Author Archives: News All Around

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.

Concerned Kaduna Citizens have dissociated its group from the recent publication made the former Kaduna State Governor,Mal Nasir Elrufai.

According to the group, there was no time permission was granted to Elrufai,while improperly using the group’s name as a hashtag at the end of his write-up, where he attacked his successor, Governor Uba Sani.

The Concerned Kaduna Citizens in a Disclaimer written and made available to journalists in Kaduna today stated, “Our attention has been drawn to a publication by one Nasir EI-Rufa’i, in which he vehemently opposes His Excellency, the Governor of Kaduna State, while improperly using our name as a hashtag at the end of his write-up.”

The disclaimer signed by the Chairman of the group, Isah Abbas Ahmed reads: “We want to make it clear that; The name Concerned Kaduna Citizens as used by Nasir El-Rufa’i does not imply membership, endorsement, or authorization by the actual group.

“Any views, opinions, or statements expressed by Nasir El-Rufa’i in relation to this name are solely his own and do not represent the position of the group, its members or well-meaning Kaduna citizens.

“The group disclaims any association, responsibility, or liability for the use of its name by this individual who is not recognized as
member.”

…Passes vote of confidence on Uba Sani.

Kaduna Peace and Unity Forum (KPUF) has blasted former Governor ,Mal. Nasir Elrufai over his fraudulent and destructive legacies that left Kaduna an indebted State.

The Forum, which Passed Vote of Confidence on his successor,  said  Elrufai has no moral right to accuse Governor Uba Sani for working closely with President to enjoy Federal government support to provide adequate security and development in the State .

El-Rufai had launched a scathing attack on his successor, Uba Sani, accusing him of sycophancy and pandering to President Bola Tinubu for self aggrandizement.

The criticism followed Governor Uba Sani’s remarks during a TVC News interview on Monday, where the governor expressed surprise at the growing criticism of Tinubu’s administration from some founding members of the All Progressives Congress.

But in a swift reaction, the Kaduna Peace and Unity Forum in a statement rose in defence of the  Governor on account of his civil approach to governance and his cordial and visionary leadership style that gave birth to a peaceful and relatively secured Kaduna today.

According to group, the huge debt left by Elrufai’s administration is part of reasons ,the Governor is facing  difficulty in efforts to raise funds for development and working round the clock to ensure gaps of harsh economy are closed .

The Statement signed by the Chairman of the Forum,Dr. David Bege Abraham, explained,”There is no where in the world where frictions with superior leaders such as a President can yield growth and development. This is part of reasons, Governor Uba Sani’s support is apt and right in our view.

While Stating that Elrufai’s recent comments on Uba Sani are unwarranted , especially that the governor didn’t abuse of destroy his image on the live TV programme.

The statement further reads: “We can all testify to the commitments of the Governor to provide security that today has created enabling environment for the citizens, residents and business people.

“This was the case in days of Mal Nasir Elrufai.We can argue the fact he supported the Governor to win ,but he should allow him to govern the State with interference and distractions.”

” When  Elrufai accused the APC of poor leadership and encouraged the opposition parties to form a united front ahead of the 2027 election, What Governor Uba Sani did was  only to  gave an insight to why they are aggrieved and nothing else .

“What we want in Kaduna now is peace and unity and not political fights. Anything short of this would be resisted by the good citizens of the state

Coalition of Northern Elders across the three geopolitical zones today called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint the Chief Health, Safety and Environment Officer Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Dr. Bala Wunti to succeed Engr. Mele Kyari, the outgoing Group Chief Executive Officer of the country’s oil company.

According to the Elders, the appointment of a Northern to succeed Kyari would no doubt clear the misgivings and impression that the President favours only people from the south, especially southwest for ‘juicy’ appointments.

“We strongly believe if Wunti from Bauchi State is appointed,the erroneous impressions about the lopsided appointments would disappear because the Northerners would celebrate the feat”. They said .

The elders, who made the appeal in a statement made available to journalist in Kaduna explained,”The decision to speak as elders is to douse tension and tell the President that north deserve rewards in form of appointments for the overwhelming support he enjoyed during the 2023 general elections.

The statement signed by Chairman of Coalition,Prof. Inuwa Wada Mohammed further stated:”We have carefully studied all Northerners within the oil and gas sector,and resolve to support Bala Wunti, a thoroughbred oil and gas industry professional with 30 years’ experience covering Technical, Commercial, Managerial and Executive roles across the oil and gas value chain.

“From records obtained,His leadership in various NNPC roles, from upstream investment management to gas policy reform, shows competence.

“Information gathered about revealed that he is qualified as graduate of Chemistry from Ahmadu Bello University,Moreso as an individual with a Master’s degree in Business Administration,his capacity to deliver is not in doubt.”

The Elders, who acknowledged his selfless commitment and hard work at his current and previous positions in NAPIMS, say President will the service of such oil and gas expert.

“Mele Kyari-led team, alongside Bala Wunti and others, has its name written in gold in the history of the Nigerian oil sector despite challenges and distractions within and outside the sector, therefore the President as head of Nigeria’s apex oil company has the power to decide on who takes over from Kyari.

“We urge Mr President to do this for us and he would assured of our full support in the forthcoming 2027 elections .”

By Helen Okoro

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, for standing up against inciting comments made by Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi. According to NAN, Minister Matawalle’s actions demonstrate a strong resolve to protect Nigeria’s future and promote peace and unity.

NAN Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, stated that Minister Matawalle’s response to Amaechi’s comments was justifiable and essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s future. He emphasized that freedom of speech is not absolute and is limited when it incites violence, hatred, or poses a clear and present danger to national security.

The Northern Awareness Network argued that Minister Matawalle’s actions should be seen as a necessary assertion of governmental authority to maintain order and prevent potential chaos, rather than an attack on free speech.

The group emphasized that Minister Matawalle’s response was not only justifiable but essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s future. The Northern Awareness Network believes that Minister Matawalle’s actions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the principles of justice.

By directly challenging those who might feel above the law, Matawalle sets a powerful precedent. NAN stated that Minister Matawalle’s response serves as a stark reminder that no one is exempt from accountability, regardless of their past political positions or influence.

The group emphasized that the government must show its commitment to upholding the rule of law by addressing any instance of incitement to violence. The Northern Awareness Network emphasized that addressing potentially destabilizing political statements is not a distraction from security concerns but a critical element in maintaining them.

Minister Matawalle’s actions can be viewed as proactive measures to prevent the escalation of political tensions into significant security threats. NAN noted that the concern extends beyond the actions of high-profile individuals like Amaechi.

The implication for the entire political landscape is immense. If those who have held positions of power resort to inciting violence or destabilizing rhetoric, what can we expect from ordinary citizens? The Northern Awareness Network emphasized that the potential for escalation is significant.

Therefore, it’s vital that a strong message be sent: opposition, while vital for a healthy democracy, must remain within the confines of the law and engage in constructive dialogue rather than inflammatory tactics. NAN stated that Minister Matawalle’s intervention serves as a critical step in establishing this precedent.

The Northern Awareness Network believes that Chief Eze’s criticism of Minister Matawalle is fundamentally misplaced and misinformed. The condemnation lacks crucial context and oversimplifies a complex situation with significant potential consequences.

NAN emphasized that Minister Matawalle’s response should be seen not as an act of intimidation, but as a necessary assertion of governmental authority to maintain political stability and national security. Strong leadership necessitates decisive action, especially when dealing with issues that threaten national unity and security.

The Northern Awareness Network unequivocally supports Minister Matawalle and his commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding Nigeria’s future. His actions demonstrate the necessary firmness required to protect the nation from the dangers of unchecked inflammatory rhetoric and its potential for destabilization.

In conclusion, the Northern Awareness Network believes that Minister Matawalle’s actions are a step in the right direction towards maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria. The group urges all Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to promote national unity and security.

As the nation moves forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of responsible leadership and the need for decisive action in the face of adversity. The Northern Awareness Network remains committed to promoting the values of peace, justice, and national unity.

By Abiodun Oluwaseun

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed its full support for the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in his recent warning against the use of inflammatory rhetoric, particularly when directed at prominent figures such as Rotimi Amaechi.

The AYCF believes that Matawalle’s actions signify a crucial step towards holding individuals accountable for their actions and maintaining the rule of law in the nation.

In a statement by its President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF averred that, in a time where political tensions are high and divisive rhetoric is prevalent, it is essential for leaders like Minister Matawalle to speak out against language that seeks to incite violence or destabilize the country.

“By condemning inflammatory rhetoric, Matawalle is sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those who engage in it will face consequences. The AYCF commended Minister Matawalle for his bold stance and believes that his actions are in the best interest of the nation.

“It is imperative that leaders at all levels of government take a firm stand against any form of speech that could lead to violence or civil unrest. By upholding the rule of law and holding individuals accountable for their actions, we can work towards a more peaceful and united Nigeria.

“Nigeria, a nation of diverse ethnicities and political viewpoints, requires a delicate balance to maintain peace and stability. Recent pronouncements by Amaechi and other certain political figures have threatened this equilibrium, prompting concerns about incitement and the potential for widespread unrest.

“While healthy political discourse and opposition are essential for a thriving democracy, deliberate incitement to violence crosses an unacceptable line. The comments attributed to Rotimi Amaechi, intended to incite violence or unrest, are a serious threat to national security.

“Such actions undermine the democratic process, sow seeds of discord among citizens, and can lead to catastrophic consequences, including loss of life and property. Nigeria’s government, in its responsibility to protect its citizens, must not tolerate such deliberate attempts to incite chaos from any individual or group, irrespective of their political standing.

“The law must be applied equally to all. Minister Matawalle’s bold stance deserves commendation. His decision to publicly address the issue and call out individuals perceived to be inciting violence is a necessary and courageous act.

“It demonstrates a commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the principles of justice. By directly challenging those who might feel above the law, Matawalle sets a powerful precedent. His actions serve as a stark reminder that no one is exempt from accountability, regardless of their past political positions or influence.

“It sends a strong message that the government will not stand idly by while individuals deliberately fan the flames of discord. Such firm stance is crucial not only for maintaining immediate peace but also for setting a standard of responsible political conduct.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its unity and diversity. This unity is threatened when individuals prioritize personal gain or political ambition over the well-being of the nation.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum unequivocally supports Minister Matawalle’s call for calm and his firm stance against political incitement. We believe that his actions are not only necessary but also crucial for safeguarding the peace and stability of Nigeria”.

He emphasized that the government must show its commitment to upholding the rule of law by addressing any instance of incitement to violence, regardless of the perpetrator’s political standing.

“We urge all political actors to engage in responsible and peaceful discourse, prioritize national unity, and work together to build a better future for all Nigerians. The nation’s future hinges on our collective responsibility to maintain peace and uphold the principles of justice and fairness”.

All Progressives Congress Support Vanguard(APCSV) has faulted the failure on side appointed aides to respond to former Minister of Transportation and former Rivers state governor, Rotimi Amaechi over alleged incitement of anarchy against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

According to the Support group, it is unfair for Party members, especially appointed aides to pretend not understand the implications of such vituperation from Amaechi and others in recent time with no response from them .

The APC Support Vanguard, which states this in a statement made available to journalists today, observed that, “Aside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, who issued a warning to the former Minister of Transportation, over what he described as reckless and inciting statements regarding the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, we are yet to see other that rose in his defense of the Tinubu “.

In the statement signed by the Chairman , Abdullahi Mohammed Tofa , the group said the former Minister of Transportation warning that President Bola Tinubu will not relinquish power to the younger generation without resistance and pushing for alleged do-or-die election is dangerous to our existence as a people .

The statement further reads ,”For anyone to make public statements such as, “If you think Tinubu will just give you power, you are wasting your time”, is nothing but,an incitement. And seeing majority of his aides main sealed lips leave a lots to be worried about.

“We Recalled how same Amaechi in 2024 questioned the preparedness of President Bola Tinubu on the removal of the fuel subsidy and returning again in 2025 to say the political class, including President Bola Tinubu, would not willingly cede power to the younger generation.

“We are not against criticism of any sort,but let it be such that will be constructive and not overheat the polity .” It stated .

While noting that the aides can’t claim not to understand the erroneous signals being sent to the public and the subtle push for anarchy ahead of the 2027 general elections, the group said ,”As concerned support group,who are disturbed about the unwarranted attacks on Tinubu within the party hierarchy such as; Amaechi and Elrufai, we call on appointees ,the party structure and friends of the President to reply Amaechi immediately and put the records straight.”

The former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial zone , Senator Shehu Sani took a swipe at former Kaduna Governor,Mal Nasir Elrufai over his recent political comments of ,” Illiterates In Leadership Position”.

According to Shehu Sani, Elrufai in power practiced tyranny, but out of power he preaches democracy.

Former Kaduna Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, had accused his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), of abandoning its founding principles and fostering poor leadership, saying “You cannot afford to have illiterates, semi-illiterates, and cunning people as your leaders. This is why we end up with the poor leadership we have today,”

But in a reaction to Elrufai’s comments, Senator Shehu Sani via a telephone interview said ,”The man with a history of undisguised intolerance to opposition and hypersensitive allergy to criticisms have no moral and saintly feet to stand on the pulpit of democracy to preach about good governance.

While stating that Elrufai is like a man who is turned down by a woman and resorted to speaking ill of her, he posited that ,”If Nasiru is in a Keke napep, he will call it a Lamborghini; if he is thrown out of the Lamborghini,he will call it a Keke Napep.

He demonised the opposition when in the palace and now embracing them when in the wilderness.

According to him , today Tinubu’s Government is led by illiterates, because they refused to hire Professor Nasiru,who left behind a heap of garbage in kaduna and now preaching hygiene in Nigeria