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WHEN PUBLIC TRUST IS TRADED: A PASSIONATE CALL FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE FGCK KANO LAND CONCESSION  

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WHEN PUBLIC TRUST IS TRADED: A PASSIONATE CALL FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE FGCK KANO LAND CONCESSION

By Tijjani Sarki 

 

 

It is with deep concern and a profound sense of civic responsibility that I respond to the recent press release issued by Pluck Global Construction Company regarding the proposed concession of a substantial portion of land within Federal Government College, Kano. Beyond the polished assurances and technical justifications lies a matter that touches the very soul of public trust, institutional heritage, and the collective conscience of our society. I feel obliged to add my voice to that of the old students and other critical stakeholders, while also expressing serious concern regarding the implications this arrangement may have on the school’s future expansion projects.

 

This is not merely about land. It is about legacy, about the sanctity of a national institution, and about the obligation we owe to future generations who deserve to inherit not diminished assets,but strengthened foundations.

 

While the Company attempts to justify the arrangement under the framework of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), its response raises more concerns than assurances, and leaves several critical issues either insufficiently addressed or deliberately glossed over.

 

At the heart of the matter is the proposed concession of approximately 40% of the College’s total land area,a decision of far-reaching implications for the heritage, future expansion, environmental balance, and overall integrity of one of Nigeria’s foremost unity colleges. The characterization of such a vast portion of institutional land as merely “underutilised” is, at best, subjective and, at worst, a convenient pretext for a transaction whose long-term consequences remain unclear.

 

The justification that this concession is in exchange for infrastructural development valued at over ₦8 billion further invites scrutiny. Given prevailing economic realities, inflationary trends, and the dynamic nature of project costing, the assertion that such an agreement is not subject to review or adjustment raises legitimate questions about transparency, fairness, and value-for-money. Who determined this valuation, and on what basis should it remain static despite changing economic conditions?

 

Furthermore, while regulatory approvals from bodies such as the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) are cited, mere compliance with procedural requirements does not equate to public acceptability, stakeholder consent, or ethical soundness. Due process must go beyond paperwork, it must reflect inclusiveness, accountability, and sensitivity to institutional legacy.

 

Of particular concern is the underlying rationale for situating a commercial or quasi-commercial land-swap arrangement within the premises of a functioning educational institution. This naturally leads to a fundamental question:

 

Why must such a project be tied to land within the school environment?

 

If indeed the Company possesses the technical and financial capacity it claims, why has it not sought to execute similar developments on virgin land outside the state capital, where there would be no conflict with an academic setting, historical legacy, or public sentiment?

 

The insistence on acquiring a substantial portion of land within a prestigious federal institution inevitably fuels skepticism regarding the true motives behind the arrangement. Is the primary objective the development of educational infrastructure, or the strategic acquisition of high-value urban land under the guise of a PPP?

 

Additionally, the assurance that possession of the land will only occur upon project completion, while noted, does not sufficiently mitigate concerns about the eventual permanent transfer of public institutional assets into private hands. What guarantees exist to protect future generations from irreversible decisions taken today?

 

Equally troubling is the apparent disconnect between the scale of the concession and the voice of critical stakeholders. Institutions such as Federal Government College, Kano, are not merely physical spaces, they are national assets with deep historical and emotional significance. Any decision affecting such institutions must command broad-based consensus,not just regulatory approval.

 

In light of the foregoing, several key questions remain unanswered:

What independent valuation was conducted to justify the exchange of 40% of institutional land for the proposed developments?

 

Why is the agreement insulated from review despite obvious economic fluctuations?

 

What alternative sites were considered, and why were they deemed unsuitable?

 

What long-term safeguards exist to protect the school’s territorial integrity and future expansion needs?

 

To what extent were stakeholders, including alumni and the host community, consulted prior to finalizing this agreement?

 

Until these questions are satisfactorily addressed, the concerns raised by stakeholders remain valid, urgent, and compelling.

 

This is a defining moment. We must decide whether public institutions exist for the common good or as convenient instruments for opaque transactions. Silence, in this instance, would amount to complicity.

 

We therefore call on all relevant authorities to act with courage and conscience,revisit this agreement, open it to public scrutiny, and ensure that decisions of such magnitude are guided not only by technical compliance, but by transparency, equity, and the enduring public interest.

 

Tijjani Sarki

 

*Good Governance Advocate and Public Policy Analyst*

 

[email protected]

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APC’s Misrepresentation of Makinde’s Remarks: A Disturbing Display of Intellectual Dishonesty* -Olufemi Aduwo 

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*APC’s Misrepresentation of Makinde’s Remarks: A Disturbing Display of Intellectual Dishonesty* -Olufemi Aduwo 

 

The attention of right-thinking Nigerians has been drawn to the misguided and politically contrived statement issued by the All Progressives Congress (APC), in which it accused Governor Seyi Makinde of incitement over his reference to “Operation Wetie”. Let it be stated without equivocation, the APC’s reaction is not only a gross distortion of context but also a troubling exhibition of either wilful ignorance or a fundamental inability to comprehend even the most elementary use of historical analogy. One is left to wonder whether those who crafted that statement possess even a kindergarten grasp of the English language, let alone the intellectual depth required for serious political discourse.

 

 

Governor Makinde’s remarks were clearly cautionary and not incendiary. His reference to “Operation Wetie” was an invocation of history, nothing more and nothing less. It was a sober reminder of the catastrophic consequences that follow when democratic processes are subverted, dissent is stifled and political arrogance is allowed to fester unchecked.To interpret such a warning as a call to violence is either intellectually dishonest or deliberately mischievous.

 

 

By attempting to criminalise a legitimate historical reference, the APC exposes a deeper anxiety, an unease with truth and a discomfort with reminders of what unchecked political excess can produce. The tragedy of the Western Region crisis is not a subject to be buried under partisan convenience, it is a lesson to be studied, understood and heeded.

 

It is both ironic and alarming that a party which claims to defend democracy would seek to undermine historical consciousness. Such conduct betrays a troubling tendency towards authoritarian thinking, where even words of caution are twisted into offences and dissenting voices are vilified rather than engaged.

 

 

The statement by Felix Morka, in particular, collapses under the weight of its own exaggeration. To leap from a historical reference to claims of “anarchy” and “murderous rage” is not only illogical but borders on the absurd. It is political theatre of the lowest quality. Furthermore, the attempt to cloak this mischaracterisation in the language of “national security” is both reckless and disingenuous. National security is far too important to be reduced to a tool for partisan intimidation.

 

 

The APC would do well to engage in introspection rather than projection. This pattern of deliberate misrepresentation and inflammatory overreach poses a greater risk to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

 

Nigeria deserves a political culture rooted in honesty, maturity and intellectual rigour not one diminished by propaganda, distortion and opportunism. In the final analysis, the issue is simple, those who cannot understand history are often the first to misinterpret it and unfortunately, the most likely to repeat its errors.

 

 

-Olufemi Aduwo is a

Permanent Representative of CCDI to the ECOSOC/United Nations.

NB: Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity, is a non-profit organisation with Consultative Status of United Nations

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Prophet Oladele Ogundipe Genesis Hosts Jehoshaphat Night 2026 : A Powerful Night of Praise, Power, And Prophetic Encounter in Lagos

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Prophet Oladele Ogundipe Genesis Hosts Jehoshaphat Night 2026 : A Powerful Night of Praise, Power, And Prophetic Encounter in Lagos

 

 

 

Genesis Global Isheri is set to host an extraordinary spiritual gathering tagged PPP, Praise, Power & Prophetic Night, themed Jehoshaphat Night, on May 1st, 2026, from 8PM till dawn. This highly anticipated event will take place at Genesis Bus Stop, LASU–Igando Road, Isheri Idimu, Lagos, bringing together worshippers, believers, and seekers from across the city for a night of intense spiritual upliftment. With a vibrant atmosphere already expected, the event promises a unique blend of deep worship, prophetic ministrations, and life-transforming encounters.

 

The night will be led by Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, the host and founder of Genesis Global, known for his dynamic prophetic ministry and impactful teachings. Attendees can also look forward to powerful ministrations from guest ministers Minister Dare Oxygen and Mista Olamilekan, who are set to usher in an atmosphere of heartfelt praise and spiritual revival. The theme “Jehoshaphat Night” draws inspiration from the biblical account of King Jehoshaphat, where praise became a weapon for victory setting the tone for a night centered on breakthrough, faith, and divine intervention.

 

Beyond just a gathering, Jehoshaphat Night is positioned as a transformative experience where attendees can expect spiritual renewal, prophetic direction, and a deeper connection with God through music and the Word. With a carefully curated lineup and a strong spiritual focus, this all night event aims to ignite faith and inspire testimonies. Whether you’re seeking clarity, breakthrough, or simply a powerful worship experience, this is a night not to be missed in Lagos. Make it an event.

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VISIONS FROM THE MOST HIGH GOD ABOUT NIGERIA AND PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU:  EVANGELIST/HON. OMOTOSO ISSUES PROPHETIC DIRECTIVES AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTION

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*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: VISIONS FROM THE MOST HIGH GOD ABOUT NIGERIA AND PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU: 

EVANGELIST/HON. OMOTOSO ISSUES PROPHETIC DIRECTIVES AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTION*

Evangelist/Hon. Omotoso, National President of the ODUDUWA Integrity Association and described as a spiritual father, has released what he terms “visions from the Most High God” concerning Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid.

 

In a statement issued in a press conference organises by Evangelist Omotoso. He made public series of revelations that are relevant to President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign. According to him, President Tinubu will win the forthcoming presidential election with approximately 15 million votes.

 

He further stated that opposition elements will attempt to “cause trouble in Nigeria and cry foul” following the outcome, but declared that such efforts would be “like shaft before the winds” — ineffective against what he described as a divinely backed mandate.

 

*“Lost Glory Restored” Vision*

Recounting one of the visions, Evangelist Omotoso said: “The lost glory of about 35 years in Nigeria has been returned as of 7/12/2025. In the revelation, President Tinubu himself asked me, saying all the vehicles he wants to ride are not moving. I saw him jump on one and I pushed it for him, and it started — _Huumuuuuu_ — and continued working, and the President started riding.”

 

He interpreted this as a sign that President Tinubu will “start a new Nigeria” and that opposition forces will not prevail.

 

*Direct Message to President Tinubu*

Delivering what he called a direct instruction from God to the President, Evangelist/Hon. Omotoso stated: “President Tinubu should go and release Nnamdi Kanu now if he wants to sustain and enjoy his re-election.”

 

He added that obedience to this directive is tied to the stability and longevity of the coming administration.

 

The ODUDUWA Integrity Association said it is making these revelations public in the interest of national peace, spiritual guidance, and political stability as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

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