Author: Platform Times Newspaper

In a significant development, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully negotiated a reduction in charges for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage with the Saudi Arabian Government. The Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, revealed in a statement on Thursday that these reductions encompass airfare, accommodation, and Masha’ir packages.  NAHCON Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, and his team played a pivotal role in achieving this cost reduction, emphasizing the impact of global economic challenges, particularly the aftermath of the COVID-19 lockdown and the war in Europe, on intending pilgrims from Nigeria. The statement highlighted specific reductions, such…

The trial of the former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, accused of embezzling approximately N109.4 billion in public funds, resumed with Idris claiming that he was deceived by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into self-incrimination. Idris, along with three others, faced a 14-count charge before a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory.  Justice Halilu Yusuf ordered a trial-within-trial to determine the admissibility of extra-judicial statements, with Idris asserting that he made these statements under duress. Lead counsel Chief Chris Uche argued that the EFCC promised immunity from trial if Idris implicated a former Minister of…

In a shocking incident, unidentified gunmen have mercilessly beheaded Inspector Osang, a police officer, in Akwa Ibom State.  The gruesome incident unfolded on Wednesday night as the assailants infiltrated his residence on a pathway connecting Enen Afaha and Afaha Ube, a suburb of Uyo City. The invasion, which occurred at 8:30p.m., witnessed the assailants entering Osang’s compound, firing shots randomly to instill fear among residents and bystanders, according to sources from the community. Regrettably, this marks the third reported killing in the area in January alone.  Prior incidents include the beheading of a woman near the banking layout in Uyo…

Mani Abubakar, a Christian residing in Katsina State, northwest Nigeria, has sought refuge as tensions escalate over a Facebook post deemed blasphemous.  The Babaruga area of the state witnessed the aftermath as an angry mob destroyed Abubakar’s house and car. Abubakar, whose current whereabouts are unknown, ignited controversy with a Hausa-language Facebook post questioning Islam and describing Prophet Mohammed as false.  In his post, he asserted, “The moment I discovered Islam was false, I held onto Jesus with the whole of my heart,” challenging the authenticity of the Quran and accusing individuals of plagiarizing the Bible. The Christian Association of…

In a move aimed at salvaging the depreciating value of the naira, President Bola Tinubu’s government has instructed the closure of Bureau De Change (BDC) centers in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. The government reportedly engaged the Department of State Services (DSS) to enforce the shutdown, emphasizing the need to restore stability to the naira and protect its reputation. As a consequence, the DSS has taken control of the market, reflecting the government’s urgent efforts to address the currency crisis and mitigate potential embarrassment. On Tuesday, FMDQ Exchange data revealed a record low for the naira against the dollar on…

In a distressing incident, bandits have seized control of seven residents from Kuduru, a nearby community of Bwari Area Council in Abuja, demanding a staggering N290 million in ransom for their release.  The victims, which include a pregnant woman, three children, and four adults, have endured captivity for one month and four days since their abduction on January 28 in the Kuduru extension. A community leader, opting for anonymity, revealed that the bandits have issued a grave ultimatum, threatening to take the lives of two hostages if the N290 million is not promptly paid.  The abductors have extended their demands…

In a recent development, the Kano State Hisbah Board revealed that all its bank accounts have been frozen following a lawsuit filed by hotel owners within the state.  Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, the Commander General of Hisbah, confirmed this development to TRT Afrika Hausa on Wednesday. Several months ago, Hisbah operatives stirred controversy when they conducted raids on hotels and entertainment venues in Kano.  These incidents have now led to legal repercussions for the religious police force. Confirming the freezing of accounts, Daurawa stated, “Yes, it is true that all of our bank accounts have been frozen.  I have sent…

A  Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Kano, on Thursday, ordered the remand of  Aliyu Yakubu, 24, and Aisha Sani,19, at the Correctional Center for alleged adultery. The duo, who reside at  Sauna Quarters Kano and Hotoro Yandodo Quarters Kano, are being charged with criminal conspiracy and adultery. The Prosecutor, Miss Khadija Aliyu, told the court that the defendants committed the offence sometime in 2023, at Hotoro Quarters Kano. She alleged that the defendants conspired among themselves, got engaged in unlawful sexual intercourse with the female victim who became pregnant and was delivered of a baby boy. According to the prosecutor,…

In a resounding call for increased focus on African Studies, distinguished scholars in the field of decolonial studies have emphasized the need for substantial investments in understanding the rich tapestry of Africa’s history, demography, culture, politics, economy, languages, and religion.  This advocacy gained momentum during the latest edition of the Toyin Falola Interview Series, a globally watched event with a viewership exceeding 3 million. Led by Professor Toyin Falola, the panel included eminent figures such as Professor Nelson Maldonado-Torres, Professor Walter D. Mignolo, Professor Shose Kessi, Professor Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni, Professor Julia Suarez-Krabbe, and Oyeronke Oyewumi.  Their discussions delved into…

Narrates How 30 Victims Were Kept For Ritualists Daud Olatunji In a gripping narrative of courage and resilience, Eniola Popoola, fondly known as Iya Oyo, shares her harrowing experience of escaping a kidnapping incident on the Oyo-Iseyin road. The middle-aged rice trader, determined to overcome adversity, takes us through the twists and turns of her ordeal, highlighting the strength of the human spirit. Eniola’s journey began on March 5, 2023, during a challenging no-cash period. Faced with the rejection of old currency notes in Oyo state, she ventured to Iseyin to purchase rice for her business. Little did she know…