Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • Information Minister seeks balanced reportage of Nigeria’s positive narratives

    Information Minister seeks balanced reportage of Nigeria’s positive narratives

    Flowerbud News

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has called on international media organisations to frequently report Nigeria’s positive narratives and development in their news bulletins and broadcast.
    Idris made the call when the Director, of Global News/Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Jonathen Munro and his team,  paid him a courtesy visit on Thursday in Abuja.
    According to him, the policy thrust of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains to uphold the freedom of the press and create a conducive environment for the media to thrive.
    He added that the Nigerian Government expects the international media organisations to express due diligence in their reportage.
    The minister emphasised the importance of balanced and unbiased reporting, adding that, it is crucial for the international media to provide a complete and nuanced portrayal, rather than focusing solely on negative aspects.
    “The thrust of the policy of this administration is that every news organisation has the freedom to practice the profession.
    “And I am happy that the Nigerian Government has not received any reports concerning the harassment of journalists working for the BBC or any other international media outlets in the country.
    “I commend the foresight of the BBC in moving the studio of the Hausa Service from London to Abuja, where the audience and markets are.
    “The brilliant initiative has led to the engagement of about 200 Nigerians working for the BBC across the country.
    “We will also urge you to continue to balance your stories to hear our own side of the story. It’s not only bad things that come out of Nigeria.
    “There are a lot of positive narratives and developments in Nigeria. Please, let your reportage reflect and showcase all these positive narratives and developments,” Idris said.
    He further stated that the BBC’s correspondents on ground could testify of the  positive things that the government is doing,  leading to gradual progression towards prosperity.
    Idris saluted the BBC for embarking on capacity building for some journalists working for the public media organisations.
    He also appealed, that, similar gesture should be extended to the private media outlets.
    “Meanwhile, I want to share with you the commitment of the Nigerian Government to every news gathering organisation.
    “Our commitment is that, we want to stay as focussed and unbiased, and as free as possible,” Idris said.
    Speaking earlier, Munro, who is in Nigeria for the first time, said he was delighted by the reputation of the BBC in the country.
    He said the BBC has expanded into multimedia platforms in Nigeria and it is now broadcasting in Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba to reach the country diverse audiences.
    Munro, who described Nigeria as a global power, said about 30 million people visit the news services of the BBC in Nigeria every week.
    “This makes Nigeria the third international marketing audience for the BBC after USA and India,”
    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Munro was accompanied by the Head of West African Languages, Ehizojie Okharadia; Head of News gathering for Africa, Juliet Njeri and the Head of BBC Hausa, Aliyu Tanko.
    NAN
  • ICPC chairman tasks Danfodio varsity workers to be models of integrity

    ICPC chairman tasks Danfodio varsity workers to be models of integrity

    Flowerbud News

    Dr Musa Aliyu,SAN, the Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practice and Other related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged workers of the Usmanu Danfodio University Sokoto (UDUS) to be models of integrity in the institution’s anti corruption drives.

    Aliyu gave the charge at the inauguration of Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the University on Friday in Sokoto.

    The Chairman, who was represented by Resident ICPC Commissioner in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states, Mr Garba Tukur-Idris, stressed the need to sustain the corruption free achievements enshrined in the university.

    He commended the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Garba Mahuta for his commitments and steadfastness which ensured  that the ACTU performed effectively.

    He attributed the rising level of corruption in public offices to community pressure and expectations of people in the country.

    The chairman explained that the Federal Government mandated the ICPC to establish ACTUs in different Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as an internal mechanisms to report and monitor corruption as well as it’s tendencies.

    He enjoined the ACTU members to live up to the expectations and sustain the achievements recorded by the previous members.

    According to him, ACTU is under the supervision of the Chief Executive Officer, adding that they are considered to be on the same page with ICPC in the fight against corruption.

    “ Undeniably, for the war against corruption to be won in all MDAs,” he said.

    Responding, the Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Mahuta commended ICPC for the supports and encouragement that ensure sanity and prudence in all dealings within and outside the hospital.

    Mahuta who was represented by Prof. Tukur Umar, pledged to sponsor some hospital staff for training at ICPC Academy in order to strengthen their capacity and improve effective services against corruption in the hospital.

    He noted that a lot of changes are taking place across the wider Nigerian society with the emergence of ICPC and it’s activities against all forms of corruption.

    The Vice Chancellor added that hospital ensured automation of it’s overall activities including financial transactions besides strict adherence to financial laws and civil service regulations.

    He further lauded ICPC’s order of approach in combating corruption and related matters in the country and called in Nigerians to support anti corruption agency.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new ACTU Chairman Prof. Abubakar Dikko along with other members were sworn by Mr Suleiman Ahmad, a legal practitioner while a lecture on ACTU responsibilities was delivered by Mr Abdullah Abubakar.

    NAN

  • NLC alleges interference in tenure of union leaders

    NLC alleges interference in tenure of union leaders

    Flowerbud News

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government not to take steps at interfering in the tenure of union leaders in the country.

    Mr Benson Upah, NLC Head of Information made the call while addressing newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

    Upah alleged that the government wanted to impose a two-year tenure on labour leaders.

    He said such action would amount to meddling in the internal running of trade unions and a gross violation of the corpus of Labour Law and International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions.

    “The federal government should put an end to the ongoing alleged hybrid war against Congress.

    “However, if government feels that two years is the best tenure to go, it should be two years for everyone including ,office of the President and principal public officers as well,”‘ he said.

    He also appealed to the government to stop meddling in the affairs of Labour Party and as well, end destabilisation campaign against opposition parties.

    Upah said the Police must tender unreserved apology to NLC for the invasion of its headquarters. or risk an industrial action or other options open to Congress to express its dissatisfaction.

    He added that the explanations by the police for the invasion have consistently failed to add up, including the purported legal documents from a court of jurisdiction permitting the raid.

    “Beside government’s silence on our patriotic and well thought-out demands, the police have since come out to make further comments on the raid, instead of an apology.

    “A statement signed by ACP Olumumuyiwa Adejobi claimed that the raid had no connection with the NLC secretariat, workers, or leadership, but a prime criminal suspect in an on-going investigation traced to a shop within the building which they claimed was on the 2nd floor.

    “We find the claims contradictory, self-serving and face-saving and intended to cover up their blunders.

    “What were the security personnel doing on the 10th floor when the shop they were after was on the 2nd floor?

    “If the police truly had credible intelligence and if Congress was not their target, what was wrong in taking the leadership of Congress into confidence.

    “if they felt that would jeopardise the operation, couldn’t they have confided in the leadership,”he said.

    He, therefore called on the federal government and the police not to rope Congress into what it knew nothing about.

    Also on the protest, Upah urged the federal government to desist from playing on the intelligence of Nigerians by attempting to divert their attention from the real issues of bad governance and hunger, that still stare the people in the face

    He reiterated that it was economic policies of the government that have continued to unleash hardship on the people.

    Upah said the Congress called on the government to release those in its custody in relation to the protest,  including a member of the Nigeria Union Electricity Employee (NUEE)’s executive, Mr Opalua Eleojo who was arrested at a social spot in Abuja.

    “We are entitled to safety and protection. The arrest is not good PR for this country. People are laughing at us,” he said

    NAN

  • IHVN’s IRCE showcases advances in Sickle Cell Disease at symposium

    IHVN’s IRCE showcases advances in Sickle Cell Disease at symposium

    Flowerbud News

    hosted a pivotal symposium on advancing care and research for patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

    The research centre showcased the advances at its second Annual Scientific Seminar at the IHVN campus on Wednesday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that since its establishment in 2015, the IRCE had been playing significant roles in advancing research in Nigeria, leveraging IHVN’s infrastructure and expertise.

    The IRCE’s ongoing efforts include more than 40 funded research grants targeting infectious and non-infectious diseases, underscoring the centre’s commitment to addressing health challenges through high-quality, culturally sensitive research.

    This year’s event with the theme — “Expanding Partnerships in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Cancer Research”, had an array of local and international experts to discuss latest advancements in the diagnosis, care, treatment and innovative research in critical health areas.

    In his presentation, Dr Mark Gladwin, an American Physician Scientist and Dean of University of Maryland School of Medicine, highlighted the impact of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) and end-organ failure in adults with SCD, a critical concern in current medical research.

    He explained how chronic hemolytic anaemia in SCD patients leads to vascular damage, causing complications such as PH.

    He presented extensive research data, including groundbreaking findings on the role of cell-free haemoglobin and its detrimental effects on blood vessels and smooth muscle relaxation, exacerbating the risk of PH.

    He quoted a featured cutting-edge study from Dr Prithu Sundd’s laboratory, showcasing how oxidative haemoglobin triggers Neutrophil Extracellular
    Traps (NETs) in pulmonary arterioles, further complicating SCD management.

    “This research suggested that NETs, circulating from other organs, contribute significantly to lung damage in SCD patients.

    “The SCD-CARRE trial explores the efficacy of Red Blood Cell (RBC) exchange transfusion as an intervention to limit disease progression and improve outcomes in high-risk SCD patients.

    “Preliminary findings suggest that this therapy may reduce vaso-occlusive crises and acute chest syndrome, both of which are major contributors to pulmonary complications.”

    He emphasised the importance of defining high-risk subgroups among SCD patients, noting that those with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or elevated
    biomarkers like TRV and NT-proBNP are at particularly high risk of mortality.

    Dr Patrick Dakum, the Chief Executive Officer of IHVN, highlighted the strategic direction of IHVN, emphasising the importance of expanding partnerships
    that include both public and private sectors, as well as faith-based organisations.

    He said “partnerships are crucial to the broader health sector under the national healthcare plan.”

    Dakum underscored IHVN’s commitment to expanding research in cancer and SCD.

    He said “the collaboration with international institutions like University of Maryland and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authourity is essential
    for research and capacity building in these areas.”

    He also stressed the importance of a public-private mix in research initiatives, aiming to leverage the strength of both sectors to achieve comprehensive
    and effective outcomes in healthcare.

    He said that the appointment of a special adviser on SCD by the Coordinating Minister of Health signals a significant shift in government attention
    toward neglected diseases, including sickle cell.

    “This move is portrayed as crucial step in ensuring that such diseases receive the necessary focus and resources,” he said.

    He pointed out that a framework was being established to increase attention to neglected diseases, with SCD being a prime example.

    The IHVN boss added that “the appointment of a special adviser on SCD is seen as a promising development that could lead to comprehensive and sustained efforts in addressing the disease.”

    Earlier, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, the Executive Director, IHVN’s IRCE, stressed the need to bring SCD, particularly as it disproportionately affects black people, into the limelight, alongside cancer.

    Abimiku said that both conditions were under-recognised in terms of prevention and treatment.

    She acknowledged the difficulties faced by low and middle-income countries in prioritising health issues, suggesting that critical conditions like SCD and cancer could be overlooked amid many challenges.

    She pointed out that as a country, Nigeria needs to do better in focusing on cancer prevention, including diet, exercise and other lifestyle factors, rather than just treating the disease after it occurs.

    “There is mention of the government setting up additional cancer treatment centres and diagnostic facilities, highlighting efforts to improve cancer care in the country,” she said.

    She expressed the hope that events like the symposium would bring more attention to SCD, which was particularly devastating to young people in Nigeria and even around the globe.

    She noted the importance of partnerships with institutions like the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) to conduct clinical trials and to discover a cure for the disease.

    She said that the Coordinating Minister of Health’s task force on SCD is a reflection of Federal Government’s commitment to increase awareness about the disease.

    NAN

  • Imminent drought: Etsu Nupe urges Nigerians to turn to God

    Imminent drought: Etsu Nupe urges Nigerians to turn to God

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers has appealed to Nigerians to turn to God for abundant rainfall and bumper harvests in 2024.

    Drought is a prolonged dry period in the natural climate cycle that can occur anywhere in the world.

    It is a slow-onset disaster characterised by the lack of precipitation, resulting in a water shortage.

    The Etsu Nupe spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria in Minna on Tuesday on the need to seek divine intervention in the face of imminent drought.

    Abubakar said that his call was necessitated by the epileptic rainfall in the current rainy season.

    According to the royal father, prayers are the only panacea to the looming crisis that may befall some parts of Nigeria, if bumper harvests were not recorded.

    He said that such an unbecoming development would aggravate the already dire socio-economic situation in the country.

    Abubakar said that the Almighty Allah would always be merciful to mortals when they turned to him in prayers.

    He said, “We have no option than to seek divine intervention for us to have abundant rainfall this year so that there will be plenty of food to feed ourselves.

    ”In the absence of that, the consequences will be unpalatable and the hardship that Nigerians are currently facing will be aggravated if most of them don’t have food to eat.

    ”We are however grateful to God for all His mercies and blessings that He has bestowed on us and we are hopeful that as we turn to Him, He will still be merciful to us and the rains will come, God willing.”

    The Etsu nupe also appealed to Nigerians to intensify prayers seeking for God’s forgiveness for Him to have mercy for a steady rainfall.

    He added that prayers were the most potent weapon to use in terms of any hardship, including insufficient rainfall, a challenge being faced in some parts of the country.

    Abubakar said, ”Whenever any calamity befalls any society or community, they should hasten to return to God for Him to have mercy on them.

    “As pious and faithful servants of Allah, we are strongly optimistic that He will accept our prayers and shower His blessings and protection on all of us.

    “He will shower the much needed rainfall in our land, bless our crops and other things that we require for survival.”

    NAN

  • IHVN’s IRCE hosts 2nd annual scientific symposium

    IHVN’s IRCE hosts 2nd annual scientific symposium

    By Abujah Racheal

    The International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN)
    has concluded arrangements to     host its second Annual Scientific Symposium at the IHVN Campus in Abuja.

    The institute’s Senior Communications Manager, Ms Uzoma Nwofor, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja, made available
    to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

    NAN reports that since its establishment in 2015, the IRCE has been playing pivotal roles in advancing research in Nigeria, leveraging
    IHVN’s infrastructure and expertise.

    The IRCE’s ongoing efforts include more than 40 funded research grants targeting both infectious and non-infectious diseases, underscoring
    the centre’s commitment to address health challenges through high-quality, culturally sensitive research.

    Nwofor stated that this year’s event with the theme “Expanding Partnerships in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Cancer Research” is scheduled for
    Aug. 14 to Aug. 15, to     convene an array of local and international experts to discuss latest advancements in the diagnosis, care, treatment
    and innovative research in critical health areas.

    She added that “the symposium will feature prominent figures such as Prof. Mark T. Gladwin, the Dean of the University of Maryland School
    of Medicine (UMB-SOM), and Prof. Taofeek K. Owonikoko, the Executive Director, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum
    Comprehensive Cancer Centre (UMGCCC).

    “Both will be accompanied by senior faculty from UMB-SOM, many of whom are actively involved in research initiatives in Nigeria.

    “Nigerian experts, including Dr Obi Adigwe, Director-General, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD),
    and Prof. Obigeli Nnodu, will also share insights alongside representatives from the pharmaceutical industry.”

    The senior communications manager also stated that Prof. Gladwin, a leading authourity in pulmonary hypertension and sickle cell disease,
    would be a special guest.

    “His (Prof. Gladwin) groundbreaking research in hemolysis-associated endothelial dysfunction has significantly advanced the understanding of complications
    in sickle cell patients, paving the way for improved treatments.

    “He is currently leading a Phase II clinical trial aimed at enhancing blood transfusion techniques to extend survival in sickle cell patients.”

    She also noted that Prof. Owonikoko, a Nigerian-born physician specialised in thoracic oncology and translational research, would contribute to the discussions.

    “As a key figure in oncology at UMSOM and University of Maryland Medical Centre, his work bridges critical research between the U.S. and Nigeria,” she added.

    She quoted IHVN’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Patrick Dakum, as emphasising the significance of the symposium in marking IHVN’s 20th anniversary.

    “IHVN has made remarkable strides in combating HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria over the past two decades. We are excited to extend our partnership
    to other public health challenges like SCD and cancer,” Dakum said.

    Nwofor also quoted the institute’s Executive Director, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, who highlighted IHVN’s impact, noting that “this year’s symposium
    builds on the foundation laid in the previous year by extending collaborations to SCD and cancer — two health challenges significantly affecting the
    black population.”

    She stated that the symposium will feature presentations, discussions and exhibitions from industry partners, fostering an environment of
    collaboration, aimed at improving healthcare services and research capacity in Nigeria.

    Nwofor reiterated that the annual event serves as platform for promoting research on public health issues of both local and global relevance.

    NAN

  • NDLEA smashes cocaine syndicates, intercepts multi-million naira illicit drugs

    NDLEA smashes cocaine syndicates, intercepts multi-million naira illicit drugs

    Flowerbud News

    Mr Demi Babafemi, the Director, Media and Advocacy, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

    Babafemi said that 2.32kg of cocaine concealed in Ghanaian traditional fabric (Kente) en route the United Kingdom, was intercepted at a courier firm in Lagos on August 5.

    He said that NDLEA also recovered 10.494kg of same class of drug buried in heavy duty pivot shafts en route the U.S. at the same logistics company.

    “NDLEA sniffer dogs fished out the automobile spare parts containing the illicit drug. The total weight of cocaine seized in the two shipments is 12.814kg,” he said.

    The NDLEA official said that five other consignments going to the U.S., UK and Canada were also intercepted at a courier firm in Lagos on Aug. 9.

    He listed the consignments to include, 517 grams of cocaine concealed in clothing materials, various quantities of pentazocine injection, promethazine injection and cocodamol pills.

    Babafemi said that 297 pills of tramadol 225mg going to Canada was also intercepted.

    He said that during a recent operation, NDLEA operatives recovered 21 parcels of Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis weighing 10kg from the U.S., and meant for delivery in Abuja

    Bafemi said that personnel of the agency on Aug. 7, apprehended a member of a cocaine trafficking network, at Alafia Orile, Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos.

    The NDLEA official said that the suspect was nabbed while attempting to move 9.00kg of cocaine to Onitsha, Anambra.

    He said that in a follow-up operation, two persons suspected to be members of an Nnewi-based cocaine syndicate were arrested on Aug. 8.

    “This followed the seizure of their consignments in a public transport company bus at Benin in Edo.

    “The driver of the bus was arrested at Benin tollgate with a total of 2.865kg cocaine,” he said.

    NAN

  • OmoBarca, wife receives chieftaincy titles, empowers youths & women in Abia State

    OmoBarca, wife receives chieftaincy titles, empowers youths & women in Abia State

    Flowerbud News

    On the  5th of August 2024, the Okwu Ancient Kingdom witnessed a grand and historic event as Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OMOBARCA, and his wife, Mrs. Francis Esther Chibuife, were honored with prestigious chieftaincy titles.

    The conferment ceremony took place at the Okwu Community Primary School, drawing an impressive gathering of dignitaries, traditional rulers, and well-wishers.

    The event, presided over by His Royal Majesty, Eze Boniface Izuogu, the Okwu Mgba 1 of Okwu Ancient Kingdom, saw Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima being conferred with the title of Agalaba 1 of Okwu Ancient Kingdom.

    In recognition of her grace and contributions, Mrs. Francis Esther Chibuife was bestowed the title of Akwaugo 1 of Okwu Ancient Kingdom.

    In attendance were other notable traditional rulers from within Okwu and nearby communities, who came to honor the new chieftains and to witness the historic occasion.

    The event was marked by traditional rites, with both honorees taking an oath of office as a symbol of their commitment to the values and responsibilities of their new titles.

    Eze Boniface Izuogu, with the assistance of the attending royal fathers, led the conferment process.

    The ceremony was steeped in the rich cultural heritage of the Okwu Ancient Kingdom, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for the contributions of Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima and his wife to the community.

    According to his media aide Obinna Francis Solace, some of Hon. Francis’s contributions to community development both in his own home community of Okwu, Olokoro and in diaspora which endeared him to the community and upon which his Royal Majesty Eze Izuogu Boniface and the council of high chiefs saw him fit for the AGALABA 1 title are;

    • He installed Solar Street-lamps in Umuevo Community.

    • ⁠He empowered over sixty youth from within Olokoro and in diaspora with Keke and Motocycles to support their livelihood.

    • He renovated St. Michael Anglican Church; and also donated seats, tiles and other items for the congregations and parish house use.

    • ⁠Continuously, he empowers the widows in the Community with cash grants.

    • ⁠Every December, he donates cows and 60 bags of rice to the community to support homes for Christmas and New Year festivity.

    • during the COVID 19, he gave food and cash palliative to the community.

    • He gave the Olokoro women 3 million naira for their August meeting and also donated wrappers to Umuevo women for their meetings.

    • ⁠He has given out well over 100 vehicles to various people within Olokoro community and in diaspora. Yet he vows to do more by the special grace of God.

    • ⁠He donated to the Olokoro Community Vigilante group one Siena vehicle and two Motocycles to help their security work and he has also been taking care of Okwu Vigilante’s welfare for the past eight months and counting.

    • He has assisted many individuals with medical bills, School fees and other uncountable good deeds both in Okwu-Olokoro and in diaspora.

    • ⁠He has renovated houses and gifted newly constructed houses to some families in Okwu community

    • ⁠He gave the sum of 5 Million naira in support of the Olokoro day event and also donated 500 thousand Naira to cover for cooking expenses.

    • He renovated the existing Umuevo-Okwu Community Hall and he is currently erecting a storey building Hall for Umuevo-Okwu community meetings.

    • ⁠He donated a Brand New Transformer to the Community.

    • Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima has sponsored the Olokoro Football League for five consecutive years with the sum of five Million naira annually. In the same way, he has also been sponsoring the OmoBarca Cup in Lagos state for the past 10 years.

    • ⁠He has paid for uncountable Student’s WAEC expenses and also renders cash grants to a large number of people with the Okwu-Olokoro community and in diaspora.

    • ⁠Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima is a lover of talents and he has invested in many up and coming Nigerian music artistes and footballers. He is known worldwide for his charitable legacy. His generosity and love shown towards the Ajegunle, Lagos State Community and the Olokoro Community has earned him this recognition.

    The event was a celebration of tradition, unity, and progress for the Okwu Ancient Kingdom, with speeches, dances, and cultural displays adding color to the festivities.

    The titles of Agalaba 1 and Akwaugo 1 are symbols of honor and recognition, bestowed upon those who have shown exemplary leadership and service to the community.

    The newly conferred chieftains expressed their gratitude and pledged to continue their service to the Okwu community, upholding the responsibilities that come with their new titles.

    The ceremony concluded with a grand reception, where guests were treated to a feast and entertainment in celebration of the newly honored chieftains.

  • 3 teenage girls drown in Jigawa pond

    3 teenage girls drown in Jigawa pond

    Flowerbud News

    Three teenage girls have been confirmed  drown in a pond in Buji Local Government Area of Jigawa on Saturday.

    The Spokesperson of the State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), ASC Badaruddeen Tijuana, confirmed the incident in a statement in Dutse, on Sunday.

    Tijjani gave the names of the deceased as; Fatima Sule, 12, Nasiya Sale, 12 and Huwaila Sa’adu, 13, all of Tulla village

    According to the statement, The incident occurred on Saturday at about 11 a.m., when the three girls went to cut some grasses to feed their livestock beside the pond.

    “The NSCDC personnel operating in the area received a distress call from some members of the Tulla community at about 11:10 a.m. and rushed to the scene with the divisional disaster management officers for a rescue mission.

    “And together with the people of the community, they were able to recover the bodies of the three young girls after about 30 minutes of search and rescue operation,” the statement said.

    It explained that the recovered bodies were immediately rushed to the nearest health center in the area, where they were confirmed  dead.

    The statement added that investigation revealed that the deceased cut some grasses at the same place, where they were drown.

    It stated that the remains of the girls were  handed over to their respective parents and have been buried according to Islamic rites.

    The statement said the NSCDC Commandant in the state, Mr Muhammad Danjuma commiserated with the families of the deceased and enjoined parents to look after their wards, especially at a time when ponds and rivers were over flooded to avoid such incidents.

    NAN