Three Anambra Native Doctors Arraigned Before High Court

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Three Anambra Native Doctors Arraigned Before High Court

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka .

Three Native Doctors arrested last three months by the Agunechemba Security Squad were arraigned at the Awka High Court to face charges of Criminal activities.

The three Native Doctors are Onyebuchi Okocha aka Onyeze Jesus , Chidozie Nwangwu aka Akwa Okuko Tiwala Aki and Ekene Igboekwueze aka Eke Hit.

But the Court however adjourned the matter to April 11th 2025 .

The adjournment is to allow for proper service and arraignment, Anambra State High Court presided over by Honourable Justice Jude Obiorah, has adjourned to 11th April 2025 the cases of 3 Anambra native doctors accused of criminal activities, including preparing Oke-ite.

Speaking to newsmen after the court proceedings, one of the Counsels for the 3 defendants, Remigus Okoli, said the state government came with a ploy to remand the defendants, saying that proper service and giving accused adequate time to prepare for defense are very fundamental as enshrined in the constitution and relevant laws of the state.

He claimed that the law is on their side in defending the accused.

Efforts to speak with Counsels to the state government led by F C Okeke was not successful.
#absradiotelevision

2025; Anambra APC Primary Gets Messier Delegate Lists Allegedly Doctored

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2025; Anambra APC Primary Gets Messier Delegate Lists Allegedly Doctored

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka.

Less than twenty four hours to the conduct of the All Progressives Congress APC gubernatorial primary election in Anambra state, there have been sustained protest by some members of the party over the alleged doctoring of the list of delegates for the exicise.

Recall that about three weeks ago the conduct of the ward delegate Congress ended in confusion as the committee charged with the conduct of the election could not make public the list of elected delegates for the main primary election.

Deepening the situation, the members of the seven man Primary election committee led by His Excellency Bassey Otu could not be found in Awka Anambra state capital but it is being feared that the members have arrived Anambra state but their whereabout is yet to be known.

When this reporter contacted one of the committee members Princess Ada Ogbu through phone she did not pick .

Reporters in Anambra state since Thursday have been on the search for the committee who is expected to address the media on the guidelines and modalities for the primary election which has not been made known to even members of the party.

It was gathered that at a meeting in Abuja attended by twenty seven persons , twenty five voted for delegate primary election as against the demand by most aspirants for a direct primary election a development that was alleged to have been sponsored by a front line aspirant.

Confirming the doctoring of the delegate list the Zonal Publicity Secretary for Anambra Central District; Mr Arinze Igboeli described the incident as not only criminal but a plot to further worsen the predicament of the party with the use of strange members.

“This list is not merely flawed; it is an aberration, a deliberate mockery of the sacred tenets that should govern intra-party democracy. What we see before us is the systematic exclusion of dedicated, long-standing party faithful – men and women who have weathered storms and stood firm through challenging political seasons – only to be replaced by political tourists, mere Lilliputians borrowed from Edozie Njoku’s faction of APGA”

“What makes this situation particularly tragic is its predictable outcome. With such blatant disregard for internal democracy, with such cavalier treatment of loyal party members, the APC is charting a course toward inevitable defeat. Governor Soludo’s APGA stands on the sidelines, watching with barely concealed satisfaction as the APC self-destructs through internal contradictions”

“The delegate list as currently constituted represents everything that is wrong with our political system – the triumph of manipulation over merit, the victory of connection over contribution, and the dominance of cash over character. It is a document that tells dedicated party members that their years of loyalty count for nothing, that their sweat and sacrifices are worthless in the face of political expediency”

“This is not just about a list; it’s about respect, recognition, and reward for commitment. It’s about acknowledging that a political party is not the private property of its temporary leadership but a collective heritage of all its members. When leaders forget this fundamental truth, they transform from stewards to saboteurs”

“The implications extend beyond internal party dynamics. An APC fractured by leadership betrayal, divided by legitimate grievances, and weakened by the exodus of committed members presents no serious challenge to the incumbent APGA administration. Governor Soludo could not have asked for a better gift than this self-inflicted wound on his main opposition”

“As the party approaches crucial internal processes and eventual electoral contests, the chickens will inevitably come home to roost. The artificial unity enforced through exclusion and marginalization will crumble in the face of electoral challenges”

*The borrowed supporters from APGA will return to their original political home, leaving the APC leadership to confront the consequences of their myopic decisions”

“For the excluded party faithful, this moment represents not an end but a clarification. It brings into sharp relief the character of those who claim to lead them and provides an opportunity to reassess their political alignments. In politics, as in life, betrayal often precedes transformation” he contended.

Governor Bala Mohammed Mourns the Death of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi

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Governor Bala Mohammed Mourns the Death of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi

 

By: Daure David

Bauchi State Governor, His Excellency Bala Mohammed, has expressed his profound sorrow following the death of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi, a revered Islamic scholar, who passed away yesterday after a brief illness. In a moving message shared on his official social media platforms, Governor Mohammed conveyed his condolences to the family, friends, and followers of the late cleric, as well as the entire Muslim community in Bauchi State.

Describing Mallam Tanshi’s death as a tragic loss, Governor Mohammed acknowledged the late cleric as a beacon of wisdom, whose contributions to both the spiritual and social landscape of Bauchi had a lasting impact. He was widely respected for his tireless work in promoting Islamic teachings and his dedication to improving the lives of his community members.

In his heartfelt message, the Governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi’s soul, requesting Allah to grant him eternal rest in Jannah (paradise). He also offered his condolences to the grieving family, the Muslim Ummah, and the entire people of Bauchi, wishing them strength and solace in their time of mourning.

“The passing of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi is not just a loss to his immediate family, but to the entire people of Bauchi State. His faith, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to our community will always be remembered,” Governor Mohammed stated. “I stand in solidarity with his family, his followers, and all those affected by this loss as we reflect on the lasting legacy he leaves behind.”

Mallam Tanshi, a respected figure in Bauchi State, was known for his unwavering dedication to the principles of peace, compassion, and service to humanity. His teachings and guidance reached far beyond the boundaries of his immediate community, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

The late cleric was laid to rest according to Islamic rites, with tributes pouring in from across the state and beyond. Governor Mohammed assured the people of Bauchi that the state government would continue to support the deceased’s family and the Muslim community as they navigate this difficult period.

The passing of Mallam Idris Dutsen Tanshi has left a profound void, and as the region mourns his loss, his legacy as a champion of faith and community will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

FCT Minister, Wike, Vows to Secure Rivers and FCT for APC in 2027

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FCT Minister, Wike, Vows to Secure Rivers and FCT for APC in 2027

 

By: Daure David

In a bold declaration that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, openly stated his commitment to securing both Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, despite being a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at a public event earlier this week, Wike, known for his controversial and Anti party role in Nigerian politics, claimed, “I’m a PDP member but my mission is to secure Rivers and the FCT for APC in 2027, and nobody will stop me.”

The statement, which caught many by surprise, has ignited fierce reactions across party lines. Wike’s long-standing political career in the PDP, particularly as a former governor of Rivers State, has been marked by his controversial role within the party. His comments have raised serious questions about his loyalty to the PDP, given that he is currently serving in the cabinet of President Tinubu administration.

Wike’s allegiance to the APC, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections, has been a topic of speculation for some time. However, his direct admission of supporting the APC in the 2027 elections is likely to deepen divisions within the PDP, especially in regions where Wike holds significant sway.

Political analysts have expressed concern that Wike’s declaration could signal a shift in the balance of power ahead of the 2027 elections, potentially disrupting the opposition’s unity. Many believe that his statements could galvanize APC supporters, particularly in Rivers State and the FCT, where Wike has vow to show strong political influence.

Meanwhile, members of the PDP have begun to call for an official response from the party leadership. The PDP, facing its own internal challenges ahead of the 2027 elections, is under pressure to address Wike’s comments, which are seen by some as a direct challenge to the party’s cohesion.

The FCT Minister has not yet clarified the specific nature of his support for the APC in the 2027 elections, leaving many wondering whether he intends to officially join the ruling party or merely lend his political support to its candidates. However, his remarks have already prompted some in the PDP to question his commitment to the party’s goals moving forward. The PDP Northern Minority Consultative Forum has call for sanctioning of Wike and his Cohorts.

Wike’s defection or open support for the APC could have significant implications for the PDP’s strategy and its prospects in the 2027 elections, particularly in regions where the FCT Minister holds considerable political influence.

The political drama surrounding Wike’s statement is expected to unfold in the coming weeks as the nation prepares for the 2027 elections, with all eyes now on how the PDP will react to this challenge from one of its prominent figures.

Land Grabbing: Nlemigbo Banned From Stepping Foot In Nkarah, Imo Oil Community

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Land Grabbing: Nlemigbo Banned From Stepping Foot In Nkarah, Imo Oil Community

 

Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State is currently on the edge as a fresh controversy erupts over the ownership of a massive portion of land within the disputed Ogburuzo Ogwu Palm Plantation in Nkaraha community. The latest alleged claim, made by one Prince Macon Nlemigbo, has been met with fierce resistance from the Ohaji-Egbema Youth Movement (OEYM), which has vowed to stop him from setting foot on the land.

Nlemigbo, who hails from Mbaitoli LGA, is reportedly asserting ownership over a portion of the land, claiming that it was handed over to him by the National Root Crop Research Institute (NRCRI). However, the OEYM has dismissed his claim as fraudulent, bizarre, and a desperate attempt to seize land belonging to the rightful owners in Ohaji-Egbema.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its President, Comrade Gerald Ukah, made it clear that the youths of Ohaji-Egbema would mobilize massively to resist any attempt by Nlemigbo to encroach on the land.

The land in question, a vast expanse of 18,000 plots, was the subject of intense legal battles spanning several decades. The rightful ownership of the land has been conclusively settled in favor of Matthew Akpelu through multiple court rulings, culminating in a final decision by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The legal dispute over the land began when certain individuals, led by Paulinus Chukwu and others, attempted to take possession of the palm plantation in defiance of existing ownership claims. The case went through various judicial stages, with Akpelu consistently asserting his ownership rights. The matter was first heard at the Imo State High Court sitting in Oguta, where Justice Njiribeako delivered a landmark judgment on October 28, 1996, ruling in favor of Akpelu.

The court upheld that Akpelu was the authentic owner of the land, effectively invalidating any contrary claims. Dissatisfied with this decision, Chukwu and his group proceeded to the Court of Appeal in a bid to overturn the ruling. However, the appellate court upheld the High Court’s decision, affirming Akpelu’s ownership once again.

Undeterred, the appellants escalated the case to the Supreme Court in Suit Number SC/250/2005. After thorough legal scrutiny, Nigeria’s apex court dismissed their appeal and reaffirmed that Matthew Akpelu was the rightful owner of the disputed land. The Supreme Court’s ruling was clear and unequivocal, leaving no room for further disputes. It praised the lower court’s handling of the case, emphasizing that the decision was based on sound legal principles. Additionally, the Supreme Court imposed a fine of N100,000 on the appellants, ordering that it be paid to Akpelu as costs.

This ruling was meant to put an end to all controversies surrounding the land. However, despite the clear verdict from the highest court in the land, some individuals have continued to disregard the judgment, attempting to claim portions of the land through illegal means.

The controversy surrounding this claim has sparked outrage, with many questioning the legality of such an arrangement. Critics argue that an agricultural agency like NRCRI does not have the authority to hand over land in Ohaji-Egbema to a private individual, especially one from another local government area. “Does any portion of the land belong to NRCRI in the first place? Never! This claim is fraudulent, and Nlemigbo must never go close to that land,” an outraged community leader stated.

The OEYM has accused Nlemigbo of attempting to use the land grab as a means of generating financial resources for his rumored governorship ambition in Imo State ahead of the 2027 election. According to the group, the entire scheme is designed to enable him to sell off portions of the land and amass a financial war chest for his political aspirations. “His desperation is not about agriculture or development; it is about his personal ambition. He wants to sell the land of innocent people to fund his political ambition,” Ukah alleged.

In a direct appeal to Governor Hope Uzodimma, the youth group urged the state government to distance itself from individuals like Nlemigbo, whom they described as political pretenders. They alleged that while Nlemigbo professes loyalty to the governor in public, he is secretly mobilizing funds for his own political future without the directive of the governor. “Governor Uzodimma is a wonderful brother and father to us in Ohaji-Egbema, and we appeal to him to be wary of these political pretenders who claim to support him but are only out for their selfish interests,” the group stated.

The latest development adds to the growing tension over the Ogburuzo Ogwu Palm Plantation, which has been at the center of a series of land-grabbing scandals involving top government officials. With the involvement of the youth movement, the conflict appears to be escalating, and unless urgent intervention is taken, it could result in a major confrontation on the ground.

The youths are calling on the Imo State Government and security agencies to swiftly intervene before the situation spirals out of control. The call for justice and the protection of rightful landowners has become louder, as the people of Ohaji-Egbema have made it clear that they will not stand by and watch their ancestral land be taken away under any guise.

Efforts to contact the accused were unsuccessful, as their phone numbers were unreachable at the time of filing this report.

Sudden Death of Sheikh Dr. Idris Abdulazeez Dutsen Tanshi Leaves a Void in Religious Community Coalition Of Christian Youths In Politics Condole With Muslims

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Sudden Death of Sheikh Dr. Idris Abdulazeez Dutsen Tanshi Leaves a Void in Religious Community Coalition Of Christian Youths In Politics Condole With Muslims

 

By: Joy Musa

In a sudden and shocking development, the esteemed Islamic scholar and preacher, Sheikh Dr. Idris Abdulazeez Dutsen Tanshi, has passed away. The news of his death, which reverberated through the religious community this morning, has left many in disbelief.

Sheikh Dr. Dutsen Tanshi, known for his profound sermons and insightful tafsir (exegesis) of the Quran, had been a guiding light for countless followers over the past two decades. His teachings focused on honesty, justice, and the importance of speaking truth to power, principles that earned him immense respect among his supporters and even among those with differing opinions.

Jonathan Simon Taimako JP , National President of the National Coalition of Christian Youths in Politics, expressed deep sorrow at the news of the Sheikh’s passing. “I have been a keen follower and listener of his sermons for over 20 years. His straightforwardness, zero tolerance for injustice, and fearless approach in holding leadership accountable were truly remarkable,” Taimako remarked. “His death will create a vacuum in our society that is hard to fill. Regardless of divergent views about him, the impact he had on his followers and the wider Muslim ummah is undeniable.”

Sheikh Dr. Dutsen Tanshi’s death is seen as a significant loss to both the Islamic community and the wider society, where his voice of reason and unwavering stand for justice resonated deeply. As a renowned religious leader, his influence transcended sectarian lines, earning him recognition from various religious and political figures.

As the news of his passing spreads, condolences have poured in from across the nation and beyond, with many expressing their heartfelt sympathy to his immediate family and the Muslim community.

“May Allah forgive his sins and grant his soul Aljannatul Firdausi,” Taimako added in his tribute, praying for the Sheikh’s eternal peace.

Sheikh Dr. Idris Abdulazeez Dutsen Tanshi’s death marks the end of an era, but his teachings and legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts and minds of his followers.

Gov. Uzodinma Bans Task Force In Imo State

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Gov. Uzodinma Bans Task Force In Imo State

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma has banned all forms of task force operations in the state.

In a Release signed by I. A Oguzie for the Secretary to Imo State Government, he revealed that the ban was necessitated by incessant activities of the task force operatives which have immeasurably constituted nuisance to the public as well as damaged the image of the government.

Imo State Government is hereby warning any body or group of persons operating as task force under any guise to stop forthwith or risk being apprehended by security operatives who will ensure they are brought to book.

16 Years After, Industrial Court Reinstates Naval Rating Officer Into Nigerian Navy, Orders Payment Of Salary And Benefits From August 2008 Till Date

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16 Years After, Industrial Court Reinstates Naval Rating Officer Into Nigerian Navy, Orders Payment Of Salary And Benefits From August 2008 Till Date

 

The Abuja division of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria on 4th March declared that the dismissal of Fabgemi Babatunde by the Nigerian Navy is illegal as the same was done in violation of the extant laws governing the contract between Fagbemi Babatunde and the Nigerian Navy.

Hon. Justice E. D. Subilim, the presiding judge also declared in his ruling that the failure of the Nigerian Navy to subject Babatunde Fagbemi to a trial and failure to allow him to defend himself amount to denial of his fundamental right to fair hearing.

Justice, Subilim granted an order reinstating the Claimant (Babatunde Fagbemi) back to his employment with the defendants the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Navy are hereby ordered and directed to pay him his salaries and wages, emoluments, perquisites and benefits accruable to him as employee of the Nigerian Navy with effect from August 2008 to the date of judgment.

 

Ruling further, Justice Subilim also ordered that the Nigerian Navy who are the Defendants are hereby ordered to pay to First Guarantee Pension Limited outstanding contributory pension to the credit of the claimant, Mr Fagbemi from August 2008 to date of this judgment.

It also awarded the sum of N 7, 000, 000.00 (seven million naira) as damages in favour of the Naval Rating Officer, Fagbemi Babatunde, as well as N1 million in his favour as the cost of the action.

 

From facts, the claimant- after his training at the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, he joined the Nigerian Navy as AR 298. The Claimant was officially engaged as a Naval Rating Officer with Official No: X965. The claimant was sent on different trainings such as the promotional training at the School of Navigation and Direction (NNS QUORRA, APAPA), and was certified after the completion of the training. Claimant while in the employment of the Defendants served as a Rating Officer aboard several ships’ belongings to the Defendants. Sometime in July 2008, for reasonable offense, the Commanding Officer O.C Medani orally directed that the Claimant should be detained and was subsequently dismissed from the Nigerian Navy without any charge and trial. The claimant made several efforts to ensure the matter was investigated by his employers and wrote several letters to know the cause of dismissal which all proved abortive.

 

Meanwhile in their defence, the defendants, the Nigerian Navy, the Chief of Naval Staff stated that averred that the claimant was engaged as a ‘Rating’ with number BX9465 in the Nigeria Navy as the claimant can only serve on the ships as a ‘Rating’. Defendants averred that the claimant was not dismissed for a reasonable offence but for offence of disobedience to Order. They averred that the claimant was deployed with 4 other Ratings for security duty at KNOCK ADOON Platform belonging to ADDAX Petroleum Company Ltd on the 10th of July 2008 under the team leadership of W. O. Okekwu as the officer in charge. That on the 4th day of August 2008 claimant refused to sign and collect weapon from the officer in charge of patrol. The refusal to sign and collect weapons from officer in charge and proceed for the patrol as directed amount to disobedience to lawful orders. Sequel to the disobedience he was investigated by the investigation officer of the day in respect of that unit for the particular day the disobedience occurred. That after investigation, a prima facie case of willful disobedience to lawful orders was established against the claimant. And consequently, the case of the claimant was referred to the Commanding Officer otherwise known as the C.O for trial. The claimant was arraigned on a one count charge and tried under section 56(1), 62 of the Armed Forces Act. Claimant was found guilty as charged and awarded dismissed regiment pursuant to Section 116 (1) (c) of the Armed Forces Act. Defendants avers that claimant is a person subject to the Armed Forces Act and was duly charged and tried in line with the law.

 

 

 

 

 

The Naval Rating Officer Fagbemi Babatunde through his counsel Qousim A. Opakunle Esq averred that he was never deployed to platform Arusha while in service, and that contrary to paragraph 8 of the defendant statement of defence that he did not refuse to sign and collect weapon from the officer in charge and that assuming without conceding that the claimant committed the alleged offence of disobedience to a particular order, that the offence to a particular order can only be tried by a court martial going by S 56(1)(2) of Armed Forces ACT CAP 20 vol 1 LFN 2004. And that the officer who conducted the acclaimed summary trial was a captain in the Nigeria Navy and could not have lawfully tried the claimant under section 116 (c) of the Armed forces Act. And that the offence to disobedience to a particular order can attract a punishment but never a dismissal, that the claimant was detained, and later dismissed and that detention and dismissal are two separate punishments under the Armed Forces Act. And that he was detained then later called orally by the officer in charged that he was dismissed.

More Trouble For Tinubu As Political Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Resigns [Daily Trust]

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More Trouble For Tinubu As Political Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Resigns [Daily Trust]

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has resigned, Daily Trust reliably learnt.

Impeccable sources in the presidency confirmed yesterday that the former spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) tendered his resignation about two weeks ago.

The sources said Dr. Baba-Ahmed did not provide details of the reasons for his decision, only stating that it was on personal grounds. However, as of the time of filing this report, it was unclear whether the presidency had accepted his resignation.

Baba-Ahmed was appointed Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima in September 2023.

Over the past 17 months, he has represented the presidency at several public fora, including a recent national conference themed: “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity”, which held from 28th to 29th January, 2025 in Abuja.

Clash with Matawalle over NEF

Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s role in the presidency drew criticism at certain points. A notable criticism came from the current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In April 2024, Matawalle appeared to have taken an aim at Dr. Baba-Ahmed, when he said northern appointees must not remain silent in the face of intimidation or misrepresentation of the Tinubu administration.

His remarks came after Baba-Ahmed criticised Matawalle’s dismissal of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) as a “political paperweight”. That position by the minister was in reaction to the group’s statement that the North had made a mistake voting for Tinubu in 2023.

Baba-Ahmed had argued that the Tinubu administration would have been better served if Matawalle had highlighted his own achievements as a minister—along with those of other northern appointees—rather than attacking the NEF.

“Scathing criticism of NEF by the junior minister of defence, Matawalle, is ill-advised. He could have done a better job for this administration if he identified contributions of especially northern ministers and other appointees like me to improving security and reducing poverty in the North,” Baba-Ahmed wrote.

Matawalle fired back, insisting that government appointees had a duty to defend and promote the administration they served. “Dr Baba-Ahmed’s relationship and affinity with the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) is well known,” Matawalle said, adding that: “As an appointee of this administration, it is his responsibility to work for its success, protect and defend the government against unjust and vicious attacks from those who hide under ethnic and other primordial interests to heat up the polity for myopic reasons”.

The minister stressed further that: “Every appointee of President Tinubu, including Dr. Baba-Ahmed, owes the government a duty to promote, elucidate, and advance its good works and commendable efforts across all sectors.

“As appointees from the North, we must take a stand, be unequivocal, and be counted among those working for the success of this administration. This is not the time to keep quiet in the face of intimidation and misrepresentation of the efforts and achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, the junior minister maintained.

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed at a glance

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed (born September 11, 1955) is a Nigerian retired senior civil servant and former Chief of Staff to ex-Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki. He hails from Kaduna State. A practising Muslim, he has held several key positions in public service and governance.

Baba-Ahmed studied at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the London School of Economics, and the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.

He began his career as a lecturer at the then University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto) before joining the Kaduna State Civil Service. He later transferred to the Federal Civil Service, where he rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary.

During his career, Baba-Ahmed served as Permanent Secretary in various capacities, including in the Presidency and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He also held the position of Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

A reform-minded public servant, he also served as Secretary to the Kaduna State Government. His contributions to governance earned him the national honour of Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).

Baba-Ahmed is regarded as an elder statesman in Northern Nigeria. Before his appointment as Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President in the Office of the Vice President, he was the Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), where he spoke openly against policies that were perceived to be against the interests of the North, and of the various parts of Nigeria.

Sudan: At least 89 killed in paramilitary attack

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Sudan: At least 89 killed in paramilitary attack

At least 89 have been killed in a cluster of villages in the Sudanese city of Omdurman by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) a Sudanese human rights organization has said.

Many more were injured in the attack that saw the paramilitary group carrying out random artillery shelling and direct gunfire.

The Emergency Lawyer’s Association has accused the RSF of violating “human rights and international law,” the statement added that its forces engaged in widespread looting of homes and shops, arrested several young men from the villages “and forced them at gunpoint to transport the looted goods.”

Many have fled to the Jabal Awlia area, in hopes of finding safety.

Sudan is already in the grips of the largest displacement crisis, to date, an estimated 8.8 million people have been forced from their homes to camps and other locations within Sudan; 3.5 million more have fled across borders, according to the UN.

On the battlefield, the RSF continues to suffer setbacks.

Since the beginning of the year – the army has seized Sennar, Al Jazeera and White Nile state, as well as the capital Khartoum.

The captures have given the military control of the center of Sudan, regaining Darfur appears to be the army’s next target.

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