News

Bakeni Commiserates with NUJ and Zulum over the demise of Isa Gusau

Published

2 years ago

January 18, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Bakeni Commiserates with NUJ and Zulum over the demise of Isa Gusau

By: Bodunrin Kayode

Borno state Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria CAN Bishop John Bakeni has commiserated with the Nigerian Union of Journalists NUJ over the death of Isa Gusau who died in an Indian hospital recently.

He also sympathized with the Governor of the state Prof Babagana Zulum whom Gusau served till his death due to a protracted illness.

Addressing a news conference in Maiduguri, the Auxiliary Bishop said that the entire Christian community sympathized with the government over the loss of such a resourceful journalist.

” I want on behalf of the entire Christian Community in Borno State to commiserate with the Executive Governor and indeed the Government and the entire people of Borno State over the demise of his Media Aid and Strategist, Mallam Isa Gusau, who passed on Thursday, the 11th of January, 2024.

” I wish to also condole you the members of the 4th estate for the loss of one of you. May God grant him peaceful rest and console all those who mourn him.” he said.

Responding to some very strong allegations in the mills against Zulum on his treatments of Christians, the Auxillary Bishop maintained that CAN was not a pressure group or a partisan party but a peaceful association that goes about its activities in a lawful manner.

To him:”CAN is a religious Association, CAN is not a political party and is non-partisan. CAN is not a pressure group. It is a law-abiding Association. It is an Association that works for the unity of Christians and building a peaceful and harmonious society working hand-in-hand with other religious bodies, Government and all relevant stake holders.

“The values that hold us together are Love, Peace and Justice for all. We preach peace, we uphold peace and we work for peace. And that is why we are living in peace with our Muslim brothers and sisters in Borno State.

” in terms of our relationship with the Government, let me say that CAN and the Christian community have a good and cordial relationship with the Government of the day. The Government of Prof. Babagana Umara Zullum has done a lot for us and is still doing more in the following areas:

“Has continued the rehabilitation and reconstruction of churches that were destroyed by the Boko Haram insurgency especially in Southern Borno. This was started by our current Vice President, Kashim Shettima, during his tenure; and His Excellency, Prof Babagana Umara Zullum has continued in that line.

“Sponsorship of Christians for pilgrimage to the Holy Land every year. In fact, the Executive Secretary and coordinator of the Christian Pilgrim has just returned from a pre-visit of the pilgrimage sites in preparation for the 2023/2024 main pilgrimage.

“Reaching out to the Christian community with gifts and cash donations at Christmas and Easter periods. Palliatives are also given to our Christian Women and Widows by the Wives of the Vice President, Her Excellency Nana Kashim and the Governor, Her Excellency, Dr. Falmata Umara Zullum.

“Sponsoring the transportation of our brothers and sisters from the South-South, South East and West during festive seasons.

” Appointment of our Christian sons and daughters in his cabinet.

“After so many years of advocacy, the current Government has started the recruitment of Christian teachers to teach the Christian religion in public schools and many more.”

Bakeni noted that all his claims are real and verifiable adding that in spite of all the good results from the interaction with the government there are still challenges and they do hope to continue to work hard to get over them.

” That is not to say that Christians have no challenges in Borno State; of course we have. We therefore, want to have more access for better results through dialogue and constructive engagement with the Government and other relevant stakeholders.

” We know very well where we are coming from and where we are in terms of the security challenges. We have all tested and experienced the ugly side of violence and destruction and we will not want to go back to that era.

” We love our Governor, we respect our Governor, and we appreciate the relentless and selfless services and sacrifices of our Governor in restoring peace and bringing development to our State.

” As such, CAN will continue to support the Government of the day and will continue to work with the Government towards sustaining the peace that we are already enjoying due to the hard work, commitment, and responsible leadership of our Governor.”

Obviously responding to the recent statements of Rev Dikwa Kallamu over the alleged maltreatment of Christians in the state, the CAN chair went on:” We distance ourselves from any act of violence and provocation. Whatever is written on Social media or any other media outlet, is not from CAN.

” My principle as the Chairman of CAN in Borno State at this time is that what Dialogue cannot give you, Violence and confrontation cannot give you either.”

On the progress being made by the military in protecting the nation’s democracy, he went on: ” With deep sense of gratitude and appreciation, we salute the courage and the sacrifices of our Armed Forces. For those who have paid the supreme price in the course of their service to their fatherland, may God reward them with eternal life in his kingdom.”

Below is the full details of the press release in which Rev Dikwa accused the Borno State government of completely marginalizing Christians in the state.

PRESS RELEASE ON THE TRUE POSITION OF THE CHRISTIANS IN BORNO STATE UNDER GOVERNOR BABAGANA UMARA ZULLUM.
30TH DECEMBER, 2023

The press released on 20 December on the marginalization of the Christian community in Borno State by Governor Zullum was not refuted by either him nor any government officials in the state which affirmed the truth except his wife that called out few widows to share rice a day after for Christmas purposefully for the media to carry it. The only way they refuted was to send thugs after my life like Barrister Bashir Maidugu who called me and put a threat to my life and civilians joint task Force (CJTF) who met me on the road and harassed me but as usual God Almighty saved me to continue exposing the truth.

Let the public court judge, How can a professor and a Governor show tribalism, sectionalism and ethnic segregation like Professor Zulum of Borno State? How many are from Southern Borno and how many are Christians among these political appointments?

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Appointment of Special Advicers to Borno State Governor

The Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency Prof Babaganagana Umara Zulum has graciously approved the appointment of the following Special Advisers:

Alhaji Ali Makinta Jere
Idrissa L Kemdey
Tijjani Goni Mohammed
Hon Ibrahim Haruna Biu
Hon Tukur Digira
Engr Kori Shettima
Hauwa M Musa
Hon Abubakar Tijjani
Hon Garba Saje
Hon Kester C Oguali
Hon Alao Hassan
Alhaji Audu Maaji
Hon Abba Jato Bama
Hon Abba Saje Mohd Nur
Engr Musa Gashigar
Hon Abba Nguru
Hon Bukar Dalatu
Hon Idrisa Jidda
Shettima Bukar Kulima (Marte)
Hon Kaka Adam Mustapha
Shettima Lawan Maina
Dr Abubakar Hassan
Modu Ali Gana Dikwa
Sheikh Modu Mustapha
Abba Kawu Shehu Abubakar
Hon Musa Abbas
Alhaji Musa Gwamma
Baba Ali Haruna Kukawa
Abdullahi Mohd Nganzai
Amongst all of the appointees of 29, only

Hon Kester C Oguali is a Christian from the Eastern Nigeria, an Igbo by tribe.
In the threat by the political thugs like Barrister Bashir Maidugu of the Vice president’s crew, he categorically said only four local government in the state have Christian indigenes which are blatant lies from the pit of hell. I’m kanuri by tribe from Maiduguri the state capital and a Christian amongst many kanuri Christians. Going by the Barrister Bashir Maidugu, I ll now ask, have the indigenous Christian from the southern Borno State relocated to the igbo land (Eastern Nigeria) to get a slot from the 29 appointment or still the marginalization?
We condemned on a strong term this total excluding of Christians in the governor’s appointment and Hon Kester C Oguali is not representing any Christians in the state but political strategy to show the world he’s in love with even Christians in the south but marginalized his main duties of inclusive governance.
Let me talk little for now about the LGA Chairman primaries in the State, a Christian dominated area like Chibok has 7 contestants in which 4 are Christians and 3 are Muslims. He disqualified the four Christians and told the 3 Muslims to choose one among themselves, in Askira Uba, the contestants have the highest a Christian with 14 votes followed by a Muslim with 7votes however, Zullum imposed the Muslim candidate with 7 and dropped the Christian with 14, can someone define marginalization for me in different actions than these?

REV. KALLAMU MUSA ALI DIKWA
Director, General Center for Justice on Religious And Ethnicity in Nigeria

Bakeni Commiserates with NUJ and Zulum over the demise of Isa Gusau

News

ASHLEE MOMOH FOUNDATION HONOURS WIDOWS OF FALLEN HEROES

Published

6 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

ASHLEE MOMOH FOUNDATION HONOURS WIDOWS OF FALLEN HEROES

Comrade Philip Ikodor

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation (AMF), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the families of fallen military officers, has called on Nigerians to rally behind the widows of our heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s defence and sovereignty.

In a heartfelt statement during the maiden edition of the Foundation’s formal outreach, Princess Ashlee Omonegho Momoh, Founder and CEO of AMF, expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting the widows and their children. “We recognize that the peace and security we enjoy as a nation were bought at a price paid by your households, and for that, we owe you more than just a debt of gratitude; we owe you our unwavering support,” she said.

The Foundation, which was established in 2016, has been working tirelessly to support the families of fallen military officers. Princess Ashlee noted that the organization’s efforts are driven by passion and resilience, and that they are committed to honouring the sacrifice of our fallen heroes by supporting their families.

“We are not just a foundation and its beneficiaries; we are a family,” Princess Ashlee emphasized. “Today, I am incredibly proud that AMF is officially registered and powered by an extraordinary team that shares our vision and passion.”

The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Iwowarri Berian James, CEO of GoldenRays Energy Health Services Ltd, who spoke on the topic “Resolving Loss Trauma for Personal Freedom”. Dr. Iwowarri emphasized the importance of incorporating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) management as a basis for stabilizing the widows and their children.

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation’s outreach was marked by the presentation of food items, clothing, and cash gifts to the widows. The event was a celebration of the resilience and strength of the widows and their families, and a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to supporting them.

The Foundation has urged Nigerians to join them in supporting the widows of our fallen heroes, and to engage with AMF to share their needs and receive support.

ASHLEE MOMOH FOUNDATION HONOURS WIDOWS OF FALLEN HEROES

News

Environmental Activist Warns Against ‘Junk Food Culture’, Calls for Decolonisation of Africa’s Food Systems

Published

10 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Environmental Activist Warns Against ‘Junk Food Culture’, Calls for Decolonisation of Africa’s Food Systems

By: Michael Mike

Environmental activist Nnimmo Bassey has warned that the growing dominance of junk food, genetically modified crops and global market forces is undermining Africa’s food culture and deepening the politics of hunger.

Bassey made the remarks on Thursday during the Sustain-Ability Academy session on Food, Power and the Politics of Hunger, hosted by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation in collaboration with the University of Port Harcourt.

He stressed that food occupies a central place in cultural identity and social life, noting that across Nigeria and other societies, food traditions reflect the diversity and history of different communities.

According to him, food goes beyond satisfying hunger and serves as a powerful symbol of acceptance, celebration and communal belonging.

“Food unites people and families and marks one’s acceptance in a home, family or community,” he said.

Bassey traced the evolution of food systems in Nigeria, noting that cross-cultural exchanges, commerce and colonial influence had spread many local and foreign cuisines across the country and the world.

However, he warned that the increasing global spread of fast foods and processed diets was fostering what he described as a “junk culture,” driven largely by the modern obsession with instant gratification.

He criticised the growing popularity of fast-food outlets, saying their flashy environments, loud music and entertainment distractions encourage people to consume highly processed meals containing harmful additives without reflection.

The activist also expressed concern about political leaders publicly promoting junk food and sugary drinks, arguing that such behaviour sends the wrong signal and normalises unhealthy food habits.

Beyond fast food, Bassey raised alarm over the growing presence of genetically modified crops in Nigeria’s agricultural system, describing them as “Frankenstein foods” introduced through global market pressure.

He argued that many genetically engineered crops are designed to tolerate chemical pesticides or produce insecticides, raising questions about long-term health and environmental implications.

According to him, food systems have increasingly become a geopolitical arena where powerful economic interests shape what people grow and eat.

“Poverty, wars, debt and cultural manipulation create pathways for food colonialism to take root,” he said, warning that global control of food systems could weaken local agriculture and threaten indigenous food heritage.

Bassey called for the “decolonisation” of Africa’s food systems through the preservation of indigenous crops, protection of seed-sharing traditions and renewed support for smallholder farmers.

He also urged policymakers to confront the deeper causes of hunger on the continent, noting that food insecurity is not simply the result of low production.

In Nigeria, he observed, a significant portion of food produced is lost to waste, while structural issues such as weak markets, global trade pressures and poverty continue to undermine local farmers.

Bassey emphasised that governments must critically examine who benefits from hunger and ensure that food policies prioritise fairness, justice and environmental sustainability rather than corporate profit.

The environmentalist urged stakeholders to rebuild resilient food systems that protect cultural heritage, strengthen local farming communities and guarantee food security for future generations.

Environmental Activist Warns Against ‘Junk Food Culture’, Calls for Decolonisation of Africa’s Food Systems

News

NESREA Seals Oyo-Based Chemical Company Over Untreated Waste Discharge

Published

10 hours ago

March 19, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

NESREA Seals Oyo-Based Chemical Company Over Untreated Waste Discharge

By: Michael Mike

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has shut down Bond Chemicals Industries Limited in Oyo State for violating environmental regulations by allegedly discharging untreated industrial waste into the environment.

A statement on Thursday by the spokesperson of NESREA, Nwamaka Ejiofor said, the enforcement action followed a public complaint that raised concerns about pollution from the facility.

She noted that the complaint was subjected to independent verification before officials moved in to investigate the allegations.

Ejiofor revealed that a compliance inspection conducted by officials of NESREA’s South West Zonal Office on February 18, 2026, uncovered serious environmental breaches at the facility. Inspectors discovered that the company was operating without a functional Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), a critical requirement for industries that generate wastewater.

The inspection team also found that untreated wastewater with a strong offensive odour was being released directly into the surrounding environment, an action that violates national environmental standards and poses potential risks to public health and nearby ecosystems.

She said following the discovery, NESREA issued immediate directives to the company to halt the pollution by installing and operating an effective effluent treatment system in accordance with regulatory requirements. The company was also instructed to obtain the necessary environmental permits to regularise its operations.

Ejiofor however said a subsequent inspection revealed that the company had failed to comply with the directives issued.

As a result, NESREA sealed the facility in exercise of its statutory powers to halt further environmental damage and safeguard the health of residents in the affected area.

The Director-General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to enforce environmental compliance across the country, warning that industries must adhere strictly to environmental regulations designed to protect communities and natural resources.

Barikor stressed that companies operating in Nigeria are required to install and properly operate pollution control equipment, noting that failure to do so would attract strict enforcement measures.

He added that the agency would continue to intensify monitoring and compliance checks nationwide and would not hesitate to impose sanctions on any facility found violating environmental laws.

NESREA stated that the chemical company will remain sealed until it fully complies with the agency’s directives and meets all regulatory requirements.

Ejiofor in the statement, said further investigations and compliance monitoring by the agency are ongoing.

NESREA Seals Oyo-Based Chemical Company Over Untreated Waste Discharge