Opinion
Tijjani Ramalan in Panic as Bashir Hadejiya’s Investigation Intisifies
By Tunji Salami Adeou
The rising tide of political unrest and criminal activities in Nigeria has reached a pivotal juncture with the ongoing investigation of Bashir Hadejiya, a figure now embroiled in a web of allegations that ranges from treason to transnational crimes. The Federal Capital Territory’s Police Command recently issued a search warrant, dating August 12, 2024, which outlined Hadejiya’s purported offenses, including subversive activities and gun-running. The ramifications of this investigation extend beyond Hadejiya himself, reaching deep into the networks of individuals believed to have facilitated these alleged crimes. Among those individuals is Tijjani Ramalan, a Kaduna-based media practitioner who now finds himself enmeshed in palpable anxiety as the investigation unfolds.
The accusations levied against Hadejiya are grave. He stands charged with treason a charge that underscores the severity of his alleged actions against the State. Such accusations carry profound legal ramifications, with the potential for extensive prison sentences if found guilty. His involvement in treason and subversion poses significant questions about the stability of governance in Nigeria and the roles individuals play in fostering dissent. Hadejiya’s purported activities, particularly his role in inciting the recent #Endbadgovernance protests have drawn scrutiny, illuminating how media manipulation can stir public unrest and lead to violence. The consequences of such orchestration reverberate throughout society, making Ramalan’s connection to Hadejiya all the more concerning.
Tijjani Ramalan’s role is perceived as pivotal in this narrative. As an established media practitioner, he has allegedly acted as a conduit for disseminating fabricated propaganda materials that bolster Hadejiya’s agenda. The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya suggests not only complicity but an extensive network of influence that has the potential to engage and mobilize public sentiment against the Nigerian government. In this context, Ramalan’s panic can be understood as a survival instinct, a reaction to the tightening noose of an investigation that threatens to expose the intricacies of his involvement in potentially illicit activities.
The unfolding investigation represents a turning point not just for Hadejiya, but for individuals like Ramalan who may have enabled, directly or indirectly, the alleged subversion of state authority. The anxiety that Ramalan feels is amplified by the understanding that law enforcement agencies are keenly aware of the interconnected webs of relationships that suggest coordination in these alleged criminal activities. The crackdown on Hadejiya raises the specter of further investigations into his associates, thereby creating an atmosphere of distrust and paranoia among those who have navigated the same circles.
Furthermore, the implications of Ramalan’s situation extend into the broader context of civil discourse and media integrity in Nigeria. The #Ebdbadgovernance protests, in which many citizens voiced their grievances, highlight an increasingly frustrated population seeking accountability from their government. However, when figures in the media, like Ramalan, are alleged to propagate misinformation or incite violence, the credibility and ethical responsibilities of the media as a pillar of democracy are brought into question. Ramalan’s involvement may thus not only implicate him in a legal sense but could also serve as a cautionary tale regarding the dissemination of information and the potential perils of partisanship that color journalistic practice.
The origins of Ramalan and Hadejiya’s collaboration can be traced to an underhanded arrangement during President Buhari’s term, wherein Hadejiya and Tunde secretly orchestrated benefits that favored personal ambitions over national interests. The central piece of this political chess game was the appointment of Ramalan’s son to a prominent role within the Nigerian Ports Authority, a move that was met with both opportunism and skepticism. This placement was more than mere nepotism; it was a calculated strategy that effectively positioned Ramalan’s family as gatekeepers of key information.
The lucrative posting not only gratified personal ambitions but also established Ramalan’s son as a critical asset in Hadejiya’s network. By exploiting his son’s role, Hadejiya gained unprecedented access to confidential materials and intelligence that could be weaponized against Tinubu’s administration. Such access is invaluable in political maneuvering, where knowledge is power and information can dictate narratives and influence public opinion.
The collaboration between Ramalan and Hadejiya has not been limited to passive intelligence gathering. Their partnership is characterized by active participation in various machinations directed against President Tinubu’s emergence in 2023. Throughout the election cycle, it became apparent that Hadejiya, with Ramalan’s backing, was deploying a series of tactics aimed at undermining Tinubu’s credibility and political capital. This included orchestrated smear campaigns, misinformation, and strategically timed leaks that sought to destabilize the incoming administration.
Hadejiya’s role as the orchestrator of these antagonisms was bolstered by the privileged information siphoned through Ramalan’s son. This relationship fostered an environment where political subterfuge was not only tolerated but encouraged as a means to achieve desired political outcomes. The ramifications of this collaboration mean that Tinubu’s administration has had to navigate a landscape fraught with deceptive narratives and politically motivated disruptions, a reality that serves as a testament to the potency of alliances based on ulterior motives.
The ramifications of the Ramalan and Hadejiya’s alliance extend beyond immediate political conflicts. The antagonisms established during the 2023 electoral contestate are poised to carry through to the 2027 elections. The strategic nature of their collaboration indicates a long-term plan aimed at not merely destabilizing the current administration but also shaping the narrative and conditions under which future elections will unfold. By embedding themselves in the opposition narrative, Ramalan and Hadejiya have positioned themselves as pivotal players in a game that transcends the present administration, seeking to influence the political landscape for years to come.
The intensity and implications of the relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya highlight the unique complexities of Nigerian governance, where alliances often forego ideological coherence in favor of self-serving ambitions. As the political climate intensifies in preparation for the forthcoming electoral cycle, the roles of Ramalan and Hadejiya will remain crucial, carrying their antagonisms forward as they attempt to shape the narrative surrounding Tinubu’s administration and beyond.
The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya serves as a poignant case study of the dynamics of Nigerian politics, where strategic alliances, underhand deals, and the manipulation of information can significantly alter the political landscape. Their collaboration, rooted in opportunism and driven by a desire to undermine President Tinubu, underscores the challenges of governance in a system rife with competing interests and power struggles. As the intrigues unfold in the years leading up to 2027, it will be essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant to the machinations that could potentially destabilize the fabric of governance and impede the pursuit of genuine national progress. Ultimately, the blend of personal ambition with political strategy presents a critical challenge for Nigeria as it navigates its path towards a more accountable and transparent political future.
As the investigation of Bashir Hadejiya progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the political landscape of Nigeria. A polarizing environment can lead to the exploitation of public sentiment by those with ulterior motives. Tijjani Ramalan’s anxiety is emblematic of a broader reckoning one that necessitates introspection within the media industry and accountability among those who wield the power of information. It underscores the necessity for vigilance both legally and ethically as society grapples with the consequences of actions that blur the lines of dissent and crime.
In conclusion, the investigation into Bashir Hadejiya is more than an inquiry into his alleged crimes; it is a critical juncture that challenges the relationship between governance, media, and public discourse in Nigeria. For Tijjani Ramalan, the implications are immediate and personal, as the specter of legal retribution looms large. It remains to be seen how this complex situation will unfold, but one thing is certain: the repercussions of these events will be felt far beyond the confines of the investigation, shaping the future of both public trust in the media and the intricate dance between authority and dissent in Nigeria.
Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources, says the federal government plans to commence implementing the drill-or-drop provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Section 94 of the PIA gives operators a period of three years to begin oil production or relinquish the assets to the federal government.
Speaking during the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting held on Tuesday in Florence, Italy, Lokpobiri said it is in the best interest of the country that all inactive wells go to work.
He said the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has provided every necessary incentive to ensure international oil companies (IOCs) in Nigeria run smoothly and profitably.
“Now, it is imperative for these industry players to match the government’s efforts with increased investment by announcing final investment decisions (FIDs),” he said.
Furthermore, Lokpobiri discussed “the challenges, expectations, and measures to enhance the sector’s contributions towards domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa”.
He emphasised that while IOCs have highlighted engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, “EPCs will not come unless they see strong commitments from industry players”.
“The government has done its part to provide the requisite and investment-friendly fiscals, the ball is now in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector,” he said.
“We must also recognise that domestic crude supply is essential to national energy security. The best solution to this challenge lies in increasing production, which will ensure a balance between domestic supply obligations and external commitments.”
The minister further urged industry players to explore collaborative measures, such as shared resources for contiguous assets and the release of underutilised assets to operators ready to invest in production.
The Progressive Students Movement (PSM), a leading Pan-African student body, has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Ogun State under Commissioner of Police (CP) Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, for its commitment to security and community engagement.
In a statement released on Thursday, the President of PSM Nigeria, Comrade Ambassador Okereafor Bestman, highlighted the CP’s efforts in strengthening collaboration between the police, stakeholders, and other security agencies to maintain peace and stability in the state.
“It is worthy of note that CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, has further fostered a harmonious working synergy between the police, stakeholders, and other security agents aimed at ensuring peace and tranquility in Ogun State,” Okereafor said.
The student leader expressed confidence in CP Ogunlowo’s leadership, stating that Ogun State is on track to becoming one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria under his administration.
He also praised the professionalism and dedication of the Ogun State Police Command in tackling crime, regardless of its scale.
Additionally, PSM acknowledged the Ogun State government’s continued support for security agencies, particularly in providing mobility and logistics to enhance their operational efficiency.
The commendation comes at a time when security remains a top priority for residents and authorities in the state, with ongoing efforts to curb crime and ensure public safety.
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
On assumption of duty in January, 2025 , the new Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Boss and well grounded World Bank expert , Aisha Garba envisaged the need to reposition the Basic Education through interfacing with the critical stakeholders.
Amongst them is the office of the National Security Adviser , NSA, led by Malam Nuhu Ribadu whose achievements in the last few years in the area of security has become distinct and outstanding.
Therefore, seeking to cooperate and collaborate with the office became germane and needful particularly the protection of lives and properties of actors in the promotion of Basic Education ranging from the pupils , teachers , workers and facilitators to enable it drive the new wave to curb Out of School Children OOSC in the country.
Aside providing the basic security arrangements for schools , the need to engage the security apparatus at the level of National Security Adviser NSA became needful, so as to address the sophistry of security problems in the country, to nip in the bud any unforseen circumstances.
With the high rates of kidnappings, abduction , banditry, cattle rustling, ritual tendencies among many other vices, the idea of bringing on board , the security architecture of the country in all ramifications will assist the commission to consolidate the implementation of Basic Education policies and programs, also introduce new ones .
Since pupils at the Primary, Junior Secondary and Secondary Schools are prone to such ugly development and security issues , the need to be proactive on the part of the commission became timely and desiring.
This led to the success story of the bilateral interface between the management of the commission and NSA, to streamline, perfect and chart a new course on the issue of security of actors in the Basic Education.
The visit described as timely and long overdue, discussed fruitfully the way forward and the immediate and long term intervention of both agencies in the area of collaboration.
According to the Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission UBEC, Dr Aisha Garba she stated by discussing” strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing educational access and security in Nigeria. ”
She further said” the engagement focused on strategies to address challenges such as the safety of schools, particularly in vulnerable regions, and the promotion of equitable education for all children.”
“the meeting highlighted the critical intersection between education and national security and the need for collaboration between UBEC and Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), on improving access to basic education and safety of safety schools across the nation. ”
“This collaboration underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive learning environment as part of its broader agenda to strengthen the nation’s educational framework,” it added.
“UBEC boss had pledged to engage critical stakeholders to break down barriers to education and create inclusive learning opportunities for children across the six geopolitical regions of the country.”
“She said: “My goal is to deliver on this mandate which includes strengthening collaboration, partnerships and institutional learning for effective service delivery. ”
“Together, we will work to increase access, improve quality, provide conducive and safe learning environments, supply adequate teaching and learning materials, and adopt the concept of ‘best fit’ in addressing specific basic education challenges, state by state and region by region”.
Highlights of the program which included the engagement of both bodies with a commitment to ensure the introduction of security architecture in schools in Nigeria is achievable.
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.