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  • Troops Eliminate Eight Bandits and Seize Arms in Kaduna

    Troops Eliminate Eight Bandits and Seize Arms in Kaduna

    By   Milcah Tanimu

    In a successful operation, Nigerian Army troops have neutralized eight bandits in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The bandits were killed during a fighting patrol in the Kampanin Doka general area.

    Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed that the operation led to the recovery of several arms and equipment. The recovered items include three AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines (four of which were loaded with a total of 120 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition), one magazine carrier, six motorcycles, three mobile phones, two Baofeng radios, and three pairs of civilian clothing.

    The troops also engaged bandits near the Gayam general area. While one bandit was eliminated, others are believed to have fled with gunshot wounds.

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State praised the troops for their commendable performance. He specifically acknowledged the leadership of Major General MLD Saraso, the General Officer Commanding the 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Whirl Punch (OPWP), for their effective and courageous efforts.

  • Nigerian Army Troops Eliminate Two Terrorists in Kaduna

    Nigerian Army Troops Eliminate Two Terrorists in Kaduna

    By  Milcah   Tanimu

    On Thursday, the Nigerian Army announced that its troops neutralized two terrorists during clearance operations in Kaduna State. The operation took place at Gama Gira Village in the Igabi Local Government Area, where the troops successfully subdued the armed members of the terrorist group.

    In a statement, the Army reported that the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine with seven rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition, a Tecno mobile phone, a phone charger, and a cash sum of 102,010 naira.

    In a separate operation, troops also recovered a PKT gun from fleeing terrorists in the Jangeme Ruwan Kunku area. This recovery was made following a sustained operation that led to the dislodgement of the terrorists in the region.

  • Two Men Arraigned for Alleged Illegal Possession of Arms in Kaduna

    Two Men Arraigned for Alleged Illegal Possession of Arms in Kaduna

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Two individuals, Usman Muhammad and Abdulahafeez Abubakar, found themselves before an Upper Shari’a Court in Tudun Wada, Kaduna, Kaduna State, facing charges of illegal possession of arms.

    According to Inspector Jamilu Umar, the prosecutor handling the case, the accused were apprehended during an evening police patrol in the Tudun Wada area. During the patrol, they were observed carrying cutlasses, sharp knives, and sticks.

    “When they were asked about the weapons, they said they went to town to cause unrest; they are suspected to be part of the sara suka boys disturbing the community,” Umar explained.

    In response, both accused individuals pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against them.

    Presiding over the case, Judge Malam Iliyasu Umar granted the accused bail, setting a bail bond of N100,000 each. Additionally, they were required to present their biological parents, an elder, or a close relative as surety.

    The court adjourned the case to May 28, providing time for the complainant to present witnesses in the proceedings.

  • Ministerial Nominee: Nasir El-Rufai Biography and Profile.

    Ministerial Nominee: Nasir El-Rufai Biography and Profile.

    Early Life

    Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai CON, born on February 16, 1960, is a distinguished Nigerian politician who held significant positions in both regional and federal governance. Notably, he served as the governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, making notable contributions to the state’s development and progress during his tenure.

    Before his governorship, El-Rufai occupied crucial roles in the Nigerian government. From 2003 to 2007, he was the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he played a pivotal role in the growth and administration of Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. Additionally, he served as the director of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, demonstrating his commitment to public sector reform and privatization efforts.

    Furthermore, El-Rufai is a co-founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling political party in Nigeria. His involvement in its establishment underscores his dedication to shaping the country’s political landscape and advancing its developmental agenda. Through his notable career, El-Rufai has cemented his position as a prominent and influential figure in Nigerian politics.

    Family
    Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, born on February 16, 1960, hails from a Fulani family in Daudawa, Nigeria. Tragically, he lost his father at the age of 8. However, with the support of an uncle in Kaduna, he was able to pursue his early education.

    El-Rufai’s personal life includes his marriage to three wives. His first wife, Hadiza Ismail El-Rufai, is a renowned writer and novelist. She is also actively involved in the Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation (YELF), established in memory of their daughter, Yasmin, who passed away in 2011. The foundation serves as a platform for various initiatives and charitable endeavors.

    In addition to his notable political career, El-Rufai’s family life reflects his commitment to his loved ones and his dedication to supporting causes close to his heart.

    Education

    Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s educational journey is marked by remarkable achievements. He attended Barewa College, where he had the opportunity to interact with future President Umaru Yar’Adua, who was the house captain of his dormitory during his junior years. In 1976, he graduated from Barewa College, earning the prestigious “Barewa Old Boys’ Association Academic Achievement” Trophy for ranking at the top of his class.

    Subsequently, El-Rufai pursued higher education at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he excelled and earned a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying with first-class honours. His dedication to academic excellence continued, and in 1984, he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Ahmadu Bello University.

    Throughout his career, El-Rufai continued to enhance his knowledge and skills by attending various professional and post-graduate programs. Notably, he studied at the Georgetown School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., focusing on issues related to privatization and leadership.

    Furthermore, El-Rufai’s pursuit of knowledge led him to obtain a law degree from the University of London in August 2008. Additionally, in June 2009, he earned a master’s degree in public administration from the prestigious John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. During his time at Harvard, he also received the Kennedy School Certificate in Public Policy and Management, having spent 11 months as an Edward A. Mason Fellow in Public Policy and Management from July 2008 to June 2009.

    El-Rufai’s educational accomplishments reflect his commitment to personal and professional development, shaping him into a well-rounded and knowledgeable leader in the realm of Nigerian politics and governance.

    Professional Career
    In 1982, he founded El-Rufai & Partners, a quantity surveying consulting firm with three partners which he managed until 1998.During the military juntas of 1983–1998, the firm received building and civil engineering contracts including during the construction of Abuja, making the partners “young millionaires”.In addition to his practice, El-Rufai held management positions with two international telecommunications companies, AT&T Network Systems International BV and Motorola Inc.

    Early political career
    In 1998, following the death of military head of state General Sani Abacha, his successor General Abdulsalami Abubakar appointed El-Rufai as an economic advisor. In this role he worked with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

    In 1999, the military transferred power to President Olusegun Obasanjo. In November 1999, he was appointed the director of the Bureau of Public Enterprises,and secretary of the National Council of Privatisation where he spear-headed the privatisation of several government owned corporations alongside Vice President Atiku Abuba.

    Marraige life
    El-Rufai is married to three wives and has children and they are Hamza El Rufai, Yasmin El Rufai, Biikisu El-Rufai, Mustapha El-Rufai, and Ahmed El-Rufai.

    His children’s names are: Hamza El-Rufai, Yasmin El-Rufai, Bilkisu El-Rufai, Mustapha El-Rufai, Ahmed El-Rufai, Bashir El-Rufai, Abubakar Al-Siddique el-Rufai, and more.

  • “Diphtheria Outbreak in Kaduna: 8 Deaths, 68 Suspected Cases”

    “Diphtheria Outbreak in Kaduna: 8 Deaths, 68 Suspected Cases”

    Kaduna State in Nigeria is currently facing a concerning outbreak of diphtheria, a severe bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. As of now, there have been 68 suspected cases and 8 reported deaths.

    The cases have emerged from four local government areas in the state, including Makarfi, Kubau, Jema’a (Kafanchan), and Kaduna North. Among the fatalities, five were from Jema’a and three from Makarfi. Additionally, there is one suspected case being monitored at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital.

    In response to the outbreak, health authorities have taken 28 samples for testing, awaiting confirmation. Contact tracing and active search measures are currently underway to prevent further transmission. The Rapid Response Team is conducting sensitization campaigns through media and door-to-door efforts in affected communities to raise awareness about the disease and its prevention.

    Residents are strongly urged to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facilities across the state. The Kaduna State government is prioritizing routine immunization to ensure all children are fully vaccinated against diphtheria.

    It is essential for everyone to stay informed about the outbreak and seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms arise. The health authorities are working diligently to contain the spread and protect the community’s well-being.

  • Governor reports 10 Kaduna children succumb to diphtheria outbreak.

    Governor reports 10 Kaduna children succumb to diphtheria outbreak.

    The Kaduna State Ministry of Health has attributed the deaths of 10 children in various communities within Kafanchan, Jemaá Local Government Area, to a diphtheria outbreak.

    Governor Uba Sani took immediate action in response to the reported fatalities caused by this unfamiliar disease. He promptly instructed an emergency health team to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

    The governor emphasized that the confirmation of the diphtheria outbreak came after receiving multiple reports from residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A, and Kafanchan B wards, who exhibited concerning symptoms, including difficulty in breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.

    “In light of the tragic loss of lives in the affected communities, His Excellency Senator Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, swiftly directed the Kaduna State Ministry of Health to dispatch an emergency team to investigate these cases.”According to the statement, the Ministry’s preliminary report indicates that the diphtheria outbreak in Kafanchan began with its first recorded case at the start of July 2023.
    The governor praised the swift and efficient response of the health officials to the health emergency and urged them to maintain their diligence in containing and eventually eradicating the disease.

    The statement further highlighted the measures taken by the Ministry, including transferring affected cases to well-equipped hospitals for proper management, conducting active case searches, tracing contacts, and conducting extensive community sensitization in all affected areas and their vicinity.

    The statement further emphasized that residents have been advised to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease and safeguard their communities.

    Residents were encouraged to adopt the following preventive measures:

    1. Wash their hands regularly with soap and water.
    2. Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.
    3. Cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
    4. Stay at home from work or school if they are feeling unwell.
    5. Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, to boost immunity.
    6. Report any suspected cases of diphtheria in their surrounding communities.

    By adhering to these guidelines, the aim is to curb the transmission of the disease and protect the health and well-being of the community at large.

  • Farmers Brutally Attacked and Traders Abducted in Kaduna

    Farmers Brutally Attacked and Traders Abducted in Kaduna

    In a devastating turn of events on Thursday, bandits launched a violent assault on the Sabon Layi community within the troubled Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. During the attack, three farmers were mercilessly killed, while numerous individuals, including travelers, were forcibly abducted.

    The community leader, Sallau Ibrahim, recounted that the distressing incident occurred around noon. The slain farmers were identified as Anas Sabonlayi, Abubakar Dankibiya, and Harisu Lemu. With deep sorrow, the community laid them to rest in Sabon Layi later that afternoon, in accordance with Islamic rites.

    According to Ibrahim, this act of aggression appeared to be a retaliatory response to the ongoing military operations in the region. Additionally, the bandits targeted a group of traders who were journeying from the western part of the state to attend the Birnin-Gwari Market on Thursday.

    Ibrahim grimly revealed, “They kidnapped some of the traders and travelers en route to the market.” He further explained that due to the escalating security concerns in the area, farmers had refrained from tending their fields for nearly two weeks. Unfortunately, their decision to resume their agricultural activities led to this devastating attack and subsequent abductions.

    Usman Kasai, the Chairman of Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Union, also confirmed the harrowing incident. He disclosed, “They (bandits) killed three people, and many others were abducted. We are still determining the exact number of individuals held captive by the bandits in the forest.”

    As of now, there has been no official confirmation of the incident from the police or the state government. Our attempts to reach out to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mohammad Jalige, for further information remain unanswered.

    It is yet another tragic occurrence highlighting the escalating security challenges faced not only in Kaduna but also across Nigeria and the African continent. The need for immediate and effective measures to address these issues has become more critical than ever.

  • I Am Leaving Kaduna State Better Than I Met It – El-Rufai

    I Am Leaving Kaduna State Better Than I Met It – El-Rufai

    The immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-rufai on Monday, bid residents farewell as he relinquished power to his successor, Mallam Uba Sani.

    In his farewell address, El-rufai said at every step of the way during his service, he had been able to count on the support and understanding of the people, both in good times and in challenging moments, saying the support buoyed him to serve the people to the best of his ability.

    He said, “We have had to take difficult decisions and most of our people have often understood that those steps were taken to uphold the common good. We are immensely grateful to the residents of our state.

    The former Governor said he was confident that he had made Kaduna State a better place than he met it.

    “We have made Kaduna State proud as an investment destination, a place of innovation in governance reforms and a state of equal opportunity for all who call it home. Our Kaduna is a state where every resident is a citizen. ” He said

    “We have expanded access to education and health care. We have reformed our public school system to deliver free education for every child until they complete senior secondary school. We have placed primary health care at the heart of our health care delivery strategy.” He further said

    According to him, he has guaranteed every child in Kaduna State the chance to climb the ladder of social mobility that a decent education and access to affordable health care offer.

  • Kaduna State Govt. Impose 24-hour-Curfew in Chikun LGA

    Kaduna State Govt. Impose 24-hour-Curfew in Chikun LGA

    The Kaduna State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Sabon Garin Nassarawa communities in the Chikun Local Government Area of the state following the killing of two persons.

    According a short statement by the state commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, the curfew is with immediate effect.

    Aruwan also said the decision was reached following a breakdown of law and order that led to loss of two lives in an incident of urban gang violence.

    The commissioner added that security agencies have been directed to enforce the curfew in the area and restore order, while investigation into the incident has commenced.

  • Kaduna PDP Seeks Alliance With LP To Defeat APC in Guber Election

    Kaduna PDP Seeks Alliance With LP To Defeat APC in Guber Election

    The Kaduna State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Felix Hassan Hyat, has appealed to members of the Labour Party to form an alliance to rescue the state from the present condition caused by the All Progressives Congress in the last eight years.

    The chairman disclosed this to journalists in Kaduna while appealing to members of the LP to save the state.

    Hyat also decried the process and outcome of Saturday’s presidential election.

    He said it was below the expectations of Nigerians and the PDP, but expressed gratitude for the show of support given to their candidates and party across the state.

    He added that the result of the election in the state was a signal that residents of the state have rejected the APC and have now concluded to support PDP.

    He, however, urged residents of the state to support the PDP in the March 11 governorship election in the state.