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Deborah Samuel: You Stood Alone in Life, In Death with Millions

Published

3 years ago

May 16, 2022

News Net Global

Deborah Samuel: You Stood Alone in Life, In Dead with Millions

Deborah Samuel: You Stood Alone in Life, In Death with Millions

By: James Bwala

Many scholars began books with this Hadith. Imam Al-Bukhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, commences his book of Hadith (Saheeh Al-Bukhari) with this Hadith and explains that every action that is done without seeking Allah’s pleasure is invalid and devoid of reward.

It is narrated on the authority of Amir al-Mu’minin (Leader of the Believers), Abu Hafs ‘Umar bin al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), say

“Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was intended. Whoever migrates with an intention for Allah and His messenger, the migration will be for the sake of Allah and his Messenger. And whoever migrates for worldly gain or to marry a woman, then his migration will be for the sake of whatever he migrated for.”(Related by Bukhari & Muslim).

If you asked me; there are about two things I learnt here. I am not a muslim neither an authority on Islamic teachings, but my simple understanding of this Hadith is that whoever done things for the sake of Allah or his Prophet will have Allah’s reward. Also whoever does things for worldly gain will have the worldly reward.

So many people have condemned the killing of Deborah Samuel last Thursday following the alleged claim of blasphemy. Other things followed and I learnt about seven people were also killed during the protest that ensued as a result of the arrest of perpetrators of that heinous crime. I am happy that so many educated Islamic clerics did not agree to this point of mixing religion with madness.

I have had the privilege of listening to Deborah’s tape or rather alleged audio voice where she was alleged blasphemous and had to pay with her blood. As a northerner, I have heard and seen such situations a number of times I could not count. In Deborah’s case I have heard an audio sound to that effect. I have told my friends that she made a mistake because I know the society and the environment we are living in. Sincerely speaking, for a Christian in the north, it has been a dangerous ground to stand with a Muslim on religious matter. It is either you play along or you stand alone. Deborah did stand alone in this case.

I recalled a similar case at the University of Maiduguri in my early days of reporting where an Igbo student was lynched because somebody framed him by saying that he saw him wiping his ass with the pages of the Holy Quar’an. I told my friends at that time that the Igbo student was framed yet they did not believe me. I believe they thought I was just trying to take side with the alleged wrongdoing by the Igbo boy. I left it like that and played along. The DSS because of the continuing problem at the University of Maiduguri at that time stationed their men to watch out for the trouble shooters. That was prior to the escalation of the Boko Haram Insurgency’.

About a week later, I drove with one of my colleagues to the University. That was on July 26, 2008. That day also, he told me his name was Daniel John, but I know him as Ahmed Salkida. I was not surprised at what we stumbled on that day at the University of Maiduguri. One Malam Musa from Gombe state. He is a student of the Islamic Studies Department. He also used to lead prayers at the Mosque near the Bursary Department at the time.

Malam Musa, we learnt, was caught near the Juma’at Mosque trying to frame up another student after he (Malam Musa) did the unthinkable with the pages of the said Holy Book. I was also not shocked when some Muslims selling as well as some students who are muslims asking the security official to do ‘Afuwa’ for the criminal (Afuwa is like asking for forgiveness, so that they don’t take him for prosecution.). As a reporter, I did my own story and I also spoke with the then state Director of SSS about it. After a few days of roar on the matter, it naturally died down and the student (Malam Musa) was set free.

Also Read: Tambuwal relaxes 24-hour curfew in Sokoto

Other similar cases continued to happen and all the leaders both Muslims and Christians are aware of it after much talk and writing on the pages of newspapers, the story or actions needed to take go down with the voices just as is being done in the current case at hand.

I am never against punishment for wrong doers, but I am against taking the law against the already established laws of the nation. Such can lead to savagery. In my profession I learnt to ensure a balanced story. Like I said, I listened to the audio over and over again with the Hadith above and other teaching of the Prophet of Islam (SWA) beating around my analysis of the whole but sad drama.

If this had happened in the US or Britain or any other country and not northern Nigeria would it have resulted into such unholy visitation? It also makes me to think again between ‘Preaching Peace and Violence’ in Islam. I believe this situation has given the Imam and Pastors more work to do on their followers and the Nigerian government must have to stand against such evils if we must continue to live as one indivisible nation.

The greetings of violence of this barbarian attitude again open many doors to question what we teach our people especially in the north. Analysing the audio and based on the Hadith I started this writing on, where should we place this sad occasion? If Peace were the watch word of Islam, killing Deborah Samuel as rightly explained further in the circulated piece by respected Islamic scholar, Sheikh Gumi and others who condemned the killing, we might indeed begin to call for those who are mixing religion with madness to see the light in the above admonition.

My friend, who is a Muslim and we share a lot of thoughts ask my opinion on the Sokoto killing and I directed him to the Hadith. I told him there was the intention to kill Deborah Samuel long before it happened based on my analysis of the audio. Before Deborah Samuel could utter those words that triggered the madness at Shehu Shagari College of Education last Thursday, She was heard saying, “Holy Ghost fire ‘nothing will happen to us”.

If those words were to mean something, then there must have been a threat from a provocative statement. If I were to be judged in this case, I would ask why or what made Deborah utter those words and the subsequent ones that follow. Our people say you give a dog a bad name so you could kill it. If this case study is anything to go by, I will take the action as the killing of Deborah Samuel.

However, if indeed the action must be judged by the intention, I would assume that she was marked for death before it happened. My conclusion after a long listening of the audio is that in Nigeria, it is not easy to kill a human and go free, but when you mix such an idea with religious connotation then it is easy to take the life of someone and still be moving freely on the street.

Indeed, I see provocation and I see a threat that made Deborah shout, “Holy Ghost fire’ nothing will happen to us.” She however could not control the situation and voice out what was tag blasphemy. That perhaps is what the person provoking her was also waiting for and to get provoked for action. She could not play along, so she stands alone. She was gone, Deborah Samuel was history but should we continue to kill for whatever reason?

Deborah Samuel: You Stood Alone in Life, In Death with Millions

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Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.

Published

2 months ago

November 7, 2024

News Net Global

Late Army Chief, Lt General Lagbaja

Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.

By Dr. James Bwala

The recent passing of Lagbaja, the late Chief of Army Staff and a prominent figure in our nation, has left a void in the hearts of many. His contributions to the security of our society were immeasurable, and his loss is truly a blow to our nation. The late General Lagbaja was not just a soldier; he was a revolutionary thinker, a strategic commander who used his platform to advocate for social change, justice, and equality. His leadership in the Nigerian Army was not just routine for top officers within such ranks; he was a confident emulator of strategic leadership and was a tool for active leadership and promoter of morals for soldiers; thus, he was described by the former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin Republic, Lieutenant General (Amb) Tukur Yusufu Buratai, (Rtd) CFR.

According to him, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was a true embodiment of discipline and dedication, stressing that his passing leaves a void in the Nigerian Army and the nation at large. While he mourns the late COAS, the former Chief, General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, said during his time as COAS, he found him worthy of command, where he was appointed Commander 9 Brigade in Ikeja and later Commander 2 Brigade in Uyo. ‘The 2 Brigade that I also commanded. Upon his promotion to the rank of Major General, I posted him to Army Headquarters as the Director of Campaign Plan in 2020. The nation has lost a strategic commander.’ He added.

According to him, General Lagbaja’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army into the formidable institution it is today. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the nation he served with great zeal and commitment.

“Late General Laggbaja was not just a mere army commander; he was a strategic and visionary leader whose loss has left a significant void in our nation’s defense forces. As his former commander, General Buratai feels compelled to highlight the immense impact that his passing has had on our military and national security.

“Lt. General Laggbaja was not just a soldier; he was a brilliant tactician who had a keen understanding of modern warfare and the ever-evolving threats facing our nation. His strategic thinking and leadership were instrumental in shaping the defense capabilities of our armed forces and ensuring that they were prepared to face any challenge that came their way.

“His loss is not just a personal tragedy for his family and colleagues but also a profound loss for our nation as a whole. We have lost a visionary leader who was dedicated to securing our borders, protecting our citizens, and upholding the values of our nation.

“In the wake of Lt. General Laggbaja’s passing, it is crucial that we reflect on the immense contribution that he made to our nation’s defense forces and honor his legacy by continuing to uphold the values that he held dear. We must ensure that his vision and leadership are not forgotten and that we strive to build on the foundations that he laid down for us.

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“I urge my fellow citizens to pay tribute to Lt. General Laggbaja by supporting our armed forces, honoring the sacrifices that they make on a daily basis, and advocating for policies that strengthen our national security. Let us not forget the profound impact that he had on our nation, and let us strive to continue his legacy of service and dedication.

“The loss of Lt. General Laggbaja is a stark reminder of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make every day to protect our nation. Let us remember his legacy, honor his service, and ensure that his vision for a strong and secure nation lives on. The nation has truly lost a strategic army commander, but his legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.

“In this difficult time, I pray that General Lagbaja’s family, friends, and colleagues find solace in the memories of his remarkable life and service. May his dedication to Nigeria inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, General Lagbaja’s beloved wife, Mrs. Mariyah Abiodun Lagbaja, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the entire Nigerian Army. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest,” General Buratai stated.

Lagbaja: The nation has lost a strategic commander, General Buratai.

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KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble

Published

3 months ago

October 4, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble

By: Inuwa Bwala

His mesmeric rise to stardom has not only been fast, but it has also been historic and record-breaking.
Except for those who have been conversant with his brilliance since his school days, many people thought it was too fast in coming: talking about Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, SAN: one of Nigerias newest silk.

As for me and for those who have keenly followed through his school days, his professional calling, and his political manouvres, Kaka Shehu Lawan’s conferment as a Senior Advicate of Nigeria, was the fulfillment of a long awaited and well-deserved recognition.
I recall, that, with a near prophetic precise, way back in 2011: when I took particular notice of him amongst the team of lawyers, working to aquit the then Governor elect in Borno state: now the Vice President, Kashim Shettima of wrong doing, in a post election litigation, I have always called him a SAN.
And having worked with him as members of the Borno State Executive Council, I always referred to him as the doyen of cabinet.

His exceptional dedication, unwavering passion, and unrelenting pursuit of academic excellence, work, and justice may have earned him this outstanding elevation into the elite class of the bar.

Reading through his rather intimidating CV, from my corner of the hall, where a civic reception was held for him, I have come to additionally know, that, his remarkable journey started since his school days, when he displayed brillance and candour amongst his peers.
At the civic reception organized in his honor, anyone previledged to attend could attest to the young Silk’s acceptance and connections.

I could not hide my feelings and passed yet another message to him at the occasion, but that is a topic for another day.
But, that the Chief Judge of Borno State, Justice Kashim Zanna, who rarely play such roles accepted to be the chairman of the occasion, and for Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, to abandon state functions, just to be there, speak volumes about the personality and relevance of Kaka Shehu Lawan.

And counting from my corner, I could see that it was a roll call of who is who in the political arena in Borno. It was also a galaxy of the high echelon of the legal profession, led by no other than the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
It was a parade of distinguished senators of the Federal Republic, a line up of members of the House of Representatives and Houses of Assembly and indeed the business community.

Those who spoke on the occasion attested to the fact that Kaka Shehu, even as a young lawyer, is an inspiration to many older ones, including members of the bench.
Of course, his commitment to upholding the law, advocating for justice, and serving his state and Nigeria truly remain a watershed in the anals of history.

I admire his courage, even at the point when we had disagreements with the state, and he was about to send me to jail for no fault of his. Given his unwavering integrity, exceptional advocacy skills,
compassionate approach to legal and political matters, his innovative approach to legal solutions, and, of course, his leadership and mentorship qualities, no man could help but admire him.

The many tasks he has been entrusted to handle, further make his qualities inconcealable, and certainly, this recognition serves as a testament to the positive impact he has made in the lives of people, his colleagues, and the legal community.
I join a million others in celebrating his accomplishments even as I look forward to his continued success.
Kaka Shehu Lawan is indeed an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and a shining example of excellence in the legal profession.
Congratulations to him and the people of Borno state.

KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble

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Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri

Published

6 months ago

July 2, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri

By: Our Reporter

The Acting Governor of Borno State,H.E Hon Umar Usman Kadafur led the entire Borno State Cabinet members to the funeral prayers of wife to late Shehu of Borno H.R.H Mustapha Umar El-kanemi who died yesterday after a protracted illness.

The funeral prayers took place at Mairari Shehu’s palace,Maiduguri.

The funeral was performed by the Imam Idaini of Borno Imam Shettima Mamman Shettima Sale.

The acting Governor was accompanied by the APC State Chairman Hon.Bello Ayuba,Secretary to state government Hon.Bukar Tijjani,Acting Head of Service,Hon.Commissioners,deputy chief of staff,Special Advisers,Senior Special Assistant,Special Assistants,permanent secretaries.

Others are Senator Bakaka Bashir Garbai,Alhaji Abubakar Umara Zulum,District heads,traditional title holders,Politicians among Others.

The acting Governor and his entourage prayed for the reposed soul of the deceased for almighty Allah to grant her jannah,amin.

Hajiya Ya’ana Gambo Mustapha Umar El-kanemi was laid to rest in Maiduguri