Author Archives: News All Around

By Mike Odeh James

In a stirring call to action, Comrade Chuba Okpuzor has raised the alarm over the alarming surge of drug-related mental health cases among Nigerian youths, describing the situation as a national emergency that demands immediate attention from policymakers and youth leaders alike.

Speaking on Monday, Comrade Chuba Okpuzor, a prominent youth advocate and national officer of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), warned that the country’s already overstretched psychiatric facilities are being overwhelmed by young Nigerians suffering from drug-induced mental health crises — many of them unemployed and vulnerable.

> “We are forced to respond in this manner because some gullible and supposedly educated youths are still blind to the severity of this issue,” Okpuzor said. “Despite overwhelming evidence, some still treat this as trivial, while every day our poorly funded psychiatric centres admit more mentally disturbed young Nigerians.”



According to Comrade Chuba the issue is beyond isolated incidents or street-level peddlers. He stressed that drug abuse is the consequence of a deeply entrenched syndicate, which targets the most vulnerable members of society — the poor, the unemployed, and the disillusioned.

> “Drug trafficking isn’t driven by the poor, the middle class, or the downtrodden — but tragically, they are its victims,” he said. “These substances reach the streets through powerful channels, and are consumed by youths in a confused, battered state of mind. That makes them dangerously susceptible.”



He further commended the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its recent busts and crackdowns, but appealed for intensified efforts and deeper investigations.

> “We appreciate the resilience of the NDLEA. However, we urge them to dig deeper. As drug trafficking is a well-organized business involving highly placed individuals. The poor are the users, not the masterminds. The investigation must go beyond the foot soldiers.”



Comrade Chuba Okpuzor also called on youth organizations, religious institutions, and the media to treat the issue with the seriousness it deserves. He warned that playing politics or trivializing the mental health impact of drugs is a betrayal of national conscience.

> “Any attempt to make light of this issue is a disservice to our collective sensibility and national conscience,” he emphasized. “This is not the time to be passive. It is time to lead, advocate, and demand protection for our generation.”

As drug abuse continues to claim young lives and erode the mental fabric of the nation’s future, voices like Comrade Chuba’s highlight the urgency to move beyond denial and take decisive action.

By Giwa Douglas

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has faulted recent comments made by former Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, over the alleged role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in frustrating the registration of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

In a strongly worded statement released by its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, the group described the comments from the two political figures as “misguided, misleading, and a thinly veiled attempt to blame a credible institution for their political failures.”

Suleiman said, “The remarks made by Amaechi and El-Rufai reflect a gross misunderstanding of the responsibilities of INEC and an irresponsible attempt to discredit a body that has consistently demonstrated its commitment to free and fair electoral processes.”

According to NAN, the assertion by Amaechi that INEC is deliberately obstructing the registration of new political parties is not only baseless but smacks of desperation by politicians who have lost touch with the grassroots and are struggling to maintain relevance in the country’s evolving political landscape.

The group emphasized that INEC’s role is governed by clear legal and administrative frameworks, noting that all political associations seeking registration must meet constitutional and regulatory requirements — including providing a verifiable party address and details of its national officers.

“These requirements,” Suleiman explained, “are not designed to frustrate political groups but to ensure that parties are genuinely grounded in democratic principles and not just paper coalitions created to serve personal ambitions.”

NAN added that rather than accusing INEC of bias, political leaders should focus on fulfilling these basic criteria and mobilizing grassroots support if they hope to be taken seriously.

The organization also expressed concern over a recent remark by El-Rufai, who cast doubt on INEC’s impartiality, claiming the commission was unlikely to register ADA. NAN described such statements as “reckless and damaging to the credibility of democratic institutions.”

“It is particularly worrisome that a former governor who once championed the independence of INEC would now turn around to undermine it with careless allegations,” Suleiman said.

NAN urged political stakeholders to engage INEC with decorum and maturity, stressing that public trust in electoral institutions is crucial for the sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy.

The statement continued: “Casting aspersions on INEC’s integrity without evidence erodes public confidence and promotes a narrative of political victimhood that is neither accurate nor helpful. Opposition groups must realize that their problems lie not with INEC, but with their inability to connect meaningfully with the electorate.”

The NAN concluded by calling on El-Rufai, Amaechi, and others in the ADA coalition to “engage in genuine political organizing, develop people-focused manifestos, and desist from scapegoating national institutions for their internal weaknesses.”

According to NAN, true political relevance is earned by engaging citizens, not by forming elite alliances or launching unfounded attacks on regulatory bodies.

“INEC is not the problem,” the group said. “If anything, the political class must rise to the challenge of building credible alternatives that resonate with the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians.”

ENDS

By Adagbo Ebije

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has faulted statements made by former Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is frustrating the registration of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

The forum, in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, said it became necessary to clarify AYCF’s position regarding the allegations against INEC’s purported obstruction of opposition political parties, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Firstly, it is essential to recognize that the electoral process in Nigeria is governed by established procedures that are designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability. The assertion made by Amaechi that INEC is intentionally obstructing the efforts of opposition parties is not only unfounded but also reflects a misunderstanding of the electoral framework that governs party registration,” Shettima stated.

He stressed that INEC’s requirements — such as submission of verifiable office addresses and identification of party officers — are standard procedures that apply to all political associations seeking registration. According to Shettima, it is critical that parties like the ADA comply with these procedures to maintain the credibility of the nation’s democratic process.

“The AYCF finds it disheartening that, in their frustration, Amaechi and the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, have resorted to making sensational claims rather than addressing the substantive issues at hand.

“The ADA’s challenges in meeting INEC’s requirements should not be attributed to any alleged bias or conspiracy on the part of the commission. Instead, it is a reflection of the need for all political parties to engage in diligent preparation and adherence to the rules that govern our electoral landscape.”

Shettima further argued that the hasty formation of ADA appears more driven by desperation and urgency than by methodical planning, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. While acknowledging the right of any political group to seek legitimacy, he emphasized that such efforts must align with INEC’s legal and procedural framework.

“The notion that INEC should compromise its standards to accommodate the ADA is not only impractical but also undermines the principles of democracy that we strive to uphold,” Shettima added.

He took particular exception to El-Rufai’s public doubts about INEC’s willingness to register the ADA, saying such remarks feed into a dangerous trend where political figures erode public confidence in electoral institutions.

“El-Rufai’s skepticism regarding INEC’s willingness to register the ADA further illustrates a growing trend among political leaders to cast doubt on the electoral process rather than engaging constructively with it. Such rhetoric can be detrimental to the democratic ethos and may inadvertently disenfranchise the very constituents these leaders claim to represent.

“It is crucial for political leaders to foster an environment of trust and cooperation with electoral bodies, rather than perpetuating narratives of mistrust and conspiracy.”

AYCF urged political leaders like Amaechi and El-Rufai to demonstrate restraint in their public commentary and to prioritize building a political culture grounded in institutional respect.

“The future of our democracy depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and to work within the established frameworks to achieve their political aspirations,” the statement concluded.

The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to a free, fair, and transparent electoral process and called on all parties — including ADA — to respect INEC’s rules and approach the registration process with due diligence.

ENDS

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By Mike Odeh James

Abuja – A powerful coalition of over 200 support groups under the umbrella of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a unified endorsement of Professor Kailani Muhammad for the position of National Chairman of the ruling party.

The groups, including major blocs such as the Confederation of APC Support Groups (CASG), APC Support Groups Stakeholders (ASGS), and the Tinubu-Shettima Network (TSN), jointly called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider Prof. Muhammad as the right man to lead the party into its next phase.

Describing him as a tested and trusted grassroots mobiliser with a longstanding history of loyalty to the APC, the groups said their endorsement follows “extensive consultations and consensus” across their national and regional chapters.

According to the statement:

“We humbly call on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to appoint Professor Kailani Muhammad as the next National Chairman of the APC. He has remained a tireless advocate of party unity and cohesion from the formative years of APC to date.”

Prof. Kailani currently serves as the National Chairman of the Tinubu-Shettima Network (TSN) and Director General of the Confederation of APC Support Groups (CASG). He previously served as DG of the Amalgamated APC Support Groups (AASG) and has maintained strong links with party grassroots structures nationwide.

The coalition stated that Prof. Muhammad has played a critical role in mobilising support for the APC during key electoral contests, including the 2023 general elections, and worked alongside hundreds of volunteer organisations to secure electoral victories across all levels—Presidency, National Assembly, and State Executives.

Highlighting regional equity, the statement added:

“It is time for the North-Central zone to lead the party. No one is more qualified or deserving than Prof. Kailani Muhammad. His leadership will reinvigorate confidence and reward years of dedication from the support group base.”

They also cited Prof. Muhammad’s accessibility, his consistent recognition of volunteer efforts, and his inclusive style of leadership as key factors in their decision.

A long list of over 200 support groups attached their signatures and contacts to the statement, including the Tinubu Foundation, APC Women Wing, Tinubu Shettima Mandate, Door-to-Door Women Movement, Jagaban Grassroots Group, Action Aid for Tinubu, and numerous state-level coordinators from Lagos, Kaduna, Ogun, Abia, Cross River, Kogi, Yobe, Nasarawa, and others.

Notable signatories include:

• Haj. Maimuna Aliyu Abdullahi, Tinubu Foundation
• Salamatu Ishaq Omeli, APC Women Wing
• Hon. Timothy Aloja, Tinubu-Shettima Mandate
• Dorothy Bello Tarfa, G.E.D.A
• Amb. Barr. Fatima Jimeta, National Association of Hausa/Fulani
• Princess Adedoyin Sijurade, Door-to-Door Campaign Organisation

The coalition emphasized that the future of the APC depends on principled leadership and strategic re-organisation ahead of the 2027 elections. They believe Prof. Muhammad’s appointment will unify the party’s grassroots, strengthen internal democracy, and restore trust in the leadership.

“This is a defining moment. We urge President Tinubu and the APC leadership to make the right decision and reward competence, loyalty, and grassroots connection,” the statement concluded.

— END —

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By Zaidu Zaidu

Purposeful leadership has long been the missing link in Northern Nigeria’s development journey. Despite its vast human and mineral resources, the region is often seen as a drawback in the country’s quest for sustainable progress. Simply put, many perceive Northern Nigeria as a burden, a region with little to offer. This perception might have been different if the region had continued to produce visionary leaders in the mould of the Sardauna and other great northern statesmen, who not only led with purpose but also united the people across all divides.

Today, however, a new wave of leadership is beginning to challenge this narrative. Senator Uba Sani stands out among a handful of emerging leaders who are redefining what it means to govern with vision, empathy, and results. Calm, calculative, and unassuming, the former Senator representing Kaduna Central has hardly put a foot wrong since he emerged as Governor of Kaduna State. He started by putting the people first and breaking free from the human factors that so often impede growth and development. This did not come easily, but who else would take such bold steps if not Uba Sani? If he could stand up to military juntas in the past, why would he now fear diminutive men in flowing agbadas?

Governor Uba Sani’s leadership style gives life to John C. Maxwell’s saying that “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Since assuming office, he has wasted no time translating his vision into action, and he is doing so without media frenzy or fanfare. Unlike his predecessor, who employed the tactic of divide and rule, Governor Uba Sani has been able to harmonise both the northern and southern parts of Kaduna State.

Before he came on board, Kaduna was a hotbed for bandits and terrorists, a place where, to borrow the words of Thomas Hobbes, life was “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.” But through dialogue and a non-kinetic approach, he has helped restore a measure of peace, especially in troubled axes like Birnin Gwari. While pockets of attacks still occur, the frequency has reduced significantly, showing that security is not only about force, but also about trust and community engagement.

In terms of infrastructure, Governor Uba Sani has made meaningful strides despite inheriting a huge debt running into hundreds of millions of dollars. Roads like the Kachia-Kafanchan link and rural feeder roads in Giwa and Soba have been rehabilitated, reconnecting communities and boosting local economies in ways that touch people’s daily lives.

When the time came to organise the North West Stakeholders Forum, many doubted it could hold without descending into chaos, especially considering how the North East Stakeholders Forum had gone. But Governor Uba Sani proved the doubters wrong by spearheading one of the most seamless and productive forums in recent times. His success mirrors the Igbo proverb that “When an elder is in the house, the she-goat does not suffer parturition on its tether.” Though Governor Uba Sani is still young, he has succeeded where some elders have failed.

When predictions of chaos at the North West Stakeholders Forum did not come to pass, critics shifted their doubts to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to commission landmark projects like the rebuilt Sabon Gari Market. They said the President could not visit Kaduna without crisis, especially considering this is the state where his strongest and bitterest critic governed for eight years. Yet again, Uba Sani silenced them. Talk of a leader who knows his onions.

In the area of appointments, Governor Uba Sani has shown that he understands the time-tested Nigerian cliché that the youth are the leaders of tomorrow. His cabinet includes young, qualified professionals alongside experienced hands, with clear attention to gender balance.

In all this, one thing stands out: Governor Uba Sani’s quiet revolution in Kaduna is not just transforming a state, it is rewriting the story of Northern Nigeria. By proving that with vision, courage, and sincerity, purposeful governance is indeed possible, he reminds us that the North still has leaders who know the way, go the way, and show the way.

It is now up to the people to demand and support such leadership elsewhere, for only then can the North truly rediscover the greatness it once gave Nigeria and Africa.

Zaidu Zaidu is a public affairs analyst. He can be reached via: Zaiduzaidu@gmail.com

A prominent women’s advocacy group in Kaduna Central Senatorial District has sharply criticized Senator Lawal Adamu for what it described as two years of non-performance, lack of constituency engagement, and failure to provide empowerment programs, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

In a statement issued to journalists today, the Women Forum for Unity and Development of Kaduna Central expressed disappointment over the senator’s alleged silence on the Senate floor and his inability to attract any meaningful development to the district since assuming office in 2023.

“It is over two years now since we elected Senator Lawal Adamu, and we have never heard his voice on the floor of the Senate,” said Hajiya Amina Suleiman, the group’s leader. “We have not seen any serious empowerment programme aimed at cushioning the effect of the current economic situation.”

The group lamented that while lawmakers in other parts of Kaduna and across the country have implemented various initiatives—such as distribution of tricycles (Keke Napep), grinding machines, motorcycles, and grants for small-scale businesses—Kaduna Central has seen no such dividends of democracy under Adamu’s leadership.

“We see other senators initiating scholarship schemes, distributing farm implements, and launching skill acquisition centers. Sadly, our representative has failed to do any of this,” Suleiman added.

The forum also criticized Adamu’s frequent absence from the senatorial district and his reported prolonged stays abroad. “He is always in Saudi Arabia instead of sitting in the Senate to raise issues concerning the progress and development of our constituency,” the statement read.

Most strikingly, the group condemned the senator’s failure to visit any of the seven local government areas within the district, stating that he appears more interested in aligning himself with the Senate leadership than in addressing the pressing needs of his constituents.

“We didn’t elect him to serve as an aide to Senator Godswill Akpabio,” the group emphasized. “Our recent review meeting at Arewa House concluded that Senator Lawal Adamu is the worst-performing representative Kaduna Central has ever had.”

Citing the ongoing economic hardship worsened by the removal of fuel subsidy, the women’s group warned that their patience is wearing out.

By Mike Odeh James

In a society where truth is often obscured by power and fear, genuine activism and fearless journalism remain the last strongholds of accountability. Recently, I, Comrade Chuba Okpuzor, in collaboration with Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, the Delta State Chairman of the Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN),

released a hard-hitting report that reverberated across the country — especially in the Niger Delta. Our report exposed that the brother of a high-ranking individual, Chief Ayiri Emami, had been apprehended in connection with illegal drugs.

The fallout was immediate and intense.

From accusations of political mischief to claims of defamation, our work was met with suspicion and hostility. Many dismissed the findings as fabricated or driven by ulterior motives. Personally, I endured a barrage of insults, many hurled in private messages by those unwilling to believe or too quick to attack. Nevertheless, amid the storm of criticism, we stood our ground — guided by the principle that truth, though often resisted, always comes to light.

That light has now come.

In a decisive update, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially confirmed the arrest and detailed the situation surrounding the case. This confirmation not only strengthens the credibility of our initial reporting, but it also sends a clear message: Activism and journalism, when grounded in integrity, are vital forces for justice and societal reform.

This moment is not simply a personal vindication for myself or Comrade Fajoye. It is a triumph for youth advocacy, civic accountability, and the critical role of investigative journalism in a democratic society. It is a statement that speaking uncomfortable truths — even at great personal cost — is never wasted effort.

Despite attempts to silence our voices — including social media takedowns and online harassment — we remained resolute. We knew the story was not just about narcotics or criminal allegations. It was a deeper struggle over who controls the narrative, and whether ordinary citizens still have the power to challenge the influential without being crushed.

To those who doubted our intentions: healthy skepticism is essential in a democracy. But this episode should be a reminder that facts, when supported by evidence, will eventually pierce through propaganda and denial. Truth may take time, but it is never powerless.

Let this development also serve as a rallying cry to every journalist, youth leader, activist, and civil society organization: stay the course. Ask the hard questions. Dig deeper. Stand firm even when the ground beneath you shakes — because the stories that rattle the powerful are usually the ones that matter most.

Ultimately, this case isn’t just about a confirmed arrest. It is about bravery in the face of backlash, about standing firm when your credibility is questioned, and about protecting the future of a nation whose youth are increasingly vulnerable to the failings of leadership, justice, and governance.

Let us not forget that silence benefits only the oppressor. But a collective voice — driven by truth and united by purpose — can tear down even the most fortified walls of deceit.

By Mike Odeh James

The Liberal Progressive and Patriotic Members Congress (LPPMC), formerly known as the Labour Party Patriotic Members Congress, has formally declared its support for a national coalition seeking to oust the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

In a press release signed by Luka Ikechukwu of Pointsman Projects Media, a good governance advocacy group, the LPPMC described the coalition as a union of “well-meaning and public-spirited Nigerians” determined to rescue the country from what it called the “failures of poor governance under the APC.”

The group recalled its critical role in mobilising grassroots support for Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the 2023 elections, and stated that it is now refocusing its energies toward a broader national movement for reform.

“Our Congress is ready, willing, able, and committed to deploy its structures across all six geopolitical zones, the 36 states, the FCT, and the 774 local government areas in support of the coalition and in pursuit of responsible and responsive governance,” the statement read.

It further pledged to harness its “monstrous followership” and resources to defend democracy and push for leadership that is genuinely accountable to the people.

LPPMC emphasized that its engagement in the coalition was driven not by political convenience, but by principle.

“This must be different from the current order where leaders have failed in accountability,” the group said. “We shall mobilise our structures to support the genuine effort of progressives to rescue the nation.”

Kingsley Okundaye, the National Coordinator of the LPPMC, underscored the Congress’s dedication to democratic values and national renewal, saying that Nigeria desperately needs a shift in political culture.

“Our dear nation, and all those in leadership, whether in government or the opposition, must embrace the progressive and patriotic ideals that define LPPMC as a credible vehicle for national rebirth,” Okundaye stated.

He expressed optimism that the coalition’s efforts would usher in a “new dawn” for Nigeria, emphasizing the need for any alliance to be “people-centered and policy-driven.”

Ladi Johnson

Kaduna-based philanthropist and rights advocate, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the much-anticipated tax reform bill, describing it as a game-changing step toward unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and empowering states to function more independently.

In a statement made available to journalists on Monday in Kaduna, Ambassador Shettima congratulated the President for his “bold and visionary” leadership, saying the new tax law would not only improve ease of doing business in Nigeria but also simplify the country’s taxation system in ways that would attract both local and foreign investment.

“There is no doubt that this new law has laid a solid foundation to boost Nigeria’s economy by simplifying tax processes, expanding the tax base, and creating a more business-friendly environment for Nigerians and foreigners alike,” Shettima stated.

The tax reform bill, recently signed into law by President Tinubu, introduces a sweeping overhaul of the tax administration and collection system, including key provisions that directly benefit small businesses, revise the Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue-sharing formula, and promote equitable economic development across Nigeria’s federating units.

Shettima emphasized that small businesses—which constitute the backbone of the Nigerian economy—stand to benefit significantly from the reform through reduced compliance burdens and clearer tax expectations.

“The reform will support small businesses, increase revenue generation, simplify tax payments, and ultimately improve the socio-economic condition of the country,” he said.

The philanthropist particularly praised the provision that ensures a fair and equitable distribution of VAT revenues, noting that it will allow states to fund more local infrastructure and developmental projects without over-relying on federal allocations.

“This law aims to overhaul the country’s tax collection and administration systems, presenting an opportunity to create a more equitable and efficient taxation model. At the heart of the bill are transformative provisions such as revisions to the VAT revenue-sharing formula and exemptions for small businesses and the average Nigerian,” he noted.

However, Shettima also called for diligence and transparency in the implementation of the law, urging agencies like the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to act responsibly and in the national interest.

“The success of this reform depends not only on its passage but also on its execution. I urge all stakeholders, especially the FIRS and other tax authorities, to ensure proper implementation. This is a defining moment for our country.”

He further commended President Tinubu for showing “bold leadership and political will,” adding that the law has the potential to promote economic inclusion, reduce inequality, and stimulate long-term national growth.

“With the enactment of these transformative tax laws, President Tinubu has once again demonstrated bold leadership and the political will to drive meaningful reforms that promote economic inclusion, reduce inequality, and spur growth,” Shettima remarked.

He concluded by calling on Nigerians to unite in support of the law, describing it as a national turning point.

“President Tinubu has delivered the blueprint; now it is time for all stakeholders to ensure it works for the Nigerian people,” Shettima said.

A pro-democracy group under the aegis of the June 12 Ibadan Alliance for Democracy has faulted former Military Governor of Kaduna State, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd), over his recent suggestion that several of his military colleagues be considered for national honours for their roles in the June 12, 1993 struggle.

In a statement personally signed by Col. Umar, following his recent conferment with the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the retired officer had called on the federal government to also recognise “38 or more” unnamed ex-military officers whom he described as “unsung heroes” of the democratic struggle.

However, the June 12 Alliance, in a press release issued and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Arisekola Abdulwahab, strongly disagreed with Col. Umar’s recommendation.

The group accused some of the officers mentioned of fraternising with the late General Sani Abacha and playing roles that ran contrary to democratic ideals.

“We appreciate Col. Dangiwa Umar for accepting the national honour and we acknowledge his outstanding role in defending the sanctity of June 12 despite being in military uniform,” the group said. “However, it is unacceptable to recommend for honours those military officers who were part of the machinery that frustrated and truncated Nigeria’s democratic aspirations.”

The group insisted that while Umar’s own contributions to the pro-democracy movement are undeniable and deserving of national recognition, “those of his colleagues, particularly those who hobnobbed with anti-democratic forces, should not be rewarded.”

“For the benefit of younger generations who may not know the history, honouring such officers would wrongly present them as champions of democracy. That would be a distortion of history,” the statement added.

The group concluded by urging President Tinubu and the National Honours Committee to be cautious in selecting future recipients, stressing that “national recognition should only go to individuals with verifiable contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.”