The African Democratic Congress, ADC, chieftain was said to have honoured an invitation by the commission, days after his legal team confirmed that he would present himself to investigators.

This was sequel to a failed attempt to arrest him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday.

el-Rufai was accompanied by hundreds of his supporters to the EFCC’s head office, Abuja.

A source at the commission confirmed that el-Rufai was being interrogated over corruption allegations leveled against his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.

“He is with our investigators, but cannot confirm how long he would be questioned, it is still early to know how long he will stay there,” the source said.

However, another source hinted on the possibility of being taken to court for arraignment.

Ubong Akpan, counsel to el-Rufai had said the EFCC invitation was received while he was overseas.

He said there was no basis for the attempted arrest, which infringed upon key constitutional provisions guaranteeing fundamental freedoms.

“There exists no justifiable basis for this attempted arrest or the accompanying mistreatment,” he said.

There were two groups of protesters that stormed the EFCC headquarters on Monday on the former governor.

While some were chanting solidarity songs others were calling for a thorough investigation.

However, there was a mild drama when some of the persons who accompanied el-Rufai were prevented from entering the commission’s office in Jabi, Abuja.

Muhammad Abdullahi, spokesperson of the group protesting against el-Rufai, insisted that the corruption allegations against the former governor must not be trivialised or politicised.

“We reiterate its firm position that the ongoing prosecution of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, remains a lawful and constitutional matter strictly between him and the Government of Kaduna State.

“This issue should not be reduced to a mere political drama or emotional manipulation,” he said.

Responding, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, appealed for calm and assured the protesters that their petition would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities within the commission.

“The EFCC recognises the right of Nigerians to lawful protest in respect of any issue they feel so concerned about. Your protest and demands will be communicated to the executive chairman accordingly.

“I want to assure you that the EFCC, as we know it, will do its job professionally by attending to all the issues that you raised in your letter,” he said.

Source: NAN

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A credible source at the  1 division disclosed this on Saturday in Kaduna.

The source said the incident occurred during a snap ambush operation in the Maraban Rido general area of Kaduna State.

He said that the operation followed a distress call received late on Thursday, indicating that bandits had rustled livestock in Anguwan Fulan Village, Rido area.

Acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly deployed and laid a hasty ambush.

On arrival, the troops made contact with the fleeing bandits and engaged them, forcing the criminals to withdraw in disarray with gunshot wounds.

The source added that the troops conducted further aggressive exploitation of surrounding forested areas, including the Kankomi Forest, where another contact was made at a suspected crossing point around Anguwan Sarki.

It added, “During the engagement, the troops again overwhelmed the terrorists, compelling them to abandon their loot and flee.

“Some of the rustled livestock were recovered.”

The source further said that exploitation of the ambush location in the early hours of Friday led to the neutralisation of one terrorist.

Items recovered included two AK-47 rifles, four magazines and 15 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

He said the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar  Wase, commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, urging them to sustain the tempo of operations against criminal elements.

The GOC reassured the residents of the military’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, calling on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

Source: NAN

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Ribadu handed over the victims to the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, who will hand them over to the government.

Gen. Musa who presented the victims to the representative of the state government and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sani Kila, said that no money was paid for their rescue.

“The rescue is as a result of combined efforts of the military and other security services.

“The operation was both kinetic and non-kinetic which requires efforts by all and not just the military kinetic efforts,” he said.

The CDS said that all Nigerians must take ownership of the operation for the security agencies to succeed.

“What we are seeing out of this, is the success of the collaboration right from the top. From the presidency, to the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ministry of Defence to all agencies working together, including the Kaduna State government.

“The governor has been very supportive and very helpful and it is this collaborative effort that has made it possible for us to be able to rescue these individuals.

“It is a joint effort and we were able to do that through non-kinetic means of getting across. No penny was paid for these individuals.

“Now, I want Nigerians to understand that if we do not  work together, it will be extremely difficult for us to succeed.

“The success depends on all of us working together because it is a whole-of-society approach,” said.

Musa said that certain individuals had been trying to make it impossible for the government to succeed by sabotaging the efforts of the government.

He added that the security agencies were working round the clock tirelessly to make sure Nigerians feel safe and protected.

“Today is Saturday, many people would have wanted to be home, relaxing, but we are working. Saturday, Sunday, day and night and all Nigerians have keyed up, and everybody is contributing to the success we are seeing.

“I want to also inform Nigerians that we will continue to work hard together and will not leave any stone unturned until every Nigerian that is in captivity is freed and Nigerians are free to move about within the country, both day and night, as it used to be before.

“We assure Nigerians that we are getting all the support to ensure that we work, and we assure Mr. President that we will do everything possible, and including Nigerians, until we succeed, we’ll continue to push,” he added.

The defence chief clarified that contrary to the belief of many, not all persons involved in banditry were willing tools, adding that some were conscripted.

He said the military would continue to go after the perpetrators, adding: ”they will not be let free for the innocent blood they have shed.”

The National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre, NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the victims were kidnapped from their homes and farm lands in Gayam, Sabon layi and Kwaga villages of Dan Musa local government area of Katsina State.

Laka said that troops of I Division, on November 14, at about 1500hrs successfully led a joint operations leading to their rescue.

He said the victims comprised 35 males and 23 females.

According to him, preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were kidnapped by suspected armed bandits under the command of a notorious bandit called JANBROS.

“During the kidnap, the victims were made to trek for hundreds of Kilometers through the thick forest of Birnin Gwari.

“Upon their rescue, the government provided them with all the necessary assistance required to stabilise them for subsequent handing over to ONSA for rehabilitation and immediate medical checkups, where they have been examined and six were admitted.

“The six admitted victims have recovered and joined us for subsequent handing over to their respective families,” he said.

The Chief of Staff to Kaduna Governor, Sani Limankila, thanked the security agencies and called on all Nigerians to team up with security agencies to end kidnapping.

Source: NAN

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Malam Aliyu Alassan, the Health Secretary of the Makarfi Local Government Council, confirmed the development on Saturday.

He said the suspected cases occurred at Tashar Na Kawu, Gubuchi Ward of the local government.

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Alassan said most of the affected victims were children, adding that the specimen of the victims had been forwarded to Abuja for analysis.

“Those suspected with the disease have been taken to the hospital and isolated for medical observation while contact tracing is going on to prevent further spread of the disease,” he said.

The state Ministry for Health had earlier confirmed cases of Diphtheria in Kafanchan, headquarters of Jema’a local government area of the state.

Source: NAN

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Speaking at the MoU execution ceremony which held Thursday at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, described the moment as yet another watershed in the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas initiative which is aimed at utilising the nation’s abundant gas resources to power the nation’s economy through a number of strategic gas expansion projects such as the ongoing OB3 and Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline Projects.

The event which was facilitated by the Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria, GACN, would ensure long-term involvement and support of Kaduna State Government and key gas sector players such as the Nigerian Gas Company, NGC, the Nigerian Gas Marketing Company, NGMC, and virtual pipeline companies to provide gas supply assurance to industries within the state on competitive terms.

“We all know that Kaduna used to be a hub when it comes to industries. It is our hope that this MoU signing will help provide the gas needed for some of those industries to come back to life,” Kyari stated.

He said the corporation was committed to the commercialisation of Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources to support balanced economic growth and job creation across the country, stressing that as the world transits to low carbon energy, the nation’s huge gas resources would continue to be an important source of clean energy for today and the future.

“There is no better way of making cheaper and cleaner energy than delivering gas into the domestic market,” he declared.

The NNPC helmsman further stated that the corporation would continue to engage with stakeholders and partners to secure early market and ensure that the economic benefits of the AKK gas pipeline were maximized.

“NNPC is leading this coordinated effort with state governments and private sector investors to develop demand framework for immediate and long-term gas supply solutions ahead of the completion of the AKK gas pipeline project,” he noted.

The GMD also expressed gratitude to the Kaduna government for hosting NNPC’s facilities such as the Refinery complex, the Depot, the ongoing AKK gas pipeline and Independent Power Plant Projects, IPPs.

Responding, Governor Nasiru el-Rufai said Kaduna State government was delighted with the prospect of having an additional energy source to power businesses in the state.

“We wholeheartedly welcome this project. Gas provides a cost-effective option for powering factories, homes and vehicles. For the Kaduna State government, this project is a welcome boost to our investment and job creation strategy. It will create jobs and provide skills for artisans who will work on the gas pipelines and associated infrastructure. Beyond that, this project will power the industries that have responded with enthusiasm to our investment promotion campaign,” Governor el-Rufai stated.

He particularly thanked the GMD NNPC and the Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria for the gas utilization and expansion initiative and zeal displayed by to deliver the project.

“Let there be no doubt that the Kaduna State government is committed to this MoU and the realisation of its goals in the interest of the people of Kaduna State,” Governor el-Rufai concluded.

The MoU was signed by Mallam Kyari on behalf of the Corporation while the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, signed on behalf of the state government.

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According to him, they are located around Birnin Gwari area in Kaduna State.

Matawalle made the disclosure of the location on Sunday during a Channels Television interview programme, Sunday Politics.

Giving hope that the abducted persons would be back home soon, the governor emphasised the need for all stakeholders to join hands in the battle against insecurity.

His words: “As you are aware, the security issue needs more commitment from all stakeholders.

“We have two major problems of insecurity in the north with banditry and Boko Haram.

“The security operatives are doing their best, but we must all put our hands on deck to succeed.

“Another issue is that all the leaders who are stakeholders must come to terms with the challenges at hand and speak with one voice.”

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The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Mohammed-Baloni, gave the warning at a press conference on Saturday in Kaduna.

She said that there had been a rise in cases of the virus in the state lately, adding that if it continued, government would have no option than to impose another lockdown.

Mohammed-Baloni said that public spaces  including schools, markets, offices and places of worship might be temporarily closed if people failed  to observe COVID-19 preventive protocols.

‘’In absolute and relative terms, Kaduna State is now recording high infection figures, reminiscent of the first wave of COVID-19 spread in April, May and June 2020, ” she said.

The commissioner recalled that ‘’the lowering of the infection rate following the first wave,  encouraged the government to approve the recommendation of the state’s COVID-19 Taskforce for a significant reopening of the state.

“However, we are saddened to report that the conditions that compelled the 75 days lockdown of the state are now being replicated.’’

According to her, 74 COVID-19 positive results were recorded in the state from 531 samples on November 26, adding that the quantum of infections since then,  suggested both high infection rate and the reality of a new wave of infection spreading across the state.

“As at yesterday (Friday) December 11, the state recorded 117 positive cases from 518 samples. This translates to almost one in four samples testing positive,’’ she said.

The commissioner pointed out that government had expected some increase in infections after the reopening of schools, markets, places of worship and recreational centres.

“But the figures easily outstripped our estimates. While infections cut across age groups, this new wave especially affects those aged between 10 and 35. (55 per cent),’’ she said.

She noted that there was now a danger to lives and livelihoods with the renewed COVID-19 infections, adding that ‘’if the spread continues at the current rate, it may challenge and overwhelm the health system despite our efforts to improve the resilience of that sector.’’

The commissioner appealed to residents to observe COVID -19 preventive protocols in order to protect themselves and their families from infection.

According to her, this is the less costly way out as it  involves citizens living their lives and conducting themselves in ways that do not spread the disease.

“That way, lives and livelihoods are protected while public health officers try to contain and manage the disease without causing painful disruptions,’’ she said.

The commissioner urged all citizens to adopt the spirit of the FORWARD campaign, which encouraged everyone to follow the stipulated guidelines by authorities in the healthcare sector.

“The FORWARD campaign entails wearing Facemasks always, Observing physical distancing and maintaining proper Respiratory hygiene.

“The rest components are, Washing hands with soap under running water and or using hand sanitisers, Avoiding large gatherings as well as Remaining indoors when there is no need to be outdoors, and eating balanced Diet to boost immunity,”  she added.

Source: NAN

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The armed forces gave the commendation during a courtesy visit  to the governor in his office in Osogbo by members of the Senior Course 43 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, Kaduna State.

The Director of the Nigerian Armed Forces Department of Land Warfare, Brig. General Adetokunbo Fayemiwo, who led the AFCSC team, said their experience in the state had further confirmed Oyetola’s commitment to improving the standard of living of the people of the state.

Fayemiwo said the administration had also demonstrated strong passion for adequate security of lives and property of the citizenry as reflected in the sustained peace and stability in the state.

He maintained that the love of the administration towards keeping the state and the residents safe at all times was evidenced in the handd of fellowship and overwhelming support he had consistently been giving to the security agencies, particularly officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Fayemiwo who appreciated the warm reception given to the members of the team, pledged the continued support of the Armed Forces to sustaining the peace for which the state is known.

“Our experience so far in the state has confirmed your commitment and passion towards creating the right atmosphere for socio-economic growth and development as well as enhancing the living standards of the good people of the State of Osun.

“I assure you that all that we have heard today and the outcome of our study in the coming days, would be put to use in the course of our research, and indeed, as we progress in our careers,” he said.

Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Fayemiwo said the Senior Course students came to Osun to understudy the effect of the global coronavirus pandemic on security, which is the current issue in the world.

“The students of the College are visiting eight states which are Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Imo,  Jigawa, Kano, Rivers and Taraba States. The students are currently undergoing the college tour.

“AFCSC is an institution where we have Army, Air Force and Navy serving together for the purpose the institution had been established. The AFCSC is providing junior and senior leadership training, military education and core practical education for armed forces.

“In this case, the students of Senior Course are attached to topical issues affecting the nation and in this circumstance, we looked closely at current issue of pandemic, and how it affects the national security, in line with this year’s theme: ‘Pandemic and National security: COVID-19 perspective’.

“The tour will afford the students opportunity to carry out primary research and have the opportunity to get first-hand information and opportunity to ask questions and make contributions.

“Since Osun is one of the selected states, this will help us to get our report from the state so as to be able to do our analysis on the topic,” he added.

In his response, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola appreciated the military for their loyalty to the state towards securing the lives and property of the residents, adding that the “state is happy with the growing partnership between us and the Nigerian Armed Forces.”

He said the government had since embarked on a journey towards revamping the health sector just as he explained the administration’s efforts at curbing the spread of coronavirus in the state.

“Permit me to appreciate the Nigerian Armed Forces for their non-kinetic collaboration and unflinching security support at all times.

“Your theme for this tour is indeed apt considering the devastating effect of the coronavirus pandemic globally.

“As a state, the pandemic took its toll on us, like in other states. However, our proactive measures helped significantly in mitigating its effect on our people.

“For an appropriate holistic response, we constituted a central coordinating committee headed by myself with a delegated authority to my Deputy, alongside inter- ministerial committees to take charge of key aspects of our response to the crisis.

“Thankfully, we rose to the occasion with an aggressive public advocacy programme and containment strategy, with the active support of some of our renowned medical professionals.

“We were also firm in imposing total lockdown that paid off in no small measure in helping us to restrict the spread of the virus.

“Also, the worth of our sustained investment in public health revitalisation came to the fore, especially around Ejigbo where the crisis broke out as a result of the return of our citizens and those of other states from Ivory Coast.

“Our proactive handling of the Ivory Coast returnees averted a major pandemic and earned us encomiums from Nigerians, the NCDC and other notable organisations.

“Looking back, I must say that our broad-based and inclusive stakeholder engagement helped in no small measure in tackling the first wave of the pandemic. For instance, we are among the first states to set up a Food and Relief Committee, involving eminent citizens of our state across political and religious divides.

“In all, I am happy with what we have done so far. We will continue to draw worthy lessons from the experience,” Oyetola added.

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He was 84 years old.

His death was announced by the former senator who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, Shehu Sani, on his Twitter handle on Wednesday.

Details of the circumstance of his death has however not been made known.

His tweet reads: “Alhaji Balarabe Musa has died. May Allah forgive his souls and grant him Aljanna firdausi. Amin.”

In another tweet where he posted different pictures of him and Musa, Sani said: “Balarabe Musa; Inna lillahi wainna Illayhir rajiun. May Allah grant him Aljanna firdausi. Amin.”

Musa was elected Governor of Kaduna State, Nigeria during the Nigerian Second Republic.

He was in office from October 1979 until he was impeached on 23 June 1981.

Born August 21, 1936, he founded People’s Redemption Party.

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The extension is a continuation of the bid to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

The extension of the lockdown was announced on Tuesday by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, in a broadcast.

She said the government was aware of the sacrifices made by the citizens, but there was need to do more to ensure success in the battle against COVID-19.

According to her, an increase in the cases in the state might lead to stricter orders.

Her words: “The Kaduna State Government is conscious of the sacrifices that citizens have made and the many challenges that remain in keeping them safe from COVID-19.

“This is why the state government has adjusted and extended the Quarantine Orders by two weeks to empower citizens to more steadfastly carry forward the fight against COVID-19.

“Preservation of the relaxations in this extension requires that citizens demonstrate greater compliance with laid down health protocols, particularly the wearing of face masks outside the house, observance of physical distancing, regular hand washing with soap and water and the avoidance of large gatherings.

“Violation of these protocols will compel the government to reimpose restrictions.

“A spike in Covid-19 infections will also necessitate a tightening of restrictions.”

She added: “From Monday, 1st June 2020, the revised regulations will come into effect. They give citizens a three-day window every week to shop for food and other essentials.

“Until otherwise stated, the lockdown-free days are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

“Temporary neighbourhood markets will continue to operate from 10am to 4pm on these three days, but citizens can move from 6am to 6pm on these lockdown-free days.

“Informal markets are not allowed and those flouting regulations by turning streets into markets are advised to stop.

“The adjusted orders also expand the ability of citizens to resume the pursuit of livelihoods in permitted sectors subject to compliance with health and safety protocols, including physical distancing.

“Private sector firms that meet these requirements will also operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

“This window also allows vulcanisers, welders, mechanics and providers of similar services to operate on the same days.”

The deputy governor said the restriction over interstate and intercity travel remained.

According to her, government officials and mobile courts would enforce the ban to prevent people from spreading the virus through non-essential movement.

She added that the night time curfew that had been enforced across the state remained from 6pm to 6am.

Schools, places of worship and markets would remain closed under the adjusted orders, she said.

“The relevant government officials and agencies will be engaging with religious leaders, transport unions, traditional institutions, market unions, school proprietors and other stakeholders as may be identified from time to time, to discuss the conditions and circumstances for a safe reopening of these sectors,” the deputy governor said.

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