Mohammed Uwais, Fmr Nigeria’s CJN Dies

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June 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Uwais (retd), is dead.

His Death comes 24 hours after that of Professor Jubril Aminu, an accomplished academic, first class cardiologist, diplomat and former Minister for Education and later, Petroleum.

A source close to the family revealed that the erudite jurist, who served as CJN from 1995 to 2006, died in Abuja in the early hours of Friday.

Born on June 12, 1936, the late Justice Uwais served as Judge of the High Court, and later Justice of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court before his appointment as Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), a position he held for 11 years.

Justice Uwais also chaired the Electoral Reform Commission constituted by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and in 2008, submitted critical recommendations for reforms in Nigeria’s electoral system.

At the time of this report, arrangements were being made for funeral prayers at the National Mosque and subsequent burial in accordance with Muslim rites.

Dangote Names Refinery Road After Tinubu

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James Orji

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June 6, 2025

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The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has named the road leading to his multi-billion petrochemical refinery in Lagos after Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.

The Dangote Refinery, worth over $20 billion was commissioned in 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. It’s one of the largest refineries in the world.
He made the announcement on Thursday during the official commissioning of the Deep Sea Port Access Road, linking the Dangote Fertiliser Plant to the Eleko Junction, saying the president has made immense contribution to making the project a reality.

He praised the president for supporting the private sector in the country, noting that by showing an uncommon courage in this area he has encouraged players in the sector.

He said: “The Dangote refinery complex is in many ways your brainchild.

“Mr President, let me just say one thing — the main road going into our refinery is now going to be called Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road.

“With continued collaboration and shared resolve, we are confident that the journey ahead will usher in even greater opportunities for our people and our country under your courageous and ambitious leadership.

“Mr President, you are a very courageous leader. Please continue the great work you are doing. Thank you for your support and encouragement. Definitely, you should expect more, and you should see more, as this has given us the confidence to do more in supporting your government.”

EFCC Boss Calls For Sustained Battle Against Corruption

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James Orji

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June 6, 2025

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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has called on Muslim faithful across the country to promote the spirit of love, sacrifice, truth, and integrity, as they celebrate this year’s Eid-El Kabir.

The EFCC boss made the remark in Abuja on Thursday, in a goodwill message to Muslims.

The magazine reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other prominent political and religious leaders have sent their goodwill messages to Muslim faithful across the country.

Speaking, Olukoyede urges Nigerians not to lose sight of the ongoing fight against corruption in the country, saying graft must be killed for the country to move forward and become one of the ‘greatest nation’ in the world, adding that all hands must be on deck to tackle the menace.

He said President Tinubu has demonstrated an uncommon courage by providing political support for the agency to fight corruption, urging Nigerians to support him, noting that progress and national development would only be achieved through collective efforts of all Nigerians.

Olukoyede: “As we celebrate Eid al-Adha, let’s keep our focus keener on tackling corrupt practices in our land. We have all it takes to confront and conquer financial and economic crimes. Nigeria is awaiting our collective efforts to make her the greatest nation on earth.

“We owe the President this obligation of appreciating him. Without a political will, we cannot tackle corruption effectively.”

Earlier President Tinubu had in his Eid–el Kabir thanked Nigerians for their patience with his government, assuring them that they will soon start enjoying the gains of the ongoing reforms.

The president said, “Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

“Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results.

“I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.”

He urged Muslims to utilise the celebration to promote good deeds and acts of worship to their Maker.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian Muslims and the global Muslim Ummah as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

“Eid-el-Kabir represents the high point of the sacred first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, a period filled with opportunities for acts of worship and good deeds.

“It is a time for gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless mercies upon us as individuals and a nation. While this festival is marked with joy and celebration, its true significance lies much deeper: Eid calls us to reflect on its core values of sacrifice, devotion, and selflessness.

“To truly honour Eid, we must embody these virtues, just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) exemplified complete submission to Allah’s will and as our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught us. Let this sacred occasion renew our commitment to these ideals.

“Eid-el-Kabir also reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country.

“I reaffirm my commitment to these values and express my deep appreciation for the faith, patience, and perseverance Nigerians show as we implement bold reforms. Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere.

“Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits.

“The ultimate objective of these reforms is not just to improve statistics but to transform lives and set Nigeria firmly on the path to sustainable development.

“There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all.

“Our administration will continue acting in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people’s lives.

“We crafted our Renewed Hope Agenda to bring prosperity to every Nigerian, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of it.

“As we celebrate today, remember that Eid-el-Kabir enjoins love, compassion, and generosity for all, regardless of faith or background. Let us care for one another’s well-being during this season and always.

“In this instance, I recall recent sad developments in our country, particularly the Wednesday, May 28 heavy flooding, which submerged the market town of Mokwa, Niger State, causing deaths and destruction of properties and creating an untold humanitarian crisis.

“Let us pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and fortitude for their relations. Let us join hands with the government to bring succour to the people of Mokwa.

“Finally, as we observe this Eid, let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security.

“Let us pray for our leaders at all levels and our country. Let us pray for peace in our tumultuous world of troubles and uncertainties. Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our country.

“May those who have more remember those in need, sharing kindness and support as true brothers and sisters. Let the virtues of perseverance, sacrifice, loyalty, faith, and shared humanity bind us closer.

“May the joy and blessings of Eid-ul-Adha multiply in our lives and the life of our great nation. May Almighty Allah accept our worship and devotion as acts of Ibadah, and may His blessings be with us always,” Tinubu said.

Eid-El-Kabir: Deputy Senate President Re-affirms NASS’ Support For Tinubu

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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June 6, 2025

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Senator Jibrin Barau- Deputy Senate President

Barau Jibrin, Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President says Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown uncommon courage in the manner he has been running the affairs of the country, two years in office as President and Commander-in-chief.

The senator representing Kano state in the nation’s upper legislative chamber said because of this, the president will continue to receive the support of the National Assembly which is ready to make laws to that effect.

Jibrim made the remark as part of his Eid-El-Kabir message to Nigerians on Thursday, saying the lawmakers are ready to make legislation in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the president, aimed at making the country prosperous.

He said President Tinubu has performed well in tackling the nation’s myriads of problems, including insecurity and economic challenges.

He urged Muslims in the country, to, in the spirit of the season continue to live in peace with other Nigerians, urging all Nigerians to use this occasion to re-commit themselves to building ana economically viable and a united nation.

Jibrin: “President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated strong leadership and genuine commitment in addressing our country’s challenges. In the last two years, he has succeeded to a considerable extent in tackling our security challenges and stimulating our economy. We are on the path to prosperity.

“To consolidate the successes recorded under this administration, the National Assembly will continue formulating the necessary legislation to support the President in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to restore the country’s glorious days.”

The magazine reported that the National Assembly has received knocks from not a few Nigerians, who described the lawmakers as a rubber-stamp for the president.

For Instance, during his recent state of the remark, renown cleric Pastor Tunde Bakare accused the Legislators of failing to hold the president accountable to his actions, saying they have lost their popular toga as the “bastion of Democracy.”

Gwandu Emirate: Tussle Between Two Cousins Ends As Jokolo Accepts Supreme Court Judgment

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Adesina Soyooye

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June 6, 2025

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Emir Of Gwandu - Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo

By Adesina Soyooye

With the acceptance by deposed Emir of Gwandu, retired Major Al-Mustapha Jokolo, the Supreme Court judgment which finally put an end to his struggle to regain the throne, the fight for the revered throne between two Cousins has come to an end.

The tussle for the throne has been on for 20 years between Jokolo who was deposed by the Kebbi State Government, allegedly, according to some people, for being too outspoken, defiant and anti-Government, and his cousin, retired Major General Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashir who was appointed in his place as the Emir of Gwandu Emirate.

But in a split judgment of three against two, the Supreme Court overturned the rulings of the lower Courts – Kebbi State High Court and the Court of Appeal – both of which ruled in favour of Jokolo, and affirmed Iliyasu-Bashar the Emir of Gwandu.

To put a final seal on the 20-year old legal tussle for the throne, Counsel to the deposed Jokolo, disclosed that he and his Client accept the Supreme Court judgement and will not apply for a review.

In the split decision the Supreme Court ruled that the Kebbi State High Court, which affirmed Jokolo as Emir and thus his reinstatement, had no jurisdiction to hear the case.

It held that Jokolo did not comply with the requirement to first, submit a formal complaint to the Governor before approaching the Court.

Bashar, who is a cousin to the deposed Jokolo, contested the rulings in favour of Jokolo’s reinstatement through his Counsel, Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, against both Jokolo and the Kebbi State Government.

Jokolo’s lawyer, Sylvester Imhanobe, in his reaction to the Supreme Court ruling, disclosed they would not seek a judicial review. He noted that Jokolo has already accepted the decision in good faith.

Imhanobe, however, said he was surprised that the majority decision relied heavily on “Section 4 of the Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law of Kebbi State, while their case was based on Section 6, which does not require a pre-action complaint as it relates to deposition, not the selection of a new Emir.

“Our case concerned deposition under Section 6, not Section 4. We did not invoke Section 4 at any point,” he posited.

The Honourable Justice Emmanuel Agim who delivered the lead judgment, insisted that “Jokolo ought to have first submitted a formal complaint to the Governor as stipulated by law before seeking court intervention.” According to him, the suit was premature and thus renders the judgment of the lower Courts null and void for lack of jurisdiction.

But in a dissenting ruling, Justice Ibrahim Mohammed Salawa disagreed with the majority. He affirmed the lower courts’ decisions and dismissed the cross-appeals. He, also stated that “the governor should act according to the law and due process.”

In her own dissenting judgment, Justice Uwani Abba-Aji emphasised the need for “the Supreme court to deliver substantial justice to the people.”

2027: APC Affirms Support For Shettima, Says Tinubu Can’t Dump Him

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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June 6, 2025

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Vice President Kassim Shettima will still be President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate in 2027, the All Progressives Congress, APC, has said.

The ruling party is reacting to the suggestion that the president is planning to dump Shettima for another Vice Presidential candidate, in accordance with the demand of some vested interests in the party, including some state governors elected on the platform of the party.

According to the APC National Vice Chairman (South-east) Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the party is not contemplating shopping for another candidate to replace Shettima who he described as an “asset’ to the ruling party, saying the party’s opponents are just trying to cause unnecessary distraction.

He explained that President Tinubu and Shettima have a solid relationship despite the ongoing rumour of an existing feud between them, and the pressure on the president to shop for another candidate for his re-election.

Arodiogbu: “I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.

“Shettima is a key asset—intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration. These rumours are likely just political noise meant to create division.”

Amid the ongoing rumour a northern advocacy group, Concerned Northern Ummah had recently called on President Tinubu to chose a christian as his running mate for the next presidential election, saying the president cannot afford to ignore the sacrifice made for him by Christians in the region for him to win in the 2023 election.

The group made this known in a statement signed by its convener, Bala Duguri.

The group said it arrived at the decision after “undertaken wider consultations across the northern states”adding that choosing a Christian as running mate to Tinubu will be in the spirit of fairness, equity, and justice.”

Duguri: “Our group has undertaken wider consultations across the northern states with different Islamic organisations in a bid to speak with one voice over the political direction in the APC-led administration. The outcome is very encouraging,” Duguri said.

“We have carefully considered the present situation of our country, coupled with deep concern for the well-being of our people, in the spirit of fairness, equity, and justice.

“The sacrifices made by our fellow Christian brothers and sisters in the 2023 presidential elections, in the spirit of unity and national progress, need to be acknowledged. It’s time for Muslim political actors to make similar sacrifices.

“As a Muslim organisation, we use this opportunity to call on all potential Muslim nominees for the vice presidential slot to make the necessary sacrifice by dropping their ambitions for the good of the country.

“After extensive consultations across religious, ethnic, and political lines in the North, we believe the most appropriate step forward is for a Northern Christian to be selected as the Vice Presidential candidate in 2027,”

MURIC Protests Lack Of Free Train Ride For Muslims During Eid-El-Kabir

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Ayodele Oni

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June 6, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has observed that Muslims are being treated like second class citizens in the country , despite that Nigeria is currently being run by politicians of same fate.

MURIC specifically accused both the Federal Government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation of being unfair to Muslims particularly, regarding the way and manner free train rides are declared during religious festivals.

MURIC claimed that there is gross disparity and astounding imbalance in the manner free train rides are declared for Christmas, whereas Salah attracts no such dividend of democracy.

This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday, by the Executive Director of MURIC, Prof Ishaq Akintola.

MURIC, in a statement notes “A strange scenario is currently playing out in the Nigerian socio-cultural landscape. Whereas the Federal Government (FG) offered free train rides during Christmas, it has maintained a pregnant silence on whether the same handout will be offered during this Salah.

“Interestingly enough, FG also extended the period of free train rides beyond two weeks in the early days of January 2025.

“However, the chairman of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced an extension of train services during the Salah period. Yes, extension of train services for which commuters have to pay, not free train ride, is what Nigerian Muslims deserve.

“This extension cannot even scratch the surface. Neither is it comparable to the over-pampering luxury of the Christmas period.

“As part of its corporate social responsibility to Nigerians, MURIC has a duty to interrogate the performance of government in this area. We note that there is gross disparity and astounding imbalance in the manner free train rides are declared for Christmas whereas Salah attracts no dividends of democracy.

“We are therefore constrained to ask, ‘Is free train meant for Christians alone? Who is in control of this government? Are Muslims really being carried along? Are we on a wild goose chase?

“FG appears to be drumming it into the ears of Nigerian Muslims that equal rights in Nigeria is an illusion, a myth, a mirage. It appears that all religions are equal in Nigeria, but Christianity is more equal than any other faith.

“We have been politically marginalized, economically shortchanged and socially ostracized. We have a Muslim president in a Muslim-Muslim ticket yet we cannot enjoy the same social infrastructural facility that Christians are given on a platter of gold.

“We are constrained to ask who is in control of this government? If a Muslim is in control, why are Muslims being treated like lepers?

“We cannot even enjoy simple privileges and common dividends of democracy. Ordinary free train ride which FG begged Christians to take is not even being offered to Muslims. We have been treated like third class citizens in our own country.

“We have been marooned. We have been orphaned. We have been oppressed.

If this is an oversight, we demand an apology from FG. If it is deliberate and official arrogance and an exhibition of executive impunity, we will assume that government is merely flexing its muscles.

“We are not unaware of the extensive powers of government which it can decide to wield as it craves. But you can drag a Muslim to the mosque, at dawn, by noon or after sunset to join the congregational Salat but his special prayer point after Salat can only be determined by him.

“The lopsidedness of the Nigerian system is becoming more and more glaring by the day making the need for an overhauling of the old asymmetrical colonial heritage more compelling, allbeit through rational and constitutional means.

“We believe that two wrongs cannot make a right.

We therefore demand a total and categorical overhauling of all religious matters like our weekend system, seasonal holidays, etc that were fixed and skewed pro-Christian by the colonial master.

“We should have reviewed all these immediately after independence in 1960. This neo imperialist system cannot sustain itself talk less of perpetuating an enduring, just and balanced ecosystem. All neocolonial vestiges must go.”

Eid-el El Kabir: President Tinubu Assures Nigerians Of “Brighter Horizon”

By

Ayodele Oni

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June 5, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that they will soon start to enjoy gains of the Administration’s economic reforms.

The president, in his Eid-el Kabir message to Nigerians stated that “Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

Tinubu declared that “Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results.

“I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.”

Text of theb President’s speech “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian Muslims and the global Muslim Ummah as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.