Tribute

TRIBUTE: MALA KACHALLAH STIlLL MY HERO 15 YEARS AFTER.

Published

3 years ago

April 19, 2022

News Net Global

TRIBUTE: MALA KACHALLAH STIlLL MY HERO 15 YEARS AFTER.

By: Inuwa Bwala

Another year has gone by, it is fifteen years since the man of peace, my mentor, my father, my boss and my confidant, Mala Kachallah passed on. One may say it has been long, yet for me, everything is still fresh in my mind. There is nothing new I may have to say, having marked his death for the past fourteen years with tributes.

I have narrated the events in my previous piece, but I need to restate parts of it for emphasis and for the benefits of those who have not followed my series on Maka Kachallah. Every time the year goes round, I look back at the events of that fateful day, 18th April, 2007, when the heat was intense, and in the same campaign year for the 2007 General elections.

We had gone round with Mala Kachallah touring the southern part of Borno state for the campaigns and only once did he call my attention in Askira to inform me he was not feeling fine and may not go for the second leg of the tour. Otherwise, he looked hale and hearty, and even asked me to continue with the team for the remaining tour and get back to him when we return to Maiduguri.

I did not suspect anything even when Honorable Mohammed Wakil called me to his inner room, until he informed me that my attention was needed at Mala Kachalla’s residence. He said they were leaving me behind, but that I should feed him back on what the matter was. I could sense something was wrong, but nobody betrayed any form of expression towards me, even as I went out of the house heading to Mala Kachalla’s residence on the Airport Road.

I could see three or more groups of people in the open yard at Mala Kachallah’s house discussing in hushed tongues. They looked away from me immediately I entered, but by then it was obvious that something was wrong in the house. I went into the house and was confronted by some prominent people, including his former deputy, Ali Abubakar Jatau. They pointed to his door and I headed straight for it, with my heart in my mouth. I did not need to be informed at that stage what had happened.

Since then, the events of that day and the attendant events in the state long after his death remind me that the peace of Borno may have departed with him. And every time I write to commemorate that sad event, I always pay tribute to him, I take a mental tour of the once home of peace with nostalgia of the Mala Kachallah days.

Everytime I pray, I crave to pray for leaders in the mould of Mala Kachallah, with the hope that Borno may once more experience the tranquility of his era. We seem to be gradually getting there, with Professor Babagana Umara Zulum: though I know it is not yet uhuru.

Also Read: Kashim Shettima: On the Day of valedictory for Senators Exiting the Red Chamber

I equally pray that God should grant me the grace to replicate the things he told me: one of which I should never keep nalice. Even for the lessons I learnt through his life, I remain ever faithful and grateful to Mala Kachallah even after his death.

Today, not so many people remember him, not even in the political cycles, but everybody relishes the era of his leadership as one of the most peaceful in Borno state. Mala Kachallah who everybody prefers to call the man of peace gave every section a sense of belonging in Government, and everybody a sense of justice, to the effect that he was christened “The Captain of Peace”. Those who had the privilege of coming into contact with him, can also testify that Mala Kachallah was so hospitable and lavish with his resources on others, that he left office a virtual pauper. Beyond these, Mala Kachallah was Godly and passionate about his faith.

I quite agree that every leader has an idiosyncratic approach to solving problems; in which case such approaches may differ from one leader to the other. The circumstances surrounding Mala Kachalla’s leadership may be different from what obtains after him, but every time there is crisis in Borno state, I often reminiscence on his style of leadership; often asking with a very strong sense of nostalgia: what would Mala Kachallah have done differently to solve such a crisis.

I often find solace in the activities of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who, given the rightful atmosphere, has demonstrated sufficient will and capacity to replicate the deeds of Mala Kachallah or even surpass him. I also admire Senator Kashim Shettima’s fidelity to the legacies of Mala Kachallah while he was the Governor. Both men always encourage me to keep Mala Kachallah’s memory alive. I have never ceased to acknowledge the fact that each leader after Mala Kachallah gave their best in their own ways. I am particularly impressed with the efforts of the Borno State Government which has not only immortalized Mala Kachallah, but has not left his family in penury.

May God continue to grant him eternal rest.

TRIBUTE: MALA KACHALLAH STIlLL MY HERO 15 YEARS AFTER.

Tribute

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

Published

2 weeks 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.

Tribute

KAKA SHEHU LAWAN: The Kid Silk On The Marble

Published

2 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

News

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

Published

5 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