Author Archives: News All Around

By Ibrahim Musa

…Warns Against Dragging Gov. Uba Sani into Mr. LA’s Failure

The Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group has once again criticized the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Lawal Adamu, following accusations against Kaduna State Governor, Malam Uba Sani, of alleged sabotage.

According to the group, the real question is: who is sabotaging who? They argue that records over the past 18 months show that the PDP senator has failed to make an impact—unable to speak on the Senate floor or sponsor bills that could alleviate hardship in the state.

The PDP, through its Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman on Media and Communication, Yusuf Dingyadi, had alleged that the state government refused to distribute learning and teaching materials procured by Senator Adamu, claiming it was a ploy to discredit him.

However, in a swift response, the Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group questioned why the PDP is defending a senator they claim has failed to fulfill campaign promises.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Bello Bashir Mohammed, the group criticized the PDP for making what it described as baseless allegations, insisting that Senator Adamu has no significant projects to show since taking office.

The statement reads: “Mr. LA and his cohort cannot hide behind his inability to perform and bring tangible projects to the table. The public already knows he has failed, and he will be voted out in 2027.”

“How dare the PDP compare Governor Uba Sani’s time in the Senate with that of a lawmaker widely regarded by his constituents as a complete failure?”

The group further noted that other lawmakers from the state, including a PDP senator, have successfully executed impactful projects, such as attracting a university to Southern Kaduna—with the support of Governor Uba Sani and the President.

“If Senator Lawal Adamu had done anything significant, we are confident that the Governor and the President would have openly supported him and even gone the extra mile to ensure his success,” the statement added.

The group emphasized that it is speaking out to prevent the misrepresentation of facts, warning the PDP against blaming Governor Uba Sani for what it described as the incompetence of its senator.

Accuses Gov of sabotaging education development in Kaduna

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

The national leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to leave the Senator Representing Kaduna Central and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Lawal Adamu (Sen LA) alone.

The major opposition party was reacting to the ‘non-performance’ statement and alleged stoppage of the distribution of learning and teaching materials worth millions of naira procured by the lawmaker by the state Government.

Yusuf Dingyadi, the Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman of PDP on Media and Communication, urged Mr Governor to work collaboratively with others in the interest of the State

According to the PDP, the APC-led state government has deliberately refused to distribute teaching and learning materials, including textbooks and notebooks, to primary and junior secondary schools in the constituencies of the lawmaker.

The PDP claimed that this move was aimed at discrediting Senator LA, who has been working to improve education in the state.

The party also accused the APC of hiring political propagandists to spread false information about Senator LA’s achievements.

According to him, “Teaching and learning materials including textbooks, notebooks and others that could have helped the intending beneficiaries and improve the quality of education at primary and junior secondary levels are kept in stores.

“Unfortunately, a directive was allegedly made that these materials should not be distributed at the LEA Malali Road, LEA Maiduguri Road among other places.

“It is expected that the State government, irrespective of political party, will work together with other elected representatives of the people to improve the living standard of the Kaduna populace.

“They are hiring political propagandists using radio and social media platforms to accuse Sen LA of not doing anything, forgetting that the two years of Sen LA is far better than the four years of Sen Uba Sani, who was busy with bills without impact on the people.

“PDP is a political party and so long you keep attacking it, you won’t make progress. You cannot be sponsoring political thugs and propagandists to destroy our values just because you want to impress President Bola Tinubu because of your 2027 agenda.

“No serious northerner, we campaign for APC in the North. The fact that some politicians are doing ‘Papalolo” to him does not mean they meant well to him. It is just to advance their stomach infrastructure.

“Uba Sani should not allow himself to be misled by some political ‘straying horse’ who is more of a political liability rather than an asset.

“Therefore, our PDP elected members are not dormant. They are performing well in their constituencies better than APC’s.

You cannot manipulate our political success by sponsoring propagandists attacking our performing elected legislators or showcasing decampees in a sponsored arena”, Dingyadi said.

Dennis Luka

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Association of Unemployment Youths of Nigeria (AUYAN), Delta State Chapter, has commended High Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), and Dr. Ahmed A. Audi, Commandant-General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for their efforts in securing the Niger Delta waterways.

Fajoye praised High Chief Pondi for bringing peace and stability to the waterways of Delta State and the entire Niger Delta region. “By bringing sanity to our waterways, High Chief Pondi has created a stable environment for fishermen, farmers, and transporters to carry out their activities without hindrance,” Fajoye said.

The youths leader also commended Dr. Audi for visiting Delta State and recognizing the contributions of High Chief Pondi. “We thank Commandant General Audi for visiting our state and for entering into a strategic agreement with Tantita Security Services Limited,” Fajoye said.

High Chief Pondi has also acknowledged the role of fallen heroes who lost their lives in the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta region. He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and security agencies for their support in the fight against crude oil theft.

Under High Chief Pondi’s leadership, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has made significant strides in securing the Niger Delta region. The company’s efforts have led to a significant reduction in oil losses, from 36.69 million barrels in 2022 to 7.68 million barrels in 2023, reflecting a 79% decrease.

Fajoye’s commendation is a testament to the impact of the collaboration between Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and the NSCDC in securing the Niger Delta waterways. The partnership has created a conducive environment for economic activities to thrive in the region.

“We are grateful for the partnership between Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and the NSCDC, which has brought peace and stability to our waterways,” Fajoye said. “We look forward to seeing more improvements in the region and commend High Chief Pondi and Dr. Audi for their efforts.”

Aisha Yesufu, a prominent Nigerian activist and co-convener of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) movement, is under fire following allegations of receiving funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the guise of the BBOG campaign. The Forum for Peace and Tranquility in Nigeria (FPTN) has called on the federal government to investigate Yesufu, accusing her of using such funds to sponsor Boko Haram insurgents.

The allegations gained traction after reports emerged that USAID channels approximately $697 million annually to various organizations, including groups linked to terrorist activities such as Boko Haram, Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and ISIS. The FPTN, in a statement signed by its Secretary, Mal Iliya Mohammed Suleiman, questioned Yesufu’s source of funding and demanded transparency, warning that failure to declare her revenue sources could lead to legal consequences.

The controversy deepened when investigative journalist David Hundeyin alleged that Yesufu and her associates in the BBOG campaign were part of a broader USAID-backed project designed to unseat former President Goodluck Jonathan. This claim has reignited debates about Yesufu’s role in the BBOG movement and her alleged political motivations.

Additionally, the FPTN referenced previous allegations of financial misconduct against Yesufu. The National Working Committee of the Labour Party, led by Julius Abure, had earlier called on the National Security Adviser and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Yesufu for allegedly misappropriating funds during the 2023 presidential campaign. The Labour Party accused Yesufu, along with Pastor Ighodalo and others, of mismanaging and diverting over N12 billion and $15 million in donations intended for the party’s campaign.

The FPTN emphasized that these allegations create an atmosphere of suspicion, warranting a thorough investigation into Yesufu’s past activities and sources of funding. The group urged authorities to act swiftly to address the concerns raised and ensure accountability.

Yesufu, however, has denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. She continues to defend her role in the BBOG campaign and her activism, maintaining that her efforts are aimed at promoting justice and accountability in Nigeria. As the controversy unfolds, calls for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against her continue to grow.

The Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group (KGGMG) has strongly criticized Senator Lawal Adamu, representing Kaduna Central, for his alleged non-performance and lack of representation in the National Assembly. According to the group, Senator Adamu’s failure to speak on critical issues affecting the state, such as insecurity and economic hardship, has left his constituents feeling neglected and unrepresented.

The KGGMG expressed disappointment that despite being in office for almost two years, Senator Adamu has not adequately represented the interests of his constituents or advocated for policies that benefit the state. The group’s coordinator, Bagudu Ibn Mohammed, noted that several other groups in the state have also expressed similar concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance.

In fact, the Kaduna Elders Forum had previously demanded Senator Adamu’s recall due to his non-performance, while the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum threatened to mobilize for his recall from the National Assembly. The KGGMG described Senator Adamu as the “worst senator ever” elected in Kaduna’s history, citing his lack of tangible achievements and infrequent visits to his constituents.

As the 2027 elections approach, the KGGMG is questioning how Senator Adamu expects to be re-elected when he has failed to deliver on his promises and has not provided adequate representation for his constituents. The group’s criticism highlights the growing concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance and the need for more effective representation in the National Assembly.

Senator Lawal Adamu, also known as “Mr. LA,” is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and has been serving as a senator since May 2023 ¹. Despite his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social welfare reform, his performance as a lawmaker has been heavily criticized by various groups in Kaduna State.

The Former Senator representing Kaduna Central District and President of Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN), Senator Shehu Sani has been honoured with an award of excellence as the “Activist of the Year” alongside notable Nigerians during seventh anniversary of The Reporter’s Magazine in Abuja .

According to the organizers of the event, part of reasons for recognition is to celebrate Outstanding Nigerians ,who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavour and are changing the narratives in their own way.

Information gathered revealed that the awards presented to 18 distinguished Nigerians was centered on reward for exemplary performance;hard work and integrity .

Notable amongst the awardees are the Group Chief Executive Officer NNPC Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, who bagged the Award as Trailblazer in Energy Leadership; Dr. Dikko Umar Radda,the Governor of
Katsina State was honoured as (Governor of the Year – Security), Malam Umar Namadi Danmodi, Governor of Jigawa State as (Governor of the Year (EDUCATION) and Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa ,Chief of Defence Staff Defence as the (Outstanding General of the Year).

Others are Major Hamza Al-Mustapha Rtd.
Intelligence and Security Expert as (Advocate for Stability).Mr. Olanipekun Olukayode,the Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,as Best (Impactful ANTI-CORRUPTION CRUSADER),Senator Abubakar Kyari, Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security as (Agricultural Sector Reformer of the Year).

The Magazine also honoured some businessmen such as:DR. ABUBAKAR DANTSOHO MD/CEO, (Man of the Year Award),Muazzam Mairawani, Chairman, MSM Group of Companies Abuja, Nigeria(YOUNG INVESTOR OF THE YEAR),Mr. Sadiq Mele Kyari,Chief Executive Officer Syari Bespoke Apparels Abuja (FASHIONPRENEUR OF THE YEAR).

Other awardees are: Mrs. Murjanatu Ringim,Founder Voice of Bazawara Initiative Kaduna State (PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR), Barrister Sa’adat Yunusa Muhammad; Special Adviser on Poverty Reduction Office of the Governor,Sokoto State,as (Empowerment Trailblazer), Mr. James Umeh, Chairman,The Whistler Newspaper, Abuja, as (PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR).

While Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited bagged the award as the AFRICAN ENERGY COMPANY OF THE YEAR and the spoke of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye
Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Limited (CORPORATE COMMUNICATION ICON).

By Abiodun Akinwunmi

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist and leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization. In a statement jointly signed by Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (SMBLF Leader), Sen. Azuta-Nbata (Ohaneze President General), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Igali (PANDEF President General), Dr. Pogu Bitrus (Middle Belt Forum President), and Barr. John Nnia Nwodo (Coordinator), the forum described Adebanjo’s death as “the end of an era, leaving a profound void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.”

Adebanjo was a lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and remained steadfast in his progressive ideals throughout Nigeria’s political transitions. One of his most courageous moments was his support for the Southeast’s claim to the presidency in the 2023 elections, demonstrating his commitment to fairness and national unity.

“Chief Adebanjo dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria, advocating for equity, fairness, and good governance. Unlike many of his contemporaries who wavered in their convictions, he remained resolute in his belief that Nigeria could only thrive on the foundation of true federalism and justice for all ethnic groups,” the leaders said.

The SMBLF praised Adebanjo’s dedication to democracy, saying, “He was a beacon of integrity, justice, and unwavering commitment to democracy.” His wisdom and counsel were invaluable in shaping the forum’s positions on national issues.

Born in 1928, Adebanjo’s life was intertwined with Nigeria’s history, from the fight for independence to the struggles against military rule and the quest for democracy. Despite facing persecution, detentions, and threats, he remained resolute in his principles.

“Beyond politics, Adebanjo was a mentor and father figure to many, playing a crucial role in shaping the SMBLF’s positions on national issues. His absence will be deeply felt,” the statement added.

The SMBLF urged Nigerians to emulate Adebanjo’s courage and conviction, saying, “As we bid farewell to this titan of justice and democracy, we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May the Almighty grant his family, the Yoruba people, and Nigeria the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Adebanjo’s legacy as a fearless advocate for democracy and equity is expected to inspire future generations in Nigeria’s quest for true federalism and good governance.

By Tolulope Abereoje

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist and leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization. In a statement jointly signed by Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (SMBLF Leader), Sen. Azuta-Nbata (Ohaneze President General), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Igali (PANDEF President General), Dr. Pogu Bitrus (Middle Belt Forum President), and Barr. John Nnia Nwodo (Coordinator), the forum described Adebanjo’s death as “the end of an era, leaving a profound void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.”

Adebanjo was a lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and remained steadfast in his progressive ideals throughout Nigeria’s political transitions. One of his most courageous moments was his support for the Southeast’s claim to the presidency in the 2023 elections, demonstrating his commitment to fairness and national unity.

“Chief Adebanjo dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria, advocating for equity, fairness, and good governance. Unlike many of his contemporaries who wavered in their convictions, he remained resolute in his belief that Nigeria could only thrive on the foundation of true federalism and justice for all ethnic groups,” the leaders said.

The SMBLF praised Adebanjo’s dedication to democracy, saying, “He was a beacon of integrity, justice, and unwavering commitment to democracy.” His wisdom and counsel were invaluable in shaping the forum’s positions on national issues.

Born in 1928, Adebanjo’s life was intertwined with Nigeria’s history, from the fight for independence to the struggles against military rule and the quest for democracy. Despite facing persecution, detentions, and threats, he remained resolute in his principles.

“Beyond politics, Adebanjo was a mentor and father figure to many, playing a crucial role in shaping the SMBLF’s positions on national issues. His absence will be deeply felt,” the statement added.

The SMBLF urged Nigerians to emulate Adebanjo’s courage and conviction, saying, “As we bid farewell to this titan of justice and democracy, we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May the Almighty grant his family, the Yoruba people, and Nigeria the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Adebanjo’s legacy as a fearless advocate for democracy and equity is expected to inspire future generations in Nigeria’s quest for true federalism and good governance.

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.