ADHA INVESTIGATES ROYAL FATHER OVER ILLEGAL DISPOSAL OF PUBLIC PROPERTY

Adamawa state House of Assembly Standing Committee on Public Petition, Public Service and Electoral Matters has commenced investigation into the alleged sales of public property by the District Head of Uba in Hong Local Government Area, Ardo Umar Yahaya Njidda.

The action of the Committee followed a petition dated 20th November, 2019, forwarded to the House of Assembly by one Mohammed Abubakar Aliyu, a concern citizen in Uba against the District Head.

Mohammed alleged in his petition that the District Head illegally sold the house which earlier belonged to the Headmaster of Uba Central Primary School on the 13th March, 2017 without the knowledge of the Local Government Education Authority and squandered the money.

He also told the House of Assembly in his petition that the embattled royal father illegally disposed the house of Late Bobboi Savanna which belonged to his children and that efforts to recover the property proved abortive.

According Mohammed, the District Head does not stay in his domain so as to attend to the needs of his subjects, and appealed to the house to investigate the allegations and take proper action against what he described as unethical and unwholesome behaviour of the royal father.

To ensure justice on the matter, the House of Assembly had during its resumed plenary session on Tuesday 26th November, 2019 and presided by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, directed the committee to investigate the allegations and report back to the Committee of whole.

In compliance with the directives, the committee under the leadership of Hon. Adwawa Donglock( Guyuk) stormed Uba community Yesterday where it commenced investigation into the matter as detailed by the hallowed chamber.

The Chairman of the Committee along side  members representing Yola North and Mayo Belwa constituencies, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki and Hon. Ibrahim Musa Italiya respectively were received at Unguwan Sarki by the Zonal Supervisor on Education, Uba Area, present and former Headmasters of Uba Central Primary School, former Ward Head, Tittle Holders, residents and other concern citizens.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Donglock told them that they were mandated by the house to come and investigate the alleged illegal sales of the public property as contained in a petition filed by the concern citizen.

Hon. Donglock assured them that the Committee will be fair and just to those affected while carrying out its assignment, urging them to live in peace and harmony and wait for the outcome of their findings.

Also speaking, the Member of the Committee, Hon. Ibrahim Musa Italiya said that they came to community to rectify what went wrong and not to witch hunt anybody, and urged them to furnish them with correct information on the issue at stake.

While briefing the Committee, the Headmaster of Uba Central Primary School, Bitrus Ishaku told the members that the school was established in 1944, and that the house in question and the school were built at the same time in 1944 by the government as residence of Headmaster.

Ishaya disclosed that the school had 25 Headmasters and that most of them stayed in the house before retirement or transfer, saying that it was Uba Central Primary School that owns the place.

Also speaking, the Zonal Supervisor on Education, Uba Area, Musa Umar stated that he was enrolled into Uba primary school in 1974, saying that place belongs to the school because according to him upon his enrollment, he met one Headmaster, Bawa Bello occupying the house.

On his part, the Chairman School Base Management Committee (SBMC), and erstwhile Headmaster of the school from 2008 to 2013, Isa Galadima pointed out that on the 13th March, 2017, he received a text Message on his mobile phone informing him that the place had been disposed, and warned the school to keep off.

He said that since then, nothing has been done about it by the government in spite of their complaint to the Universal Basic Education Board, saying that the house belonged to the school since 1944.

While at the residence of late Bobboi alleged to have been hijacked the royal father, the Committee was told that the house belonged to the family of the deceased whom he left behind.

Likewise, briefing the Committee, the former Ward Head Unguwan Sarki and Sarkin Fada Uba District said that they knew late Bobboi even when he was alive about 70 years ago, as the sole owner of the land which the embattled District Head is now claiming ownership.

More so, when the Committee visited another plot of land within the town, the caretaker of the land, Alh Mutari told the Honourable Members that his master and the immediate past Member of the House, Mohammed Atiku Hayatu bought the land from the authorities of Hong Local Government Council.

ENSURE TOTAL COMPLIANCE WITH LOCKDOWN ORDER, DPOs, AREA COMMANDERS TOLD

Determined to ensure total compliance with lockdown order imposed in Adamawa by the State Government, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Madaki Audu has directed the Divisional Police Officers(DPOs) and Area Commanders to enforce the lockdown order throughout the state.

Recall that in its efforts to stem the spread of Corona Virus in the state, Governor Ahmadu Umaru had yesterday imposed lockdown in state for 14 days with effect from Tuesday midnight.

But to ensure compliance with the order, the Commissioner of Police directed his officers to enforce the order with a view to aid the government in containing / preventing the spread of the deadly disease.

A statement signed by the spokesman of the Command, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje and made available to NEWS PLATFORM this evening, urged them to ensure that all legitimate orders given in pursuant to the containment efforts by the government are strictly enforced within their areas of jurisdiction.

 CP Madaki called on the officers to observe personal safety measures, further directed the Area commanders and DPOs to ensure interstate travel restrictions and international borders with Cameroon remain closed.

He further appealed to tricyclists, taxis and bus operators within the state to obey law and order, explaining that only ambulances, fire fighters and security vehicles, filling stations and Banks are allowed to render skeletal services.

He advised the citizens to avoid social activities such as clubbing, joints, social gathering and markets squares with the exception of food and water vendors.

However, ordered for the immediate deployment of  task force team to ensure compliance and enforcement, saying that the order has exempted those on essential services such as Medical Personnel, Firefighters, Journalists on official duties.

SENSITISATION TRAINING FOR JOURNALISTS COVERING COVID-19 OPENS IN YOLA

Media Sensitisation Training on covering, reporting and programming on the killer Corona Virus for journalists in Adamawa State has just been declared opened in Yola, the Adamawa state capital.

The training, according to the organisers is primarily designed to equip journalists in Adamawa with the requisite knowledge on how to stay safe while reporting the disease.

Likewise, according to the organisers, the event is meant to engage the participants to take a responsibility of being a core component of Covid-19 intervention, as well as emphasise on the need for journalists to pass information accurately to the general public.

Organised by Journalists Against Polio( JAP) and Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPD) in conjunction with Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency(ADSPHCDA) and United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund(UNICEF) and hosted by Covid - 19 Media Sensitisation Training on Covering, Reporting and Programme on Covid -19.

Taking place at the Banquet Hall Government House, Yola, the event attracted cream of Journalists in and around the state from the print, online, radio and television.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman Covid 19 Containment Committee and Secretary to the State Government(SSG), Eng Bashir Ahmad commended the organisers of the event.

The SSG who was represented at the event by the Commissioner Ministry of Health, Professor Abdullahi Isa said that the state has taken the challenge fully and wholeheartedly and striving hard to contain it in the event it is reported in the state.

On his part, the Commissioner Ministry of Information and Strategy, Dr. Umar Garba Pella said that the engagement is very significant considering the scourge that is confronting the world.

Dr. Garba Pella told the gathering the society has a war to fight; hence the need to have right weapons to effectively confront the war, stressing the need for partnership in order to fight it.

Baring her mind, the Executive Chairman Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Batulu Ahmed said that the engagement is targeted at educating media workers on the right information to disseminate to the public without causing panic or stigmatisation.

FINTIRI ORDERS LOCKDOWN OF ADAMAWA AS COVID - 19 SPREADS

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa
State

As a drastic measure to stem the spread of Corona Virus in Adamawa state, Governor Ahmadu Umaru has just imposed lockdown in state for 14 days.

According to Fintiri, the lockdown which will cover the entire will start from Tuesday midnight, 30th March, 2020.

He said that the action is painful, but it has become  necessary to save lives of the citizens from the dreaded Corona Virus.

A statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou and made available to newsmen today, said that inter state travel restriction is also imposed as inter state and international borders with Cameroon are to remain shut during this period.

The statement also banned the use of tricycle, taxis and bus operators throughout the State.

"Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri regretted that the directives to workers on grade levels 1-14 to stay at home was not adhered to in the first instance, and therefore Government is left with no option than to impose the lockdown in the overall interest of the people as Covid-19 continues to spread with 111 reported cases in Nigeria so far".

“Social Activities such as Clubbing and Joints are banned, Markets are also hereby restricted, except for those selling food items, Pharmaceuticals, Filling Stations, while Banks are to provide skeletal services”. 

He went further to say that interstate transportation into and out of the state will be suspended except vehicles carrying food items, medical, pharmaceutical and petroleum products.

The Governor however emphasised on the need to ensure basic hygiene practices of hand washing, social distancing and avoiding crowded places.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri said the measures are aimed at stemming the spread of a Corona Virus outbreak that has negatively affected the economy; threatened to overwhelm public health care, and killed more people than any other disease.

FINTIRI SHUTS DOWN ADAMAWA OVER COVID - 19

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State

As a drastic measure to stem the spread of Corona Virus in Adamawa state, Governor Ahmadu Umaru has just imposed lockdown in Adamawa state for 14 days.

According to Fintiri, the lockdown which will cover the entire will start from Tuesday midnight, 30th March, 2020.

He said that the action is painful, but it has become  necessary to save lives of the citizens from the dreaded Corona Virus.

A statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou and made available to newsmen in Yola today, said that inter state travel restriction is also imposed as inter state and international borders with Cameroon are to remain shut during this period.

The statement also banned the use of tricycle, taxis and bus operators throughout the State.

"Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri regretted that the directives to workers on grade levels 1-14 to stay at home was not adhered to in the first instance, and therefore Government is left with no option than to impose the lockdown in the overall interest of the people as Covid-19 continues to spread with 111 reported cases in Nigeria so far".

“Social Activities such as Clubbing and Joints are banned, Markets are also hereby restricted, except for those selling food items, Pharmaceuticals, Filling Stations, while Banks are to provide skeletal services”. 

He went further to say that interstate transportation into and out of the state will be suspended except vehicles carrying food items, medical, pharmaceutical and petroleum products.

The Governor however emphasised on the need to ensure basic hygiene practices of hand washing, social distancing and avoiding crowded places.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri said the measures are aimed at stemming the spread of a Corona Virus outbreak that has negatively affected the economy; threatened to overwhelm public health care, and killed more people than any other disease.

ADAMAWA NUJ SUSPENDS ACTIVITIES OVER COVID -19

In compliance with the directives of its National Secretariat, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Adamawa State Council has suspended its major activities that may attract large gathering as part of preventative measures against the spread of Corona virus in the state.

A statement signed both the Chairman and Secretary of the union, Comrade Ishaka Donald Dedan and Fidelis Jackthan and made available to NEWS PLATFORM today, said that the resolution to suspend activities was adopted during its emergency meeting on Thursday.

The statement implored members of the union to be cautious while covering events, during interviews and investigative reporting by observing social distancing, using facemasks and sanitizers as prescribed in the safety tips against COVID-19.

The leadership of the union equally urged its members to exhibit high sense of discipline and professionalism as well as jettison speculations on any matter that concerns the present situation, and make use of information emanating from the Mitigation Committee constituted by Adamawa State Government.

As critical stakeholders in Adamawa project, the NUJ pledged to collaborate with the 10-Man Committee headed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr.Bashir Ahmed in updating citizens as well as embarking on aggressive public enlightenment campaigns against the pandemic.

However, the leadership of the union applauded the pragmatic steps taken by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri in curbing the spread of Corona virus in Adamawa State by providing a standard quarantine centre at Yola Specialist in case of any eventuality.

It further commended the media organisations in the state for the measures put in place towards safeguarding members and creating awareness on the pandemic.

HOUSE AD HOC CMTE FUSES WITH FINTIRI's COMMITTEE ON COVID-19

Adamawa state House of Assembly Ad Hoc Committee on Corona Virus has joined forces with the State Government's Covid-19 Containment Committee as part of efforts to reinforce government commitment in containing Covid-19 pandemic.

While the House of Assembly Ad Hoc Committee is headed by the Chairman House Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki(Yola North), the State Government's Committee is chaired by the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Eng. Bashir Ahmad.

It could be recalled that the House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas had on Wednesday set up the Committee, and directed it to liaise with the state government's committee so as to control, prevent and contain the spread of the dreaded COVID -19.

The committees which met for the first time in the office of the SSG Yesterday, fused for the purpose of reinforcing government's commitment in fighting the pandemic in case it comes to Adamawa.

Speaking while leading the Assembly's Ad Hoc Committee, the Vice Chairman of Committee and former Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa said he was directed by the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki (Yola North) to come and introduce the membership of Committee.

Rt. Hon. Mijinyawa who represents Yola South constituency said that the speaker of the house had constituted the 7- Member Committee with clear cut terms of reference to liaising with the State Government's Committee so as to contain the pandemic that is currently affecting the world.

He added that the House Committee is slso expected to monitor the activities of the State Governments' Committee and be briefing the House of Assembly correspondents on unfolding events on regular basis.

According to him, the Ad Hoc Committee is equally expected to report to the committee of whole on the measures so far adopted by the executive arm and how it is planning to execute them in an event there is a reported case in Adamawa.

Responding, the Chairman Covid -19 Containment Committee who is also the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Eng. Bashir Ahmad appreciated the steps taken by the legislative arm in that direction, explaining that his Committee was inaugurated by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to contain the disease.

Eng. Bashir said that his Committee is expected to prepare the state and get ready on how to manage the pandemic if it is recorded in the state, stating that it is also to come up with strategies as well as advise government on how to handle it.

At the moment, according to him there is no case of the dreaded disease in the state, and that already the State Government had commissioned an Isolation Centre at the Specialist Hospital in Yola in readiness should in case they have a patient.

The Chairman disclosed that apart from the main Committee, there is sub Committee which comprises of technocrats such as doctors and nurses.

He told the members that his Committee had identified facilities needed for supply so as to equip the Centre, and that what they needed most are personal preventive equipment and ventilators.

He added that they have been carrying out enlightenment campaigns on safety measures such social distancing, hand washing, social gathering, personal hygiene and sponsoring jingles and other educative programs on radio and television among others.

BILL TO REGULATE HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN ADAMAWA REACHES FINAL STAGE

Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki (Yola North), Chairman House Cmte on Health ADHA

A bill for a law to regulate the minimum standard of health care facilities in Adamawa state has reached a final stage at the state House of Assembly, Yola.

This followed the adoption of the report of the House Standing Committee on Health and Human Services as presented by its Chairman, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki( Yola North).

With the adoption of the report of Hon. Lekki's committee, the bill is now on the final stage of becoming a law that will regulate the minimum standard of health care facilities required in both public and private health institutions.

The adoption of the report followed the consideration of the report by state Legislators as presented by the committee at Wednesday's resumed plenary session presided by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas.

According to the report, if the bill is finally passed and assented to by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri will ensure that all health facilities meet the requirement of International Health Standard in terms of equipment, structures, manpower as well as services.

The committee however recommended for the establishment of Quality Assurance Department in the Ministry of Health with a mandate to supervise and enforce the provisions of the law towards ensuring the maintenance of standard in all health institutions around the state.

At the moment, according to the Honourable Committee there is no any provision of law or rule that guides the existing unit in the ministry of health towards ensuring compliance with the minimum standard of health care facilities required.

The report stressed the need for the upgrading of the unit to a directorate with enabling powers to enforce the compliance with the standard practice required in the health care sector so as to meet the health needs of the citizens.

The Quality Assurance Department according to the Honourable Committee, shall undertake assessment of health facilities at least twice every year, saying that where a health care facilities is marked unfit and the operator failed to remedy the problem within 3 months, his license shall be withdrawn.

Anyone found to be operating health care facility without a license or after his license is withdrawn, shall be liable to a term of two years imprisonment or a fine of #1million.

It lamented that lack of clear cut provisions of law on a minimum standard facilities required for the establishment and maintenance of healthcare centre has seriously affected the provision of quality health care delivery service in the state.

The committee assured the honourable house that if the bill is finally enacted will contribute immediately in the maintenance of standard practice, and urged the house to passed the bill.

After the consideration and adoption of the report, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas who presided over the sitting directed the Chairman Committee on Rules and Business of the house to slate the bill for third reading.

MAN JAILED FOR 6 YEARS FOR KILLING FRIEND OVER #50 HARPS DEAL IN ADAMAWA

A business deal for supply of harps which suddenly turned sour between 2 friends in Bazza town, Michika Local Government Area in Adamawa state which led to the death of the benefactor of the business, Yusuf Zira has landed his friend, Hamidu Abdullahi to 6 years imprisonment without option of fine.

The convict, Hamidu Abdullahi and the deceased, Yusuf Zira struck a business deal for the supply of traditional harps with the Late promising to pay the convict the sum of fifty (#50) only after the supply.

As agreed, Hamidu went and plucked the traditional medicine, but unfortunately not all the needed harps were gotten as result of which the deceased paid Twenty (#20) only out of the agreed amount.

Unfortunately, the action of the deceased did not go down well with the convict who started to quarrel with the Late, demanding the balance of Thirty (#30) to complete the agreed amount.

In a bid to douse the tension mounted over #50, an eyewitness, John Tumba who testified in court as prosecution witness 1, decided to give the convict the money, but even after the kind gesture by Tumba, the convict continued to fight the deceased.

Still, an eyewitness by name Hannatu Patrick quickly intervened by giving the convict another #50, but to no avail as he went on fighting Zira during which he hit the deceased with a stick which led to his untimely death.

Hamidu who committed the offence on the 16th March, 2016 in Bazza town, had earlier pleaded not guilty to the offence as charged when he was arraigned before Honourable Justice Abdul-Aziz Waziri led State High Court, Yola.

To prove its case against the then defendant and now convict, the prosecution assembled 3 witnesses who confirmed to the court that it was Hamidu that caused the death of Zira where he hit him with a stick which led to his death due to injuries inflicted on him.

More so, the prosecution tendered the confessional statement of the defendant which could not be objected by the counsel to defendant, F. A. Ogbe.

Delivering its judgement on the matter at a resumed proceedings of the court Tuesday, Justice Abdul -Aiz Waziri said that the prosecution has proved beyond reasonable doubt the one count charge against the defendant who was convicted as charged.

He therefore sent him to 6 years in prison without an option of fine, saying that the jail term will start counting firm the day he was arrested on 16th March, 2016.

Before handing down the conviction, Counsel to the defendant, F. A. Ogbe pleaded with the court temper justice with mercy, as he ( the defendant has a family to cater and, the fact that he was a first offender.

On his part, counsel to the state, Hayatu Abdulmalik said that nothing is known about him.

ADHA MOVES AGAINST COVID-19, CONSTITUTES AD HOC CMTE

Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, Speaker ADHA

As dreaded Corona Virus continues to wrecked havoc on humanity globally, the Adamawa state House of Assembly has adopted steps towards complementing state Government's efforts towards the containment of the killer disease.

To achieve this, the House of Assembly went ahead and constituted Ad Hoc Committee to liaise with that of the State Government so as to contain COVID -19 Pandemic.

It could be recalled that Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri led administration on its part had constituted State Covid -19 Containment Committee under the leadership of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mallam Bashir Ahmad.

The House of Assembly Ad Hoc Committee as detailed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas during Tuesday's plenary session is expected to liaise the state government's committee so as to control, prevent and contain the spread of the dreaded COVID -19 to Adamawa.

Announcing the composition of the committee while presiding over the resumed plenary session, the Speaker said that the House Ad Hoc Committee is to be headed by the Chairman House Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, Hon. Hamidu Sajoh Lekki (Yola North), while the Chairman House Committee on Environment, Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa is to serve as vice Chairman.

Other membership of the committee according to the Speaker are the Chairmen House Committee on Security, Planning Commission, Youth and Sports, Education and Tertiary institutions and Women Affairs and Social development.

He urged on the committee to work hand in hand with that of the state to control or prevent the spread of the Corina Virus to Adamawa state, and wished them success in their assignment.

Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas said that the committee is responsible for briefing the House of Assembly Correspondents on regular basis on containment measures and unfolding development.

In the same vein, the Legislators at the hallowed chamber have read a bill for a law to amend Adamawa State University (ADSU), Mubi Law 2001 to conform and comply with the Nigerian Universities Commission's guidelines with regards to the retirement Age of Academic and Non Academic Staff for the first time.

The first reading of the bill followed a motion to that effect by the Sponsor of the bill and Chairman House Standing Committee on Education, Hon. Bathiya Wesley (Hong Constituency).

After the first reading of the bill, the Speaker, Rt. Hon.  Aminu Iya Abbas who presided over the plenary session, directed the Chairman Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges of the House to schedule the bill for second reading at any convenient legislative day.

HONG LGC CHAIR PLEADS GUILTY FOR VIOLATING LG LAW, BEGS ADHA's FORGIVENESS

Hon. James Pukuma, the Executive Chairman Hong LGC

Executive Chairman Hong Local Government Council, Hon. James Pukuma has admitted to have violated Local Establishment and Administration Law, 2014, and urged the state House of Assembly to forgive him.

Hon. Pukuma admitted to had violated the law upon his appearance before the Adamawa state House of Assembly Joint Ad Hoc Committees constituted by the House with a mandate to investigate allegations levelled against him last week.

The Chairman was said to have violated the law by swearing in the Secretary and Supervisory Councillors newly appointed without confirmation from the legislative council of the LGC.

It was in the light of the foregoing that the House of Assembly presided by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas had las week resolved and summoned the Chairman, Clerk and the Council Members to appear before the Honourable House and explain reasons behind their action.

But upon his appearance before Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda ( Ganye) led Ad Hoc Committee, the Chairman formally tendered his apology to the house for committing the offence and further regretted his action.

Hon Pukuma had while pleading for leniency, assured the Honourable House that he will not commit such mistake again.

But upon considering and adopting the report of Hon. Alhassan led Committee today, the House presided by Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas  directed the Chairman to apologise to Hong Legislative Council and assure the councillors that he will not repeat again.

The Lawmakers further urged the LGC Boss to forward another letter for the same purpose to the councillors for consideration and approval.

The directives followed the consideration and adoption of the the report of the Joint Ad Hc Committees of Legislative Compliance and Special Duties, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Interparliamentary Affairs, Labour and Productivity and that Public Petitions, Public Service and Electoral Matters as submitted by Hon. Alhassan Hammanjida(Ganye).

Earlier, the Chairman had while presenting the report of his committee at the resumed sitting today, told the house that Hon. Pukuma had formally confirmed his sin to the committee and the House entirely.

He said," the council chairman has confirmed to the committee of committing the said offence and pleaded for leniency ".

According to legislators, the appointment and swearing in of the Secretary to the LGC and Supervisory Councillors stands null and void  as it contravenes the provision of the law.

However, the lawmakers asked him to write another letter for the same purpose with the names of the nominees vividly stated for confirmation before swearing in.

After debate on the report, the Speaker Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas directed the clerk of the house to communicate the decisions of the house to those concerned.

COURT CONVICTS EX- SEC CPWB, JINGA MAYO TO 5 YEARS IMPRISONMENT

Bishop Jinga Mayo, Former Executive Secretary CPWB

A Yola High Court presided by Justice Nathan Musa has just sentenced former Executive Secretary Christian Welfare Board(CPWB), Bishop Jinga Mayo to 5 years imprisonment without option of fine.

The court further sentenced Bishop Jinga to 6 months imprisonment with #50,000 option of fine, and said that the jail terms are to run concurrently.

Bishop Jinga was convicted for diverting the whopping sum of #69.189 million out #346.8 million released to the board by the then Governor Muhammad Umar Jibrilla in respect of of 2016 Christian pilgrimage.

The court convicted Bishop Jinga Mayo on count 2and 3, for converting government's money for his personal use, while discharged and acquitted on count 1 for failure of prosecution to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

The convict was earlier charged to court by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for making false return in respect to finances, conferring of corrupt advantage upon himself and making false statement to the officer of the ICPC.

The convict who was the Executive Secretary of the board, diverted the money which was meant to settle the entailments of the committee members for the exercise to his private pocket.

Bishop Jinga earlier told the court that he had used the money in sponsoring Agricultural Training Programme organised for Christian Pilgrims in Israel but could not tender any evidence to that effect.

Delivering its judgement on the matter, the court presided by Justice Nathan Musa sentenced Bishop Jinga to 5 years imprisonment on count 2 and 3, and while discharged and acquitted him on count 1.

More details later...

COVID- 19: ADAMAWA CP WARNS OFFICERS AGAINST UNNECESSARY ARREST, DETENTION OF SUSPECTS

Following the growing cases of coronavirus around the world, the Adamawa State Police Command has warned its Officers against unnecessary arrest and detention of suspects.

The command further directed its Officers to ensure the enforcement of social restriction orders imposed by governments at all levels for the containment of the virus in the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Audu A Madaki, gave the warning in a release signed by the Spokesman of the command, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje and made available to NEWS PLATFORM this evening.

 CP Madaki enjoined citizens to voluntarily adhere to the orders, while directing all Divisional Police Officers, and Supervising Area Commanders to ensure that all legitimate orders given in pursuant to the containment efforts by the Government are strictly enforced within their areas of jurisdiction.

He urged Officers to observe personal safety measures, and further directed Area Commanders and DPOs to ensure that cases of unnecessary arrests and detention of suspects are not condoned.

According to him, the detention of suspects must be reduced to the barest minimum except very serious cases such as terrorism, armed robbery, homicide and other non bailable offences.

 The CP further directed that adequate measures be put in place to screen suspects before committing them into police custody, urging citizens to avoid social visits to police stations and other police offices and minimize official visits, except where necessary.

 Likewise, in compliance with the state government’s directives for the closure of schools in the state, CP Madaki ordered for the immediate closure of all Police Primary and Secondary Schools in the state.

CP Audu A. Madaki stated that the Police Medical Services have been directed to step up sensitization programmes across Formations and Barracks in the Command.

ADHA EX-SPEAKER COMPLEMENTS FINTIRI's EFFORT IN EDUCATION SECTOR

Rt. Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa(Yola south), former Speaker ADHA

As part of efforts towards complementing Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri's commitment to promoting the standard of education in the state, the former Speaker Adamawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa has renovated blocks of classrooms and office in Damare Nursery and Primary School, Yola Town.

According to the former speaker and current member representing Yola south constituency, his decision to renovate the school was aimed at complementing Gov Fintiri led administration's in effort most especially in the area of education.

The legislator said the condition of some public schools in his constituency was worrisome, hence the need to do his part in renovating some of them.

Speaking while commissioning the blocks of classroom, the former speaker said that the renovation was part of the promises he made to the people of his constituency, while canvassing for their votes during 2019 electioneering campaigns, pledging to lobby for more developmental projects in his constituency.

He said his concern is to ensure that people of his constituency reap more dividends of democracy through people oriented projects.

He commended Governor Fintiri's effort in repositioning schools in Adamawa state, and promised that he would continue to support education to ensure that students study in a conducive atmosphere.

In his remark the Chairman Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Rodney Nathan represented by comrade Faisal Muhammad commended the lawmaker for his contributions towards uplifting the standard of education, urged him to maintained the tempo.

In their separate comments, the Chairman Yola South Local Government Council represented by Councillor representing Makama 'A' katuka Yerima and the district head of Yola Alhaji Muhammad Ahmed Mustapha saluted the Lawmaker for his concern towards ensuring that his constituents reap the dividends of democracy through people oriented programs describing education as the best legacy to leave for children.

IMPEACHED ADAMAWA YOUTH COUNCIL CHAIR, SEC LOSE LEGAL BATTLE AGAINST AJINE, OTHER

Ambassador Ajine Delo, Chairman NYCN Adamawa state chapter

The protracted leadership tussle that rocked Adamawa State Chapter of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) since 2017 has finally been laid to rest by the state Upper Area Court I presided by Magistrate Mohammed Abubakar.

Shortly after its election in 2017, which saw the emergence of new leadership of the council, some key officials of the council including the former Chairman and former Secretary were confronted by series of allegations of gross misconduct, mismanagement and abuse of office.

It was against this backdrop that the former Chairman and Secretary of the council, Halilu Isa and Martin Banga Madanga were removed during an emergency management meeting of the council held on 10th February, 2020 in Yola, the state capital.

The removal of the former Chairman and Secretary respectively followed the adoption of the report of  Disciplinary Committee constituted to look into the series of allegations levelled against the duo.

After adopting the report of the Committee which indicted the suspended Chairman and Secretary, the management of the council went ahead and impeached the duo as earlier recommended by the Committee on ,10th February, 2020.

According to the management, the impeachment became necessary in order to protect and promote the corporate integrity of the council in accordance with article 22.1 and 22.3 of the constitution of the council, as well as in the interest of the Adamawa Youth in general.

To fill the vacuum created following the removal of  Halilu and Martin, the management further resolved and nominated the former Deputy Chairman, Ambassador Ajine Delo and Public Relations Officer (PRO 2) Ibrahim Maisaje who were on acting capacity as Chairman and Secretary to fully assume office as substantive Chairman and Secretary.

Ajine and Maisaje were earlier asked to act as Chairman and Secretary when Halilu and Martin were suspended from office when found wanting, so as to enable the committee constituted to properly investigate number of allegations preferred against them.

The management further directed that its decision of sanitising the council be communicated to the Honourable Commissioner, State Ministry of Youth and Sport Development and other relevant authorities.

Earlier, when Halilu Isa and Martin Banga Madanga and 3 others got wind of moves by the management to decide on their fate at a meeting slated for 10 February, 2020, they quickly approached Upper Area Court I, and sought for exparte order to restrain  Ambassador Ajine and Maisaje from parading themselves as officials of the council in the state.

The embattled Halilu and Madanga obtained the court order and served same to Ajine and other management at 5:15pm after the meeting had been concluded around 2:00pm.

Left with no option, the impeached officials decided to fully engage Ajine's new leadership in legal battle at the Upper Area Court I presided by Magistrate Mohammed Abubakar.

At hearing of the motion challenging the jurisdiction of the court, Counsel to the defendants/applicants, M. M. Tumba raised preliminary objection on grounds that the Honourable Court lacked jurisdiction to hear and determine the suit.

Barr. Tumba added that the objection is on the ground that the internal available administrative remedies have not been exhausted as stipulated in the constitution of NYCN, and urged the court to grant their application by striking out the suit in the interest of justice.

Besides, Barr Tumba told the court that respondents as presented on the face of the suit were not the proper parties in the suit, explaining that NYCN is a body with incorporated trustee status under part C of companies and Allied Matters Act 2014, and therefore possesses power to sue and be sued through its trustees, without aid or representation by individual persons.

Barr. Tumba informed the court that even if the plaintiffs wanted to sue by way of a representative action, they have not fulfilled some requirements of the law in relation to suing by representative action.

On his part, Counsel to the plaintiffs/respondents, J. J. Ako told the court that the application of the defendants was not proper because they had been removed and urged the court to reject it in the interest of justice.

In its ruling, the court presided by Magistrate Mohammed Abubakar struck out the matter for not been proper before the court, saying that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

ADHA DEP SPEAKER FELICITATES WITH FINTIRI OVER LEADERSHIP AWARD

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from different angles for Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the Deputy Speaker Adamawa state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Governor for his emergence as Leadership Governor of the year 2019.

Fintiri was on Thursday bestowed with prestigious award by The Leadership Company Limited, Publishers of Leadership Newspapers, as 2019 Leadership Governor of the year at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

But the Deputy Speaker in his congratulatory message on his behalf and that of Numan constituency, said that the prestigious award presented to Fintiri was in acknowledgement and recognition of his performance within his short period of time in office.

Hon. Mackondo who is also the chairman House Standing Committee on Judiciary told Fintiri that himself and his teeming constituents are proud of him, and urged him to continue to strive hard in order to develop the state for the benefit of all.

The Legislator expressed optimism that the award will spur him to vigorously pursue his vision and mission for the state, and wished him good health, happiness and solomonic wisdom in piloting the affairs of the state.

ADHA DEP SPEAKER FELICITATES WITH FINTIRI OVER LEADERSHIP AWARD

Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo (Numan) ADHA Dep Speaker

As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from different angles for Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the Deputy Speaker Adamawa state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Governor for his emergence as Leadership Governor of the year 2019.

Fintiri was on Thursday bestowed with prestigious award by The Leadership Company Limited, Publishers of Leadership Newspapers, as 2019 Leadership Governor of the year at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

But the Deputy Speaker in his congratulatory message on his behalf and that of Numan constituency, said that the prestigious award presented to Fintiri was in acknowledgement and recognition of his performance within his short period of time in office.

Hon. Mackondo who is also the chairman House Standing Committee on Judiciary told Fintiri that himself and his teeming constitituents are proud of him, and urged him to continue to strive hard in order to develop the state for the benefit of all.

The Legislator expressed optimism that the award will spur him to vigorously pursue his vision and mission for the state, and wished him good health, happiness and solomonic wisdom in piloting the affairs of the state.

COVID -19: SHUTDOWN SCHOOLS AS DIRECTED, NUT BOSS TELLS PRINCIPALS, HEAD TEACHERS

Comrade Rodney Nathan, Chairman NUT Adamawa State

Sequel to circular by Adamawa State Ministry of Education directing for closure of schools in state, the Chairman Nigeria Union Of Teachers (NU) state chapter, Comrade Rodney Nathan has urged on Principals and Head Teachers of both private and public schools to strictly abide by the circular and close down schools as a preventive measure against the disease.

Comrade Rodney further called on the Association of Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPTION) to work towards ensuring strict compliance with the directives.

It could recalled that the ministry in a circular dated 18th March, 2020 and signed by S. Ahmadu for Honourable Commissioner, directed both public and private schools to quickly round up their activities and shut down schools on 27th March, 2020.

A statement issued by the Chairman of the Union in the state, Comrade Rodney Nathan said that the circular by the ministry of education is timely in view of the spread of the disease across the globe which so far affected people across 100 countries around the world.

He further appealed to all teachers to strictly abide by the circular issued by the government directing for the closure of the schools as a preventative measures against the spread of the Corona virus pandemic in the country.

The most worrisome, according to him is the increasing number of contacts in Lagos and its possibility of getting across to the northern part of the country.

In furtherance to proactive measures, he disclosed that the NUT on its part will convene an emergency meeting with all the affiliate unions to take cogent preventative measures against the killer disease.

ADAMAWA HUBBY ENGAGES EX-WIFE, IN LAWS IN LEGAL TUSSLE OVER MARRIAGE EXPENSES

Suspects awaiting bail

A business man identified as Abdu Umar Sanda of Pakin village in Song Local Government Area, Adamawa state has engaged his ex -wife and father in law in a legal tussle over #300, 000 marriage expenses.

Umar Sanda has joined his former wife, Fadimatu Abdulkadir and his father In law, Baba Abdulkadir as1st and 2nd defendants in a suit filed before a Yola Upper Area Court III, presided by Honourable Umar Isa.

The action of the petitioner is coming when the Upper Area Court I had already dissolved the union as sought by Fadimatu based on Khuli on the 18th February, 2020.

The petitioner narrated that he had felt in love with his ex- wife with the knowledge and consent of his father in law for a considerable period of time before their marriage, and that when both of them agreed to marry, he supplied and presented everything required by culture before the marriage.

He added that he presented all the items demanded including dowry to his In laws in the presence of witnesses from both sides.

Few days after the marriage, according to him, his wife started misbehaving to the extend of telling him that she was forced to marry him and not by her will, thereby making things very difficult for them in the house.

His father in law, according to him, promised to intervene with assurance that everything will be normal, saying that later on, the situation deteriorated from bad to worst which made his father In law promising to refund his dowry and other expenses amounting to #300,000.

Umar Sanda asserted that when the situation became unbearable and efforts by his father in law to broker peace failed, the defendants promised to refund #300,000 he expended on his daughter before their marriage, and urged him to calm down and wait for them.

While waiting patiently for the refund of his money from the family, according to him, his former wife went and instituted a suit against at Upper Area Court I demanding formal dissolution of the union base on Khuli, which the court delivered judgement in her favour.

He described the action of his wife and her parents as a deliberate attempt to escape the refund of his money, and vowed to fight towards recovering his money.

It is in light of the above that the petitioner approached Upper Area Court III and sought for an order of the court to compel the defendants to refund him #300, 000 he expended before engaging Fadimatu in marriage.

According to Sanda, his decision to resort to legal action against his former wife and father in law is necessitated by act of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust and cheating contrary to section 60, 302 and 332 of the state Penal Code Law, 2018.

But when the charge was read to the accused persons at the Upper Area Court III presided by Hon. Umar Isa, both of them pleaded not guilty to committing the offence.

However, they pleaded with the court to grant them bail so to enable them go back home and prepare for their defence.

The court presided by Honourable Umar Isa granted bail to the accused and adjourned the matter to 2nd April, 2020 for hearing.

ADAMAWA HUBBY ENGAGES EX-WIFE, IN LAWS IN LEGAL TUSSLE OVER MARRIAGE EXPENSES

Suspects awaiting bail

A business man identified as Abdu Umar Sanda of Pakin village in Song Local Government Area, Adamawa state has engaged his ex -wife and father in law in a legal tussle over #300, 000 marriage expenses.

Umar Sanda has joined his former wife, Fadimatu Abdulkadir and his father In law, Baba Abdulkadir as1st and 2nd defendants in a suit filed before a Yola Upper Area Court III, presided by Honourable Umar Isa.

The action of the petitioner is coming when the Upper Area Court I had already dissolved the union as sought by Fadimatu based on Khuli on the 18th February, 2020.

The petitioner narrated that he had felt in love with his ex- wife with the knowledge and consent of his father in law for a considerable period of time before their marriage, and that when both of them agreed to marry, he supplied and presented everything required by culture before the marriage.

He added that he presented all the items demanded including dowry to his In laws in the presence of witnesses from both sides.

Few days after the marriage, according to him, his wife started misbehaving to the extend of telling him that she was forced to marry him and not by her will, thereby making things very difficult for them in the house.

His father in law, according to him, promised to intervene with assurance that everything will be normal, saying that later on, the situation deteriorated from bad to worst which made his father In law promising to refund his dowry and other expenses amounting to #300,000.

Umar Sanda asserted that when the situation became unbearable and efforts by his father in law to broker peace failed, the defendants promised to refund #300,000 he expended on his daughter before their marriage, and urged him to calm down and wait for them.

While waiting patiently for the refund of his money from the family, according to him, his former wife went and instituted a suit against at Upper Area Court I demanding formal dissolution of the union base on Khuli, which the court delivered judgement in her favour.

He described the action of his wife and her parents as a deliberate attempt to escape the refund of his money, and vowed to fight towards recovering his money.

It is in light of the above that the petitioner approached Upper Area Court III and sought for an order of the court to compel the defendants to refund him #300, 000 he expended before engaging Fadimatu in marriage.

According to Sanda, his decision to resort to legal action against his former wife and father in law is necessitated by act of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust and cheating contrary to section 60, 302 and 332 of the state Penal Code Law, 2018.

But when the charge was read to the accused persons at the Upper Area Court III presided by Hon. Umar Isa, both of them pleaded not guilty to committing the offence.

However, they pleaded with the court to grant them bail so to enable them go back home and prepare for their defence.

The court presided by Honourable Umar Isa granted bail to the accused and adjourned the matter to 2nd April, 2020 for hearing.

JIMETA CRYING INMATE: NUMBER OF WITNESSES STALLS SPEEDY TRIAL- RECORDS

Emerging facts surrounding the case of a Jimeta Prison Inmate who broke into tears in the court hall in Yola, Adamawa state for a prolonged detention on awaiting trial, indicate that his continued detention was caused by the number of prosecution witnesses lined up to testify in court.

It could be recalled that a 21 year old Jimeta Prison Inmate identified as Auwal Umar of Dogoruwa Village, Balanga Local Government Area in Gombe state had burst into tears at the Upper Area Court I, Yola on Wenesday over what he described as delay of justice.

The Inmate had while crying aloud alleged that he had been arrested for stealing 10 measures of rice, and that when he was taking to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the State Police Command, the police recovered the stolen rice.

He further lamented that he was later arraigned before the court, where he pleaded guilty for the offence, and the court ordered that he should be remanded in prison custody to enable the prosecutor bring witnesses to corroborate with his plea of guilty.

Since then, according to him, he has been into prison custody for over 200 days, and that anytime he appeared in court the matter will be adjourned for another day causing him a lot frustration and pains, and however threatened to embark on hunger strike so as to kill himself.

But according to records emerging from the First Information Report, the suspect, Auwal Umar was arraigned before Upper Area Court I, Yola presided Magistrate Mohammed Buba on the offences of criminal conspiracy, store breaking, theft among others.

According to the records, on 27th May, 2019, one Baba Garba and 11 others of Mbamoi ward, Yola South LGA reported to the police that the suspect was arrested when he broke into the shop of Baba in Yola market where he stole a half bag of parboiled rice.

All the complainants who are traders in Yola market approached the police alleging that the suspect was responsible for various theft in their shops.

In the course of investigation, the accused confessed to had been into the act for long during which he carted away the parboiled rice, locust beans, a bag containing clothes and other items in the market valued at #411,000 contrary to section 337 and 276 of Adamawa state Penal Code Law.

Investigation further revealed that the suspect who broke into the shops of the complainants on different occasions had sold his stolen items to Rita Anayo, Rose Gambo, Chioma Cletus and Justina Samuel within Jimeta.

But at the commencement of hearing the matter at Upper Area Court I, only 5 of complainants so far appeared, leaving 8 which the prosecution is battling to link up with them to come and testify, hence the delay in determining the case of the suspect.

NEWS PLATFORM learnt that the delay in convicting the suspect who had already pleaded guilty is as a result of the number of witnesses that are assembled to testify in court, so as to corroborate with his plea of guilty.

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: HON. NASHON REJOICES WITH FINTIRI, ADAMAWA

Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi, Nassarawo Binyeri Constituency ADHA

Adamawa State House of Assembly Member representing Nassarawo Binyeri constituency, Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi has joined hundreds of citizens within Adamawa and beyond in felicitating with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for the prestigious award of excellence bestowed on him.

Hon. Umar Nashon in a congratulatory message made available to NEWS PLATFORM in Yola, the Adamawa state capital today, rejoiced with the Governor for the honour done to him, saying that the award is not only for the Governor, but the entire state.

The Leadership Company Limited, Publishers of Leadership Newspapers, the company has today presented award of excellence to Governor Fintiri as 2019 Leadership Governor of the Year at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The lawmaker said that the entire electorate in Nassarawo Binyeri constituency are happy with the award presented to Fintiri, and extended their heartfelt congratulations to him and the entire citizens in the state.

Hon. Nashon who is also the Chairman House Standing Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, gave kudos to the ATM Governor for his commitment towards transforming the state, explaining that he was recognised based on his performance and wished him well in his efforts to developing the state.

Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi said that his constituents are solidly behind the president administration, and however pledged the 100 percent support of his teeming electorate to Fintiri.

LEADERSHIP AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: FINTIRI VOWS TO REMAIN UNSHAKABLE

Gov Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri receiving award from ex- Vice President Namadi Sambo

As Leadership Company Limited, Publishers of Leadership Newspapers, bestowed award of excellence on Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa state, the Governor has vowed to remain unshakable in his quest to providing dividends of the democracy to the citizens.

The company has today presented award of excellence to Governor Fintiri as 2019 Leadership Governor of the Year at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Speaking while receiving the award, Governor Fintiri promised to consolidate on the good work his administration has started in its efforts to turning around the fortunes of the state for the better.

The Governor explained that his administration came on board to salvage the people from poverty, unemployment and bad leadership that had turned the state backward and promised to change the scenario.

He enumerated his achievements in the areas of security, free education, infrastructure, health, water supply and restructuring the civil service among others, which according to him, have touched the lives of the people.

However, he thanked the company for identifying his achievements,hence its resolved to honour him, pledging to rededicate himself to the service of the state.

YOLA INMATE BURST INTO TEARS, THREATENS TO KILL SELF OVER DELAY OF JUSTICE

Yola Prison Order trying calm the Inmate at the Court premises today

A Jimeta Prison Inmate identified as Auwal of Dogoruwa Village, Balanga Local Government Area in Gombe state has broken down into tears at the Upper Area Court I, Yola in Adamawa state over what he described as delay of justice.

The Inmate who was brought to court in the early hours of today for prosecution cried profusely, hence attracting sympathizers including legal practitioners who offered to plead with the court to convict him for his offence since he pleaded guilty.

It all started when the accused whose case came up for hearing at today's sitting was told that the Police Officer prosecuting the case was not in court, as he was said to be attending a workshop at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola.

It was as a result of the absence of the prosecutor that the court presided by Magistrate Mohammed Buba, adjourned the matter to 2nd April, 2020 for continuation of hearing.

But upon hearing that the court has adjourned the case to 2nd April, 2020, the suspect broke down into tears, and went out of court hall court crying aloud, attracting the attention of staff, legal practitioners and several other people who sympathised with him.

Auwal had while crying at the court, said he had been arrested at Sokoto street in Yola South LGA for stealing 10 measures of rice, and that when he was taking to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the State Police Command, the police recovered the stolen rice.

He further lamented that he was later arraigned before the court, where he pleaded guilty for the offence, and the court ordered that he should be remanded in prison custody to enable the prosecutor bring witnesses to corroborate with his plea of guilty.

Since then, according to him, he has been into prison custody for over 200 days, and that anytime he appeared in court the matter will be adjourned for another day causing him a lot frustration and pains.

The prison Inmate alleged that they want him to die in prison, and vowed that as from today, he will not put anything into his mouth even if it is water so as to die and rest.

The Prison Order who brought him to court and several other sympathizers tried to calm him, but to no avail and left with no option than to take him back him to prison.

SALES BOY, 1 OTHER GET 18 YEARS JAIL TERM, 24 STROKES OF CANE FOR THEFT IN YOLA

Two middle age men, Buhari Aminu and Bamanga Mohammed have been sentenced to 18 years imprisonment by Upper Area Court III Yola, in Adamawa state for criminal breach of trust,  misappropriation and theft.

The 2 convicts have also been ordered to pay the sum Five Million One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (#5.150million) compensation to one Alhaji Hayatu Bakari, a businessman in Yola South Local Government Area.

The court further ordered that the convicts should be given 12 strokes of cane each at the scene of the crime in Yola South market on Friday being a market day, so as to serve as deterrent to others.

Buhari Aminu, a sales boy and Bamanga Mohammed were charged to court for the offences of criminal breach of trust, theft by servant, criminal misappropriation, and receiving of stolen property contrary to sections 312, 289, 308 and 317 of the Penal Code Law Adamawa state.

Both the convicts who were arraigned before the court by the Commissioner of Police in 2014, pleaded not guilty to all the allegations slammed against them.

Buhari was employed as sales boy in Alhaji Hayatu's shop located in Yola South market, and said to had used the position and kept on diverting Jerry cans of vegetable oil of his employer worth #5.150 million. 

The 1st convict, according to prosecution had been supplying the stolen goods to Bamanga, the 2nd convict for delivery to customers at cheaper rate as against that of the market.

But in a bid to prove its case against the accused persons now convicts, the prosecution called 7 witnesses and tendered 5 exhibits in support of the case.

All the witnesses testified before the court that there were deliveries of the vegetable oil by Bamanga and that the deliveries were on several occasions, confirming that the goods were in large quantities, and that all the jerrycans contained the name of Alhaji Hayatu boldly written on them.

The witnesses admitted before the court that there was transaction between Buhari and Bamanga and was done in the open in Yola market and not hidden, saying it was Bamanga that was supplying the goods he collected from Buhari to customers within Yola town.

The witnesses informed the Honourable Court that the deliveries were carried without receipts, knowledge or consent of the owner of the shop, and that they made use of truck pushers in conveying their stolen goods to their customers.

Delivering its judgement Yesterday, the court presided by Deputy Chief Registrar (DCR), Abbas Adamu Hobon  convicted the duo to 18 years imprisonment with an option of #180,000 fine.

The presiding Judge said that Buhari Aminu has been convicted for 4 years for the offence of criminal breach of trust, 4 years for the theft by servant and 2 years for criminal misappropriation with #100,000 option of fine.

While Bamanga Mohammed according to Abbas is sentenced to 2 years imprisonment for criminal misappropriation and 6 years imprisonment for dishonestly receiving stolen property with #80,000 option of fine.

The presiding judge held that the jail term will run concurrently, and that whoever that is aggrieved can appeal the judgement within 30 days from the day of the verdict, and however ordered that the convicts should pay compensation to the tune of #5.150million.

He further ordered that the convicts be given 12 strokes of cane each at the Shop of Alhaji Hayatu in Yola market on Friday, so as to serve as deterrent to others.

Before they were sentenced, the young men begged for leniency which the court has considered it in passing down the judgement.

I HAVE FORWARDED A LETTER TO COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR CONFIRMATION -HONG LGC BOSS

The Executive Chairman Hong Local Government Council, Hon. James Pukuma says he has forwarded a letter to Hong Legislative Council, seeking for confirmation of newly appointed supervisory councillors.

Hon. Pukuma who along side Legislative Council Members appeared before Adamawa House of Assembly Ad Hoc Committee headed by Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda(Ganye) Tuesday, had a closed door meeting with the state Lawmakers.

It could be recalled that the state Legislators during Monday plenary session summoned the Chairman, the Clerk and the Council Members to appear before the house and explain reasons behind swearing in the Secretary to the LGC and Supervisory Councillors without following due process.

Hon. Pukuma was alleged to have breached the Local Government Establishment and Administration Law, 2004, by swearing in the newly appointed Supervisory Councillors without the confirmation of the LG Legislative Council.

In a chat with newsmen shortly after the meeting, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda(Ganye) said that the Comittee members had interacted with the Chairman and Council Members, and that the Committee will make recommendations to the House.

He stated that the house mandated the Committee to investigate the issue, and said that they will forward their findings and recommendations to the Committee of whole for consideration.

But fielding questions from newsmen shortly after the meeting at the House of Assembly's complex, Hon. Pukuma said that he had forwarded his request for confirmation of those appointed, and declined to answer any other question put to him.

On his part, the Leader of the Council, Hon. Auwal Buba, Kwarhi ward said that they had a fruitful discussion with the state Lawmakers and does not want to preempt the report of the committee.

He told newsmen that the matter is before the House of Assembly and that they cannot make any comment until after the House finishes it assignment.

ADAMAWA ASSEMBLY RECONSTITUTES 25 HOUSE COMMITTEES

Rt. Aminu Iya Abbas, Speaker ADHA

The Adamawa state House of Assembly has reconstructed about 25 Standing Committees for the House.

The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, announced the composition of the committees while presiding over the plenary session on Monday.

The committees include; Selection Committee, to be headed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges, Hon. Hammantukur Yettisuri (Jada Mbulo), Public Accounts, Hon. Muhammed Mutawali(Girei), House Services, Hon. Isa Yahaya(Maiha), Public Petition, Public Service and Electoral Matters, Hon. Adwawa Donglock.
Others are; Agriculture, Hon. Simon Isa, (Song), State Security, Border Integration and SDG's, Hon.Ibrahim Musa(Mayo Belwa), Finance, Appropriation and Budget, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno(Demsa), Youths, Sports, Culture and Tourism, Abdullahi Ahmadu, Leko Koma), Education, Tertiary and Professional Institution, Hon. Wesley Bathiya(Hong),  Transport, Rural Infrastructure and Community Development, Abdullahi Umar(Toungo), Environment and Natural Resources Development, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Mijinyawa(Yola South).

Others include; Commerce and Industries, Hon. Musa Umar Bororo(Mubi South), Health and Human Services, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki(Yola North), Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abubakar Isa(Shelleng), Information, Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Reintegration and POWECO,Hon. Japheth Kefas(Gombi), Interparliamentary Affairs, Labour and Productivity, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak(Verre), Judiciary and Entrepreneur Development, Rt. Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo(Numan), Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi(Nasarawo Binyeri).

Other House Committees include; Livestock and Aqua Cultural Development, Hon. Bauna P. Myandassa(Lamurde), State Planning, Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada(Michika), Water Resources, Hon. Shuaibu Musa(Mubi North), Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno(Demsa), Works, Energy, Land and Survey, Hon. Haruna Jilantikiri(Madagali) and Legislative Compliance, Special Duties, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda(Ganye).

HONG LGC BOSS, COUNCILLORS TO FACE ADHA OVER VIOLATION OF LAW TUESDAY

The Executive Chairman Hong Local Government Council in Adamawa state, Hon. James Pukuma,  Legislative Council Members as well as the Clerk are to appear before Adamawa state House of Assembly Tuesday.

The affected are to appear before the Honourable Members by 10:00am Tuesday, so as to answer questions on alleged violation of Local Government Establishment and Administration Law, 2004.

Hon. Pukuma was said to have breached the procedure by swearing in the newly appointed Supervisory Councillors without the confirmation of the LG Legislative Council.

To this end, the hallowed chamber directed that no further action should be taken in respect of the appointment of either the Secretary or the Supervisory Councillors pending the outcome of the investigation that will be carried out Tomorrow.

The members declared that as far as they are concerned, there is neither Secretary nor Supervisory Councillors in Hong LGC, saying those sworn in cease to exist as government officials with immediate effect.

Furthermore, the House of Assembly has constituted 5 Member Adhoc Committee with a mandate to holistically look into the appointment and swearing in of the Secretaries and Supervisory Councillors across LGCs in the state, so as to check whether their appointment and swearing were carried out in compliance with LGCs Law.

The Ad Hocc Committee is to be headed by the Chairman House Standing Committee on Legislative Compliance, Special Duties, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda(Ganye), while the Chairmen House Committees on interparliamentary Affairs, Labour and Productivity, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak(Verre) and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Umar Nashon Gubi(Nasarawo Binyeri) are to serve as members.

Other members of the Committee include; Chairmen House Committess on Public Petition, Public Service and Electoral Matters, Hon. Adwawa Dinglock(Guyuk) and Health and Human Services, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki(Yola North).

These were part of the resolutions adopted by the state legislators at the resumed plenary session presided by the speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas today.

The action of the Honourable Members was sequel to debate on the matter of urgent public importance brought before the house by the Member representing Yola North constituency, Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki.

Earlier, Hon. Lekki briefed the his colleagues on the outright violation of the Local Government Law by the Chairman Hong LGC, Hon. James Pukuma, and described his action as unacceptable before the house.

Several legislators who spoke on the motion condemned the decision of Hon. Pukuma by swearing in the Secretary and the Supervisory Councillors without the approval of the Councillors.

Thereafter, the speaker, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas who presided over the sitting, directed the clerk to the house to communicate the resolutions of the the members to the affected.

ADHA SUMMONS HONG LGC BOSS, COUNCIL MEMBERS OVER VIOLATION OF LAW

Hon. James Pukuma, Chairman Hong LGC

Adamawa state House of Assembly has just summoned the Executive Chairman Hong Local Government Council, Hon. James Pukuma and the Legislative Council Members to appear before it on Tuesday over alleged violation of Local Government Establishment and Administration Law, 2004.

The House of Assembly said that as far it is concerned, the new supervisory councillors sworn in by the chairman cease to exist.

Details later.

ADHA SUMMONS HONG LGC BOSS, COUNCIL MEMBERS OVER VIOLATION OF LAW

Hon. James Pukuma, Chairman Hong LGC

Adamawa state House of Assembly has just summoned the Executive Chairman Hong Local Government Council, Hon. James Pukuma and the Legislative Council Members to appear before it Tomorrow.

The House of Assembly declared that the newly sworn in supervisory councillors for Hong is null and void.

HON. MAMUNO ORGANISES FOOTBALL COMPETITION FOR CONSTITUENTS

By Usman Umar Sahabi

The member representing Demsa Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Mrs Kate Raymond Mamuno has advised the Youth in the ten political wards in her Constituency to live in peace and harmony in order to attract the much needed development.

Mrs Mamuno made the called Saturday Flagging off a football competition she organised to ten political wards in Demsa Constituency tagged "Kate Football League holding at Demsa football field.

The lawmaker while describing the football tournament as laudable, said sports all over the world is about creating a sense of belonging, an avenue for peace and advancement, which help to unite people of diverse ethnic groups adding that the competition is aim to foster unity, peace and togetherness amongst the Demsa Youths

She added that, she believe strongly in the capacity of the youths to contribute meaningfully to development and can only happen when they come together in unity of purpose.

While appreciating the people of Demsa for the peace being enjoyed in the area, Mrs Kate admonished them to sustain it and shun violence and other vices that stand as impediment to the development and embrace peaceful coexistence as brothers.

She also commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his giant stride towards carrying Youths alone in his transformation agenda especially the establishment of enterprenuership development ministry and given much needed attention to the state ministry of Youth and sports.

According to Kate Mamuno the Governor Fintiri led administration in Adamawa is committed and refocusing its attention towards peace building,sustainable development, youths and women, Infrastructural development among other people oriented Projects.

Speaking separately during the kick off of the tournament the Chairman Local Organising Committee, team managers and other sports enthusiast commended the lawmaker for coming up with the gesture which they said will contribute positively towards uniting the teaming youths in the area.

The first leg of the matches which was played between the Demsa and Dong wards ended zero-zero.

The opening ceremony of the tournament was attended by the members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, commissioners, People's Democratic Party PDP and All Progressives Congress APC Stalwarts among other sports enthusiasts.