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Former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, has launched a scathing attack on the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government, describing it as rudderless and lacking direction to lead successfully. He also accused members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) who defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of doing so because of “stomach infrastructure” and not in the interest of Nigerians.

Tambuwal, who spoke during an interview on the sideline of the PDP National Executive Council meeting, Northwest Zone in Kaduna on Saturday, described the APC as a party that lacks focus, direction, and compassion and has driven Nigeria into economic hardship. He questioned the integrity of politicians who defect to the APC, saying that they are not driven by a desire to serve the people but rather by hunger and lack of self-control.

“People leave the party for different reasons. What I have been observing in the past is that defections are not in the interest of the people but based on stomach infrastructure,” Tambuwal said. “If you are a politician with conscience, with the current policies being driven by APC and current economic conundrum that APC has driven Nigeria into, hardship across the country and abysmal performance of Tinubu administration, there is nothing attractive outside stomach infrastructure.”

Tambuwal emphasized the need for politicians who genuinely care about the country to come together and work towards a common goal of easing out the current administration, which he described as lacking focus, direction, and compassion. “It is for those of us who believe in this country, who believe in service to people, to continue to come together and work out something that will help us to ease out this administration that lacks focus, that lacks direction and compassion and that is rudderless come 2027,” he added.

Earlier, the Chairman of the PDP Northern Zone, Senator Bello Hayatu, called on party members and supporters to take the lead in providing quality leadership in the country. He emphasized the need to swiftly resolve conflicts at the national level and highlighted the party’s strong grassroots support despite the outcome of the 2023 election. Hayatu stressed the importance of unity among party members to address internal issues and achieve success in the 2027 election. He rallied the Northwest region to work together to take over leadership in their states and in Nigeria.

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed profound grief over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the influential leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere. In a press statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the National Publicity Secretary on 15 February 2025, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the MBF, paid tribute to Adebanjo’s unwavering principles.

“Pa Adebanjo was an exceptional statesman and an unwavering leader whose public service and personal philosophy were rooted in justice, fairness, and the rule of law,” Dr. Pogu stated. “Furthermore, I recall how, in 2023, he firmly advocated that the Igbo deserved the presidency, even when a Yoruba candidate was in the race.” He noted that Adebanjo’s commitment to justice and fairness was unwavering. “In every meeting of the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMLF), Pa Adebanjo brought his wisdom and decades of experience to bear,” Dr. Pogu added. “His absence will be deeply felt.”

Adebanjo’s remarkable consistency in championing justice and fairness earned him widespread respect. Additionally, his demise at the age of 96 comes after a lifetime of contributions to the Nigerian state, spanning from the pre-independence era to the 21st century. Dr. Pogu highlighted Adebanjo’s crucial role in Nigeria’s development, taking great personal risks for the country’s progress.

“Unlike many of his contemporaries who shifted allegiances or compromised their ideals over time, Adebanjo remained steadfast in his principles, even in the face of adversity and intimidation,” Dr. Pogu emphasized. “He noted that the story of Nigeria’s journey cannot be told without mentioning Chief Ayo Adebanjo.” Furthermore, Dr. Pogu stated that Adebanjo’s legacy would continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.

The MBF extended condolences to Adebanjo’s family, the Yoruba nation, and Nigerians at large, urging citizens to uphold his legacy. “On behalf of the Middle Belt Forum, I extend my deepest condolences to all who cherished his ideals,” Dr. Pogu said. “I pray for the repose of his soul and ask the Almighty to comfort his family, the Yoruba nation, and Nigeria as a whole,” the statement concluded.

By Mike Odeh James

Kogi residents in Kaduna State, under the Niniji Nupe Development Association (NNDA), are appealing to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to recognize the Etsu Lokoja title of the native Nupe of Lokoja. The association emphasizes that the Nupe people are the first settlers in Lokoja, founded by Nyamkpa, a Nupe warrior, before the end of the 1700s.

The association’s president, Mr. Fredrick Nyabam, expressed concerns over the silence of the Kogi State Government regarding the assault on the Etsu Lokoja’s Palace, which resulted in the burning of his car and threats to life and property. They clarified that HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda Shelika – Nyamkpa IV is the rightful Etsu Lokoja, installed on January 23, 2024, at Mount Pati.

The association demands fair treatment, recognition, and grading of the Etsu Lokoja stool, which has existed for centuries. They also seek justice for the unwarranted attack on the Etsu Lokoja’s premises and appeal for security agencies to bring perpetrators to book.

The association stated that the insinuations surrounding the stool of Etsu Lokoja have become worrisome, and the need to state the obvious has become inevitable. They emphasized that Lokoja is not a ‘No Man’s Land’ and that the Nupe people have played host to the British and other ethnic groups resident in the community.

The association also clarified that HRH Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda Shelika – Nyamkpa IV did not make himself Etsu Lokoja, but was unanimously chosen and installed by the native Nupe of Lokoja. They stressed that enough is enough and that their silence, patience, and tolerance should not be taken for granted.

The association demanded that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo grant their request for government recognition and grading of the long-existing stool of Etsu Lokoja. They also appealed for an end to the harassment, marginalization, and intimidation of their people by other ethnic groups.

In conclusion, the Niniji Nupe Development Association emphasized their commitment to peaceful coexistence and their desire to promote their culture freely without interference. They pledged their unalloyed commitment to the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and sought his intervention in addressing their grievances.

Kaduna based Human Rights group, K-23 Movement has applauded the National Security Adviser,Mal Nuhu Ribadu for concerted efforts and proactive steps taken to rid the north and indeed the entire country of banditry, terrorism and other security challenges.

According to the group, kidnapping and banditry had become economic crimes, which many criminals engaged in to make cool money in the country, before Ribadu alongside security agencies deployed proactive strategies that are already yielding fruits to tame insecurity in the country

The Chairman of K-23 movement Comrade Bashir Bello, who made the commendation during a press conference held at Arewa House Kaduna, expressed angered overs what he described as “unprovoked vituperations” from the former Governor Nasir Elrufai against the NSA and other political leaders.

He words: ” We are angry at Elrufai’s vituperations against the respected National Security Adviser , Mal Nuhu Ribadu and Kaduna State Governor .

El-Rufai had backed Haj. Naja’atu Muhammad when he released a newspaper article as evidence of where Ribadu vowed to expose leaders of the All Progressives Congress, including President Tinubu. According to him, Ribadu has serious amnesia.

According to him , the K-23 is unhappy that a man facing alleged corruption, should be very careful not stirr up controversy that overheats the polity. We want him to know that this campaign of calumny against he highly revered National Security adviser would be resisted

While noting that those who come to equity must come with clean hands, the Chairman described, Mal Nuhu Ribadu as a man of proven integrity ,who served his country meritoriously as the pioneer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC and left with an unblemished record with unrivaled achievements .

Bello who reiterated readiness ready to give all necessary support that will help the NSA rid the north of insecurity challenges, said he is elated that the National Security Adviser is working tirelessly to rid the north and indeed the entire country of banditry, terrorism and other security challenges.

Speaking about El-Rufai, he said ,he It is on record that his administration in Kaduna State built a reputation for political repression by muzzling dissenting voices, sending numerous citizens to jail including journalists, traditional, politicians and academics without recourse to fairness.

He further said, “Among the numerous casualties of his repressive rule are a journalist Luka Biniyat who spent 185 days in jail. Steven Kefason also journalists spent 162 days in Jail. Dr. John Danfulani a university lecturer with the Kaduna State University was detained for 22 days and subsequently sacked from the university. We will not forget the nine Adara elders detained for 183 days. Abubakar Idris alias Dadiyata, a lecturer and public commentator was also abducted in his home.

“Five years down the line, his whereabouts is still unknown. Bashir Hamdada, a political associate of Senator Shehu Sani, was abducted and tortured for days in a detention facility for voicing his concerns. Galadiman Ruwan Zazzau A traditional title holder was detained for several days for defending the labour movement. His predecessor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero was not spared either as he was humiliated and forced to display the EFCC charges board to the world after being detained for several days. likewise the former Secretary to the State Government Hamza Ishaq Danmahawayi and former PDP State Chairman A.G. Haruna. The list is endless.

“The ex-governor has flooded the media with wild claims that the current administration of Gov. Uba Sani has failed to disclose to the people of Kaduna State the fabled N150billion Financial intervention to the state while forgetting to remove the speck on his own eyes.

“Lest I forget, it is on record that erstwhile governor has, for the eight years he held sway as, refused to disclose the trillions that accrued to the state coffers from various grants and loans, which to date no member of the Kaduna state can testify how they were spent. The followings may suffice
He received millions of dollars Paris refund from the Federal Government without disclosing the sum to the people of the state.

Bello however revealed, “He received billions of naira in Ecological funds and failed to disclose the sum to the people of the state .He collected billions of Naira from the Excess Crude Account without disclosing the sum to the state
He also received billions of naira from Special Grants by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) without disclosing the sum to the state.

“He received payment for Stamp Duties in billions without disclosing the sum to the state. He also mortgaged the state Internally Generated Revenue IGR to a commercial bank and received billions of naira in return without disclosing the sum to the state until the startling revelations made by the report of Kaduna State House of Assembly emerged, no one could defend how the USD350million loan the ex-governor received from the World Bank was spent
Mal Nasir El-Rufai should therefore spare Governor Uba Sani his tantrums which are capable of distracting the current administration from the steady progress being made in the state in all areas of governance.

“Besides, we are calling on all relevant agencies to investigate his record of abuse of office and human rights violation including arbitrary detention and the illegal demolition of homes and business property in Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan, which rendered the state’s economy comatose. We should not forget that the ex-governor was disqualified by the National Assembly when his name was forwarded for ministerial screening on the grounds of security and poor human rights records”.

He emphasized the need for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute El-Rufai for the alleged charges of monumental corruption levelled against him by the State House of Assembly and other crimes committed against the State.

By Ochagwu Ochai

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) youth vanguard North West Zone has said they are aware of individuals being sponsored to plot the downfall of the party, saying they will resist it vehemently.

Speaking shortly after their meeting in Kaduna where they reaffirmed their loyalty and support for the Kaduna State PDP youth leader Alhaji Aliyu Ya’u, the Zonal youth leader of the PDP national youth vanguard North West Zone, Hon. Ibrahim Ahmadu, made the declaration.

Hon. Ahmadu averred that those who do not mean well for the party are those seeking his removal of the youth leader after fulfilling all requirements and won the position unopposed.

“We therefore wish to sound this note of warning to those trying to drag the party into the mud to desist because we will resist them, because PDP is very ready to wrestle power from the ruling APC come 2027” he said.

“PDP is bigger than any individual and no one has the monopoly to bring down the party, so, any agent of darkness attempting to destroy the good will of the party in Kaduna State and Nigeria will certainly meet stiff resistance” he stressed.

Hon. Ahmadu said the youth vanguard is committed more than ever before to work tenaciously for the success of the party now and in 2027.

Mohammed Sani Ilu

The recent fire outbreak at a Tsangaya school in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State has generated significant grief and alarm, particularly given the tragic loss of 17 young lives. Additionally, this incident injured at least 16 other pupils. The ramifications of this disaster extend beyond immediate loss as it intertwines with broader socio-political issues within Zamfara State. The perception that these incidents are omens linked to the governance of Dauda Lawal Dare has emerged among community members, raising concerns about leadership accountability and systemic failures.
The Tsangaya, or Almajiri, school system is a traditional form of education in northern Nigeria. Unfortunately, these schools are often underfunded and inadequately equipped. The tragic fire incident exemplifies this vulnerability. Many residents expressed anger over the lack of basic safety measures in a facility that serves vulnerable children. Such instances highlight systemic failures in educational infrastructure and student safety. This raises questions regarding the state government’s commitment to improving conditions in educational institutions, especially those catering to marginalized groups.
The current administration has faced increased scrutiny over its inability to respond effectively to such tragedies. Many residents have begun associating these incidents with a perceived jinx tied to Dauda Lawal Dare’s leadership. Some argue this perspective is unjustified, positing that natural disasters and accidents are not solely the responsibility of governance. However, the failure to prevent or address these calamities effectively reflects inadequacies in governance.
The political implications of this incident cannot be overstated. Since Dauda Lawal Dare assumed office, there has been a series of unfortunate events in the state, leading many to opine that his leadership has brought a “bad omen.” This belief can be partially attributed to a string of crises, including disasters and increased insecurity in the region. For instance, the boat accidents that occurred in September 2024 further illustrate the state’s problems. Reports indicate that numerous boat mishaps claimed dozens of lives, with incidents such as the one in Mashayar Yandaga River resulting in five survivors and nine recoveries of deceased individuals. Such events have prompted residents to question the effectiveness of governance and disaster management within the state.
Moreover, the following boat accident, where at least 64 people were feared dead, only heightened these sentiments. These accidents were closely followed by another capsizing in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, underlining how precarious life can be in Zamfara State. With inadequate regulations in place, riverine communities have faced significant dangers, and the fear of losing lives has created a climate of anxiety. This recurring cycle of despair has led to calls for more effective leadership that prioritizes public safety and welfare.
The broader impact of these incidents on the community cannot be overlooked. The recent floods that displaced thousands of individuals further compounded the challenges faced by the residents of Zamfara State. The Displacement Tracking Matrix assessed the consequences of extensive flooding, identifying over 61,000 individuals impacted. A large proportion of this affected population continued to live in their homes, despite damage that varied from partial to complete destruction. The economic ramifications are staggering, affecting the primary income sources of many families reliant on farming and petty trading. Loss of homes and livelihoods not only exacerbates poverty but also erodes community resilience.
Furthermore, it is critical to examine the historical context of resource allocation in Zamfara State. Over the years, the state has faced challenges in securing adequate funding for critical sectors, including education and disaster management. Irregularities in developmental planning have often left communities ill-prepared for emergencies. Influential local leaders and NGOs have advocated for better governance, yet tangible changes remain limited. The current administration’s struggle to address these historical failures has resulted in widespread disillusionment among residents.
Critics of Dauda Lawal Dare’s government highlight that effective leadership should involve proactive disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. Events like the recent fire outbreak in the Almajiri school, coupled with recurrent boat accidents and flooding, demand a comprehensive approach. This includes investing in educational infrastructure, improving safety protocols, and developing a robust disaster response mechanism. Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort between governmental agencies and community members to foster resilience.
In terms of future developments, the Zamfara State government must prioritize resource allocation towards building a more robust disaster management framework. Engaging with community leaders and local organizations can provide substantial support for raising awareness and strengthening local capacities. Active involvement of residents in governance processes may foster accountability and ensure their voices are heard in confronting these crises.
In conclusion, the recent tragedies in Zamfara State, marked by the heart-wrenching loss of young lives in a fire at a Tsangaya school and a series of boat accidents, necessitate urgent reflection and action. The interplay of governance challenges, infrastructural inadequacies, and socio-economic vulnerabilities must be urgently addressed. As residents grapple with their grief and loss, the call for accountable leadership that truly prioritizes the welfare of its people grows louder. Effective governance must rise to meet these challenges, ensuring that such devastating incidents are prevented in the future.

By Emily Nnamdi

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed its support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and President Bola Tinubu over their recent decisive actions in dismissing three suspended Residents Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states. This commendation underscores the vital role of maintaining electoral integrity and accountability within Nigeria’s democratic processes.

According to NAN in its statement signed by the Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the dismissal of the three RECs in March 2023 stemmed from serious allegations of unlawful assumption of roles and dereliction of duty during the recent general elections adding that these suspensions are emblematic of the commitment by INEC to upholding the integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria.

“INEC’s actions not only address immediate concerns of misconduct but also bolster public confidence in the electoral system’s capacity to adjudicate fairly against corruption and negligence. This proactive approach is critical in setting a precedent that faces electoral malpractice head-on.

“Within the context of Nigerian politics, the urgency of maintaining electoral integrity has become increasingly pronounced. The country’s recent history has been plagued with instances of electoral fraud and malpractice, regularly undermining democratic institutions.

“The conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud further reflects the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions during the electoral process. Such legal actions signal to the public and potential offenders that ethical violations will have consequences. The relationship between accountability and integrity is crucial for enhancing the legitimacy of electoral results and the overall democratic environment in Nigeria.

“In light of these developments, the Northern Awareness Network urges all stakeholders involved in the electoral process, including security agencies and political parties, to imitate INEC’s example by implementing stringent internal disciplinary measures against those engaging in misconduct”. Suleiman said, upholding ethical standards across the board is paramount for fostering a political culture that values integrity and transparency adding that Political parties, in particular, are in a unique position to influence their members’ conduct. By establishing clear ethical guidelines and adhering to them, parties can not only avoid scandals but also improve their relationships with the electorate.

“It is also important to recognize the complexities surrounding the disciplinary procedures within INEC itself. The organization has faced criticism in the past for its handling of electoral malfeasance. The thoroughness of INEC’s investigation and execution of the dismissals indicates a commitment to procedural integrity, which is essential for maintaining public trust.

“Adherence to due process ensures that actions taken are justified and transparent. This, in turn, reinforces the credibility of the electoral system, as decisions are based on established norms and legal frameworks rather than arbitrary judgment. Moving forward, the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders can play a significant role in consolidating democracy in Nigeria. Ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections is a shared responsibility. This collaboration could manifest in various forms, such as joint training programs for election officials and security personnel, workshops aimed at raising awareness about electoral ethics, and fostering collaborations between civil society organizations and electoral bodies. The Northern Awareness Network says it stands prepared to support initiatives aimed at promoting accountability and integrity in future electoral events, signaling a commitment to fostering a democratic culture that emphasizes the electoral rights of citizens.

“Additionally, global perspectives on electoral integrity provide useful insights for Nigeria. Countries that have successfully strengthened electoral processes often do so through comprehensive electoral reforms that involve a range of stakeholders. These countries exemplify the importance of continuous assessment of electoral practices and the necessity for adaptability in regulatory frameworks.

“Embracing lessons from such examples can guide Nigeria toward reforms that bolster the integrity of its electoral system. The actions taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission and President Bola Tinubu in dismissing the three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners represent a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s electoral landscape”. The group further stressed that upholding electoral integrity and accountability is essential not only for the immediate future of Nigerian democracy but also for fostering public trust in its institutions. The Northern Awareness Network’s call for collaboration among all stakeholders underscores the necessity of a collective commitment to establishing a fair electoral process. By reinforcing ethical standards, ensuring accountability, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria can make significant strides toward a more representative and resilient democracy, the group added.

By Grace Ameh

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their firm stance on accountability in the dismissal of three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.

AYCF in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, said he believed that such decision is a bold step towards restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process and promoting ethical conduct among election officials.

The forum also applauded President Tinubu’s request to the Senate to terminate the appointments of the suspended RECs, as it aligns with constitutional oversight provisions and demonstrates a commitment to upholding electoral integrity.

Furthermore, the AYCF said it acknowledged INEC’s efforts in upholding electoral integrity, citing the recent conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud during the 2019 elections as a significant victory against election malpractice.

Shettima said the successful prosecution sets an important precedent and sends a strong message to those who seek to compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, adding that by holding individuals accountable for their actions, the confidence in the electoral system will be restored, and citizens can have faith in the fairness and transparency of future elections.

AYCF also urged other stakeholders, such as the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Police, other security agencies, and political parties, to follow suit by enforcing internal disciplinary measures against individuals who engage in misconduct during elections.

“This call for accountability extends beyond electoral officials and emphasizes the importance of all parties involved in the electoral process upholding ethical standards and conducting themselves with integrity. By working together to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a stronger democracy for the nation as a whole.

“The AYCF also acknowledges the complexity of disciplinary processes within INEC and expresses appreciation for the time it took for the suspended RECs to be dismissed. We recognize that adherence to due process is essential in maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and ensuring that decisions are made fairly and transparently.

“By taking time to investigate and follow proper procedures, INEC demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is crucial for building public trust in the electoral process”. Shettima said.

The AYCF stands in solidarity with INEC and President Tinubu in their efforts to promote accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process while calling on all Nigerians to support such initiatives and work towards building a stronger democracy for the nation.

“By holding individuals accountable for their actions, enforcing ethical standards, and upholding the principles of transparency and integrity, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a fair and inclusive electoral system that serves the interests of all citizens” Shettima stressed.

A Kano-based women’s group, Kanawa Women Forum for Development (KWFD), has condemned Hajiya Naja’atu Mohammad, a Police Service Commission member, for attacking National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, in a recent TikTok video. The group claims Naja’atu has no moral right to criticize Ribadu, who has worked to secure the north from bandits and insurgents.

In the video, Naja’atu alleged that Ribadu, as former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senators George Akume, and Orji Uzor Kalu of being corrupt governors. The women’s group demands a public apology and retraction, giving Naja’atu a 7-day ultimatum to apologize on TikTok.

The group also criticized Naja’atu’s past actions, including her alleged ties to late dictator General Sani Abacha’s regime and her history of blackmailing Kano state governors. They claim she has married and divorced multiple times and has a reputation for speaking out against those who refuse to grant her favors.

Ribadu has also fired back at Naja’atu, accusing her of working for late dictator Abacha. The Kanawa Women Forum for Development has dubbed their response to Naja’atu “The ABC of Naja’atu the Saint,” highlighting her alleged hypocrisy and questionable past.

By: Hassan Dauda

Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative has accused Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) of selfishness and insensitivity to its workers and customers as the industrial action embarked by the electricity union has sent four states in Northern Nigeria into five days blackout.
The group also said that it was suing the company for damages as a result of what it members suffered during the unannounced power outage based on the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Act of 2005.
The statement which was signed by the chairman of the group yesterday in Kaduna, Daniel Ejembi reads as follows:

“As the industrial action embarked by workers of Kaduna Electric Company (KEDCO) entered its fourth day Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative wished to make an intervention at this point.

“It is very disturbing that four days after workers of the company down tools over what is their legitimate rights to protest unfair, inhuman and illegal actions of the management of KEDCO, all we get from the management are sore Press Statements that portend even darker days ahead.
“As capitalists who see huge profit and business expansion above the dignity of the human person and service to society, we are not surprised at the leisurely pace of their negotiations with critical stakeholders in the fray as Nigerians keep suffering in darkness.

“Today, over 2 millions homes in Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states and hundreds of thousands of businesses that largely depend on KEDCO are experiencing severe losses in hundreds of Millions of Naira daily.
“For KEDCO to heartlessly say that it sacked 450 workers, not 900 as claimed by the workers union, is to emphasize how it cares very little for the financial, economic and social security of its workers that endanger their lives daily to deliver power to its customers.
“You don’t sack rightfully engaged workers in hundreds and at a go like chasing away a horde of flies and try to downplay numbers.
“KEDCO cannot also owe workers all kinds of areas including Five years pension while netting billions in profit every quarter, outside the billions of Naira in subsidies it enjoys from the Federal Government and not expect the workers it has enslaved to react when backstabbed without any warning.
“The management of the company ought to know that it is running an essential, critical service to Nigerians and ought to have behaved in a manner that would not plunge its customers into undue suffering by selfishly provoking its staff into this industrial action.

“Apart from that, protracted darkness in some parts of the affected states is also of grave security concerns at a time that kidnapping and banditry is reigning supreme in these affected states.

“The Chairman of KEDCO, Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, his Board and management have alternative power sources and as such may not give a hoot to their suffering customers no matter how long this strike continues.

“The Board and Management of KEDCO should bear all responsibility for the huge losses incurred by customers of KEDCO.

“We are hereby calling on all customers of KEDCO to come together, form a group and take legal steps to redeem all their losses for these dark days based on their rights as enshrined in the 2005 Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Act.
“As for Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative, we shall exercise our rights in court to remediate all the calculated damages that our members have suffered as a result of the callous actions of the Board and management of KEDCO for the days that this industrial action lasts. This therefore serves as an advanced notice to KEDCO.

“Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative is an association of young and dynamic youths with passion for free, safe and progressive Nigeria where social justice, rule-of-law and development reign,” reads the statement in conclusion.