Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • Malawi VP, nine others, killed in plane crash

    Malawi VP, nine others, killed in plane crash

    June 11, 2024

    Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima was killed in a plane crash, the nation’s president said on Tuesday, after searchers located the wreckage of the aircraft in a foggy forest.

    The military plane carrying Chilima, 51, and nine others disappeared on Monday, after it failed to land in the northern city of Mzuzu due to bad weather and was told to return to the capital, Lilongwe.

    “The search and rescue team have found the aircraft … completely destroyed with no survivors, as all passengers on board were killed on impact,” Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera said addressing the nation.

    “Words cannot describe how heartbreaking this is,” he said, describing the accident as a “terrible tragedy.”

    Photographs shared with AFP by a member of the military rescue team showed army personnel standing on a foggy slope near debris bearing the registration number of the Malawi Army Air Wing Dornier 228-202K aircraft.

    Rescuers had been combing a fog-cloaked forest south of Mzuzu on Tuesday, after authorities located the last tower it transmitted to before the plane disappeared.

    Earlier, army commander General Paul Valentino Phiri said other countries, including Malawi’s neighbours, had been aiding the search effort, with support including helicopters and drones.

    The group departed just after 9:00 am (0700 GMT) from Lilongwe on Monday to attend the funeral of a former cabinet minister some 370 kilometres (230 miles) away in Mzuzu.

    Malawi’s former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri was also on board.

    Chakwera said he had previously flown on the same aircraft for similar trips. The crew had successfully operated it just hours before the accident, he added.

    “And yet, despite the track record of the aircraft and the experience of the crew, something terrible went wrong with that aircraft on its flight back to Lilongwe, sending it crashing down,” he said.

    First elected vice president in 2014, the charismatic yet stern-talking Chilima was a widely loved figure in Malawi, particularly among young people.

    But in 2022, during his second stint in the job, Chilima was stripped of his powers after being arrested and charged with graft over a bribery scandal involving a British-Malawian businessman.

    Last month, a Malawian court dropped the charges and he resumed his official duties.

    “Chilima was a good man, a devoted father and husband, a patriotic citizen who served his country with distinction and a formidable vice president,” Chakwera said.

    “I consider it one of the greatest honours of my life to have had him as my deputy and counsellor for the past four years.”

  • Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi: The Super Corp with a Vision – Transforming National Security through Innovative Leadership”

    Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi: The Super Corp with a Vision – Transforming National Security through Innovative Leadership”

     

    By Gambo Jagindi

    The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has undergone a remarkable transformation under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, its Commandant General. Since taking the helm, Dr. Audi has demonstrated unwavering dedication, strategic thinking, and a passion for excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.

    With a rich history dating back to 1967, the NSCDC has evolved from a voluntary organization established during the Nigerian civil war to a formidable force in the country’s security landscape. Initially tasked with assisting war victims, supporting the military, and educating the public on precautionary measures, the NSCDC has come a long way under Dr. Audi’s leadership.

    As the fourth Commandant General of the corps, Dr. Audi has brought a new era of excellence and professionalism to the NSCDC, cementing its position as a key player in national security. His leadership has not only transformed the organization but also inspired a new generation of security personnel.

    Dr. Audi’s remarkable journey to the top is a testament to his erudite and accomplished background. His legacy of excellence in leadership continues to inspire and motivate the NSCDC team, ensuring a safer and more secure Nigeria for all.”

    This trailblazer in leadership and excellence was born on September 30, 1967, in Laminga, Nasarawa Local Government, Nasarawa State, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi’s remarkable journey to the top is a testament to his unwavering dedication, hard work, and passion for excellence.

    Dr. Audi’s academic excellence took him to the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his first degree, and later to the University of Calabar and Nasarawa State University, where he further honed his skills.

    Joining the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in 1996 as a volunteer, without any financial motivation, Dr. Audi’s commitment to service and excellence has been unwavering. His leadership has transformed the NSCDC, driving the corps towards greater heights with his intellectual savvy and visionary approach.

    under his command, the NSCDC has achieved remarkable success in

    – Apprehending vandals and criminals, with a total of 1,254 arrests between 2021 and December 2023.
    – Prosecuting offenders, with 704 cases currently under prosecution and 142 convictions secured.
    – Destroying illegal refineries, with a total of 218 refineries demolished

    further more the NSCDC has achieved numerous milestones, including:

    – The establishment of the Civil Defence Academy in Jos, Plateau State, enhancing personnel training and capacity building.
    – The creation of the NSCDC Arms Squad Training School in Nassarawa State, boosting arms handling and combat skills.
    – The formation of the NSCDC Female Squad, promoting gender inclusivity and empowerment.

    Dr. Audi’s legacy is a testament to his dedication to service, excellence, and the development of others. His leadership has inspired a new generation of security personnel, cementing his place as a trailblazer in the annals of Nigerian security history.”

    Gambo Jagindi is a public affairs analyst writes from Abuja, can be reach via jagindi2016@gmail.com, 07065466654

  • Newlywed wife allegedly cuts husband’s manhood while asleep in Kaduna

    Newlywed wife allegedly cuts husband’s manhood while asleep in Kaduna

    June 4, 2024

    A newlywed woman, Habiba Ibrahim, has reportedly cut the manhood of her 40-year-old husband, Salisu Idris, in the Kudan local government area of Kaduna State.

    According to Daily Trust reports, the incident happened on May 26.

    The victim, who is a commercial motorcycle rider, said he was lying on his bed to have some rest when his wife suddenly jumped on him with a sharp knife and almost cut off his manhood.

    He said it took the intervention of neighbours who came to his rescue when they heard him shout.

    Mr Idris, said that they got married about four months ago, adding that he could not fathom the reason for her action because they loved each other and there was no prior misunderstanding before the attack.

    He was initially rushed to a hospital in Kudan, from where he was referred to the General Hospital Makarfi.

    He was later taken to the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, where doctors battled to save his life.

    “At the moment, I am more concerned about my condition. I am afraid of remarrying because of this incident,” he said.

    Also speaking, Mr Idris’ mother, Rabi Salisu, who looks after him on the hospital bed, said that though they were not staying in the same compound, he had never complained to her about his wife.

    “Her parents are worried and are willing to settle his medical bills,” she added.

    Although the suspect has been reportedly arrested by the police, the spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police command could not be reached for comment.

     

  • Tinubu’s Tax Committee Seeks Approval To Reduce Nigeria’s Over 60 Taxes By About 87%, Increase VAT On Non-Essential Items

    Tinubu’s Tax Committee Seeks Approval To Reduce Nigeria’s Over 60 Taxes By About 87%, Increase VAT On Non-Essential Items

    May 1, 2024

    Nigeria is set to streamline its tax system by reducing the number of levies by over 87%, making it easier for residents to pay taxes.

    It is also aimed at helping to increase revenue, Bloomberg reports.

    The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, led by Taiwo Oyedele, is seeking approval to retain eight key taxes: income tax, value-added tax, property tax, customs duties, excise tax, stamp duties, special levy, and harmonized levy.

    Additionally, the social security contribution will be kept. The committee aims to complete the approval process by the end of the third quarter, with implementation expected to begin in January 2025.

    Currently, Nigeria has over 60 taxes and one of the lowest tax-to-GDP ratios in the world at 10%.

    President Bola Tinubu’s government aims to increase this to 18% by 2027 to address rising fiscal deficits, which reached 5.6% of GDP in 2023.

    To achieve this, the committee recommends increasing value-added tax on non-essential items like mobile phones while reducing tax on essential items like food, housing, transportation, education, and health to protect vulnerable Nigerians.

    The standard VAT rate is currently 7.5%. Oyedele believes the proposed reforms will significantly benefit the country, and the committee expects the new tax regime to be in place by January.

    “The implementation is expected to kick in by January next year, if everything goes according to our plan,” Oyedele said during a presentation in Lagos on Thursday.

  • Kano Traditional Institution: A Repeated Victim of Political Manipulation – Will Emir Sanusi’s Position be Secure Under Future Leadership?

    Kano Traditional Institution: A Repeated Victim of Political Manipulation – Will Emir Sanusi’s Position be Secure Under Future Leadership?

    By Gambo Jagindi

    The Kano traditional institution has suffered greatly due to political interference, which has led to a series of mistakes that have undermined its integrity and autonomy.

    Firstly, Governor Kwankwaso’s appointment of Sanusi Lamido as emir, despite the kingmakers’ preference for Prince Lamido Bayero, marked the beginning of political interference in the institution.

    Secondly, Governor Ganduje’s decision to balkanize the Kano Emirate into five emirates and subsequently dethrone Sanusi Lamido on charges of insubordination was a grave mistake. While the charge may have been valid, the balkanization of the emirate was a politically motivated move that weakened the institution.

    Thirdly, Governor Abba’s attempt to correct Ganduje’s mistake by reversing the balkanization was commendable, but his decision to remove the Ganduje-appointed emir of Kano was a partisan move that has further destabilized the institution. Instead of taking a neutral stance, Governor Abba chose to prioritize politics over the well-being of the traditional institution.

    The consequences of these mistakes are far-reaching, and the Kano traditional institution remains vulnerable to political manipulation. Unless our leaders prioritize the preservation of cultural heritage and the autonomy of traditional institutions, the damage will continue to haunt the people of Kano and beyond. It is crucial to recognize the importance of protecting these institutions from political interference and to work towards finding solutions that prioritize their integrity and independence.

    The best solution would have been to reverse the balkanization and allow Emir Ado Bayero to remain on his throne.

    If our leaders continue to prioritize politics in the running of the affairs of the traditional institution, they will end up killing the institution.

    Maybe that is their intent as they abhor rivalry.

    Gambo Jagindi is the publisher of Aluta News, public affairs analyst writes from Abuja and can be reach” jagindi2016@gmail.com, 07065466654.

  • FCMB manager jailed 121 years for stealing customer’s N112m fixed deposit

    FCMB manager jailed 121 years for stealing customer’s N112m fixed deposit

    By Flowerbud News

    May 4, 2024

    Justice S. N. Odili of the  Anambra State High Court sitting in Onitsha, Anambra State, has convicted and sentenced a former manager with First City Monument Bank, FCMB, Onitsha branch, Nwachukwu Placidus, to a cumulative 121 years imprisonment for diverting fixed deposit funds of a customer to the tune of N112,100,000 for his personal use.

    He was arraigned on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 on 16-count charges bordering on forgery, stealing, obtaining by false pretence and uttering, by the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

    One of the counts reads: “Nwachukwu Placidus between February 2009 and November 2014 in Onitsha, Anambra State within the jurisdiction of the Anambra State High Court of Nigeria with intent to defraud obtained the sum of (N112,100,000) One Hundred and Twelve Million, One Hundred Thousand Naira only, from Idemili Microfinance Bank under the false pretence that you have placed the said money in a fixed deposit account with First City Monument Bank PLC for it, which pretence you knew to be false and you thereby committed an offence”.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him, thus setting the stage for his trial.

    In the course of trial, the EFCC, through its counsel, Mainforce Ekwu, presented four witnesses and tendered several relevant documents which were admitted in evidence.

    In his judgment, Justice Odili held that “the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt” and sentenced the  convict to nine years imprisonment on count 3, 4 years on count 4 and 9 years on counts 5 to 16 respectively. He was discharged on counts 1 and 2.  The sentences shall run concurrently.

    The court further ordered the convict to restitute the said sum to his victim, Idemili Microfinance Bank.

    Placidus ’journey to the Correctional Centre began when a petitioner, Idemili Microfinance Bank LTD, alleged that the sum of N112,100,000 was handed over to him as the branch manager of FCMB in Onitsha, for fixed deposit. However, when the petitioner approached the bank to terminate and withdraw the deposit, the bank denied receiving the said funds.

    Upon receipt of the petition, the EFCC swung into action and investigations revealed that the convict diverted the money for his own use and issued a fake fixed Deposit Certificate to the petitioner.

     

  • Degree mills: FG vows to kick out Nigerians parading fake certificates

    Degree mills: FG vows to kick out Nigerians parading fake certificates

    By Flowerbud News

    May 4, 2024

    The federal government has disclosed that it will flush out persons in public and private organisations working with fake certificates.

    The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamma, disclosed this on Friday when he received the report of an Inter-Ministerial Investigative Committee on Degree Certificate Milling from the Chairman of the committee, Prof. Jubrila Amin.

    Mamman, who expressed sadness over what was uncovered during the investigations, said the ministry would work with relevant agencies to sanitise the education sector and rid it of any fake tendencies.

    “We can’t afford to have the integrity of our education soiled by some few persons. It is possible that some are carrying fake certificates in public and private organisations that need to be flushed out. This report is a product of a thorough investigation,” he said.

    He said: “It is sad that someone who should come out from a Nigerian institution with a 2:1 or 2:2 is now parading an international certificate of first class.”

    While noting that the ministry is determined to take steps to sanitise the system, he vowed to take decisive actions to ensure standards were enshrined in the system, saying, “We can’t afford to let down our country when it comes to standards.”

    Presenting the report, Chairman of the inter-ministerial committee, Prof. Jubrila Amin, decried the horrible standard of education in those schools awarding degree certificates, saying they were an eye sore.

    Amin said the problems at hand required speedy intervention, recommending that all agencies in the sector must digitise/automate their system so that they can sit in the office and monitor what is happening in all tertiary institutions.

    “In the course of our investigation, we realised that the present programme of accreditation and evaluation of results is inadequate,” he said.

    He, therefore, urged the National Universities Commission (NUC) to pay more attention to institutions offering part time or sandwich programmes so as not to have a repeat of 2017 saga of centres offering unaccredited courses.

    “People go and get fake degrees and we have been to those countries and we know what a proper degree looks like, we know what the fake one looks like. We have given it to the ministry to scrutinise anyone presenting a certificate from those institutions,” he said.

     

  • X-raying China’s Peace Efforts in Gaza Conflict

    X-raying China’s Peace Efforts in Gaza Conflict

    By Lawal Sale

    In the 2nd session of the 14th National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China, Foreign Minister Wang Yi articulated China’s position in achieving lasting peace in the on-going Palestinian/Israeli conflict in Gaza

    Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC), noted that the war has caused more than 100,000 civilian casualties, while countless bodies obviously remained buried under the rubble.

    It is important to note that China, in its efforts at finding lasting solutions to the conflict, has repeatedly appealed to the international community to act swiftly to trigger immediate ceasefire and ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to the embattled residents of Gaza.

    Wang Yi, in a recent interview with Aljazeera TV network, said that some of the measures, which China proposed, included the attainment of immediate ceasefire via the concerted efforts of all parties, just as the United Nations Security Council, not long ago adopted its first resolution demanding a ceasefire since the onset of the conflict.

    WangYi emphasized that the resolution was legally binding and should be enforced effectively to actualize an unconditional ceasefire right away.

    Recall that China, right from the beginning of the war, has been in the forefront of the campaign for immediate cessation of hostilities, release of hostages, while making repeated demands for the enforcement of UN Security Council Resolution 2712 and 2720.

    Besides, China welcomed and encouraged the spirited efforts of Egypt, Qatar and others to broker peace and mediate in the raging conflict.

    As an integral part of solutions to the conflict, China called for the provision of unimpeded humanitarian assistance to Gaza at all times, while describing the proposed policy as a compelling and pressing moral obligation.

    Beyond that, the Asian country firmly opposed the forced transfer of Palestinian civilians in Gaza Strip and the collective punishment of the people of Gaza.

    Wang Yi stressed that China would continue to work with the international community in efforts toward the enforcement of the UN Security Council resolution on the ceasefire, civilian protection and sustainable delivery of humanitarian supplies to the people of Gaza.

    In its peacemaking efforts, China — a permanent member of the UN Security Council — has been consistent in warning against the apparent spillover of the conflict in the Middle East region, so as to forestall the situation from spinning out of control.

    Wang Yi asserted that the escalation of the Iran-Israel crisis was the latest spillover of the Gaza conflict, adding that China had earlier called on all parties in the conflict to stay calm and refrain from actions that could aggravate the crisis and further escalate the conflict.

    The Chinese foreign minister noted that another aspect of China’s concern in the Palestinian/Israeli conflict was the historical injustice perpetrated against the Palestinian people, saying that this must be promptly addressed, in order to tackle root causes of the conflict.

    It is paramount to note that the Gaza catastrophe once again reflects the perpetual denial of the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, which was the root cause of the decades-old Palestinian question.

    To break the vicious cycle of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict, experts in Middle East affairs underscore the need to eliminate the breeding of hate and extremism in the region, while promoting strategies that would engender lasting peace and give justice to the Palestinians in a pragmatic way.

    The experts emphasize that the enforcement the two-state policy in the area, which would guarantee the evolution of a truly independent Palestinian state, would definitely bring about a political settlement of Palestinian/Israeli conflict.

    China has pledged to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with Middle East countries and the whole international community to firmly support the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights.

    The Asian country has also voiced support for internal reconciliation among different factions of Palestinian groups via dialogue, while supporting efforts to secure Palestine’s full membership of the United Nations (UN) at an early date.

    China has particularly expressed support for the establishment of the independent State of Palestine, with “the Palestinians governing Palestine.”

    Wang Yi succinctly articulated China’s position on the Palestinian/Israeli conflict and its resolution.

    He said: “We call for a more broad-based, more authoritative and more effective international peace conference to set a timetable and a roadmap for the two-state solution.”

    The conference is “to promote comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian question, and to ultimately realize peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine as well as harmony between the Arab and Jewish peoples,” he added.

    Sale is an Abuja-based Global Affairs Analyst
    (lawalsale@mail.ru)

  • Ex-Niger SGS, Prof. Kuta Yahaya bags AESON Fellowship Award

    Ex-Niger SGS, Prof. Kuta Yahaya bags AESON Fellowship Award

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    A former Secretary to the Niger State Government, Prof. Mohamned Kuta Yahaya has been honoured with a Fellowship Award from the National Executive Council of the Agricultural Extension Society of Nigeria (AESON).

    Prof. Mohammed Kuta-Yahaya is also a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Ibadan

    The award was conferred on him on Monday at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, society in recognition of his myriad of contributions to the development of the agricultural sector and the society.

    In his acceptance speech, expressed delight for being recognized by the organization for his contributions to agricultural extension, saying, “it reignites my never-give-up spirit.

    “”It is with immense pride and humility that I heartily receive this award after such a long journey. Hence, it’s never too late, and I will forever cherish this with a sense of pride.

    As we gather at the annual conference under the enlightening theme, “Leveraging the Dynamics of Agricultural Extension Policies and Practices for Sustainable Development,” I am reminded of the profound impact that agricultural extension has on the prosperity and sustainability of our nation.

    “It is a field that goes beyond mere practice; it is a catalyst for transformation, a beacon of hope for communities, and a driving force behind the advancement of our agricultural sector.

    “This theme emphasizes the importance of harnessing the dynamism inherent in agricultural extension to propel sustainable development, empower rural communities, and ensure food security for generations to come.”

    According to Prof. Yahaya, the association is not just an individual accolade but a testament to the collective efforts of countless individuals, partners, collaborators, corporate entities, organizations, and communities who have dedicated themselves to the noble cause of tirelessly advocating for agricultural extension practice.

    He added,”I share this honor with my mentors, colleagues, and the farmers whose resilience and ingenuity fuel my passion for agricultural extension and drive me to strive for excellence in everything I do.

    “Accepting this award, I renew my commitment to advancing the principles of agricultural extension, empowering farmers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

    “It is a responsibility not only to uphold the values and principles of agricultural extension but also to serve as a catalyst for positive change in our agricultural sector.

    ” I pledge to continue collaborating with fellow stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers to shape innovative policies and practices that foster sustainable agricultural development across Nigeria.”

    He said he was acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead, adding, “despite the progress we have made, numerous challenges remain, including climate change, resource scarcity, and socioeconomic disparities, which present formidable obstacles to agricultural progress.

    ” Yet, it is in the face of adversity that our resolve is tested, and our collective strength shines brightest.

    “Together, we must leverage the power of innovation, technology, and inclusive governance to address these challenges and create a future where every farmer can flourish.”

    The don said that as a recipient of the esteemed fellowship, was not oblivious to the heightened expectations and immense responsibility therein.

    He added, “As we all know, agriculture is the backbone of our nation, the pride of Nigeria capable of transforming Nigeria and adorning Africa to be the heart that supplies the world.

    “Effective extension services play a pivotal role in ensuring the success and sustainability of our agricultural sector.

    “It is through the tireless efforts of extension workers, researchers, policymakers, and farmers alike that we can address the challenges facing our agricultural industry and drive positive change.

    “As we embark on this journey together, let us draw inspiration from the words of the great agriculturalist, Norman Borlaug, who once said, “The destiny of world civilization depends upon providing a decent standard of living for all mankind.”

    “Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that every farmer has the opportunity to thrive, that no one is left behind, and that our agricultural sector serves as a beacon of hope and prosperity for all.”

    Prof.Yahaya said he was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the noble cause and to collaborate with fellow professionals who share the same passion and commitment to agricultural development.

    ” Together, we can harness the power of extension services to empower farmers, promote sustainable practices, enhance food security, and improve livelihoods across Nigeria

    “. Let us continue to work hand in hand, seizing all opportunities, with dedication and perseverance, towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigerian agriculture.

    “Once again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the National Executive Council of the Agricultural Extension Society of Nigeria for this esteemed honor as I accept this award with immense gratitude, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    “I acknowledge my mentors, colleagues, and supporters who have guided and inspired me throughout my journey in agricultural extension and development communication.

    ” Together, let us continue to sow the seeds of love for one another, eschew bitterness to foster progress, nurture the fruits of our labor, and harvest a future of abundance for generations to come.

    “I have the mandate of my brothers and patriots the duo of Barr. Mohammed Ndarani Mohammed, Ph.D, SAN and Amb Dr Malami Shehu Ma’aji, MFR , Amb at Large, African Region, International Human Rights Commission to support the Consolidation of AESON publications with amount communicated to the President,” the awardee said.