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Idoma traditional council also tackles Sanusi, Fulbe group demands apology

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The Idoma Area Traditional Council of Benue State has asked the deposed Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi and his Fulbe group, to tender an unreserved apology to Governor Samuel Ortom for falsely accusing him over alleged killing of pastoralists in Nasarawa State.Chief Press Secretary to the governor Nathaniel Ikyur in a statement indicated thatthe Council’s decision came barely 24 hours after the Tiv Traditional Council had done same, condemning Sanusi’s attacks on the Governor in strong terms.

According to him,the Royal fathers spoke after its supreme council meeting held at the palace of Och’Idoma in Otukpo.

Paramount ruler of Idoma nation, His Royal Majesty, John Elaigwu Odogbo who presided over the supreme assembly, read the communique issued at the end of the council’s deliberations.

They demanded the deposed Emir, Sanusi and his Fulbe group to as a matter of urgency tender an unreserved apology to Governor Ortom and the people of Benue State.

According to the paramount ruler, the council condemned the attack by the deposed Emir of Kano, Sanusi and his co-travelers on the person and office of Governor Ortom, stating that the Governor and people of the state were peace loving people who value human lives.

The Idoma Traditional Council also commended Governor Ortom for what they described as “his astute and proactive steps” together with the actions of the law enforcement agencies, which led to the end of kidnappings at the Egwanokwu hill in Ohimini local government area and the Otukpo-Utonkon road all in Idoma area.

The council also condemned in strong terms the use of military helicopters that hover around the Onyagede community in Ohimini local government without proper identification and enjoined the people of the area to be more vigilant and report any suspicious move to security agencies.

On the forthcoming general election, the council cautioned against violence, thuggery and any sharp practices, stressing that “All hands must be on the deck to make sure that votes count.”

While calling on all Idoma sons and daughters to close ranks and face common security and economic challenges threatening them, the council stressed that “We must be united to face these challenges no matter the political party affiliations.”

Governor Ortom who had earlier addressed the Idoma Traditional rulers, commended the traditional institution in the state for being supportive to his Government, stating that their counsel and constant encouragement has contributed to the success of his administration.

The Governor, who expressed delight for the opportunity to attend the supreme assembly of the Idoma nation, pledged that “I will continue to hold the traditional institution in high esteem and whether I am in government or not, I will continue to fight for the justice of my people.”

Governor Ortom who holds the chieftaincy title of Ochikpali L’Agwobe K’Idoma challenged the people on security of the area, stressing that they must rise up and take their destiny in their own hands to fight for survival of the people.

He also tasked the people on the need to vote candidates with capacity to unite the country, stressing that it must be someone with the competence to provide a template for all Nigerians to be given a sense of belonging irrespective of ethnic background, urging the people to be peaceful in the conduct of the elections.

Governor Ortom also charged traditional leaders in the area to take ownership of the forthcoming National Census, saying that “This is the time to take charge so that you won’t come back to claim you were shortchanged.”

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Obi greets Obasanjo at 87, describes him as a true Patriot

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The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General election, Mr Peter Obi, has congratulated Nigeria’s Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, on his 87th birthday.
Obi who joined President Obasanjo in his Birthday Thanksgiving Service at The Chapel of Christ The Glorious King, OOPL, Abeokuta to mark the Commencement of his 87th birthday celebrations, described Obasanjo as a true patriot whose ultimate desire is the development and progress of our nation.
A statement by the Chief Spokesperson Obi-Datti,Dr Yunusa Tanko quoted Obi to have stated that he was delighted to celebrate the revered Nigerian leader due to his many contributions to the nation.

“I was delighted to celebrate with this very revered Nigerian who has contributed immeasurably to the growth of our nation. His love for the nation is very evident in his firm commitment to the unity and peace of our dear nation.

“President Obasanjo remains a true leader who not only engineered so many positive transformations in our nation but left behind a sound economic foundation, which if we have followed, we would not be in the sorry state we are today,” Obi said.

Obi eulogised Obasanjo forever remaining active in the collective work of nation-building. He noted that Obasanjo has continued to contribute, by words and actions, to the struggle for good governance in Nigeria.

“With our dear nation, going through very challenging times, occasioned by leadership failure, President Obasanjo has continued to courageously add his voice to demand good governance in the country. He not only speaks, but he takes action to ensure that our nation is saved from further chaos.

“As a father figure, he has continued to inspire and mentor the younger generation in transformational leadership. I am delighted to celebrate him today,” Obi enthused.

He prayed to God to grant Obasanjo more healthy and fruitful years, as he continues to play his part in the development of the nation, through his immeasurable contributions, while wishing him a happy 87th birthday.

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Southern, Middle Belt Leaders grieve over Ezeife’s demise

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The leadership of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’Forum (SMBLF) has expressed grief over sudden demise of the former Governor of Anambra State, Chief (Dr) Chukwuemeka Ezeife on Thursday 14th day of December 2023 at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja. He was 85.
The statement was jointly signed by Chief (Dr.) E.K. Clark for Southern people, Chief Ayo Adebanjo Leader of Afenifere, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Pogu Bitrus – President, Middle Belt Forum and Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, FNSE – National Chairman, PANDEF
Thestatemwnt reads, “‘Okwadike’ as he was fondly called was a founding and staunch member of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum; a strong promoter, and an unshaken believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria, based on equity, fairness, and justice.

“We recall that he actively participated in the last meeting of the Forum (SMBLF) in Abuja on Thursday 26th October 2023, where far-reaching decisions were made in the overall interest of the country.

“The Havard-trained economist was a prominent Statesman, a politician of exceptional brilliance, high repute, and integrity. He was a man of firm resolve and typical modesty. Ezeife loved his people and Nigeria with passion.

“We will sorely miss his inspiring personality, brilliant ideas, vibrant contributions, and steadfast solidarity in our pursuit of an egalitarian Nigerian State that would be fair and just to all irrespective of tribe, religion, or political inclination.”

The statement extended its deepest condolences to his family in particular, as well as the Government and people of Anambra State, the Igbo Nation, and Nigeria, which he served dedicatedly.

“We pray the Almighty God ro grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and for the peaceful repose of the noble soul of our dearly beloved departed Compatriot.

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Unveiling First Hausa Catholic Bishop in History: Mamman Musa’s Extraordinary Journey

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In a historic move set to redefine identities and religious narratives, Mamman Musa, a Hausa man, is on the verge of becoming the first-ever Hausa Catholic Bishop in the Catholic Church. The investiture ceremony, scheduled for December 12, will mark a revolutionary milestone, elevating Mamman Musa into the echelons of the church hierarchy within Hausaland, specifically in Katsina.

At 52, Mamman Musa’s appointment as a bishop heralds a new chapter in Hausa-Catholic relations. His journey into Christianity and priesthood, defying the odds of a predominantly Muslim background where only 1 percent are Christians, resonates with a legacy of resilience and dedication.

Born Gerald Mamman Musa, his family’s conversion to Catholicism traced back to the arrival of the Society of Missionaries of Africa in northern Nigeria in 1934. Mamman’s grandfather became a convert, setting the stage for a generational commitment to the faith. Despite facing hostility and challenges in a region with a religious majority opposing their beliefs, Mamman’s parents continued their Christian devotion.

Emmanuel Musa, Mamman’s father, became a torchbearer for the faith, translating the Bible and Christian doctrines into Hausa. He confronted adversity in the form of societal ostracization and professional limitations but stood firm in his convictions. Similarly, Mamman’s mother, Christiana Asabe, hailing from a family of converts, contributed to their steadfast commitment to Catholicism.

Mamman Musa’s upbringing in Malumfashi, Katsina state, was marked by an immersion in church activities, fostering a love for Catholicism despite being surrounded by a predominantly Muslim environment. His education in Catholic seminaries further solidified his dedication to the church, leading him on a path that eventually saw him excel academically, earning degrees from prestigious institutions globally.

His journey into priesthood and academia culminated in his role as a director at the Centre for Studies of African Culture and Communications in Port Harcourt. Amidst challenges of potential alienation and derogatory terms like “maguzawa,” a disparaging label for Christians in the North, Mamman Musa’s commitment to his faith remained resolute.

In his forthcoming role as a bishop, Mamman Musa acknowledges the weight of responsibility and privilege attached to this historic position. His inclination towards liberation theology, emphasizing the centrality of the poor and marginalized, reflects a commitment to addressing societal issues and drawing inspiration from influential figures such as Gustavo Guitierrez.

As Mamman Musa prepares to assume his role as the first Hausa Catholic Bishop, his journey stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and a commitment to bridging religious divides while upholding the tenets of his faith.

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