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Army urged to obey judgment, release traders
Two lawyers – Mr Siraj Hamza and Junaid Sanusi – have called on the Nigerian Army to comply with the judgment of a Borno State High Court directing it to release 14 of their clients from illegal detention.
Hamza also called on the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to establish a mechanism to audit detention facilities across the nation.
Hamza has A. Aliyu as the second lawyer representing the detained men.
Explaining that despite the judgment which declared that detention of his clients without trial violated their rights, the Army has refused to obey court order, suggesting that it is above the law.
He said his clients were arrested and detained on their way to rural communities where they went to buy cows meant to be slaughtered and given to indigent Muslims during Sallah.
Hamza told reporters in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital: “Sometimes on May 17, 2024 along Buratai-Miringa Road, our clients, 12 of them, were riding in two buses on their way to Tashan Alade Cattle Market to buy cattle which were to be used during the Eid Al-Kabir festival, an annual event being organised by a non-governmental organisation where cows in their hundreds are slaughtered and shared or distributed among the indigent members of the society. The exercise had been on for over a decade and has been impacting on the indigent members of Abuja and its environs, including the military.
“The exercise was extended to Bauchi, Yola and Maiduguri, hence the need to buy about 600 heads of cow for the exercise in Maiduguri. Before the incident of May 17, 2024; our clients had already purchased 241 heads of cow and transported them to Maiduguri and were entrusted with one Musa Mustapha Umar at the Maiduguri Cattle Market; while one Abubakar Ibrahim Murabus Potiskum was in the company of our clients assisting them to source money from Point of Sale (PcS) operators and filling stations due to impracticability of electronically transacting business in the various cattle markets.’’
“As earlier stated, our clients were stopped by the Civilian JTF who searched them without finding anything incriminating on them, save for the $88,737,200. When they discovered that our clients had over $88,737,200 with them, they demanded for gratification before they could be cleared to leave, but they declined as a result of which they were transferred to the military outpost in Buratai where they were again interrogated and detained. The following day which was May 18, 2024; they were transferred to Sector 2 at Damatur from where they were transferred to the Headquarters of Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri which marked the beginning of their incarceration.
“It is also worthy to state that the first 12 of them came from Dei-Dei Livestock Market, Abuja, led by Danlami Muhammad Bashir, the alter ego of Fatima Meat, the company that was contracted to procure the heads of cow.
Few weeks after, when the detention of the judgment-creditor that is, our clients was becoming prolonged, the Chairman of their association, Alhaji Shagari Usman Yusuf, flew into Maiduguri to see them in company of their lawyer which was unsuccessful.
“Prior to that, Alhaji Musa Mustapha Umar too had been arrested and detained for having the audacity to visit them at the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai.
Shagari was displeased with the actions of the military which prompted him to approach the popular Berekete Family in Abuja to ventilate their grievances. The president contacted the Army spokesman and Shagari was invited to the Army Headquarters twice.
“Ironically, a day to the Eid Adha festival, some armed military personnel armed to the teeth, stormed the Dei-Dei International Cattle Market where they arrested him, hooded him, tortured him and later found himself in an underground cell in Abuja before he was eventually brought to Maiduguri by one Colonel Wasiu Ademola Adegoke 18 days after,and detained with the others at the Giwa Barracks.”
The lawyers insisted that the disobedience to court order is against the rule of law, adding that the Army was free to appeal the judgment and apply for of execution if it so desires.
The August 6 judgment by Justice Babagana Karumi of Borno State High Court directed the Army to release the men or sue them within seven days if a prima facie case is established against them. Hamza said the Army was still keeping his clients in detention after over 45 days of the judgment, saying it signals danger for the society.
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READ How Biden, Trump, Other World Leaders Reacted To Jimmy Carter’s Death
US President, Joe Biden and Donald Trump led other world leaders in paying tribute to Jimmy Carter, who died aged 100.
The 39th American president led consequential foreign policy initiatives that still endure today, including a Middle East peace deal between Israel and Egypt, the normalization of relations with China that the Richard Nixon administration initiated, and the signing of treaties that gave Panama eventual control of the Panama Canal from the US.
In 2002, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize “for his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.”
President Joe Biden
“Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian. Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well.”
US Vice President Kamala Harris
“President Jimmy Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith — in God, in America, and in humanity.
Jimmy Carter’s life is a testament to the power of service — as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy, the 76th Governor of Georgia, and the 39th President of the United States. He reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion.”
US President-elect, Donald Trump
“The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude.
“Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers.”
George W. Bush
“Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy, and the entire Carter family. James Earl Carter, Jr., was a man of deeply held convictions. He was loyal to his family, his community, and his country. President Carter dignified the office. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn’t end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations.”
Bill and Hilary Clinton
“From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as President to protect our natural resources in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make energy conservation a national priority, return the Panama Canal to Panama, and secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-Presidential efforts at the Carter Center supporting honest elections, advancing peace, combating disease, and promoting democracy; to his and Rosalynn’s devotion and hard work at Habitat for Humanity—he worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world.”
Britain’s King Charles
“It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of former President Carter. He was a committed public servant and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights.
“His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977.
“My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter’s family and the American people at this time.”
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Canada’s PM, Justin Trudeau
“Jimmy Carter’s legacy is one of compassion, kindness, empathy, and hard work. He served others both at home and around the world his entire life — and he loved doing it. He was always thoughtful and generous with his advice to me. My deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people who are mourning a former President and a lifelong humanitarian. May his selfless service continue to inspire us all for years to come.”
UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres
“President Carter’s leadership contributed significantly to international peace and security, including the landmark Camp David Accords, the SALT II Treaty and the Panama Canal Treaties.
“President Carter’s commitment to international peace and human rights also found full expression after he left the presidency. He played a key role in conflict mediation, election monitoring, the promotion of democracy, and disease prevention and eradication. These and other efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and helped advance the work of the United Nations.
“President Carter will be remembered for his solidarity with the vulnerable, his abiding grace, and his unrelenting faith in the common good and our common humanity.”
Egypt President, Abdel fattah Al-Sisi
“In this moment of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of former American President Jimmy Carter, as well as to the President and the people of the United States of America.
“His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history, and his humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood. His enduring legacy ensures that he will be remembered as one of the world’s most prominent leaders in service to humanity.”
German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz
The United States has “lost a committed fighter for democracy. The world has lost a great mediator for peace in the Middle East and for human rights.”
Hungarian PM, Viktor Orban
“The memory of President Jimmy Carter will always be cherished in Hungary. By returning the Holy Crown to the people of Hungary at the end of the 70’s, he gave freedom-loving Hungarians hope in a hopeless time. I would like to express my deepest condolences to the Carter family and the American people.”
US Secretary General, Anthony Blinken
“Throughout decades of public service, President Carter embodied integrity, compassion, and a commitment to advancing the freedom, security, and welfare of others.
“He channeled that spirit in his foreign policy, from negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to its host nation, to developing arms control agreements with the Soviet Union. And he brought it to his every exchange and conversation, from heads of state to ordinary citizens.
“President Carter also showed us what can be achieved through tireless and principled diplomacy, mediating a landmark deal with Israel and Egypt that helped forge peace between two nations that had spent decades at war. His efforts are an important reminder of what’s possible, especially amidst renewed conflict and suffering in the region.”
British PM, Keir Starmer
“I was very sorry to hear of President Carter’s passing and I would like to pay tribute to his decades of selfless public service.
“His presidency will be remembered for the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and it was that lifelong dedication to peace that saw him receive the Nobel Peace prize.
“Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad.”
Panama’s President, Jose Raul Mulino
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“I offer my condolences to the family and to the people and Government of the United States on the death of former President Jimmy Carter. His stint in the White House was marked by difficult times, and were crucial for Panama in negotiating and signing the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977, which transferred the (Panama) Canal into Panamanian hands and made our country truly sovereign. May his soul rest in peace.”
Venezulan President, Nicolas Maduro
“The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela regrets the death of former President of the United States of America, Jimmy Carter, and extends its most sincere condolences to his family and friends.
“Former President Carter was a man of proven commitment to peace and dialogue. His contributions to global politics and his dedication to peace have left an indelible mark on the world.”
French President, Emmanuel Macron
“Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people.”
Australian PM, Anthony Albanese
“President Carter rose from humble beginnings to leave a remarkable legacy. Beyond being elected to the Presidency or being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Jimmy Carter’s legacy is best measured in lives changed, saved and uplifted.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
“We express our heartfelt condolences to the American people and to the family of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter on his passing. He was a leader who served during a time when Ukraine was not yet independent, yet his heart stood firmly with us in our ongoing fight for freedom.
“He devoted his life to promoting peace in the world and defending human rights. Today, let us remember: peace matters, and the world must remain united in standing against those who threaten these values.”
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel
“Condolences to the people and the government of the U.S., and especially the family of President James Carter. Our people remember with gratitude his efforts to better relations, his visits to #Cuba and his speaking out in favour of the release of the Five.”
Japanese PM, Shigeru Ishiba
“I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the 39th US President, Jimmy Carter. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family, as well as to the Government and the people of the United States. President Jimmy Carter achieved historic accomplishments through his tireless efforts not only during his presidency but throughout his life in peace diplomacy, for which he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. I renew my deep respect for President Carter, who contributed significantly to strengthening the amicable Japan-US relations and to maintaining peace and stability in the international community.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I offer my heartfelt prayers for the repose of the soul of President Jimmy Carter.”
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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Good News: Another petroleum refinery begins operations in Nigeria
The Warri Refining & Petrochemicals Company (WRPC) in Delta State has resumed full operations, producing 125,000 barrels per day.
The announcement was made by Mele Kyari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), during a tour of the facility on Monday, December 30.
Despite being in the final stages of its upgrade, the plant is now operational.
Kyari pointed out that many people doubted the project’s feasibility, but the plant’s functionality proves its success.
The tour included Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The facility, located in Ekpan, Uwvie, and Ubeji, Warri, produces 13,000 tons of polypropylene and 18,000 tons of carbon black annually.
WRPC, commissioned in 1978, serves the southern and southwestern regions of Nigeria.
This development follows the recent commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery and Dangote Refinery.
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Jimmy Carter: READ About Life and Times of Former US President
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter died at his home in Plains, Georgia on Sunday aged 100.
His death comes more than a year after the former president entered hospice care.
He was the lone presidential centenarian.
Carter’s life before, during and after his presidency was marked by significant accomplishments.
Here’s what to know about the former US President;
1. James Earl Carter Jr. was born October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, the son of James Sr. and Lillian Gordy Carter.
2. Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1946.
3. On July 1946, Carter married Rosalynn Smith, in Plains. They have four children, John William (“Jack”), born 1947; James Earl 3rd (“Chip”), 1950; Donnel Jeffrey (Jeff), 1952; and Amy Lynn, 1967.
4. Carter served in a Navy nuclear submarine program between 1946 to 1953, attaining the rank of lieutenant commander.
5. Between 1953 to 1971, Carter helped run the family peanut farm and warehouse business.
6. He served in the Georgia State Senate between 1963 to 1966.
7. In 1966, Carter tried unsuccessfully for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.
8. In November 1970, He was elected governor of Georgia and served between 1971 to 1975.
9. Carter defeated President Gerald R. Ford, winning 51% of the vote and 297 electoral votes to Ford’s 240 in November 1976.
10. In January 1977, Carter was sworn in as the 39th president of the United States. On his first full day in office, he pardons most Vietnam-era draft evaders.
11. Carter was denied a second term by Ronald Reagan, who won 51.6% of the popular vote to 41.7% for Carter and 6.7% for independent John Anderson on November 4, 1980.
12. In 1982, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter co-founded The Carter Center in Atlanta, whose mission is to resolve conflicts, protect human rights and prevent disease around the world.
13. In June 1994, he played a key role in North Korea’s nuclear disarmament talks.
14. Carter led a delegation to Haiti, arranging terms to avoid a U.S. invasion and return President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to power in September 1994.
15. In December 1994, Carter negotiated a tentative cease-fire in Bosnia, and in March 1995, he mediated a cease-fire in Sudan’s war with southern rebels.
16. Carter received the U.N. Human Rights Prize on the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in December 1998.
17. In August 1999, President Bill Clinton awarded Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter the Presidential Medally of Freedom.
18. Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development” in December 10, 2002.
19. He joined ‘The Elders’, a group of international leaders brought together by Nelson Mandela to focus on global issues in July 2007.
20. In December 2014, he was nominated for a Grammy in the best spoken word album category, for his book “A Call To Action.”
21. In Spring 2018, Carter published “Faith: A Journey for All,” the last of 32 books.
22. On March 22, 2019, Carter became the longest-lived U.S. president, surpassing President George H.W. Bush, who died in 2018.
23. October 1, 2024, he became the first former U.S. president to reach 100 years of age, celebrating at home with extended family and close friends.
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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