Northern youths defend Barau on tax reforms bills

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has condemned the misrepresentation of Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jibrin’s stance on the proposed tax reform bills, describing it as unjust.

The tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, which outlines the country’s fiscal framework for taxation, the Tax Administration Bill for streamlining tax processes, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill to replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, which proposes a tax tribunal and ombudsman.

During a press conference in Kaduna, NYCN President Isah Abubakar urged Nigerians to examine the bills thoroughly before forming opinions.

He argued that labeling the reforms as anti-north is a politically motivated narrative pushed by opponents seeking to tarnish Jibrin’s reputation.

Abubakar highlighted that government policies evolve based on prevailing circumstances, urging citizens to engage constructively rather than misinterpreting intentions for political gains.

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He criticised Sen. Mohammed Ndume’s presentation on the floor of the house, which allegedly presented Senator Jibrin in a wrong light.

Northern youths defend Barau on tax reforms bills

How I begged Abacha not to kill Obasanjo – Gowon

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Retired), has disclosed how he intervened to prevent the execution of former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha.

Speaking at the inaugural Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, organized by the Plateau State Government, Gowon recounted the steps he took to save Obasanjo, who had been convicted of involvement in an alleged coup plot against Abacha in 1995.

“I wrote a letter to Abacha, I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil. I sent my wife with the letter in the middle of the night to Abacha in Abuja; I pleaded with him that such a thing should not happen,” Gowon stated.

Obasanjo, who maintained his innocence, was sentenced to death but eventually had his sentence commuted to a prison term. He spent three years in detention before his release in 1998, following Abacha’s sudden death. In 1999, Obasanjo emerged as Nigeria’s democratically elected president.

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Reflecting on the events, Gowon expressed gratitude for the outcome. “I’m glad that soon after that, things changed, and not only that Obasanjo left prison, he became our president in 1999. This is something that only prayers and sincerity can do. I’m happy that today myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau,” he said.

The event, held to foster unity and peace in Plateau State, saw Obasanjo as the Guest of Honour and Gowon as the Special Guest of Honour.

Gowon also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for organizing the carol, emphasizing its significance in promoting peaceful coexistence in a state that has faced numerous security challenges.

“This event is a testament to the power of faith and unity. It provides a platform for the people to come together in harmony,” Gowon added.

Governor Mutfwang was lauded for his initiatives aimed at fostering peace and unity across the state.

How I begged Abacha not to kill Obasanjo – Gowon

Emir leads security operatives to smoke out bandits from forest

In a bold security operation over the weekend, the Emir of Moriki in Zamfara State, Bashar Ismail Moriki, led a coordinated effort involving security operatives, vigilantes, and local residents to drive out bandits from the Moriki forest.

The operation, which sought to reclaim farmlands seized by the criminal groups, saw members of the Nigerian Army, police, and vigilante groups joining forces with hundreds of community members to confront the bandits.

According to a post on the verified X page of conflict journalist Bakatsine on Saturday, the Emir also offered prayers during the mission.

“His Royal Highness, the Emir of Moriki, Alhaji Bashar Ismail Moriki, led security forces comprising the army, police, vigilantes group members, and hundreds of local residents of Moriki to the forest to reclaim farmlands that had been seized by bandits, preventing the people of Moriki from accessing their lands.

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The Emir and his delegation offered prayers for divine assistance, seeking Almighty support for himself, the security forces, and the entire emirate in their efforts. His Highness expressed gratitude to the people of Moriki for their unwavering support and cooperation during these challenging times,” the post stated.

The Moriki community in Zurmi local government has faced persistent threats from bandit groups in recent years.

In September 2024, a notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, imposed a N30 million levy on the community, warning of severe consequences if the payment was not made.

The levy was reportedly in retaliation for the military’s killing of over 100 cows belonging to the bandit leader. Turji, in a message to the community, demanded compliance with his demand or risk his wrath.

Reacting to the bandit kingpin’s statement, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, dismissed the threats posed by Turji, describing him as “a deranged person” and vowing that the military would soon bring him to justice.

The operation led by the Emir of Moriki is seen as a significant step in reclaiming the community’s lands and asserting local resilience against banditry in the region.

Emir leads security operatives to smoke out bandits from forest