Opinion
Tussles, Struggles Over Immediate Take Off Of NOK University, Kachia Resumes
Engr. Dr. Michael Ayuba Auta, candidate of Labour Party in the Southern Kaduna Senatorial District election in the February 2023 General Elections and KYC Inter-Projects Limited, has instituted a case of criminal conspiracy against Chief Anthony Hassan, Mr. Hassan Anthony Myendwas and Mr. Peter Danladi Gyet.
The defendant, had earlier approached the Chief Magistrate Court Rigachikun Kaduna through a Criminal complaint later transferred to Kachia Magisterial District in CASE NO. CMC/KCH/13DC/2024 brought against Chief Anthony Hassan, Mr. Hassan Anthony Myendwas and Mr. Peter Danladi Gyet.
The Case on NOK University instituted by Engr. Dr. Michael Ayuba Auta (The Garkuwan Matasan Arewa) resumes on Thursday with quest for peaceful and amicable resolution of all issues holding the smooth take off and operations of the University with the two (2) major contending shareholders and partners of the University, now opting through their Counsel for out of Court Settlement.
Engr. Dr. Michael Ayuba Auta and KYC Inter-Projects Limited had earlier approached the Chief Magistrate Court Rigachikun Kaduna through a Criminal complaint later transferred to Kachia Magisterial District in CASE NO. CMC/KCH/13DC/2024 brought against Chief Anthony Hassan, Mr. Hassan Anthony Myendwas and Mr. Peter Danladi Gyet.
The Complaint, Michael Ayuba and KYC Inter-Projects Ltd the Complainants, had through their Counsel Sir Ben Churchill Aniekwena Esq. urged the Criminal Court to entertain the allegations against the Defendants bordering over the Offences of criminal conspiracy: Contrary to section 58 and Punishable under section 59, giving false evidence: Contrary to section 119 and Punishable under section 121(2), dishonest or fraudulent execution of deed of transfer containing statement or consideration: Contrary and Punishable under section 140, criminal misappropriation: Contrary to section 293 and Punishable under section 294 and; defamation: Contrary to section 371(1) and Punishable under section 372 all of the Kaduna state penal code law NO. 5 of 2017.
At the resumed hearing of the Case on Thursday 29th February 2023, which was redirected and transferred on the Orders of the State Chief Judge to the Kachia Magistrial District and before His Worship Biniyat Thomas Isiaku Esq., both Counsel after much heated argument over issues of Services and Appearance of Parties particularly on the 2nd Defendant Mr. Hassan Anthony Myendwas who was not in Court, finally bow to part of peace on the Matter and the issues involving the Parties as a way forward in amicably resolving all issues for the immediate and possible takeoff of the University in Kachia.
Counsel representing the Complainants, Sir Ben Churchill, has aligned with the defence Counsel in praying the Honourable Court to grant the Parties free hand in view of both Counsels and Parties Agreement to allow them elect 5 members each to represent Parties to the dispute and to report back to the Court the outcome of the resolutions within one month to enable possible withdrawal or the continued progress in prosecution of the Defendants. In response, Counsel to the Defendants Dr. U. Y. Dikko confirmed the request of the Parties, that Counsels be made to seat in between the Parties and their selected representatives in good faith and as a duty imposed on Counsels while handling matters of this nature particularly where it involves as in this Case two great, prominent and well-meaning sons of Jaba Land and communities. While seeking for a way forward, Engr. Dr. Ayuba had drawn the Court’s attention over several neglect and/or refusal of the Defendants to abide with directives/resolutions taken by well-meaning individuals, kinsmen and royal fathers of Jaba community at the earlier attempts made of resolving the dispute thus prompting his institution of this Case and his added instructions to his personal Solicitors to commence a Civil trial over the same issues between the Parties over NOK University.
The Court in its wisdom had conceded to the Parties request and adjourned the Matter to 4th April 2024. The Court had also directed that both Parties and their respective Counsels fully participate and through the Registry of the Court to furnish immediately and on or before 4/3/2024 their Parties elected 5 names of persons of good character standing in the society, conscience and reputation to be communicated for the Court’s directive on or before 10/3/2024. The Court also Ordered that the 2nd absented Defendant be served with the Complaint and summons. After listening to the plight as to venue and convenience of all the Parties, the locations of their likely representatives and Counsels in the matter, the Court granted the unanimous consensus request of Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah Peace Center (The Kukah Center – Faith, Leadership and Public Policy Abuja) as Venue for the Peace meeting.
This we hope will finally lay to rest the conflict over NOK University and the two key Stakeholders and Partners over the Institution.
Efforts at reaching or having attention speak to the Parties and/or their Counsels failed. However, we gathered that the Suit at the Federal High.
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