Author Archives: News All Around

Apparently angered by the recent alleged claim of assassination,and non performance, the Kaduna Elders Forum has demanded recall of Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central senatorial district for undermining the peace of the State; poor representation and failure to deliver on campaign promises.

According to the Elders Forum,in the history of Senatorial representation in the state, no elected lawmaker has performed beyond expectation like senator Lawal Adamu.

The Kaduna Elders Forum, which demanded for the recall of the Senator in Press Statement signed by the Chairman ,Alhaji Inuwa Bala Rigasa expressed disappointment over his alleged claim of assassination and failure to speak and fight for the masses despite overt biting economic hardship.

Lawal Adamu Usman, the senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, has reportedly survived an alleged assassination attempt.

Recalled the senator, who was elected to the Senate in 2023 raised alarm over attempted assassination, but did not provide detailed information about the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.

The forum disclosed that the Kaduna Police Command in a press release signed by the Public Relations Officer,DSP Mansir Hassan said, “Without mincing words, the Command is yet to receive any formal complaint from the distinguished Senator, aside from this astonishing publication on the social media, and all efforts to contact him proved abortive.”

The statement further reads: Worst of all ,we were embarrassed when Senator Lawal Adamu posted that he was attacked by thugs in Kaduna during the New Year Day .

“We did set up machinery to investigate and confirm the veracity of the attack claim and as the time is issuing this press statement neither the police or members of Kawo communities have confirmed the occurrence of such incident.

“At this stage,we can no longer contain his excuses thus we are demanding for his Recall immediately from the Senate.”

“It is unfortunate that despite being in the red chamber for over 18 months Senator Lawal Adamu Usman has remained mute and unaccessible to his constituents.”

The Progressives Forum for Kaduna Development (KFKD) has questioned the veracity of Senator Lawal Adamu’s claim of an assassination attempt on his life. According to the group, the senator’s allegation is nothing but a “false alarm” raised by a “drowning lawmaker” who has failed to deliver on his duties since being elected.

The senator, who represents Kaduna Central Senatorial District, had claimed that he escaped an assassination attempt by some thugs in Kaduna North on New Year’s Day. However, the KFKD has dismissed this claim, stating that Kaduna youths have restrained from such violent attacks on people and communities since Senator Uba Sani became Governor of the State.

The group’s coordinator, Comrade Musa Baba Aliyu, signed a statement expressing their doubts about the senator’s claim. “We can authoritatively say without mincing words that Kaduna citizens have become more refined and peaceful in recent times,” the statement read.

The KFKD believes that Senator Lawal Adamu is raising a false alarm to draw sympathy to himself after failing to perform his duties as a senator. “He couldn’t perform and even speak on matters affecting growth and development of the State,” the group said.

The group also questioned why no lawmaker or politician was attacked in the past 19 months, despite the harsh economy caused by the removal of fuel subsidies. “Why is it that no lawmaker or politician was attacked over the past 19 months?” the KFKD asked.

The senator had claimed that his vehicle was pelted with stones by the assailants, but the KFKD is demanding pictorial or video evidence of the incident. “We demand pictorial or video evidence of when the assailants pelted the lawmaker’s vehicle with stones as claimed and reported,” the group said.

The KFKD also criticized Senator Lawal Adamu’s performance as a senator, stating that he has never stood up to speak on matters that affect the state. “He has never stood up to speak on matters that affected the state since elected and sworn-in as Senator,” the group said.

The group described Senator Lawal Adamu as the “worst performing senator in history” of lawmakers who have represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District since the return to democracy in 1999.

The KFKD’s statement also claimed that many people in the senatorial district have vowed to oppose Senator Lawal Adamu’s re-election due to his poor performance. “He is viewed as the worst performing senator in history, and many people in the senatorial district have vowed to oppose his re-election,” the group said.

The group’s criticism of Senator Lawal Adamu’s performance is not limited to his failure to speak on matters affecting the state. The KFKD also accused the senator of failing to deliver on his duties as a representative of the people.

In conclusion, the KFKD has dismissed Senator Lawal Adamu’s claim of an assassination attempt as a “false alarm” raised by a “drowning lawmaker” who has failed to deliver on his duties. The group has demanded evidence of the incident and criticized the senator’s performance as a representative of the people.

… Insists recovery of looted funds very necessary

…Warns Against Elrufai’s interference

Kaduna Based development monitoring group under aegis of Forum for Good Governance (FFGG) has backed the arrest of former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Local Government, Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu over allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.

The former Commissioner,who served under Governor Nasir Elrufai’s administration was arrested following a petition,where he was accused of laundering N3.96 billion and misappropriating N244 million between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement made available to journalists today, the Forum for Good Governance in Kaduna said there was nothing wrong with his arrest , especially when the issue revolves around looting of public funds.

The group in the Statement signed by Hon. Ahmadu Ibrahim Kauru warned against any attempt by Elrufai to interfere with the process must be resisted vehemently. Recalled that same Elrufai never had respect for rule of law when he was Governor.

We gathered that Elrufai in his days as Governor arrested and detained innocent journalists several and media practitioners such as; Luka Binniyat of Vanguard Newspapers ,Jacob Dickson of Authentic Newspaper , Stephen Kefas and Gabriel Idibia and nobody dated challenged him.

While noting that recovery of looted funds is very necessary now that Kaduna state is highly indebted,the Forum insisted that ,” His arrest must not be politicised because we all know that once an agency arrest an individual for looting of public funds or financial crime,it is in order.

The statement further reads: Allegations such as misappropriation of funds, sale of $45 million in state-owned foreign currency at an undervalued exchange rate of N410 per dollar, instead of the parallel market rate of N498 per dollar, causing a loss of over N3.96 billion to the government.

“Additionally, he is accused of failing to account for proceeds from the sale of government houses in Marafa Estate, Kaduna, amounting to approximately N244 million.

“We gathered from reports that the Kaduna State House of Assembly previously investigated Sa’idu’s financial dealings and forwarded its findings to anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and ICPC.

“We are happy that the police confirmed his arrest was not politically motivated but, followed by credible allegations of financial crimes and will remain in detention as investigations continue.”

The controversy surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged nepotism has taken a dramatic turn, with Senator Shehu Sani firing shots at former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. The bone of contention is El-Rufai’s recent comments on social media, where he shared a post by Farooq Kperogi, a US-based Nigerian professor, accusing Tinubu of governing Nigeria with a Lagos mindset.

Kperogi alleged that Tinubu has dominated the economy with people from the South-West, just as former President Muhammadu Buhari loaded the security sector with northerners during his administration. El-Rufai shared the post, saying “Two wrongs don’t make a right” and emphasizing that sensible inclusion trumps senseless exclusion.

However, Shehu Sani was having none of it. In a swift reaction, he blasted El-Rufai, questioning his silence during Buhari’s regime. Sani pointed out that El-Rufai was quiet when Buhari was appointing his kinsmen to political offices, but has now found his voice to speak out against Tinubu.

Sani’s verbal jab didn’t stop there. He overtly referred to El-Rufai, saying, “Let’s not make reference to the nepotism that marginalized Southern Kaduna for eight years. Kaduna was an apartheid state for eight years.” Sani’s statement is a clear reference to El-Rufai’s tenure as Governor of Kaduna State, which was marked by controversy and allegations of nepotism.

In essence, Sani is saying that El-Rufai has no moral ground to speak out against Tinubu’s alleged nepotism, given his own track record. Sani emphasized that anyone can criticize Tinubu on issues of alleged lopsided appointments or nepotism, but certainly not El-Rufai.

This exchange has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the issue. While some have praised Sani for calling out El-Rufai’s hypocrisy, others have criticized him for being overly partisan.

In a related development, Sani had earlier warned Tinubu against repeating the mistakes of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, in the area of appointments. Sani advised Tinubu to base his appointments on competence, rather than nepotism ¹.

By Mike Odeh James

Kaduna, Nigeria – December 25, 2024

As Christmas celebrations unfold across Kaduna State, Hon. Dr. Nita Byack George, Immediate Past Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area, has extended warm greetings to the people of Kaduna, commending Governor Senator Uba Sani’s exemplary leadership.

In a press statement released today, Dr. George acknowledged the significance of Christmas as a celebration of God’s gift of love to humanity. “Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated across the globe to reflect God’s gift of love to mankind, and we in Kaduna are part of this celebration,” she said.

Dr. George expressed her belief that everyone will celebrate within their means, sharing God’s love and reflecting on His blessings and mercies. “I believe that everyone alive will celebrate within his or her ability, sharing God’s love and reflecting God’s blessings and mercies over the years and years to come,” she added.

Dr. George also praised Governor Sani’s commitment to unity, citing his selfless efforts to promote peace, love, and harmony among Kaduna’s diverse communities. “His selfless efforts to promote peace, love, and harmony among the diverse communities in Kaduna State are truly commendable,” she said. “Indeed, he has proven himself to be a governor for all, regardless of tribe, religion, or background.”

Furthermore, Dr. George encouraged the people of Jaba Local Government to support their Chairperson, Hon. Larai Sylvia Ishaku, who is working tirelessly to build a peaceful and prosperous local council. “To our wonderful people of Jaba Local Government, I enjoin you to support our able Chairperson, Hon. Larai Sylvia Ishaku, who is leaving no stone unturned towards building a great peaceful and prosperous local council for all,” she said.

As the state looks forward to the new year, Dr. George emphasized the importance of working together to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and harmonious Kaduna State. “As we look forward to the new year 2025, let us continue to work together towards building a more peaceful, prosperous, and harmonious Kaduna State,” she said.

Dr. George’s message concluded with a prayer for God’s blessings on the state and its people, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. “May God bless our state and its people. May this festive season bring love, peace, and happiness to your homes and families. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!” she said.

By Amaka Okoro
Kaduna

As part of end of year activities preparatory to the celebration of Christmas, the Seat of God (SOG) ministries hosted over 1000 of both members of the church and non-members to a get-together.

The get-together followed a thanksgiving service where praises and prayers were offered in appreciation to the Almighty God as many testified to the goodness of God over their lives and those of their families from January to December 2024.

Aside from the get-together which involved dining and winning, the church also distributed food items and cash to members and non-members as a way of reaching out to those in need.

Earlier in his sermon during the thanksgiving service, His Lordship, Bishop Ademola Tinuoye charged the congregants to always have a reason to thank God, stressing that if for nothing at all, at least because they are counted among the living.

“A grateful heart will always be thankful, when you are thankful to God, he will always do more for you,” he said, citing how ten lepers were healed but only one returned, and only that one was made whole.

He emphasized that thankfulness is the gate pass to the presence of God, adding that when we are thankful to God for what he has done, God will not only perfect it, he will do more.

Some of the beneficiaries of the food items and cash commended the church for its magnanimity and prayed God to increase the ministry.

For Mrs. Dorathy Ejimatswa, “I am indeed grateful for the show of love; we were fed with sumptuous food and thereafter given food items and cash. May God bless the church, I am grateful to the Church and the Bishop.”

In recognition of his contributions to environmental causes , Kaduna State University (KASU) has appointed former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani’s the Ambassador of the institution’s Green Sustainability Initiative.

The appointment conveyed in a letter signed by the Chairman, Green KASU Committee, Kaduna State University,Dr. Aliyu Jafaar Abubakar revealed that the decision to appoint Senator Shehu Sani was based on his vast knowledge, national and international connections, and proven track record of advocacy uniquely position as an invaluable ally in advancing the mission.

According to the letter, the Green KASU Sustainability Initiative is driven by the Institution’s collective resolve to foster environmental awareness; implement sustainable practices, and build partnerships that champion a
greener and more resilient future.

The letter further reads,”In light of this, it is my great honor, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and Kaduna State University, to nominate you as an Ambassador of the “Green KASU” Sustainability Initiative.

“As an ambassador, your influence and guidance would be instrumental in fostering collaborations, securing resources, and raising awareness about sustainability, both within our institution and beyond.

This opportunity aligns with the legacy of leadership and advocacy you have built over the years.Your contributions as an ambassador would cement your indelible mark in shaping a greener future for generations to come.

This role is not only a recognition of your contributions to environmental causes, but also an invitation to partner with us in expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.

“Your keen interest,insightful perspectives, and demonstrated commitment to environmental
causes left an indelible impression on us.

“We were particularly inspired by your quiet yet impactful contributions to advancing environmental sustainability, which reflect both your deep understanding of these issues and your unwavering dedication to societal well-being.”

By Ahmed Tijjani

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is calling on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize merit in the appointment of the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

According to NAN, in a statement signed by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman, “While we respect the President’s decision-making process, we believe that Yazid Danfulani’s integrity and philanthropy make him the ideal candidate for this important role. Yazid Shehu Danfulani is a leader who embodies the qualities of change and progress.

His unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the people and his commitment to transparency and accountability have set him apart as a valuable asset to any organization. In contrast, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi feels like a betrayal of the people’s trust.

Fatima had nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, yet she failed to leave a lasting impact. Yazid Shehu Danfulani’s leadership style is characterized by his proactive approach to addressing the needs of the people.

He has shown a deep understanding of the challenges facing the community and has worked tirelessly to implement solutions that bring about positive change. His ability to listen to the concerns of the people and take decisive action has earned him the respect and admiration of those he serves.

Furthermore, Yazid Shehu Danfulani’s commitment to transparency and accountability sets him apart as a leader who is truly dedicated to serving the best interests of the people. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to be open and honest in his dealings, ensuring that the community is kept informed and involved in the decision-making process.

This level of transparency fosters trust and confidence in his leadership, making him a reliable and trustworthy figure in the eyes of the people. On the other hand, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi raises questions about the integrity and effectiveness of her leadership.

Despite having nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, Fatima failed to leave a lasting impact on the community. Her lack of tangible results and failure to address the pressing issues facing the people suggest a lack of commitment and dedication to the welfare of those she serves.

It is time for a new direction in the leadership of the SMDF/PAGMI, and Yazid Shehu Danfulani is the right person to lead the way. His vision for progress and his unwavering commitment to integrity make him the ideal candidate for this position.

We believe that Yazid’s leadership will bring about positive change and create a lasting legacy for the organization. We urge President Bola Tinubu to prioritize merit in the appointment of the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI and consider Yazid Danfulani for the role. It is time for a fresh perspective and a new approach to leadership in this important organization.

Yazid’s integrity and philanthropy are unmatched, and we believe that he is the best person to lead the SMDF/PAGMI into a successful future.

By Sandra Ukeredi

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has joined the growing chorus of voices calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rethink his appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

In a press statement issued by the President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF expressed concern over what they described as a “mix-up” in the appointments announced on December 6, 2024. The AYCF acknowledged the contributions of Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi, who was reappointed to the role after Danfulani’s initial appointment was reversed.

However, they argued that the sector requires new leadership to achieve greater heights. They highlighted Danfulani’s background in banking, computing, and business administration, as well as his experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as Zamfara State Commissioner of Commerce and Industry.

According to the AYCF, Danfulani’s innovative approach and expertise make him an ideal candidate to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda for the solid minerals sector. They believe that his leadership would help revitalize the SMDF/PAGMI and drive reforms in the critical solid minerals sector.

The group urged President Tinubu to review the decision in favor of Danfulani’s leadership. The Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative are crucial components of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and boost non-oil revenue.

The AYCF’s call for reconsideration of Danfulani’s appointment comes at a time when the country is seeking to drive reforms in the solid minerals sector. The group highlights the importance of appointing a leader with the right expertise and vision to lead the SMDF/PAGMI.

They believe that the success of these initiatives hinges on the appointment of a leader with the right expertise and vision to drive them forward. In their view, Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is the ideal candidate for this role, and they are urging President Tinubu to reconsider his appointment in order to achieve the desired goals for the solid minerals sector.

The AYCF’s stance on this issue highlights the importance of leadership in driving the success of any organization or initiative. A leader with the right expertise and vision can inspire and motivate their team, set clear goals and objectives, and make strategic decisions that will lead to success.

In the case of the SMDF and PAGMI, the AYCF believes that Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani possesses the necessary qualities to lead these initiatives to success. Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the solid minerals sector.

He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and has a proven track record of delivering results in similar roles. His vision for the sector aligns with the goals of the SMDF and PAGMI, and his leadership style is one that inspires confidence and trust in those around him.

President Tinubu’s appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani would send a strong signal to the industry and the international community that Nigeria is serious about developing its solid minerals sector. It would also ensure that the SMDF and PAGMI have the leadership they need to succeed in achieving their goals of promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.

Sani Lemi

ABUJA, Dec 2 – A prominent Nigerian civil rights activist, Luka Binniyat, on Sunday called on the federal government to monitor and reassess the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Binnyat made this remark to journalists in Abuja on December 1st, 2024. while receiving delegates from the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria.

He noted that the Niger Delta region just like the Middle south-south have suffered long enough from marginalization and underdevelopment leading to the creation of the NDDC and so it is important for the Commission to perform its statutory role .

“I am urging the NDDC managing to as a matter of urgency do what it needs to be done by creating more jobs, stimulating the economy of the Niger Delta and carrying the Youths along .

“Everyday, we read in the news from the Youths about the high rate of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta region and I asked myself what is the NDDC doing .

“That is why I am calling on the Federal Government to reassess the activities of the commission and reprioritize Youths development goals

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria has criticized the commission, established in 2000 to develop the oil-rich Niger Delta region, had failed to deliver on its mandates despite receiving over 6 trillion naira ($14.7 billion) since its inception.

According to the Nigerian Delta State Coordinator for the UYAN, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye,

“The NDDC has been plagued by corruption, mismanagement and abandonment of projects since it’s inception

“It is imperative that the federal government takes decisive action to ensure the commission operates transparently and effectively.”

Fajoye expressed disappointment with the current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stating that he has fallen short of expectations. Specifically, Fajoye noted that the Managing Director has failed to create job opportunities and stimulate a conducive environment for the development of the Niger Delta region.

“I am in sync with my colleagues from Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and other areas that the NDDC has performed below par,” Fajoye said. “He has failed to carry the Niger Delta Youths along, he has not really created employment opportunities nor generated any meaningful development for the Nigerian Delta region.”

The Rivers State coordinator for the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro emphasized the need for fresh perspectives and new leadership in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

“The current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission is from Bayelsa and he has spent his four years?” Comrade osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro noted, highlighting the need for change.

She appealed to the Federal Government, saying, “I am appealing to the Federal Government to allow a sound technocrat and administrator from another state to come on board as the MD and inject new ideas.”

Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro stressed the importance of fairness and equity, stating, “We want to move forward and we want equity and fairness, let the MD position be rotated to another state.”

The Bayelsa state coordinator, Comrade Amadoma God-help, has announced that the group is consulting with human rights activists, civil society groups, and other related youth groups to stage a mass protest in Abuja and Port Harcourt. This move is aimed at pushing for their previously stated demands to be met.

“At this stage, we are still consulting as we are in talks with youth groups and civil society groups around the country. Then we shall proceed to the National Assembly with our demands,” the coordinator said.

He emphasized that failure to consider their demands would lead to mass action on the streets of Abuja and Port Harcourt.