Home Blog Page 624

SGF Akume Heads Burial Committee For  Buhari, As FEC Shifts Special Session

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
George Akume

By Ayodele Oni

To ensure a befitting State Burial for the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Federal Government has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee to handle the event.

This is just as the earlier scheduled special Federal Executive Council, (FEC) earlier fixed for Tuesday has been postponed.

The burial Committee, which is chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, is tasked with the responsibility of planning and coordinating a befitting state burial for the late elder statesman.

Other Members of the Committee include Ministers, Inspector General of Police and other political appointees.

This was contained in a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen,

Director, Information and Public Relations.

The Office of the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), will serve as the Secretariat to the Committee.

The statement added that President Tinubu has also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to open condolence registers at the entrance of their respective offices for the public to pay their respects to the late Elder Statesman.

Additionally, a central condolence register for the diplomatic community and the general public will be opened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Muhammadu Buhari
Late Muhammadu Buhari

In another statement by the special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga announced that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation will announce a new date after the funeral proceedings.

President Tinubu called for the special FEC session to honour his predecessor for his invaluable contributions to our country.

The remains of the former Nigerian leader will arrive from London on Tuesday by noon, after which he will be committed to mother earth in his home town, in accordance with Islamic rites.

President Buhari died on Sunday in a London Clinic after a prolonged illness.

I was In The Hospital Where Buhari Died

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0
Muhammadu Buhari and Abdulsalami Abubakar

Nigeria’s former military Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar(rtd.) has revealed that he was hospitalised in the same hospital with the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
According to him, the two former leaders were receiving treatment in the same clinic in London. Abdulsalami was later discharged while Buhari fell to the hands of the grim reaper.
Gen Buhari died in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 82, and the country has been filled with the outpour of tributes to the former leader.
Speaking on Channels Television on Monday, GenAbudulsalami said he has never met someone so honest at the former persident. He was so hinest, Abdulsalami said, that “you can trust Buhari with anything’ and he will not betray you.
Former President buhari, according to Abdulsalami tried his best for the country by fighting ‘corruption’ both as civilian leader and military dictator, and his death is a “big blow’ to the country.
Abdulsalami: “Unfortunately, we were in the hospital together, but I have been discharged,” he said. “When I heard the news of his passing away I quickly went there to condole with the family and see what can be done in order to get the corpse ready to be taken home.”
“My relationship with Buhari goes as far back as 1962. We joined the military, he was my senior and during the unfortunate civil war we were fighting in the same sector. Gen. Buhari is a gentleman who is very quiet but exceptionally honest. You can trust Buhari with anything on this earth and he will not betray you,” he added.
“When he became a democratic president, again he tried his best to make sure that he fights corruption. Unfortunately, some of the officers who served with him are found wanting. They didn’t do as much as is expected of them. May he rest in peace.
“His death has been a big blow to Nigeria. Our president, Tinubu, has asked the vice president to come so that he can escort the body.”
The late Buhari is expected to be buried today in Katsina according to Islamic rites.

Ondo, Ekiti States Owe Late President Buhari Gratitude – Fmr Minister Adegoroye

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Ademola Adegoroye

By Ayodele Oni

Former Minister of State for Transportation, Ademola Adegoroye has said that the people of Ondo and Ekiti States owe late former President Muhammadu Buhari gratitude for approving for award contract for dualization of a linking highway between the two states.

In a tribute, Adegoroye who served in Buhari’s cabinet noted that every thought of the late President during his tenure revolved eloquently around making Nigeria a truly great nation that is globally respected, adding that his spartan discipline was second to none, holding FEC meetings for several hours without getting tired.

Muhammadu Buhari

“Unlike most of us Ministers who would wee twice or thrice during long meetings, Buhari would not stand up once.

“I recall an 8-hour meeting held in May 2023 and he didn’t get up once. Someone told me he could only be compared with late Pa Ajasin who showed such discipline and perseverance.”

Adegoroye was deeply grateful to Buhari for supporting him to achieve two critical projects for the people of Ondo state during his 10- month stint as Minister; commencement of the Akure to Ado road project and receipt of the Ondo seaport project license.

He noted that Buhari was a distinguished leader who would give you a chance to serve the country without preconditions, noting that he got a Ministerial position without having to meet him or his aides.

“Buhari was a deeply spiritual man one who would give you a job and tell you that whether you are honest and committed to doing the job or not, you have the Almighty Allah to answer to”

Adegoroye pointed out that Buhari was passionate about development of infrastructure, strengthening our foreign policy and supporting many Nigerians to lead strategic international organizations, boosting local production by emphasising the policy of consume Nigeria.

The former Minister expressed deep admiration for Buhari over the late President’s zero tolerance for corruption and indiscipline, stressing that the leader of the nation from 2015-2023 was a man who did everything humanly possible to write Nigeria’s name in gold.

He tasked present and future leaders of the country to build on Buhari’s legacy, stressing that Buhari will go down in history as probably the most honest Nigerian that ever ruled this country as his contentment was unbelievable.

Search For Best Hands Delayed Appointment Of Commissioners – Ondo Gov

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has explained that the continued search for best hands caused the delay in appointment of Commissioners.

The second batch of Commissioners, were inaugurated on Monday, five months after the first set resumed. The Governor said that the delay was deliberate and strategic.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony held at Akure on Monday, the Governor said the process took time because his administration was focused on getting “the best hands” for the job.

“Governance is not just about speed. It is about goal attainment with consistent and sustained effort, even if seemingly slow, but which ultimately leads to success over those who are initially faster but prone to inconsistency or overconfidence.”

The Governor acknowledged public concerns over the phased appointment of Commissioners, following the inauguration of the first batch on February 27, 2025.

“I must acknowledge the reservations of individuals who felt that the State Executive Council should have come off stream in one fell swoop.

“But within the first 100 days of our administration, we have proven that slow and steady wins the race.”

According to the Governor, the newly appointed officials were picked based on “unassailable qualifications, impeccable track records, and dedication to public service.”

He charged the Commissioners to “hit the ground running,” urging them to uphold the administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy.

“Your appointments are a testimony to your capabilities. The people of Ondo State expect nothing but the best from us.”

He further cautioned friends and family members of the new appointees against putting them under undue pressure or lobbying for favours.

“They must refrain from promoting sectional interests, as their constituencies are not limited to specific areas—the entire State is their responsibility.”

Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s dedication to the “OUR EASE” policy framework, which includes focus areas such as economic growth, security, healthcare, infrastructure, food security, youth empowerment, and social welfare.

Addressing those who are yet to be appointed, the Governor assured that there would be room for more participation.

“We cannot all be Commissioners or Special Advisers at the same time. Governance entails limitless opportunities for everyone to contribute to the overall development of the State.”

The Governor concluded by reaffirming his administration’s stance on transparency, security, and continued infrastructure development, pointing out recent efforts to improve security logistics and attract investment to the State.

Edo Floats New Security Squad To Tackle Kidnapping, Cultism

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor Monday Okpebholo

By Ayodele Oni

Repentant Cultists Are Members

A new special security squad, made up of repentant cultists, local hunters, and community vigilantes, is being put in place by Edo State Government following unending cases of kidnappings and cultism.

The new squad, which will work directly with other security agencies, is put directly under the supervision of the Chief Security Officer, (CSO) and Principal Security Officer, (PSO) to the Governor.

A statement to the effect reads:

“Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the formation of a Special Security Squad to dismantle cultist networks and kidnapping rings terrorizing communities across the state.

“The security initiative, aptly named ‘Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,’ will be jointly coordinated by the Principal Security Officer (PSO) and Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor.

“The operation is a strategic response aimed at restoring public confidence and reclaiming areas overrun by criminal elements.”

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, in the statement, lamented the longstanding security breakdown, especially in hotspots like Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and surrounding areas, where incidents of daylight kidnappings, cult-related violence, and extortion have become disturbingly common.

The statement further revealed that “the deteriorating security situation has driven investors away, crippled small businesses, and left many residents traumatized.

“Governor Okpebholo has, since taking office, made security reform a cornerstone of his administration.

“One of the Governor’s earliest actions was to launch an amnesty and reintegration programme for repentant cultists, a bold move that saw some former cult members transition into roles in community policing and civic outreach.

“Despite early gains, however, the persistence of hardened criminal gangs has prompted a more aggressive strategy.”

A formal memo dated July 11, 2025, disclosed that the new Special Squad will operate across all 18 Local Government Areas, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.

The squad will be composed of carefully vetted personnel, including repentant cultists, local hunters, and community vigilantes — all trained to tackle violent crimes head-on.

“This is not just another security initiative, it’s a zero-tolerance operation designed to rid Edo State of those who have made a career of terror.”

Building Collapses In Kano, Kills Four, Injures Seven

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Building Collpased in Kano

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Four persons were on Monday. July 14, 2025,  confirmed dead in a building collapse on Abedi street, Sabon Gari area, in Fagge Local Council of Kano State.

No fewer than seven people were, also, injured in the incident which occurred at about 6.49 pm on Sunday July 14, 2025.

The Kano Zonal Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Dr.Nuraddeen Abdullahi, who confirmed the incident  informed that the Interventionist agency was alerted to the development which involved an uncompleted three-storey building.

“On receiving the information, we immediately mobilized a Search and Rescue team to the scene in collaboration with other relevant authorities”, he stated.

According to the NEMA Coordinator, residents confirmed that many occupants were inside as at the time of the building collapse, with many feared trapped.

Abdullahi revealed that about four persons were confirmed dead as at 5:41am on Monday , while seven  injured victims were rushed to the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital for medical attention.

He noted that efforts were still underway to rescue  several other people believed to be trapped in the rubble.

” Several other victims are suspected to be trapped .So our team is still making efforts to reach and rescue them safely.

“During the initial rescue operation, the perimeter of the site was secured to control crowd and ensure the safety of of those involved in the operation, while heavy equipment and lighting support were deployed”, Abdullahi noted.

This is as the NEMA Coordinator informed that there are no immediate  plans to enlist more volunteers and stakeholders as the rescue efforts are being sustained.

He, however, assured that, the agency will make available more details as the rescue operation progresses.

According to Abdullahi, preliminary findings have shown that the building may have collapsed as a result of a prolonged and heavy downpour on the day.

Fmr President Buhari For Burial Tuesday 2.00pm In Daura – Gov. Radda

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor Dikko Radda and Muhammadu Buhari

By Ayodele Oni

Body Arrived Nigeria 12.00pm

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has officially announced that the burial of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari will take place on Tuesday, in his hometown of Daura.

Speaking to Journalists in Katsina on Monday, Governor Radda disclosed that the late President’s remains would arrive in Katsina by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, with burial scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in accordance with Islamic rites.

He said the arrangements were made in consultation with Buhari’s family and close associates in London, where the former president passed away on Sunday in a hospital.

Governor Radda extended condolences on behalf of the government and people of Katsina State to Buhari’s family and the entire nation, describing the late president as a national figure whose legacy would endure.

“We pray Almighty Allah to grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannatul Firdaus. We also condole with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over the loss of his predecessor. May Allah give us all the strength to bear this great loss.”

He added that the Katsina State Government, in collaboration with federal authorities and the bereaved family, is working to ensure a dignified and befitting burial for the former leader.

I Never Once Doubted Buhari’s Sincerity Or Patriotism

By
The Source
-
0
Muhammadu Buhari and Ibrahim Babangida

By Ibrahim Babangida

It is with a deeply heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of my friend, my brother, my course mate, and a fellow soldier in the journey of nationhood — President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.

Our paths crossed in 1962 when we both joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria.

Through the years, we shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection. Our bond was forged not only by military training, but by a shared commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, and love for country.

In the course of our long careers, fate placed both of us in leadership at different times, and in very different circumstances. But in all, Buhari remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and the dignity of public office. He served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment, even when the road was lonely or misunderstood.

Beyond the uniform and the public glare, I knew him as a deeply spiritual man, a man who found solace in faith, and who carried himself with the humility of someone who believed in a higher calling.

We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t — but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism.

His passing today (July 13, 2025) is not just the loss of a former Head of State, or a two-term civilian President. It is the loss of a symbol — a man whose life embodied the transition of Nigeria from the old guard to the new republic. A man who, even in retirement, remained a moral compass to many, and an example of modesty in public life.

To his beloved wife, Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and the nation he loved and served — I extend my deepest condolences. May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

May his legacy endure.

General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR,

Former President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

CBN Holds MPC Next Wk

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0
Yemi Cardoso - CBN Governor

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has announced Monday and Tuesday, July 21 and 22, 2025, for its next  Monetary Policy Committee, MPC,  meeting.

The apex bank disclosed this in a notice released on its official website at the weekend.

The last time the apex bank held the MPC meeting was in May, where members decided to leave the  Monetary Policy Rate or benchmark interest rate , MPR, unchanged at 27.5 percent .

The decision supported unanimously by all the 12 MPC, was contrary to expectations that the CBN would slash the interest rate in line with the economic realities in the country.

Ahead its meeting next week, not a few in the sector suggest that the regulator will tinker with the MPR, to show the country’s economic direction.

Cardoso had while speaking to journalists after the May MPC meeting, hinged the decision to retain the interest rate at 27.5 percent the recent improvements in macroeconomic indicators, especially food inflation, which he said had begun to moderate.

He said, “All 12 members of the committee were present and the decision of the committee was unanimous to maintain rates at 27.5 per cent and cash reserve ratio for Deposit Money Banks at 50 per cent and 16 per cent for merchant banks.

“The committee’s decision was hinged on the moderation of food inflation and success in the fight against insecurity, especially in farming communities.”

NASS Postpones Plenary Over Buhari’s Death

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
-
0
National Assembly Complex - NASS

The National Assembly, NASS,  says it’s would no longer resume Plenary today as earlier schedule. The Godswill Akpabio-led Assembly has, therefore,postponed its resumption to July 24, according to a memo issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly,  Kamoru Ogunlana.

Recall that Buhari died in London on Sunday after a protracted illness.

Tributes have been pouring him for the late president from prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,  and leader of NASS.

In honour of the late leader President Tinubu has ordered that the National Flag be flown at half mast.

The Clerk’s memo: “The National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria mourns the passing of His Excellency,  President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President and Commander- in-Chief, who died yesterday (Sunday), 13th July 2025, in London, United Kingdom.

“In honour of his legacy and service to the nation, I am directed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to inform all members of the National Assembly and the general public that all legislative activities in the National Assembly are hereby suspended immediately until Tuesday,22 July, 2025.

“All members of the National Assembly are urged to reschedule their engagements to enable full participation in the burial activities of the late President.

“The leadership of both Chambers, on behalf of members and staff of the National Assembly extend heartfelt condolences to: The government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; The government and people of Katsina State; His wives, children and the entire Buhari family.

“President Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and his integrity.

“May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.”

Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shetima is expected to arrive the country any moment from now with the remains of the former leader, who ruled the country as a military dictator s civilian president.

Buhari, who died at the ripe age of 82 is expected to be buried today in Katsina according to Islamic rites, in a ceremony that President Tinubu and other top government officials are expected to attend.

1...623624625...3,058Page 624 of 3,058