El-Rufai Betrayed Buhari Through Court Cases, Harsh Criticism – Northern Group Alleges

Northern-based advocacy group, Northern Frontiers for Buhari (NFB), has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, of betraying the late President Muhammadu Buhari through legal confrontations, policy defiance, and sustained criticism that allegedly weakened the unity of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement signed by Comrade Murtala Musa Daura and released to the press, the group detailed a pattern of behavior they claim reflected El-Rufai’s betrayal of the political bond he once shared with Buhari. The NFB argued that El-Rufai’s actions—once masked by loyalty—evolved into public opposition and subtle sabotage of Buhari’s administration.

“One such example,” the group claimed, “was when El-Rufai dragged the Federal Government under Buhari to court over issues related to federal appointments and resource control. Legal records show a governor persistently at odds with the central government—even when it was controlled by his own party.”

The group expressed concern that this legal opposition occurred during a time when Buhari’s government needed the collective support of APC governors to tackle growing economic and security challenges. “El-Rufai’s posture was seen by insiders as a deep betrayal that undermined internal party unity,” the NFB said.

They also recalled that in early 2023, just months before Buhari’s exit from power, El-Rufai openly condemned the Central Bank of Nigeria’s controversial naira redesign policy. He described the move as “senseless” and “ill-timed,” blaming Buhari’s economic advisers for exacerbating economic hardship among Nigerians.

In a dramatic counteraction, the Kaduna State government under El-Rufai’s leadership ordered residents to continue using the old naira notes despite a federal directive to phase them out. The NFB described this as a “deliberate act of rebellion against the presidency,” arguing that it sent a message of public defiance from a supposed loyalist.

“Political watchers saw this not just as resistance to policy but a public rejection of Buhari’s leadership—especially shocking, coming from someone believed to have risen politically through Buhari’s support,” the statement read.

The group also alleged that El-Rufai was involved in behind-the-scenes political realignments, including strategic meetings that supported individuals within the APC who were openly critical of Buhari’s inner circle. Referring to leaked internal memos, the group said El-Rufai once described Buhari as “detached” and “surrounded by incompetent loyalists.”

While El-Rufai never formally announced a break from the Buhari camp, the NFB said his body language, interviews, and political calculations suggested a calculated repositioning in anticipation of Buhari’s declining political capital toward the end of his tenure.

“From being one of Buhari’s most trusted allies and a pillar in the 2015 APC electoral victory, El-Rufai morphed into a sharp critic and political opportunist. His transformation has been described by many as a textbook case of political betrayal,” the group stated.

In its final remarks, the NFB accused El-Rufai of exploiting Buhari’s popularity for personal ambition, stating: “El-Rufai is simply an opportunist who hid under Buhari’s political goodwill to pursue his own ambition. Even in death, Buhari’s legacy is still being trampled on by people like him.”

EL-RUFAI HAS NO MORAL RIGHT TO CRITICIZE TINUBU, SAYS SHEHU SANI

Christian Simon

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has slammed ex-Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fiscal policies, particularly regarding alleged deductions from federal allocations.

In a pointed post on his verified Facebook page, Sani accused El-Rufai of hypocrisy, recalling how the former governor presided over Kaduna State at a time when local government funds were allegedly diverted with impunity throughout his eight-year tenure.

“Is this not the same El-Rufai who allegedly tampered with LG funds consistently during his time as governor? How come no one held him accountable then?” Sani wrote, echoing widespread frustration expressed by citizens on social media platforms.

During El-Rufai’s administration from 2015 to 2023, several local government chairmen reportedly complained about irregular remittances and the lack of financial autonomy. These complaints, however, did not result in any meaningful action from the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which was largely seen as loyal to the governor.

The former governor recently made headlines after criticizing the Tinubu administration over the removal of fuel subsidies and what he described as “unjust deductions” from federal allocations to states. His remarks have sparked widespread debate, with many questioning his moral authority to speak on financial management.

El-Rufai’s comments come at a time when President Tinubu is under fire for implementing sweeping economic reforms that, while aimed at stabilizing the economy, have reportedly worsened the fiscal realities of many state governments and everyday Nigerians.

While some view El-Rufai’s criticism as a principled stand, others—including Shehu Sani—see it as a politically calculated move to distance himself from the consequences of similar policies he once championed. Political commentators note that El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), had been a vocal supporter of subsidy removal during his own time in office.

“This is typical of Nigerian politicians,” said one analyst. “They govern with iron fists, then leave office and try to rebrand as people’s champions.”

Civil society groups have also joined the fray, calling for consistent accountability. “Whether you’re in office or out of office, you must be held to account for your actions,” said a spokesperson from a Kaduna-based governance watchdog. “El-Rufai should explain what happened to local government funds under his administration before attacking Tinubu.”

As public scrutiny grows, observers say the spat between Sani and El-Rufai is symptomatic of a larger crisis in Nigerian governance—where accusations of mismanagement are weaponized in political battles, but seldom lead to justice or reform.

For now, many Nigerians remain skeptical, demanding transparency not just from President Tinubu’s government, but from all public officials, past and present.

Okoh’s Absence Stalls Fraud Trial as Police Await EFCC Transfer for Court Arraignment

Musa Maye

The much-anticipated prosecution of Mr. Sylvanus Enonche Okoh, accused of identity theft, fraud, and criminal conspiracy, suffered a setback yesterday as the second defendant in the case failed to appear in court, causing proceedings to be postponed once again.

Mr. Okoh, who also goes by the alias Kenneth Ogbogu, is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on related charges. However, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Police Force, which is leading the prosecution, could not proceed with the case without his physical presence in court.

Sources familiar with the case disclosed that the Police now require formal collaboration with the EFCC to secure Okoh’s release for arraignment. The suspect is also under investigation by the State Intelligence Department (SID) of the FCT Police Command for offenses bordering on forgery, identity theft, and criminal conspiracy.

A senior police official, who spoke off the record, confirmed that the delay was largely administrative but noted that the cooperation of the EFCC would be critical in moving the case forward.

“We need to align efforts with the EFCC to ensure Mr. Okoh is produced in court. He is central to multiple ongoing investigations,” the official said.

Legal observers say this latest delay underscores the need for stronger coordination among law enforcement agencies to ensure that high-profile cases are not derailed by procedural issues.

As the case gains more public attention, pressure is mounting on authorities to ensure a smooth transfer of custody and a speedy trial that will bring the matter to a conclusive end.

From Prison Cell to National Voice: Luka Binniyat Appointed Spokesperson for Southern and Middle Belt Leadership Forum

By Mike Odeh James

In a country where telling the truth often comes with a price, few have paid it as dearly as Luka Binniyat.

The fearless conflict reporter and former Kaduna Bureau Chief for Vanguard Newspapers, who once languished in prison for daring to report on the massacres in Southern Kaduna, has just reached a monumental milestone in his journey of advocacy and resistance. Binniyat has been appointed the National Spokesperson of the Southern and Middle Belt Leadership Forum (SMBLF)—a powerful coalition representing over 140 million Nigerians across Nigeria’s Middle Belt and Southern regions.

It’s a seismic moment not just for Binniyat, but for the communities he has consistently risked his life to defend.

The Price of Truth

Luka’s rise to national prominence was not paved with privilege or comfort, but rather with persecution, prison bars, and the haunting silence of solitary confinement. In 2017, under the repressive administration of then-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Binniyat was arrested for his relentless coverage of ethnically motivated killings in Southern Kaduna. His crime? Telling the truth.

Despite court orders demanding his release, the state—emboldened by impunity and intolerance—kept Luka in and out of prison and courtrooms for over seven years. His jailer-in-chief, El-Rufai, backed by his commissioner for Internal Security, Samuel Aruwan, treated Luka as a dissident rather than a journalist.

“I was once thrown into a dinghy Police cell with no ventilation, no toilet, no water,” Luka recalled. “Inmates were fainting, and some never woke up. The plan was simple: I was meant to die in that dungeon. But God had other plans.
“I have appeared before six Judges and detained in Kaduna prisons 3 times,” Luka recalled.

A Voice Amplified by TruthNigeria

Those plans took a transformative turn when Luka joined TruthNigeria, a fearless investigative media platform founded by Judd Saul, a renowned American filmmaker, journalist, and human rights advocate. TruthNigeria did not just give Luka a desk—it gave him a megaphone. Under the platform’s editorial vision, Luka’s voice grew louder, his reach extended, and the truth he carried could no longer be silenced by the corridors of power.

TruthNigeria, known for its unrelenting commitment to factual, faith-based, and humanitarian reporting, became the perfect ally for a journalist molded in fire.

Behind the newsroom was Douglas Burton, fondly known as “Uncle Doug” by colleagues—a master craftsman of storytelling and an editor with an uncanny ability to draw the best from his reporters. Burton nurtured Luka’s raw courage and refined his reporting into impactful journalism that caught global attention.

Together, with the support of Judd Saul and Douglas Burton, Luka revealed to the world stories that Nigerian mainstream outlets often buried under fear or compromise. From the ethnic cleansing of indigenous communities in the Middle Belt to the harrowing aftermath of the Chibok schoolgirl kidnappings, Luka remained on the frontlines—undaunted, unwavering.

In 2023, Luka returned to Chibok—this time undercover—to document the unspoken trauma of parents whose daughters had vanished into the hands of terrorists. It was one of many assignments that proved Luka wasn’t just a journalist. He was a voice for the voiceless.

When asked what drives him, Luka gave a chilling yet resolute answer—one that has become his rallying creed:
“I will not stop writing until the blood spilled in Southern Kaduna, across the Middle Belt, and throughout Southern Nigeria is stopped.”

From Journalist to Advocate

Recognizing his unflinching courage, the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) appointed him Chair of its Kaduna Chapter. Within six months, his impact was unmistakable. Soon after, he rose to become MBF’s National Spokesperson.

Now, with his latest elevation to National Spokesperson of the Southern and Middle Belt Leadership Forum (SMBLF), Luka Binniyat carries the torch for over 140 million citizens across Nigeria’s geopolitical south and central heartlands.
More specifically, he will be speaking for the over 40 million indigenous people of the Middle Belt—communities long trapped in the political and cultural contraption called Northern Nigeria, and for more than 100 million Southerners from the South East, South West, and South South, whose voices have too often been sidelined in national conversations.

This appointment places Luka not just at the podiums of press conferences, but at the heart of Nigeria’s struggle for equity, justice, and truth. He will speak for the persecuted, for communities still reeling from state-enabled terrorism, and for millions who refuse to be silent in the face of corruption and marginalization.

A Mandate Forged in Fire

Luka’s journey is more than a personal triumph. It is a testament to what happens when integrity meets opportunity—when a man refuses to compromise, even when the cost is his freedom.

He is no longer just a reporter. He is a national conscience, a moral compass in a land where truth is often the first casualty. With the power of TruthNigeria behind him, the mentorship of Douglas Burton beside him, and the spiritual covering of Judd Saul over him, Luka is poised to take the voice of the marginalized to national and global platforms.

This is not the end of Luka Binniyat’s story. It is the beginning of a larger assignment.

Now, that pen has become a microphone.

And the world is listening.

Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Say Buhari’s Death Calls for National Reflection, Not Just Mourning

Abuja

Sarah Elisha

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has reacted to the passing of former Nigerian President and military ruler, General Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), describing his death as an opportunity for deep national introspection rather than mere ceremonial mourning.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by prominent regional leaders, the Forum said that while the death of a former head of state naturally invites grief, Nigerians must use the moment to assess the country’s leadership trajectory and the long-standing consequences of Buhari’s years in power—both as a military dictator (1983–1985) and later as a two-term elected president (2015–2023).

“His passing was received with sadness but also with sober reflection,” the statement noted. “General Buhari’s leadership—before, during, and after his presidency—has had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s history, one that must be critically evaluated.”

The Forum acknowledged Buhari’s perseverance in returning to power through democratic means, describing his eventual election in 2015—after three failed attempts—as “historic” and a show of “unyielding belief in the democratic process.”

However, the SMBLF was candid about the controversial legacy of his civilian presidency. “His eight-year administration was marred by serious national challenges,” the statement said. “From widespread insecurity to economic instability and worsening ethnic divisions, Buhari’s leadership remains one of the most debated in modern Nigerian history.”

Despite the criticism, the group affirmed that Buhari’s name “will forever occupy a space in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” though the full measure of his legacy is still being written.

SMBLF extended condolences to the late president’s family and to the nation. “We pray that his soul finds eternal peace with his Maker,” it said.

The statement was endorsed by the key figures of Nigeria’s Southern and Middle Belt regional organizations:

HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan, for Afenifere

Dr. Bitrus Pogu, for the Middle Belt Forum

Senator John Azuta-Mbata, for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

Ambassador Godknows Igali, for PANDEF

General Muhammadu Buhari died on June 14, 2025, at the age of 82. He leaves behind a complex legacy—one that will continue to shape Nigeria’s political discourse for years to come.

Man Arraigned in Abuja for Alleged Identity Theft and Fraud

Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has formally charged one Mr. Sylvanus Enonche Okoh, also known as “General Kenneth Ogbogu,” before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Apo in Abuja over allegations of a brazen scheme to impersonate a deceased businessman and fraudulently obtain valuable property documents.

The case, filed in the Abuja Judicial Division of the FCT High Court Apo lists multiple counts of criminal conduct including making false statements to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and cheating by personation.

According to the charges, the defendant in 2022 falsely claimed to be the late Mr. Kenneth Ogbogu—a man widely known to have died and been buried—by assuming his identity and using it in official dealings.

COUNT ONE of the charge sheet alleges that Sylvanus Enonche Okoh, in an attempt to mislead anti-graft investigators, knowingly made false statements to an EFCC officer in the course of the officer’s official duties. Prosecutors claim the defendant did so with full knowledge that the statements were untrue, in a bid to obstruct or derail the investigation into his activities.

This alleged offence is said to contravene Section 39(2)(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004, and is punishable under Section 39(2)(b) of the same law.

COUNT TWO accuses Okoh of cheating by personation—specifically, of misrepresenting himself as “General Kenneth Ogbogu” in order to fraudulently obtain title documents for a parcel of land described as Plot No. 1, Cadastral Zone 7, Sabo Gida District, Abuja.

According to the prosecution, the defendant presented himself as the deceased businessman and used the name and style of K.E. Keneco Nigeria Limited—a company formerly owned by the late Kenneth Ogbogu—in a deliberate attempt to seize control of the property.

The charges highlight the seriousness of the alleged fraud, suggesting a calculated effort to exploit the identity of a dead man to steal valuable assets, including real estate in Abuja’s lucrative property market.

The Federal Government argues that such schemes do not only victimize grieving families but also undermine public trust in legal, financial, and land registration systems.

The case has generated public interest after civil society groups last week issued a strongly worded statement accusing Okoh of “desecrating the memory of the dead” by forging corporate records, colluding with corrupt insiders, and plunging the late Ogbogu’s elderly parents into “protracted emotional trauma.”

In their statement, the coalition described the alleged impersonation as “a grave assault on the integrity of Nigeria’s legal and corporate governance systems,” and demanded swift and transparent prosecution of all those involved.

Meanwhile, EFCC investigators are said to have been building their case for months, examining records from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) where the defendant allegedly attempted to alter corporate and land ownership records.

Legal analysts say the case may set an important precedent about identity theft and fraud in Nigeria’s real estate and corporate sectors, where corrupt insiders have been repeatedly accused of enabling scams by forging documents and subverting due process.

However, the court granted him bail but still in the EFCC custody till bail is perfected. Nonetheless, our correspondent gathered that Mr Sylvanus Okoh is not yet set for any break soon as other victims are said to be pursuing Justice on separate matter involving him.The matter which is already scheduled to proceed before the FCT High Court in Abuja, with prosecutors pledging to present detailed evidence of how the alleged impersonation was carried out.

If convicted, Mr. Okoh faces significant prison terms under existing Nigerian anti-fraud laws.

Authorities say they hope the case will send a strong message that crimes exploiting the dead will not go unpunished.

Timi Frank Condemns Killing Of Peaceful Protesters In Kenya, Asks Ruto To Stop Massacre

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has strongly condemned the killing of unarmed protesters in Kenya by security forces.

Frank who described the killings as barbaric and unacceptable in a democracy, pleaded passionately with President Williams Ruto of Kenyan to urgently halt the killings by calling the security agencies to order.

The Kenyan police had fired to disperse demonstrators in Nairobi marking the 35th anniversary of pro-democracy rallies on Monday, where police said 11 people were killed and about 567 arrested nationwide in the latest anti-government protests to end in bloodshed.

The demonstrations mark the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba – meaning “seven-seven” – protests of July 7, 1990, which launched Kenya’s push for multi-party democracy.

The death of blogger, Albert Ojwang in police custody last month has given the protests fresh impetus, fuelling anger against the authorities and bringing hundreds onto the streets, according to Reuters.

“It is time to stop these avoidable murders,” Frank said, while urging the Kenyan Government to follow the rule of law in bringing the protests to an end.

He called for immediate release of all detained protesters by the Kenyan Police and commiserated with families who have lost loved ones to the protest.

“They would be remembered as those who died fighting for a better future for their country,” he said.

He reminded Ruto, his friend, that the peaceful and unarmed protesters now being killed and thrown into jails for advocating for good governance, voted despite intimidation and harassment to elect him to office.

“The right thing to do is not to kill them but to dialogue with them,” he said. “This is democracy. You were elected and these were the people who believed in you and voted for you and it is their constitutional right to protest if they are dissatisfied with your administration.”

According to him, the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters is a direct breach of international law, especially the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

“This nonsense in Africa has to stop where African leaders will be killing peaceful protesters unnecessarily,” he said. “But when they need the vote of the people, they will dance with them and make all kinds of promises.”

He called for immediate sanctions against the Ruto and his administration and a travel ban on chiefs of police that shot protesters with live ammunition.

He called on the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump and the United Nations to intervene and call Ruto to order over his dictatorial actions.

“It is wrong to kill protesters. Instead of killing them, it is the duty of government to protect them,” he said. “We saw recently when there was protest against Trump. They did not deploy the National Guard to kill the protesters but rather to protect them and that is what democracy is all about.

“This is a time for Trump to speak out for those young Africans being killed for demanding good governance and to see to it that they get justice,” he said.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors to investigate and prosecute Ruto and his security chiefs for the ongoing killing of innocent youths.

He urged the protesters to be courageous and resolute in their demand in spite of the high highhandedness of the security forces against them.

He condemned the leadership of the Africa Union for their irresponsible act by not speaking up in the face of a heinous crime being perpetrated against youths in the continent.

“African heads of state and governments only speak when a coup takes place and one of their own is affected and that is the only time they are relevant. This is most unfortunate,” he said.

Grassroots APC Forum In Northern Nigeria Endorses Prof. Kailani for Party Chairmanship

As preparations intensify ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, the Northern APC Grassroots Advocacy and Mobilisation Forum has thrown its weight behind Professor Kailani Muhammad as its preferred candidate for the position of National Chairman.

Speaking at a press conference, the Forum—comprising members from the 19 northern states—described Professor Muhammad as a loyal party stalwart, seasoned grassroots mobilizer, and a symbol of unwavering commitment to the APC and its legacy parties.

According to the Forum’s Chairman, Professor Muhammad was a pioneer member of the All People’s Party (APP), which evolved into the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), later merged into the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and ultimately contributed to the formation of the APC.

“He has never wavered in his loyalty,” the Forum leader stated. “Among all aspirants, Professor Kailani stands out for his depth of experience and enduring commitment to the party. His leadership during the 2023 general elections, particularly as the National Chairman of the APC Support Groups, was instrumental in securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The Forum further highlighted Professor Muhammad’s wide national appeal despite having never held any elective or appointive public office. They described him as “result-oriented and deeply rooted in the grassroots,” with a vast network of supporters and political allies across the 36 states of the federation.

“He possesses the vision, capacity, and charisma needed to unite the party, galvanize nationwide support, and lead the APC to another resounding victory in 2027,” the Forum declared.

The group urged President Tinubu and the APC leadership to seriously consider Professor Muhammad’s candidacy, citing his steadfast loyalty, grassroots influence, and strategic mobilization strength as unmatched among contenders.

APC Groups  Rally Behind Prof. Kailani Muhammad for Party Chairmanship

As preparations intensify ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, the Northern APC Grassroots Advocacy and Mobilisation Forum has thrown its weight behind Professor Kailani Muhammad as its preferred candidate for the position of National Chairman.

Speaking at a press conference, the Forum—comprising members from the 19 northern states—described Professor Muhammad as a loyal party stalwart, seasoned grassroots mobilizer, and a symbol of unwavering commitment to the APC and its legacy parties.

According to the Forum’s Chairman, Professor Muhammad was a pioneer member of the All People’s Party (APP), which evolved into the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), later merged into the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and ultimately contributed to the formation of the APC.

“He has never wavered in his loyalty,” the Forum leader stated. “Among all aspirants, Professor Kailani stands out for his depth of experience and enduring commitment to the party. His leadership during the 2023 general elections, particularly as the National Chairman of the APC Support Groups, was instrumental in securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The Forum further highlighted Professor Muhammad’s wide national appeal despite having never held any elective or appointive public office. They described him as “result-oriented and deeply rooted in the grassroots,” with a vast network of supporters and political allies across the 36 states of the federation.

“He possesses the vision, capacity, and charisma needed to unite the party, galvanize nationwide support, and lead the APC to another resounding victory in 2027,” the Forum declared.

The group urged President Tinubu and the APC leadership to seriously consider Professor Muhammad’s candidacy, citing his steadfast loyalty, grassroots influence, and strategic mobilization strength as unmatched among contenders.

Nigerian Youths Grapple with Drug-Induced Mental Health Crisis: A National Wake-Up Call

By Mike Odeh James

Abuja, Nigeria – Comrade Chuba Okpuzor, a prominent youth advocate and national officer of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Spokesperson for “The Actual Voice of Truth Advocacy Foundation” has raised the alarm over a growing mental health emergency affecting Nigerian youths. Speaking on Monday, Okpuzor described the escalating number of drug-related mental health cases as a national emergency requiring immediate attention from all sectors of society.

Psychiatric Centers Overwhelmed

According to Okpuzor, Nigeria’s already overstretched psychiatric hospitals are under severe strain. These facilities are increasingly populated by young Nigerians battling drug-induced mental illnesses.

“It’s perplexing how some, even those with education, remain oblivious to the gravity of this issue,” Okpuzor lamented.
“Despite overwhelming evidence, there’s a tendency to trivialise it, yet our underfunded psychiatric centers admit more mentally distressed young Nigerians every single day.”

He pointed out that a disturbing number of these youths are unemployed and left vulnerable to economic hardship and social disconnect orchestrated by social neglect.

A Syndicate-Driven Crisis

Okpuzor was quick to dismiss the idea that drug addiction is merely an individual failing. Instead, he described a vast and sophisticated drug trafficking network that exploits Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.

“Drug trafficking is not orchestrated by the poor, the middle class, or the downtrodden, but tragically, they become its victims,” he said.
“These illicit substances infiltrate our communities through powerful networks, and are consumed by youths in a state of confusion and despair. This makes them incredibly vulnerable.”

He stressed that the root of the problem lies in deliberate targeting by criminal syndicates who prey on jobless and disillusioned youths, using drugs as a weapon of destruction.

Call for Deeper Investigations

While commending the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for recent drug seizures and arrests, Okpuzor urged the agency to dig deeper and go beyond surface-level enforcement.

“We commend the NDLEA’s dedication,” he acknowledged.
“But we implore them to delve deeper. Drug trafficking is a sophisticated operation involving highly placed individuals. The poor are merely the consumers, not the architects of this trade.”

He called for intelligence-driven, top-down investigations that expose and dismantle the high-level networks profiting from the addiction and destruction of Nigerian youths.

Responsibility of Institutions and Leaders

Okpuzor called on youth organizations, religious institutions, and the media to respond with urgency and a sense of responsibility. He warned that any effort to politicize or downplay the issue would amount to national sabotage.

“Any effort to downplay the significance of this issue, is a disservice to our collective well-being and national integrity,” he said.
“This is not a moment for inaction. It’s a time to lead, to advocate, and to demand protection for the future generation.”

He stressed that Nigerian youths cannot afford silence from those entrusted with their protection and empowerment.

A Call to Conscience

As drug abuse continues to wreak havoc on young lives, the call by Comrade Chuba Okpuzor represents a critical appeal to conscience—and a reminder that behind every mental breakdown is a system that failed to intervene.

Unless Nigeria acts boldly and collectively, the nation risks losing an entire generation to drugs, mental illnesses and institutional neglect.