Thoughtful Birthday Messages Pour In For Kanwan Katsina @ 68

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01/09/2025

As the Kanwan Katsina, District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara celebrates another year older filled with beautiful memories and unlimited success stories this Monday, 1st September 2025, thoughtful birthday messages have continued to pour in from across the country.
Among the messages, are those from the National Executive Committee and the entire family of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), under the leadership of Ambassador E. O. Okafor mni, who joyfully celebrate the distinguished Alhaji Usman Kankara Bello mni, Kanwan Katsina III and District Head of Ketare in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, North West Nigeria.
In the message, Amb. Okafor says the occasion offers a fitting moment to honour a seasoned public servant, respected traditional ruler, and exemplary alumnus whose life has been defined by patriotism, leadership excellence, and an unwavering commitment to national and community development.

The General Manager of Katsina State Radio Services, Alhaji Lawal Attahiru Bakori in his message, extends his heartfelt congratulations to the traditional ruler on behalf of himself and the staff of the station.
Malam Lawal Attahiru Bakori said the mornach is widely being celebrated not only for his leadership but also for his unwavering commitment to community growth and development across various sectors.

The General Manager stated that over the years, Kanwan Katsina has distinguished himself as a patriotic leader whose vision and dedication are impacting positively on his people.

Similarly, the Ketare Youth Development Association (KYEDEMA), under the leadership of Comrade Mudassiru Lawal Gurbi and Secretary Comrade Abdul’aziz Mohammed Ketare joined the growing list of well-wishers celebrating the birthday of Kanwan Katsina, District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara, mni.

.The youth group praised the royal father for his relentless commitment to driving social and economic advancement in Ketare and beyond.

The Association of Retired Senior Customs Officers from the 1982 intake—The UK Bello’s coursemates during his distinguished service in the Nigeria Customs Service also identified with One of theirs on this Day filled with joy and happiness.

Similarly, the 1981 graduating class of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, led by Yahaya Amfani, and the 1974 graduating class of Government Secondary School, Malumfashi, celebrated the Kanwan Katsina’s exceptional contributions to education, mentorship, and national service.

The outpouring of goodwill messages, pundits believe, underscores the towering influence of Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara as a leader, mentor, and community builder whose life and legacy continue to inspire development, unity, and progress across Katsina State and Nigeria

Born on 1st September 1957 in Kankara town into the renowned Nadabo family, famous for producing five District Heads under the Katsina Emirate Council, Alhaji UK Bello has sustained a proud legacy of service. His educational journey began at Central Primary School Kankara between 1963 and 1969. He later attended Government Secondary School Malumfashi from 1970 to 1974 and proceeded to Katsina College of Arts and Social Sciences for his A Levels. He gained admission into Ahmadu Bello University in 1978 and graduated in 1981 with a degree in Political Science.

After completing his National Youth Service in the old Bendel State in 1981 and 1982, he enlisted in the Nigerian Customs Service in 1982 as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent. Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks and attained the peak of his career as Comptroller of Customs in 2009. He headed numerous strategic units, formations, and commands including the Kano and Jigawa Command, FCT Command, Sokoto Kebbi Zamfara Command, Eastern Marine Command Port Harcourt, as well as various headquarters units such as Valuation, Excise, Post Clearance Audit, and the Posting Unit.

A results-oriented officer, he was known for consistently surpassing revenue targets and recording major anti-smuggling successes. He notably introduced the payment of Customs Duties on imported smoked fish from Chad at Baga Customs Station in 1985. As the Public Relations Officer at both Apapa and Tincan Island Port Commands, he won the award of Best PRO of the Nigerian Customs Service.

In recognition of his leadership potential and policy insight, he was admitted into the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) as a member of Senior Executive Course 35 in 2013. He served as Vice Chairman of Study Group One for two consecutive terms. He also attended a leadership development course on Ethics, Good Governance and Accountability in Pittsburgh, United States of America in 2010.

After a meritorious 35-year career in the Customs Service, he retired in 2017 and returned home to continue serving his people. As Kanwan Katsina III and District Head of Ketare, he has brought purposeful leadership to his community, making visible impact in areas such as education, healthcare, security, polio eradication, agriculture, and youth development. His ability to mobilize resources and forge partnerships has led to numerous developmental projects in his district.

He is the Heritage Chairman of the AANI Katsina State Chapter, a role through which he continues to champion the ideals of AANI. His community-based leadership style, strategic vision, and unwavering sense of duty remain a source of inspiration to many.

Nigerian-Born U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Cobongs Promoted To Asst. Prof. At Liberty University

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Africaprimenews

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01/09/2025

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By Iliya Kure

Dr. Bitrus Cobongs, a Nigerian-born U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, has been promoted to Assistant Professor at Liberty University’s prestigious Online Program. His remarkable achievement highlights not only his personal journey from Nigeria to the United States but also underscores the growing influence of Nigerians in the global academic and military landscape.

Dr. Cobongs hails from Billiri, a local government in Gombe State in northeastern Nigeria, and is a proud member of the Tangale ethnic group. His academic and professional journey began with humble roots. Cobongs’ educational path started at Billiri Bible College for his secondary school education before he moved to Jos ECWA Theological Seminary (JETS) in Plateau State for his undergraduate degree. The thirst for further knowledge took him to Nairobi International Leadership University in Kenya, where he obtained a Master of Divinity (MDiv) between 1997 and 2000.

However, his desire for continued learning did not stop there. Dr. Cobongs’ journey led him to the United States, where he enrolled at Dallas Theological Seminary for his Master’s degree and, eventually, began his PhD in Biblical Studies. But his story took a remarkable turn in 2009, when he made the decision to join the U.S. Air Force Reserve while still pursuing his doctorate. In joining the Air Force, Cobongs found a unique way to express his gratitude for the opportunities he received in the U.S. and to fulfill his faith-based calling by becoming a military chaplain.

A Multifaceted Career in Academia and Military Service

In addition to his theological and academic pursuits, Dr. Cobongs continued to advance his studies in the military domain. In 2019, he completed a Master’s in Military Operational Art and Science from Air University, reflecting his deep commitment to understanding both the operational and spiritual aspects of leadership. Simultaneously, he completed a PhD in Biblical Studies at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, finalizing his doctorate in 2022.

These academic achievements are in parallel with his impressive service in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, where he served as a chaplain, guiding fellow service members in both spiritual and leadership capacities. His military career combined with his robust academic qualifications creates a unique profile that has now earned him a promotion to Assistant Professor at Liberty University, one of the largest Christian universities in the world.

A Significant Milestone for Nigerians in Academia

Dr. Cobongs’ promotion to Assistant Professor is a significant moment for Nigerians both in the diaspora and at home. It is a testament to the potential and impact of Nigerian professionals who are not only excelling in their chosen fields but also contributing meaningfully to global institutions of learning and leadership.

Liberty University, known for its world-class education rooted in Christian values, offers over 500 programs across various fields, including law, business, aviation, psychology, and theology. Dr. Cobongs’ new role at the university’s Online Program will allow him to teach and mentor students, helping them integrate their faith with their studies and careers.

His appointment stands as an example of the global reach and influence that Nigerians are making across various sectors. It also reflects the increasing recognition of the value of Nigerian talent in international academic and military spaces.

A Legacy of Faith and Leadership

Dr. Cobongs embodies a rare blend of intellectual rigor, military service, and Christian values. His career, spanning continents and disciplines, serves as an inspiration to countless Nigerian youths who dream of making a mark in academia, military service, or any field of choice.

For Nigerians, his story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, faith, and a commitment to excellence, the sky is the limit. Dr. Cobongs’ achievement is proof that the Nigerian spirit of resilience and ambition knows no borders and can lead to success on the world stage.

As he begins this new chapter at Liberty University, we celebrate his accomplishments and look forward to the impact he will undoubtedly have on future generations of students.

AI tool was used to research on Liberty University and the structure of this piece.

Nigeria: Katsina Stakeholders Push Community-driven Strategies to Tackle Insecurity

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News Editor

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31/08/2025

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A group, Katsina Security Community Initiative has listed the consequences of Banditry across Katsina State in North West Nigeria, which have left families torn apart by kidnappings, forced farmers off their land and drained entire communities of economic life.
It was against this backdrop, stakeholders under the Initiative (KSCI) are now shifting focus from lamenting the crisis to designing practical solutions to the persisting security challenges

To this end, the group—made up of retired generals, security experts, academics, journalists, traditional leaders, and other professionals—has been holding a series of consultative meetings across the country. From Abuja to Kaduna, and soon in Zaria, Kano, and Katsina itself, engaging stakeholders to consolidate homegrown strategies before presenting them to the State government.

At the Kaduna session, participants emphasized that insecurity cannot be left solely to government. a frontline politician and scholar, Dr. Usman Bugaje warned that Nigeria’s insecurity is sustained by a “vacuum in leadership.” According to him, citizens must take initiative or risk deeper collapse. “We either sit down in our complacency until the criminals come for us, or we rise up and tackle the issue before they do,” he cautioned.

Security expert, Dr. Yahuza Getso put forward a concrete framework: a community-based security structure built from the ground up. He proposed mobilizing 100 youths aged 17–22 per polling unit across Katsina to collaborate with official agencies such as the DSS, military, police, and vigilante groups. This, he argued, would transform existing social units into active security cells, with trained young people acting as first responders and intelligence providers.

Dr. Getso further stressed that bandits are not outsiders but residents of local government areas whose identities are known. “There is nothing like hideouts or difficult terrains,” he said. “With community cooperation and security synergy, this problem can be contained.”

Participants including Alhaji Suleiman Halliru who stressed the need for accountability, criticized political leaders for neglecting security, a constitutional obligation, while prioritizing elections. He called for citizens to demand responsibility from those in power. Comrade Ali Attahiru, representing the Police Community Relations Committee, added that government strategies like amnesty must not overlook justice. “Amnesty cannot be given to criminals without disarming them or addressing the plight of victims,” he said.

On his part, a Co-convener Hon. Jamilu Mohammed Danmusa described the Kaduna event as part of a wider consultative tour aimed at producing a comprehensive citizens’ action plan. “This is the second phase after Abuja. From Kaduna we move to Zaria, Kano, and finally Katsina. At the end, we will meet the Katsina State Government with clear proposals,” he explained.
The path forward, according to KSCI, is about partnership with government agencies, communities, and civic groups working in synergy adding that sustainable security in Katsina will only emerge when communities are empowered, local structures are strengthened, and leaders are held accountable.

Nigeria: Kaduna Rejects Slammed Kidnap Ranking Report

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News Editor

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29/08/2025

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…says It’s False, Irresponsible

The Kaduna State Government in North West Nigeria, has dismissed a report ranking the State among the highest in kidnapping incidents nationwide, describing it as “false, mischievous and irresponsible.”

A statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Information and signed by the Commissioner-Designate, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki faulted a report attributed to SB Morgen which alleged that 629 persons were abducted in Kaduna between July 2024 and June 2025.

“The attention of the Kaduna State Government has been drawn to recent reports and commentaries regarding the security situation in the state. The publication by SB Morgen alleging that 629 persons were abducted within the period is false and mischievous,” the statement said.

The statement challenged the Morgen report describing it as a figment of false imagination of its authors orchestrated to discredit the Kaduna Peace Model adjudged as a successful model by all security agencies and critical stakeholders in the country including international organizations.

“It is on record that the Kaduna Peace Modelm envisioned by Governor Uba Sani had led the successful return of peace and security to all security flashpoints in the state and the recovery of over 500,000 hectares of arable land across communities previously deserted. Today, farmers in these areas have returned to the farms, and the livestock markets in Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas shutdown for over a decade reopened, thereby boosting the economic fortunes of the people.”

The government, therefore, urged citizens to disregard the ranking, stressing that it does not reflect the current security reality in the state. It also cautioned against sensational publications, which, it said, “risk undermining the morale of security personnel working tirelessly to protect our communities.”

While reassuring residents of its commitment to peace and security, the government emphasized that its multi-pronged strategy combines robust security operations with community engagement, socio-economic empowerment, and youth development to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity.

The statement also quoted the Honourable Commissioner, Internal security and Home Affairs, Dr Suleiman Shuiabu (SAN) noting that in April alone, 34 operations carried out by security agencies led to the arrest of 54 high-profile suspects and the rescue of more than 75 kidnap victims.

The Internal Security Commissioner further added that several criminal hideouts have been dismantled, with prosecutions ongoing to ensure justice.

“The Uba Sani-led administration also pointed to its non-kinetic approach, including the establishment of the Kaduna Peace Dialogue Group, which provides a platform for negotiation and reintegration of repentant bandits who have surrendered their weapons.” Dr Shuaibu added.
“The reopening of the Kara livestock market in Birnin Gwari, and the Giwa market closed for over 10 years due to insecurity and increased agricultural yields are major milestone achievements of the Kaduna Peace Model.”
“The safety and well-being of our citizens remain paramount. We therefore call on the public to disregard the purported kidnapping ranking, and focus in fostering vigilance, resilience, security, and sustainable peace in our dear state,” the statement concluded.

Nigeria: Sen. Bala Ibn Na’Allah Congratulates New Emir of Zuru, Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami

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News Editor

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29/08/2025

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… Advises Him to Lead With Wisdom, Justice, Humility

Distinguished Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah has congratulated Alhaji Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami on his appointment as the new Emir of Zuru by the Kebbi State Government.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Muhammad Danjarida, the Senator described the appointment as both a well-deserved honour and a reflection of the collective will of the Zuru Emirate people.

He commended the transparent and credible process that produced the new Emir, noting that the recommendation of the election committee and the approval by Governor Nasir Idris underscored the respect for tradition, fairness, and due process.

Senator Ibn Na’Allah prayed for the success of the new Emir, urging him to lead with wisdom, justice, humility, and fear of Almighty Allah . He expressed confidence that His Royal Highness will build on the enduring legacy of his late predecessor, Major General Muhammad Sani Sami Gomo II, whose passing on August 16, 2025 created the vacancy.

“On behalf of myself, my family, and the entire Zuru community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami. May his reign usher in lasting peace, unity, and development for Zuru Emirate, Kebbi State, and Nigeria as a whole,” the statement concluded.

Arewa Cohesion Gets Standing Committees To Pursue Set Objectives With Focus, Discipline, Professionalism

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News Editor

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28/08/2025

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In realisation of Its steady growth, the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative, on Thursday in Kaduna, North West Nigeria, inaugurated a number of standing committees as well as interim State Coordinators.

The committees are the Planning and Strategy Committee, the Finance Committee, the Media and Publicity Committee and Interim State Coordinators.
The Planning and Strategy Committee is mandated to among others, develop strategic plans for achieving the objectives of the Initiative in the short, medium, and long term, recommend clear action frameworks for adoption by management, develop and prioritise projects, programmes, and initiatives that advance the mission, Identify potential partners and collaborators who share their vision and Create systems and criteria to track progress, while recommending adjustments based on performance and emerging realities.

Closely tied to this, is the Finance Committee, which is entrusted with safeguarding and strengthening the financial base with responsibilities of devising strategies for mobilizing resources for programmes and activities, explore both internal and external sources of generating finance, draw budgets that are realistic and purposeful as well as secure financing for those budgets and ensure prudent utilisation of funds

On its part, the Media and Publicity Committee which serves as the voice and image of the Initiative is to among others, develop a robust media and publicity strategy that ensures constant exposure for the Initiative and its leadership, position the Initiative to become a household name in Arewa, and indeed in Nigeria, within the shortest possible time ,
engage vigorously with both conventional and social media to promote, the Initiative’s values and programmes, establish and sustain a strong presence across all major social media platforms
Inaugurating the Committees, the Director General of the Initiative, Dr Abdullahi Idris said the exercise is a deliberate and strategic step in consolidating the foundation of the organisation towards ensuring that their objectives are pursued with focus, discipline, and professionalism.

“As we consolidate these committees at the centre, it is equally vital to extend our structures to the grassroots. This is why today we are also inaugurating our Interim State Coordinators. “They will carry our vision into every corner of Arewa, ensuring that our message of cohesion and development reaches not only state capitals, but also local governments and the remote wards.
“Our State Chapters are the operational arms of this Initiative. They must translate our collective vision into action, adapt our programmes to local realities, and act as a living bridge between the central leadership and ordinary citizens. As Coordinators, your responsibilities are far-reaching. You are expected to:
“Mobilize membership and build functional structures across your states.
‘Maintain constant communication with the central leadership through the Director-General.
“Provide direction, inspire commitment, and ensure that our work is visible and impactful at every level.

“Embody inclusivity by bringing women, young people, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and all groups into your state structures and

“Prioritise mass mobilisation and the building of strong chapters at the local government and ward levels”, he emphasized.

Dr. Idris however told members of the committee that their appointments are on an interim basis for a 12-month probationary period while their work will be closely observed, and that only those who demonstrate commitment, integrity, and results will be confirmed for substantive tenure as stipulated in their Constitution.

In his address, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Bature Umar Masari tasked members of the Committees to ensure the attainment of the objectives of the initiative, which he said, include the advancement of Unity of Northern Nigeria regardless of religion, ethnicity and gender, socio-economic, industrial and cultural development.
“You are also expected to encourage the promotion of good governance and development centered citizen’s political participation in Northern Nigeria, while also undertaking massive enlightenment of our people to be conscious of and demand for their basic rights to life, security, education, health and all-round development among many other lofty objectives of the initiative” he emphasized

While commending the leader of the Initiative for the foresight and dedication that have brought them to this point, Hon. Masari also congratulated those appointed to handle various assignments responsibly not as a favor, but as a call to service.

Hajara AbdulGafar: A Short Life of Service, Sacrifice and Impact – Husband

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News Editor

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28/08/2025

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In the early hours of Sunday, August 24, 2025, death snatched away my beloved wife, friend, and life partner, Hajara. She departed at the age of 33 years and 10 days, leaving behind four brilliant sons and a legacy of selflessness, sacrifice, and service.

Though her journey on earth was brief, her impact was immense. She was a devoted daughter to her parents, the most loving wife to me for 12 unforgettable years, and a doting mother who gave everything to the happiness of her children. To her neighbors, colleagues, and friends, Hajara was an admirable personality, a rare soul whose ultimate goal was to spread joy and comfort.

A woman of many parts, she lived an eventful life. She worked as a paramedical personnel (Nutritionist), a teacher, and later administrator at Zabib School where she served with distinction as Head of Nursery and Primary. She also served as a security detective personnel, pursued poultry farming, and still excelled as a home manager.

Her passing, coming barely a year after we endured the harrowing ordeal of kidnap alongside our two eldest sons before being rescued by the NSA tactical team, is the most painful blow I have suffered. Yet, I am consoled by the fact that I witnessed how she ended her journey; her lips repeatedly uttering Alhamdulillah, acknowledging the blessing of her Rabb before she breathed her last. Indeed, this was her final testimony of faith, and it comforts me that she returned to her Lord with gratitude on her tongue.

As a Muslim, I bow to the will of Allah, the All-Knowing, and submit to His decree. I pray for His guidance and strength to navigate this trying time.

In this moment of grief, I am overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from family, friends, colleagues, and associates. I thank my family members for their unwavering support, the Director, top management, and officers of the DSS, especially Mr. Hakeem Abiola, who did everything possible to provide my wife the best medical care.

My profound gratitude goes to the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, who personally visited, as well as the national executives, Kaduna and Kano Councils, Vice President and Secretary Zone A, NEC members, and colleagues nationwide who called, visited, or sent messages of condolence.

I also appreciate the Kaduna State Government for sending two delegations: one led by the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Sani Liman Kila, and the other led by Commissioner of Information, Alhaji Ahmed Maiyaki, and Chief Press Secretary, Malam Ibraheem Musa.

Special thanks to Senator Shehu Sani, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, AYCF President General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, and my employers, Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation Newspaper, including its top management staff, for their prayers and support.

I am also grateful to Dr. Musa Danjuma, CMD Musaka Specialist Hospital, who tried his best to stabilize her upon our arrival at the hospital, my boss, Alhaji Ismail Omipidan, my close friends among colleagues, our dear neighbors, and my late wife’s many close friends who have stood with us through this grief.

I specially acknowledge my course mates at Kaduna Polytechnic, Class of 2008, as well as colleagues from my Postgraduate Diploma and Master’s classes at Kaduna State University (KASU). I also appreciate the solidarity of my late wife’s colleagues at Zabib School, her course mates at Corinthians International School Kaduna, Kaduna Polytechnic, and SSDC for CDBC 2022.

Equally, I extend heartfelt appreciation to leaders of the Muslim community who stood by us: the Supreme Council of Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN), Kaduna State HISBAH, Ansarul Islam, Ansar-ud Deen, NASFAT, and the Kaduna State Alaramas. Your prayers, visits, and comforting words remain a great source of strength.

To everyone who reached out, prayed, or stood by us, I say: Jazakumullahu khairan. May Allah reward you abundantly.

As I bid farewell to my beloved wife, companion, and mother of our children, I pray that Allah, the Most Merciful, admits her into Aljannatul Firdaus and grants her eternal peace. Rest well, Hajara. Your light will never fade in our hearts.

AbdulGafar Alabelewe

Contempt: Court Slams N2.5m Fine On Abuja Businesswoman, Maureen Kabruk, 4 Others In Kaduna

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News Editor

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27/08/2025

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An Upper Customary court in Kaduna, North West Nigeria, has fined an Abuja based business woman, Maureen Kabruk and four others, the sum of two million, five hundred thousand naira for contempt of court .

The other four are Hajia Mariam Doka, Dudu Petter, George Peter, and Pascalina Bakam.
Delivering his judbement, Justice Douglas Danladi warned that the court would not tolerate any act of contempt in order to protect the dignity of the court.
The family of late Cecilia Peter Kabruk and her children, including the elders of the family had a serious disagreement over how their mother who had died should be burried .

While the first male child, Emmanuel Bakam Peter insisted that the deceased should be burried in accordance with the Bajju native laws and customs, which he said were the decision of the elders, of the family, the other siblings argued that their mother should be burried close to her husband’s grave, late Peter Kabruk.

In the judgement of the Customary Court of Appeal, Kaduna state dated 6th February, 2025 delivered by Justice Yusuf Yakubu declared that Maureen Kabruk and the four others (Appellants) should produce the corpse of the deceased and surrender same to the first male child, Emmanuel Bakam Peter (Respondent) and the elders of the family for burial.
Speaking to journalists after the judgement, the appellants lawyer, James Bala Ndam told reporters that court has ordered that the corpse should be exhumed and be handed over to the elders of the family for proper burial in accordance with the earlier court judgements.

“The court also awarded two million, five hundred thousand naira to take care of the cost of the exhumation of the corpse that was buried against the court ruling.”

Delivering the judgement, Justice Danladi granted the prayers of the appellants except order number one which seeks imprisonment for violating the clear orders of both courts delivered on the 19th September 2024 and 6th February 2025.
However, the Judge edited the order mitigating them to show remorse thereby declaring that the respondents be remanded in the Correctional Centre until they purged themselves.

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