Opinion
CRISIS AND FLYING COURT ORDERS: IS WIKE ACTUALLY IN CONTEMPT?
By Adekola Omoluabi with additional reports from Bamidele Akinol a Ogundana
The controversy bugging the FCTA-owned company, Abuja markets management Limited [AMML] has continued unabated, culminating in the shutdown of its corporate Head office at Gudu District, Abuja on Friday 10th November, 2023.
A detachment of the Nigeria Police Force reportedly sealed up the Adisa Plaza Office of the Market Managers early morning on Friday, allegedly under the directives of the Hon. Minister FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
Wike was said to have directed one Abubakar Usman Faruk to vacate the office of the Managing Director, AMML and stop parading himself as the MD/CEO of the company having been effectively relieved of that duty since July 17, 2023 by the shareholders of AMML.
Faruk obviously refused to heed the Hon. Minister’s advice, hence the police action, which was based on security reports alleging that Faruk posted private security guards heavily armed in the Head office in a bid to resist any attempt to ward him off. It would be recalled also, that the FCT minister had late September 2023, announced the removal of 21 heads of departments, Agencies and Government-owned Companies including that of Abuja Markets Management Limited.
Out of all, only Abubakar Faruk reportedly refused to hand over to the most senior office in the establishment as directed by the minister. He had claimed that there was an order of court restraining the Minister or anyone else from removing him as the Managing Director.
In a news report in the Daily Post of November 8, 2023, it was alleged that the National Industrial Court in Abuja on Wednesday “began contempt proceedings” against the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and others over the alleged disregard of a series of court orders.
This development, it was reported,’ was sequel to the decision of the Minister to include the Managing Director Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML), in the list of heads of agencies dissolved on September 27’.
Speaking on the reported “contempt proceedings”, the Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Abuja Markets Management Limited Mr. Onya Nsor Ojiji in a statement said that the contempt proceeding could only exist in the imagination of its authors.
Mr. Ojiji stated ” categorically that there is no such contempt procedding against the FCT Minister or any other AICL/AMML staff at the National Industrial Court as the suit referred to in the publication has been assigned to another Judge and will start afresh(de novo)”.
The embattled former MD is therefore expected to either give the lie to the Company Secretary’s claim by pushing through the contempt proceeding to its logical conclusion, or save the FCT Administration and the Abuja Market Community further embarrassment.
Before the alleged “contempt proceedings”, Abubakar Faruk, having “sacked” all AMML staff opposed to his continued stay, had approached a Chief Magistrate court to among others give an order declaring their operations as AMML staff unlawful.
Interestingly, the Wuse Magistrate Court presided over by His Worship Huzaifa Maccido on November 2, 2023 dismissed the case.
In dismissing the case, the Court seemed to have affirmed that Mr. Abubakar Faruk has been properly relieved of his duties as the MD/CEO of AMML.
Part of the ruling reads thus: “the purported letter of dismissal attached by the Complainant/ Respondent as EXHIBIT AMML A is dated 31st Day of July, 2023 while the signatory to the letter who is one Abubakar Usman Faruk sacked by the owners of the Complainant vide EXHIBIT 4 attached by the Defendants/Objectors. The said EXHIBIT 4 is dated 17th July, 2023. I agree that as at the time the 4th defendant was purportedly sacked, Mr. Abubakar Usman Faruk had no power to do so having being sacked on 17/7, 2023”, the ruling continued.
It would be recalled that Abubakar Usman Faruk was appointed the MD/CEO of Abuja Markets Management Limited in April 2009. He was redeployed following allegations of involvement in the scandalous informal market project in Area 10(UTC) transit way, the allegations bordered on lack of approval for the development on a rail transit way and illegal sale of the stalls by the former MD.
Though on redeployment away from AMML, Faruk reportedly drew his full salaries and allowances from AMML as Managing Director including upfront allowances up until July 2023 when he was reportedly fired by the Company’s shareholders.
Appointed by the then Minister, Adamu Aliero, Faruk had gone to court 14 years after to challenge the power of a Minister to redeploy him, citing the provisions of Company and Allied Matters ACT, 2020.
The Federal High Court, Abuja had ruled that the redeployment was not done in line with CAMA provisions thereby pronouncing him as both the MD/CEO as well as a Director. Armed with this order but without due process, Faruk had reportedly embarked on self-help to take over the office of the MD/CEO of AMML and had continued to use same to keep himself on the seat until this recent seal up.
Not minding his base approach, the Company owners ensured that Faruk was duly and effectively relieved of his job when the shareholders in an extraordinary General Meeting July 17,2023 fired him for “services no longer required”.
This he still challenged, making stakeholders wonder if Faruk is a shareholder in AMML. If he is not, can he impose himself on his employers? they ask. A search at CAC reveals that Faruk is NOT a shareholder of AMML and cannot remain the Managing Director having been removed by the shareholders. His position as MD/CEO is one of employment as a staff of the company subject to its conditions of service, which allow him to be removed anytime his services are no longer required. The legal position and trite law is that no Court can impose an employee on an unwilling employer.
Keen observers are of the view that instead of being grateful for an uncommon opportunity, the very long stay apparently had a negative impact of entitlement on Mr. Faruk.
It can’t be said that Faruk has been fair to the FCT Administration and Company that gave him an uncommon opportunity of close to 15 years tenure. His last days can only be said to be hurting to the FCT. He only succeeded in building strife and giving bad publicity to a hitherto relatively unknown Government- owned Company, whilst obstructing work flow.
It is however believed among close watchers that Faruk’s rare luck as the longest serving FCT appointee may turn into a misfortune should the administration decide to probe his years as the Chief Executive of the Market Management Company.
SIDEBAR
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio on Saturday said the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended by the Senate for six months, traumatised him and others.
Akpabio had come under heavy criticism following the sanction handed out to the lawmaker.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, cautioned the Senate against making the political atmosphere toxic for women.
Major opposition parties in the country have also expressed outrage over the manner in which the complaint was handled.
But Akpabio maintained his innocence, saying none of what she alleged was true.
Speaking at an event to commemorate International Women’s Day, Akpabio raised concerns that he was merely her latest victim, saying previous allegations by Natasha had turned out to be false.
He said, ‘’It is only yesterday that I realised that what we are talking about only happened when there was a change of seat. That is when hell was let loose, and all sorts of allegations came up, only after the change of seat and change of committee, which my Senators know to happen from time to time.
“This is said to have happened on December 8, a day before my birthday, which was celebrated in the Stadium in 2023. So from the 8th of December 2023, I never heard, my wife never heard, no Nigerian ever heard, even the husband never heard any issue of sexual harassment until her committee was changed and then her seat was changed.
“Have you ever wondered about the trauma caused by that same woman on the other people she has accused in the past? None has been proven so far. Do you even wonder about the trauma this caused to the 10th Senate and the image of the Senate with all these useless allegations? I have refrained myself from making a statement.
“Look at these beautiful women. They have come across me so many times. Have I ever harassed any one of you? Or is the person thinking that you are not beautiful?”
By Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul as the Provost of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, is a masterstroke in academic leadership. With an impressive track record in academia, administration, and professional excellence, he is undoubtedly the right person to lead the institution into a new era of transformation. His wealth of experience and outstanding credentials make him well-suited for the task ahead, one that requires vision, strategic planning, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Dr. Fashagba’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Having served as the Director of the Academic Planning Unit at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, he demonstrated exceptional administrative acumen, successfully leading the accreditation and reaccreditation of over thirty academic programs—an achievement unmatched in the history of the institution. His tenure as Dean of Students’ Affairs further highlighted his ability to foster a student-friendly academic environment while ensuring discipline and quality education. In addition to his administrative competence, Dr. Fashagba is a well-respected scholar, researcher, and mentor, with numerous academic publications and conference presentations to his name. As a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) and a distinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Finance and Control of Nigeria (CIFCN), he embodies the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Now at the helm of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Fashagba must harness his expertise to drive meaningful reforms. The institution, like many teacher-training colleges in Nigeria, requires structural, academic, and administrative revitalization to remain competitive. One of the key areas of focus should be academic excellence and accreditation. Strengthening the college’s accreditation status by ensuring that all programs meet national and global standards is essential. A research-driven environment must be fostered, encouraging both lecturers and students to engage in innovative academic work. Additionally, modern pedagogical tools must be introduced to align with contemporary teacher education.
Beyond academics, institutional development and infrastructure must be prioritized. Improving physical facilities, including classrooms, hostels, and ICT centers, will significantly enhance the learning environment. Seeking partnerships with government and private sector stakeholders to attract funding and grants should also be a focal point. Establishing a robust e-learning system to complement conventional learning methods will further modernize the institution and expand its reach.
To build a well-rounded institution, the welfare of students and staff must also be taken into account. Policies that ensure a conducive learning and teaching environment should be implemented, while continuous professional development programs must be introduced for lecturers to keep them updated on modern teaching methodologies. Encouraging student participation in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service programs will also help in shaping well-rounded graduates who are equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
As an astute accountant, Dr. Fashagba is well-positioned to enhance financial management and transparency within the college. Prudent financial practices, revenue-generating initiatives, and reduced reliance on government subventions will be key to ensuring the financial stability of the institution. At the same time, fostering strong ties between the college and the local community will be instrumental in driving mutual growth. Building strategic alliances with education-based NGOs, international bodies, and government agencies will further enhance institutional development and open up new opportunities for students and faculty members.
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul is not just another administrative change—it is a call to action. The weight of expectation is enormous, and the demand for impact is immediate. As he takes over the reins, he must bring on board the right strategies, policies, and personnel to reposition the college for greatness. The people of Kogi State, the academic community, and the students of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, look forward to a progressive, transformative, and prosperous tenure. With his sterling credentials, vast experience, and stoic commitment to education, there is no doubt that Dr. Fashagba will leave an indelible mark on the institution. Now is the time to deliver, and the future starts today.
Perfectly musing
BY Musa Ilallah
For the people of Hadejia emirate in the present jigawa state, their hope and optimism remains high now more than ever before that their 42 year old struggle to get a state of their own will soon see the light of the day. The movement had so far submitted a request for the creation of Hadejia state in 1982, 1991, 1994, 1996, 2009, and 2021.
This optimism beams its light and hinges its hope for 2 reasons.
First came the opener when the Jigawa North East Senator, Ambassador Ahmad Abdulhamid Malam Madori on the 25th day of February 2025 sponsored a bill for an act to create Hadejia state out of Jigawa state on the floor of the senate.
The bill, which sought to alter the Constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria1999 (Cap.C23), is presently awaiting further legislative action.
Second, the House of Representatives committee on the review of the 1999 constitution opened it’s door wide open and allowed all interested applicant seeking new states to be created in their domains to submit their request on or before the 16th of March, 2025.
Taking this opportunity with all the seriousness it deserves, the steering committee led by a former Commissioner in the old Kano state, Alhaji Musa Shuaibu had an interaction with the Chairman of the national Constitution review Committee and also the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Barau I. Jibrin, to press home the demand for the creation of Hadejia state and thereafter solicits his support for the noble cause.
Consequently, the Chair of the movement for the creation.of Hadejia state, Musa Shuaibu was at the National Assembly on Tuesday March 4th 2025 where he formally presented the demand.
Accompanied by Senator Malam Madori, 2 of the 3 members of the House of Representatives from the area, some members of the state House of assembly and some representatives of LGCs.
Also present were the Representatives of the State Governor, Naannabi Ahmad, Falakin Hadejia and Chairman of the state Civil service commission; Emir of Hadejia’s Representative and Galadiman Hadejia, Usman Abdulaziz, Representatives of 8 local government councils, representatives of State assembly members; members of the house of representatives, Dr Abubakar Fulata and Makki Yanleman; prominent sons and daughters and also some members of the steering committee of the movement led by elder Dr (Arch) Aminu Kano
According to Musa Shuaibu, in addition to the present 8 local government areas that make up the proposed state, the area has presently submitted request to expand the LGAs to more than 12. The present Senatorial zone has Hadejia, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Kaugama, Malam Madori, Guri, Birniwa and Kiri Kasamna LGAs.
Some of the potentials that seem to work in favour of the demand for Hadejia state include an approximately 700, 000 hectares of total landmass of which 75% is arable for all year round farming.
Others include the economic viability, active and enterprising human resource, utilities and infrastructure, electricity via a 132 KVA, potable water, ethanol renewable energy resource, forests and wildlife. Others include industry and commerce, tourism and rich cultural heritage among others.
Formally receiving the request for the creation of Hadejia state, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas in his office, stated that he is 100% in support of the movement and gave an unflinching committment to get the aspiration through.
At the Senate, the Clerk to the Senate committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution, Innocent Mobere received the memorandum on behalf of the chairman and also promised to present the request to the whole house committee.
Meanwhile, Senator Ambassador Ahmad Malam Madori also during a 2day public hearing organised by the Senate committee on health on a bill to consider the creation of a Federal Medical Centre , Hadejia, had appealed to all and sundry to make the proposal a reality.
All eyes are.now on deck to see how fast the National Assembly will fast track the creation of more states and LGCs in the country for its growth and development.
Musa Ilallah, a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. He can be reached at musahk123@yahoo.com