaster of 23 May, 2023, that brought down walls and blew off roofs.
We have restored electricity, we have built an arena, with a shopping arcade to attract commercial activities to the town, we have completed a seven room befitting lodge for visitors, we built a central store and repaired parts of the collapsed Federal highway.

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NDYPC Hails Otuaro’s Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme

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1 day ago

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August 10, 2025

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• Lauds transparency, fairness in beneficiary selection and grassroots empowerment

• Says reforms align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, restore trust in Niger Delta

The Niger Delta Youths for Positive Change (NDYPC) has commended the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for what it described as bold, people-focused reforms that are restoring trust and delivering tangible benefits to the Niger Delta.

In a statement signed and issued by Comrade Elliott Yibakeni, after the conclusion of leadership training sessions with ex-agitator leaders in Abuja, the group said the PAP, once in urgent need of renewal, is now undergoing a transformation that reflects transparency, fairness, and accountability.

“At a time when public trust in institutions was waning, Dr. Otuaro has emerged as a symbol of credibility and transformation,” the statement read. “His visionary leadership is restoring integrity, empowering communities, and driving a sustainable development agenda that resonates with the aspirations of the Niger Delta.”

According to NDYPC, under Otuaro’s leadership, beneficiary selection has become fair and merit-based, ending years of favoritism and political interference. The group added that access to education, skills training, and empowerment opportunities, both locally and abroad, is now guided by equity and open competition.

The group highlighted several internal reforms, including improved staff welfare, strengthened professional capacity, and strict adherence to best practices in public procurement. These, it said, have made the PAP more efficient, responsive, and transparent.

NDYPC also praised Otuaro’s inclusive governance style, noting his sustained engagement with traditional rulers, women leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities. This approach, the group said, has strengthened peace-building efforts and deepened trust between the PAP and the people it serves.

In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the PAP has maintained consistent payment of stipends to ex-agitators and extended direct support to vulnerable populations. NDYPC also applauded new healthcare interventions for ex-agitators facing health challenges.

The statement further commended the programme’s investments in scholarships, vocational training, and economic empowerment initiatives aimed at preparing Niger Delta youths for leadership, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.

“Every decision reflects a deep commitment to public trust, responsible stewardship, and long-term development,” NDYPC stated. “Under Dr. Otuaro’s watch, the Niger Delta is rising stronger, united, and filled with renewed hope.”

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I’m Ready to Give DJ Cuppy True African Love, If Her Father Signs This One Condition – Aigbegbele

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2 days ago

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August 9, 2025

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The race to win DJ Cuppy’s heart just got a dramatic twist, and it comes with a legal caveat!

Omoba Kenneth Aigbegbele, a foremost promoter of traditional rulers, veteran journalist, human rights activist, and former media adviser to ex-First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, has thrown his hat into the ring as the man ready to end the billionaire heiress’s search for love.

Aigbegbele, who sits atop the Silverdoors Communication Group and leads multiple advocacy organisations including Citizens Watch Advocacy Initiative (CWAI) and the Guild of Civil Societies and Media Executives for Equity, Justice and Transparency in Nigeria (GOCMEJ), declared that he is “very prepared” to marry the 31-year-old DJ, but on one non-negotiable condition, she and her billionaire father, Femi Otedola, must sign a “submissiveness” agreement.

Beyond his public roles, Aigbegbele is also a mass communication scholar, a fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Public Relations (NIPR), with master’s degrees in Mass Communication and International Relations, and is presently pursuing his Doctorate. A seasoned media consultant to topnotch politicians, business bigwigs and military top brass.

“As a true African man, I believe in mutual respect in marriage. I will love, protect, and comfort her at all times, but she must also accept me as the head of the family. That is why I am requesting her father’s formal consent to this agreement,” Aigbegbele told newsmen with a confident smile.

He further revealed that his decision to seek Cuppy’s hand was not made lightly.

“I have watched her all these years and considered so many things, especially knowing fully well that she was brought up well by Chief Otedola. After critical thinking and discussion with my immediate family, I have decided to marry her to show her that genuine love still exists,” he stated.

Describing himself as a man who has experienced life and is ready for a lifelong commitment, the public affairs advocate stressed that his interest in DJ Cuppy is genuine and not influenced by her fame or fortune.

“I am not married currently, though I have children. But I am ready, not just to marry her, but to give her the true African love she says she’s been searching for,” he said.

In recent weeks, Florence “DJ Cuppy” Otedola has been vocal about her readiness to settle down, hinting that she is open to finding “real love” away from the glitz and glamour. Aigbegbele insists he is the perfect match to provide that stability, if she embraces his traditional values.

With the challenge now thrown at Cuppy and her father, social media is already buzzing: will the billionaire DJ trade her independent streak for “true African love”? Or will this be one proposal that remains a headline fantasy?

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Alleged Corruption: Coalition protests against Bayo Ojulari, seeks his arrest. Prosecution

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1 week ago

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August 1, 2025

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A coalition of civil society groups, including OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance, held a press conference at the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, July 31, 2025, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

The coalition alleged that Ojulari was implicated in a massive corruption scandal involving ₦34.65 billion, equivalent to $21 million. According to the group, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has already detained Abdullahi Bashir Haske, a close associate of Ojulari, who confessed to holding the $21 million on Ojulari’s behalf.

The press conference was jointly signed by the trio of Emmanuel Ekpeyong representing OilWatch Nigeria; Danladi Usman from Workers’ Right Alliance and Babatunde Anifowoshe of Nigeria Concerned Citizens. The coalition also announced a three-day peaceful protest starting August 1, 2025, at the National Assembly, NNPCL Headquarters, and the EFCC office in Abuja.

“We will not stand idly by while one individual’s greed tarnishes our collective future,” said Emmanuel Ekpeyong of OilWatch Nigeria. “The evidence against Ojulari is damning, and the EFCC must act swiftly to bring him to justice.”

The coalition also accused Ojulari of living an extravagant lifestyle, residing in the lavish Presidential Suite of the Wells Carlton Hotel, and using shell companies to siphon funds through inflated contracts and kickbacks.

The group is urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption by supporting the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and prosecute Ojulari and removing him from his position as NNPCL CEO.

As the nation waits with bated breath for accountability, one thing is clear: the fight against corruption has reached a critical juncture. Will justice be served, or will the powerful once again escape accountability? Only time will tell,” the coalition stressed.

The statement reads in full:

We, the coalition of OilWatch Nigeria, Workers’ Rights Alliance, and concerned citizens, stand united today to confront a grave injustice that threatens the soul of our nation and undermines the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. We are here to demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of Mr. Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), who has been directly implicated in a massive corruption scandal. His actions have plunged Nigeria into a crisis of trust and economic sabotage, and we will not stand idly by while one individual’s greed tarnishes our collective future. The evidence against Ojulari is damning, and the EFCC must act swiftly to bring him to justice.

Bayo Ojulari’s Implication in a $21 Million Scandal
The recent detention of Abdullahi Bashir Haske by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for three days has exposed a staggering corruption scandal at the heart of NNPCL. Haske, a close associate of Ojulari, confessed to the EFCC that the $21 million found in his account—equivalent to approximately ₦34.65 billion at the current exchange rate of ₦1,650 to $1—belongs to Bayo Ojulari. Let us be clear: this is not a trivial sum. Thirty-four billion, six hundred and fifty million naira is an obscene amount of money, enough to fund critical infrastructure, healthcare, or education for millions of Nigerians. Yet, this fortune was allegedly stashed in an account that previously held a mere $5,000 (₦8.25 million). This revelation alone demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of Bayo Ojulari to uncover the full extent of his illicit dealings and ensure justice for the Nigerian people.

Further Allegations Against Bayo Ojulari
Extravagant Lifestyle at Wells Carlton: While Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities, Ojulari resides in the lavish Presidential Suite of the Wells Carlton Hotel alongside Haske. This ostentatious lifestyle, funded by questionable means, is a gross betrayal of public trust and a clear indication of ill-gotten wealth.

Damage to Tinubu’s Administration: Ojulari’s actions are inflicting irreparable harm on President Tinubu’s reputation. His leadership at NNPCL has fostered a culture of corruption, eroding public confidence in the government’s commitment to transparency. Allowing him to remain free sends a dangerous signal that corruption is tolerated at the highest levels.

Shell Companies and Contract Fraud: Ojulari is accused of orchestrating the use of shell companies to siphon funds through inflated contracts and kickbacks. Haske’s testimony allegedly exposes a network of illicit transactions tied to NNPCL’s operations, with ₦34.65 billion being just the tip of the iceberg.

Cronyism and Abuse of Power: Ojulari has filled key NNPCL positions with unqualified loyalists, sidelining competent professionals and prioritizing personal gain over national interest. This cronyism has crippled NNPCL’s efficiency and deepened public distrust, particularly among oil workers.

Obstruction of Justice: Credible reports suggest Ojulari has actively interfered with EFCC investigations to shield his allies, delaying justice and allowing corrupt practices to flourish. Such actions are an affront to the rule of law and demand his immediate arrest.

Our Demands
We call on the EFCC to immediately arrest and prosecute Bayo Ojulari for his alleged role in the ₦34.65 billion scandal and other corrupt practices. The evidence provided by Haske’s confession is sufficient to warrant his detention and a thorough investigation into his financial dealings, including the source of the $21 million and his involvement in NNPCL’s questionable contracts. We also demand that President Tinubu sack Ojulari from his position as NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer to demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption and restore public confidence in his administration.
The magnitude of this scandal—₦34.65 billion stolen from the Nigerian people—cannot be overstated. This is money that could have built hospitals, schools, or roads, or ensured fair wages and safety for oil workers, yet it was allegedly funneled into private hands under Ojulari’s watch. Justice must be swift, transparent, and uncompromising.

Call to Action: Three Days of Protest
To press home our demands, we announce a three-day peaceful protest starting tomorrow, August 1, 2025, at the National Assembly, NNPCL Headquarters, and the EFCC office in Abuja. These protests, led by OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance, will send a clear message to the authorities: Nigerians, especially those in the oil sector and workers across the nation, will not tolerate corruption on this scale. We will march until Bayo Ojulari is arrested, prosecuted, and removed from office.

A Message to President Tinubu
Mr. President, your administration promised renewed hope for Nigerians. Allowing Bayo Ojulari to evade justice undermines that promise and risks further economic sabotage and public unrest. We urge you to act decisively by supporting the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and prosecute Ojulari and by removing him from NNPCL immediately. Your legacy depends on your commitment to rooting out corruption, starting with this case.

Conclusion
The fight for a corrupt-free Nigeria, where our oil wealth benefits all and workers’ rights are protected, is a collective responsibility. We call on all Nigerians—youth, women, oil workers, and patriots—to join OilWatch Nigeria and Workers’ Rights Alliance in these protests and demand justice. Together, we can hold our leaders accountable and build a nation where integrity and fairness prevail. We thank the press for amplifying our voice and the Nigerian people for standing with us. Bayo Ojulari must be arrested, prosecuted, and sacked, and we will not rest until justice is served for the ₦34.65 billion scandal and beyond.

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