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VP SHETTIMA URGES LEADERS TO RENEW COMMITMENT TO HUMANITY SERVICE
VP SHETTIMA URGES LEADERS TO RENEW COMMITMENT TO HUMANITY SERVICE
By: Our Reporter
As government strives to address challenges confronting Nigerians, Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the celebration of the Maulid calls for renewal of commitment to service by leaders at all levels.
Senator Shettima spoke at the 38th anniversary of the Shiekh Ibrahim Niass Alkaulakhy National Maulid and was joined by Shiekh Muhammad Sanusi II, Sautul Faida Shiekh Dahiru Usman Bauchi (OFR), Sheikh Ibrahim Saleh Alhusaini, Minister for Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, amongst others.
This year’s event, the 38th National Maulid anniversary, commemorates the birth of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass, just as prayers are conducted for the peace and unity of Nigeria.
In his address titled, ‘Serving Humanity:
Senator Shettima said the event is “an invitation to renew our commitment to embody the spirit of serving humanity.
“I must reassure that the path before us is one of propriety, and, more than that, we are comforted by the endurance and understanding of each citizen, none of which is taken for granted,” the VP added.
Speaking further on the teachings of the Holy Prophet on the responsibility of leaders, the VP said “the intersection of faith leaders and political leaders is a sacred space where the responsibilities of service converge.”
According to him, every leader is driven by a profound sense of duty, noting that “each of us strives to promote the welfare of the people we serve. This essence of our shared purpose.”
He stressed that “whether in times of celebration or challenge, the unity of the leaders of any group becomes a powerful force for positive change. It is within this intersection that we find common ground to identify with our people’s aspirations, joys, and struggles.”
Continuing, he noted that “more than mere collaboration, it is a testimony to our collective stewardship. So, again, we are grateful for your hospitality and honour.”
Senator Shettima appealed to the faithful of the major religious groups in the country to always “engage in tangible efforts to understand one another.”
He continued: “More than ever, we appeal to you to remain the voices of reason in bridging the gaps between knowledge and ignorance, between reality and mischief. To honour the legacy of Rasul sincerely, we must fulfil the noble injunction of being the “best of people” by bringing maximum benefit to our people.”
The VP added that tolerance and collaboration are important in transforming “Nigeria into a welcoming home for all, a nation of opportunities. This mindset is crucial for fulfilling our commitment to building an inclusive and progressive society.
“Regardless of one’s position at the religious or ethnic table, the undeniable reality is that none of us remains immune to the repercussions of chaos, poverty, or insecurity,” he stated.
Present at the event were the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu and other religious leaders.
VP SHETTIMA URGES LEADERS TO RENEW COMMITMENT TO HUMANITY SERVICE
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
By: Michael Mike
A human rights organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd./Gte. (SOJA), has condemned the reported abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident and the alleged killing of a teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, as “a case too many.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group expressed deep concern over reports that armed attackers abducted teachers and students from schools within the council area around May 15, 2026, while Mr. Oyedokun, a Mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, was reportedly killed during the incident.
The organisation said several victims were still believed to be in captivity awaiting rescue.
SOJA, led by its Founder and Executive Director, Hameed Ajibola Jimoh, commiserated with the affected families and communities, warning that repeated attacks on schools and civilians across parts of the country were becoming alarming.
According to the advocacy group, the incident, if confirmed, raises serious constitutional and human rights concerns under both Nigerian law and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, SOJA stressed that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” while Sections 33, 34 and 35 guarantee the rights to life, dignity and personal liberty.
The group also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under several international and regional legal frameworks, including the United Nations-backed International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).
SOJA argued that the obligations imposed by these instruments go beyond symbolic commitments, requiring authorities to take practical and preventive steps to protect lives, especially those of vulnerable groups such as school children and teachers.
“The implication of these obligations in the present circumstances is that government responsibility extends beyond merely reacting after tragic events occur,” the statement said.
The organisation acknowledged reports that security agencies had intensified rescue operations and investigations, but maintained that recurring attacks on schools demanded more decisive and proactive measures.
“This is a case too many,” the statement added.
SOJA therefore called for the immediate intensification of lawful rescue efforts for those still in captivity, a thorough investigation into the incident, prosecution of perpetrators, strengthened security around schools and vulnerable communities, and adequate support for affected victims and families.
The group further urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of strategies aimed at preventing future attacks on educational institutions.
“Teachers should not become targets. Schools should not become zones of fear. Children should not bear the burden of insecurity,” the organisation stated.
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace have recovered a suspected stolen motorcycle following a pursuit of suspected motorcycle snatchers in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on May 21 along the Bachi-Banghai road after troops received reports on the activities of suspected motorcycle snatchers in the area.
The sources said the troops immediately mobilised and pursued the suspects, who abandoned the motorcycle and fled upon sighting the security personnel.
According to the sources, the recovered motorcycle has been secured, while efforts were ongoing to identify the rightful owner and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The military said the operation formed part of sustained efforts to combat criminal activities and enhance security across Plateau.
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of a resident in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 21 when gunmen reportedly abducted Mr Eze Emeka from his residence at Agingi village.
The sources said troops swiftly responded to the distress report and commenced rescue operations in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the sources, efforts were ongoing to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe release of the victim.
The military assured residents that security forces were intensifying operations to curb criminal activities in the area.
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
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