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“We Need Help”: Residents of Katampe Extension Appeal to FCT Minister Wike

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4 months ago

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Residents of Katampe Extension in Abuja have called on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to intervene in the ongoing illegal activities of land grabbers and the reckless use of high-caliber explosives in their community.

Situated on the eastern fringe of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Katampe Extension is bordered by the Katampe Hills to the north and the Abuja-Kubwa Expressway to the south.

The residents made their appeal while guiding journalists through the devastation caused by the illegal activities of land speculators.

They noted that natural waterways and drainage channels, essential for managing stormwater, have been blocked or allocated to developers, posing a significant risk to the area’s ecosystem and potentially destabilizing the Lower Usuma Dam.

Wole Atolagbe, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Katampe Extension Residents Association (KERA), stated that developers have been blasting rocks to create illegal connections between Katampe Extension and neighboring districts in Bwari, such as Usuma and Jikoko. He alleged that these developers falsely advertise lands in Usuma and surrounding areas as part of Katampe Extension, thereby putting unsuspecting buyers at risk.

“This reckless blasting is not just an environmental issue; it’s a matter of safety for our community,” Atolagbe said.

He warned that the ongoing development is increasing the risk of kidnapping for residents, as the previously secluded hills are being transformed into accessible routes for criminals.

Also speaking, KERA Vice President, Dr. Austin Maho, argued that the recent earth tremors in the area is linked to the frequent use of explosives by developers.

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“The noise from the explosions is deafening, and our buildings shake to their foundations. We are increasingly uncertain about the integrity of our homes,” Dr. Maho stated.

He lamented that a former FCT minister had previously halted the activities of illegal developers, but these operations have resumed covertly, threatening the integrity of the area.

“If these activities are not checked, we could face catastrophic flooding of Usuma Dam, similar to what has occurred in Maiduguri and other parts of the country,” the vice president warned.

Muhammed Gimba, president of the residents association, appealed to the government to intervene and protect their homes and environment from ongoing destruction.

“We are appealing to Minister Nyesom Wike to restore the district to its original master plan and protect the community from further harm. We also urge the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives Committee on the FCT, to investigate the ongoing situation in Katampe Extension.

“We need help. It is time for the government to act decisively and safeguard the people of Katampe Extension from these illegal activities,” Gimba said.

[END]

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National

Ramadan: Atiku tasks Nigerians on generosity

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3 hours ago

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March 1, 2025

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Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar

Former-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerians to extend their hands of charity and affection far beyond immediate families to others.

Abubakar made the call in a statement in Abuja to mark the commencement of Ramadan.

“It is important that in Ramadan, we extend our hands of charity and affection far beyond our immediate families.

“The lifestyle of noble Prophet Muhammed (SAW) should be our guide, as he taught us the immense benefits of being generous, especially during the month of Ramadan,’’ he said.

The Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections urged Muslims to remember Nigeria in their prayers.

He also urged governments at all levels to provide the necessary succour that would ease the pains of Nigerians during the Ramadan fasting and beyond.

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National

Tinubu says N54.99trn 2025 budget will empower Nigerians, build resilient future

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9 hours ago

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March 1, 2025

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President Bola Tinubu has said the N54.99 trillion 2025 budget signed into law on Friday will empower Nigerians and build a resilient future.

The President said this after signing the budget in a brief ceremony witnessed by Sen. Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, and other leaders of the National Assembly at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

“We reaffirm our commitment to securing the future, rebuilding prosperity and ensuring that every Nigerian shares in the dividends of governance.

“The past year tested our resolve but through the economic discipline and strategic reforms, we achieved what many deemed impossible.

“There is no dust in our faces and there are no tears on our cheeks. We worked together as brothers and sisters collaboratively.

“After the initial turbulence, and the take-off was very cloudy and uncertain; today, we see light at the end of the tunnel,” said the President.

He said there were signs of progress in the country, with GDP growth rebounding to 3.86 per cent and revenue increasing to N21.63 trillion.

The President said the Naira rebounded reflecting the resilience of Nigerians: “We have reduced the deficit significantly from N6.2 in 2003 to N4.217 per cent.

“The forex reform is working in the foreign exchange market. The minimum wage was raised and we are meeting all obligations.

“I want to thank the National Assembly; everyone of them whether they participated in the review or not, we are building the same country.”

Tinubu said the collaboration between the executive and legislature was making a difference, and that he was determined to move the country forward.

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“Today, I can smile that you have given the hope to our people. We can only promise to work harder,” Tinubu said. (NAN)

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National

Matawalle Urges Nigerians To Pray For Security As Ramadan Fast Begins

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12 hours ago

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March 1, 2025

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The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has called on citizens to offer prayers for the country’s armed forces and security agencies as they continue their fight against insecurity.

His appeal comes at the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, reflection, and devotion for millions of Nigerians.

In a statement released on Friday by his Special Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister underscored the need for divine intervention in addressing Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.

He urged religious leaders, community heads, and all citizens to dedicate prayers for the safety and success of security personnel.

The call for prayers follows ongoing efforts by the military and other security agencies to combat insurgency, banditry, and other forms of violent crime across the country. Several regions, particularly the North, have witnessed increasing attacks by armed groups, leading to concerns about national stability.

Matawalle acknowledged the sacrifices made by the armed forces in safeguarding lives and property, stressing that their efforts deserve both moral and spiritual support from Nigerians.

“Our security forces work tirelessly to ensure our safety. As we observe this sacred month, let us remember them in our prayers,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the federal government’s commitment to enhancing security measures, including increased funding, better equipment, and improved welfare for personnel

However, he noted that beyond physical efforts, divine guidance and intervention remain crucial in overcoming the country’s security threats.

Meanwhile,religious leaders and scholars have welcomed Matawalle’s call for prayers, describing it as a timely appeal.

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Zamfara State former Governor also encouraged Nigerians to use the Ramadan period to seek peace, unity, and progress for the country.

As Ramadan progresses, the Defence State minister expressed hope that the nation will witness improvements in security and stability.

He reiterated the need for national unity and cooperation in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria.

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