PEN BEBEJI BLOGS

The Imperative of Democracy: Upholding its Values to Safeguard Stability - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  Introduction : In recent times, Africa has witnessed a surge in military coups, with Gabon being the latest country grappling with political uncertainty. While these events cast a shadow over democratic processes, it is essential to emphasize the invaluable importance of democratic governance, highlighting its merits and urging governments to prioritize the welfare of their citizenry. Furthermore, it is crucial to commend the Nigerian military for their remarkable restraint and underscore the need for the government to address pertinent issues, bolstering national stability and deterring any potential threats to the country's democracy. The Contrast of Democratic Governance: Democratic governments may have their flaws and challenges, but history has consistently demonstrated that they are a superior alternative to military rule. Despite their imperfections, democracies all

Governor Abba K. Yusuf: The Promise Keeper, Please Fulfill Your Promise of Free Education - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  In the realm of politics, it is not uncommon for leaders to make promises during election campaigns, only to forget them once they assume office. However, there are a few exceptional individuals who stand firm on their commitments. One such individual is Governor Abba K. Yusuf of Kano State. Since his assumption of office, Governor Abba Yusuf has consistently demonstrated his dedication to fulfilling the promises he made to the people of Kano State, be it through demolitions of illegally allocated structures even if fully developed and organizing mass weddings which is now in top gear.  One of such promises he made and fulfilled is demolition of the said illegally allocated properties by the previous administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. During his electioneering campaign, Governor Abba K. Yusuf pledged to address issues of corruption and illegal

How Elrufai's political goodwill is being paid under Tinubu's watch - Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai  Why did it take President Bola Ahmed Tinubu so long to intervene in the issue concerning Malam Nasir El-rufai's non clearance as a result of alleged security issues by the Senate and other relevant security agencies?  Why has Mr President remained silent for someone who stood firmly behind his struggle to become president of Nigeria against all odds?  Again, why has Asiwaju left Malam Nasir El-rufai at the most critical time that he needs all cover and shield from Mr President? The event and circumstances surrounding El-Rufa'i's delayed confirmation as a Minister of Federal Republic of Nigeria has continued to create ripple effect on the political and social landscape across the country as to why such unfolding events happened and Mr President has remained conspicuously silent on the issue even when few months back, Malam El-Rufa'i was vociferously  against

Governor Uba Sani's Fee Reduction Initiative in Kaduna State Applauded - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  In a remarkable move towards ensuring inclusive and affordable education, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has announced a significant reduction in tuition fees across all state-owned tertiary institutions. This people-centric decision is a commendable effort towards fulfilling his campaign promises and enhancing educational access for the residents of Kaduna. Under the new fee structure, the Kaduna State University will witness a 30% reduction in fees, while the Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, College of Education Gidan Waya, Shehu Idris College of Health Sciences & Technology, and Kaduna State College of Nursing will see a commendable 50% reduction. This reduction is an important step in addressing the challenges faced by students and families in funding their education. Governor Uba Sani made this announcement during a media parley with pressmen at the Government House in

President Tinubu's Appointing Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate: A Prudent Choice and a Promising Step Towards a Healthier Nigeria - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  Introduction : President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent appointment of Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate as the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare is a commendable move towards achieving a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria. With Prof. Pate's wealth of experience and dedication to public health, his new role holds great promise for the coordination of the health sector and ensuring the welfare of Nigerians. A Respected Professional and Renowned Expert: Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, an accomplished Nigerian physician and politician, has made significant contributions in the field of public health both nationally and internationally. His successful tenure as the Global Director for Health, Nutrition, and Population at the World Bank Group, as well as his previous executive roles in Nigeria's healthcare system, demon

Unity in Faith: Standing in Solidarity with the Emir of Ilorin and Kwara Muslims - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  Introduction : In recent weeks, the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the Muslim community of Kwara State, Nigeria, have faced persecution from certain segments of the Yoruba Land. The reason for this persecution stems from the opposition to a polytheistic festival called Isese Festival planned by a prophetess, Yeye Ajesikemi Olokun Omolara Olatunji, in the predominantly Muslim territory. As advocates of religious tolerance and believers in the strength of unity, it is imperative for Nigerian Muslims, particularly those in the northern region, to support their fellow brethren in Kwara by openly condemning this issue and offer unwavering solidarity. Preserving Islamic Values: Kwara State, particularly the Ilorin Emirate, has a rich history of Islamic influence dating back to the reforms initiated by Sheikh Usman bn Fodiyo. The conquest led to the imposition of I

PRESS CONFERENCE AUG. 15 2023 Ministerial confirmation: Who is afraid of El-Rufai in Tinubu’s cabinet? Having observed the confirmation of other ministerial nominees with  the exception of the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai and two others by the Senate,  over the so called  security reasons, we make it bold to say that the process is procedurally wrong and politically defective and it shows that something is wrong somewhere. 2. We have fully observed that the whole process is now taking the shape of conspiracy and political “crucifixion” of this unique, competent and capable gentleman and leader who has proven to be an asset to the county’s democracy. Unfortunately, the ‘Crucifiers’ are probably in the first class of the beneficiaries of the bold decisions of this gentleman. 3. Let us use this golden opportunity to thank the 3 PDP Senators from Kaduna State for their good testimonies and unanimous support for Malam Nasir Elrufai to be co

The Senate's Refusal to Confirm Nasir El-Rufai as Minister: A Collective Loss of Valuable Asset for Nigeria - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  In a major blow to Northern Nigeria and the nation as a whole, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has declined the ministerial position due to the Senate's failure to clear his name.  El-Rufai rejecting the ministerial position due to the Senate's inability to clear him is undoubtedly a loss for Northern Nigeria and the entire country. El-Rufai, known as a radical reformer, possesses the qualities and vision that Nigeria desperately needs at this critical juncture. Despite facing personal grudges from some quarters, his track record as the governor of Kaduna State speaks volumes about his competence and dedication to driving positive change.  Plagued by various challenges, such as poor governance, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure, Nigeria requires leaders like El-Rufai who can bring about transformative reforms. El-Rufai's no

Northern Nigeria Seeks ECOWAS Support to Address Insecurity - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji  Introduction : The current security crisis in Nigeria has reached alarming levels, particularly in the northern regions. With escalating tensions between Niger's military regime and the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, it is imperative that we seek assistance from the international community to combat the rampant banditry and other security challenges that are plaguing our nation. As concerned citizens of Northern Nigeria, we call for the deployment of ECOWAS military forces to the forests of Birnin Gwari, Zamfara, Niger, Sokoto, Katsina, and the notorious Sambisa Forest to restore stability and protect the lives and livelihoods of our people. A Multifaceted Security Crisis: Northern Nigeria has been grappling with a multifaceted security crisis caused by the activities of bandits, ethnic militias, and various criminal gangs. Reports indicate that over 30,000 bandits operate across