Author Archives: News All Around

By Jameel Bayan

Tukur-Tukur Community Elders Commend Kaduna State and Zaria Local Government for Prompt Response to Diphtheria Outbreak … The elders of Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria local government have expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation to the Kaduna State and Zaria Local Government health authorities for their prompt and professional response to the recent outbreak of suspected diphtheria in their community. According to Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, a community leader and Director of Publicity and Advocacy of the Northern Elders Forum, the health authorities, along with representatives from the World Health Organization, quickly responded to the community’s distress call and took immediate action to address the situation. The swift and coordinated response from the health authorities and the World Health Organization representatives is being praised by the community for their decisive action in containing the outbreak and providing the necessary medical care and resources to the affected area. “We are truly grateful for the prompt and efficient response of the state and local government health authorities, as well as the World Health Organization representatives,” said Suleiman. “Their swift and professional handling of the situation was instrumental in bringing the outbreak which had claimed the life of five children under control and preventing further loss of life.” “The community is relieved and thankful for the quick and effective intervention that has helped to safeguard the health and well-being of our residents,” Suleiman added. “This collaborative effort demonstrates the importance of having a well-prepared and responsive public health system to address emergencies and protect vulnerable populations.” The successful containment of the outbreak is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the health professionals and the support of the international community in ensuring the community’s safety and well-being. The community elders commended the combined team of health workers who were on hand to manage the outbreak, stating that their efforts were critical in stabilizing the situation and ensuring the well-being of the affected residents. “The community shall remain grateful for this prompt response and professional handling of the otherwise scary situation,” Suleiman added. “We pledge our renewed commitment to diligent vigilance against any suspicious symptoms and pledge our full cooperation and support for the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable health and overall growth in our community.” The Tukur-Tukur community elders expressed their confidence in the ongoing collaboration with the health authorities and their commitment to working together to maintain a healthy and vibrant community.

By Amali Adiku

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) support groups Wednesday carried out a peaceful solidarity rally in Abuja to declare their total and unalloyed support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari.

The support rally was on the premise of several calls for President Tinubu to relief the NNPCL boss of his position on grounds of challenges facing the oil sector, a call some viewed as subtle efforts targeted at President Tinubu by enemies of the country who are committed to fighting back following the removal of the fuel subsidy by this administration.

Addressing journalists on the sideline of the peaceful support rally , the leader of the rally and Speaker of the AYAGL Ambassador Abdul DanBature said, the solidarity rally was basically to urge President Tinubu to disregard such calls as it is the handiwork of enemies of his administration.

” As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector”he stressed.

” Kyari’s scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

Also, the Speaker said, the solidarity rally is to further urge Mr Kyari to continue the good works of repositioning the NNPCL towards greatness, adding that he should not be discouraged by calls for his sack by faceless individuals.

” For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization be it government or individual that is providing good governance and that is why we declared our support for Mele Kyari and to assure him publicly that we will always support him” Danbature said.

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By Musa Maye

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Professionals Support Movement Group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently call his Minister of State Defense, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, to order for using his ministerial power to intimidate, destroy, and weaken some of its party elders over frivolous accusations.

Addressing a group of journalists in Kaduna on Thursday, the group Chairman, Dr. Muazzam Lawal Sadauki (Yariman Bukkur), described the action of the Minister against some of the PDP influential leaders in the region as uncalled for.

The group condemned Matawalle’s use of power to persecute opposition leaders, particularly in the Northwest, and demanded that President Tinubu call him to order to focus on governance rather than political vendetta.

Recently, the group heard about the alleged accusation of implicating some of its party leaders with spurious accusations of collaboration with a man called Bashir Hadejia, who is now under detention by the security agencies. This, the group views as illegal and an attempt to intimidate and persecute its leaders.

The group believes that former Zamfara governor and now Minister of Defense Bello Matawalle is becoming desperate to destroy or persecute anybody perceived to be a threat to Mr. President’s political ambition ahead of 2027.

The Minister should explain to the PDP, especially in the North-West, the causes of his enmity against its leaders, especially Gen Aliyu Gusau (rtd), former governors Attahiru Bafarawa, Sule Lamido, and others, who he continually castigated or tried to bring down because of their opposition to APC.

Many of the party’s political leaders, including former governors, a retired army officer, and serving governors, have been marked to be relegated and implicated either because of their allegiances to PDP or are not in good names with the Presidency.

Since after the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria solidarity rallies, some of the party’s supporters are now targeted or becoming victims of harassment by certain people in the APC-led government, more especially in the northwest.

The group wants to remind Mr. President to understand that government is about the people, not using power to subdue or destroy opposition because of political interest or alliance.

It is on this note that the group is reiterating its earlier demand that Mr. President should immediately call Matawalle and others in his shoes to order, by directing them to face their work so he can deliver his campaign promises to Nigerians.

The group also wants to remind President Tinubu that he should focus on governance and delivering his campaign promises to Nigerians rather than engaging in political persecution and vendetta.

The PDP Professionals Support Movement Group is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians to rise up and condemn this act of political persecution and intimidation.

The group is also calling on the international community to take note of this development and prevail on President Tinubu to stop this act of political vendetta.

In conclusion, the group is reiterating its commitment to democracy and the rule of law and will continue to speak out against any act of political persecution and intimidation.

Habu Galore

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has described recent remarks made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, calling for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle as an unfortunate.

According to the security forum, such call coming amid the troubling climate surrounding the abduction of the Emir of Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto state, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa and his son is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible, unstatesmanlike and alarmingly disingenuous.

The statements from the forum which was signed by the Chairman Tijjani Auwalu said, it was crucial to affirm that while the situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is of utmost concern, the challenges faced are national in scale, engulfing various facets of our society—from urban centers to rural localities.

It stressed that Lamido’s attempt to limit Matawalle’s responsibilities solely to Sokoto or the North is a gross misrepresentation of the reality that security is an ongoing national issue, requiring collective efforts and shared accountability across government tiers.

“The timing and target of Lamido’s critique raise significant questions regarding his underlying motives. It is disconcerting that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while overlooking Badaru Abubakar, the senior Defence Minister, who coincidentally shares the same home state of Jigawa with Lamido.

“We must ask: why direct unrelenting attacks towards a loyal ally of President Tinubu, while seemingly absolving a senior counterpart? Such selective criticism indicates a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining the political framework supporting our President, rather than a genuine concern for the nation’s security.

“Moreover, the contrasting nature of Lamido’s recent expressions of empathy for a singular Emir in captivity stands in stark contradiction to his silence throughout the years of suffering endured by ordinary Zamfara communities and other ordinary Nigerians”.

The forum noted that thousands have fallen victim to heinous acts of abduction, torture, extortion, and displacement over the past two decades and the absence of Lamido’s voice in addressing these widespread tragedies all this while raises concerns about his commitment to empathy and meaningful advocacy for the Nigerian people.

This singular attack on Matawalle cannot be detached from the backdrop of emerging investigations of Bashir Hadejiya, linked to serious criminal activities including, terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross border crimes, the.forum stated.

“The growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations unfold. NISF expects that as this inquiry progresses, more personalities with dubious affiliations will be brought to light, further revealing the motivations behind such orchestrated smear campaigns.

“It bears noting that the relentless criticism directed at Matawalle is indicative of a concerted effort by a faction of inconsequential northern politicians—of which Lamido is a prominent member—to weaken the integrity and growing influence of President Tinubu in the North”.

NISF posited that Matawalle’s unwavering allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies the support necessary for a resilient governance and political structure. Hence, these attacks serve as a testament to Matawalle’s reliability and dependability, which must be subdued if these politicians wish to see President Tinubu rendered vulnerable.

“We solemnly caution that in the fullness of time, the extent of involvement of several figures in the crimes of Bashir Hadejiya would be exposed. The ongoing investigation into Bashir Hadejiya’s criminal activities will inevitably blow open the cover of those whose actions contradict their public personas”.

The forum therefore urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast and resolute against attempts to incite division within his solid support base in the North, adding that the loyalty embodied by figures such as Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is indispensable to the integrity of the current administration and national security.

“The NISF stands firm in our commitment to supporting our President’s efforts of fortifying the Northern region’s security and integrity. We shall not waver in promoting a united front against any efforts to undermine our collective strength in pursuing a safer and more prosperous Nigeria” the statement added.

By Tunji Salami Adeou

The rising tide of political unrest and criminal activities in Nigeria has reached a pivotal juncture with the ongoing investigation of Bashir Hadejiya, a figure now embroiled in a web of allegations that ranges from treason to transnational crimes. The Federal Capital Territory’s Police Command recently issued a search warrant, dating August 12, 2024, which outlined Hadejiya’s purported offenses, including subversive activities and gun-running.

The ramifications of this investigation extend beyond Hadejiya himself, reaching deep into the networks of individuals believed to have facilitated these alleged crimes. Among those individuals is Tijjani Ramalan, a Kaduna-based media practitioner who now finds himself enmeshed in palpable anxiety as the investigation unfolds.

The accusations levied against Hadejiya are grave. He stands charged with treason—a charge that underscores the severity of his alleged actions against the State. Such accusations carry profound legal ramifications, with the potential for extensive prison sentences if found guilty. His involvement in treason and subversion poses significant questions about the stability of governance in Nigeria and the roles individuals play in fostering dissent.

Hadejiya’s purported activities, particularly his role in inciting the recent #Endbadgovernance protests, have drawn scrutiny, illuminating how media manipulation can stir public unrest and lead to violence. The consequences of such orchestration reverberate throughout society, making Ramalan’s connection to Hadejiya all the more concerning.

Tijjani Ramalan’s role is perceived as pivotal in this narrative. As an established media practitioner, he has allegedly acted as a conduit for disseminating fabricated propaganda materials that bolster Hadejiya’s agenda. The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya suggests not only complicity but an extensive network of influence that has the potential to engage and mobilize public sentiment against the Nigerian government. In this context, Ramalan’s panic can be understood as a survival instinct, a reaction to the tightening noose of an investigation that threatens to expose the intricacies of his involvement in potentially illicit activities.

The unfolding investigation represents a turning point not just for Hadejiya, but for individuals like Ramalan who may have enabled, directly or indirectly, the alleged subversion of state authority. The anxiety that Ramalan feels is amplified by the understanding that law enforcement agencies are keenly aware of the interconnected webs of relationships that suggest coordination in these alleged criminal activities. The crackdown on Hadejiya raises the specter of further investigations into his associates, thereby creating an atmosphere of distrust and paranoia among those who have navigated the same circles.

Furthermore, the implications of Ramalan’s situation extend into the broader context of civil discourse and media integrity in Nigeria. The #Ebdbadgovernance protests, in which many citizens voiced their grievances, highlight an increasingly frustrated population seeking accountability from their government. However, when figures in the media, like Ramalan, are alleged to propagate misinformation or incite violence, the credibility and ethical responsibilities of the media as a pillar of democracy are brought into question. Ramalan’s involvement may thus not only implicate him in a legal sense but could also serve as a cautionary tale regarding the dissemination of information and the potential perils of partisanship that color journalistic practice.
The origins of Ramalan and Hadejiya’s collaboration can be traced to an underhanded arrangement during President Buhari’s term, wherein Hadejiya and Tunde secretly orchestrated benefits that favored personal ambitions over national interests. The central piece of this political chess game was the appointment of Ramalan’s son to a prominent role within the Nigerian Ports Authority—a move that was met with both opportunism and skepticism. This placement was more than mere nepotism; it was a calculated strategy that effectively positioned Ramalan’s family as gatekeepers of key information.
The lucrative posting not only gratified personal ambitions but also established Ramalan’s son as a critical asset in Hadejiya’s network. By exploiting his son’s role, Hadejiya gained unprecedented access to confidential materials—intelligence that could be weaponized against Tinubu’s administration. Such access is invaluable in political maneuvering, where knowledge is power and information can dictate narratives and influence public opinion.
The collaboration between Ramalan and Hadejiya has not been limited to passive intelligence gathering. Their partnership is characterized by active participation in various machinations directed against President Tinubu’s emergence in 2023. Throughout the election cycle, it became apparent that Hadejiya, with Ramalan’s backing, was deploying a series of tactics aimed at undermining Tinubu’s credibility and political capital. This included orchestrated smear campaigns, misinformation, and strategically timed leaks that sought to destabilize the incoming administration.
Hadejiya’s role as the orchestrator of these antagonisms was bolstered by the privileged information siphoned through Ramalan’s son. This relationship fostered an environment where political subterfuge was not only tolerated but encouraged as a means to achieve desired political outcomes. The ramifications of this collaboration mean that Tinubu’s administration has had to navigate a landscape fraught with deceptive narratives and politically motivated disruptions—a reality that serves as a testament to the potency of alliances based on ulterior motives.
The ramifications of Ramalan and Hadejiya’s alliance extend beyond immediate political conflicts. The antagonisms established during the 2023 electoral contestants are poised to carry through to the 2027 elections. The strategic nature of their collaboration indicates a long-term plan aimed at not merely destabilizing the current administration but also shaping the narrative and conditions under which future elections will unfold. By embedding themselves in the opposition narrative, Ramalan and Hadejiya have positioned themselves as pivotal players in a game that transcends the present administration, seeking to influence the political landscape for years to come.
The intensity and implications of the relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya highlight the unique complexities of Nigerian governance, where alliances often forego ideological coherence in favor of self-serving ambitions. As the political climate intensifies in preparation for the forthcoming electoral cycle, the roles of Ramalan and Hadejiya will remain crucial, carrying their antagonisms forward as they attempt to shape the narrative surrounding Tinubu’s administration and beyond.
The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya serves as a poignant case study of the dynamics of Nigerian politics, where strategic alliances, underhand deals, and the manipulation of information can significantly alter the political landscape. Their collaboration, rooted in opportunism and driven by a desire to undermine President Tinubu, underscores the challenges of governance in a system rife with competing interests and power struggles. As the intrigues unfold in the years leading up to 2027, it will be essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant to the machinations that could potentially destabilize the fabric of governance and impede the pursuit of genuine national progress. Ultimately, the blend of personal ambition with political strategy presents a critical challenge for Nigeria as it navigates its path towards a more accountable and transparent political future.
As the investigation of Bashir Hadejiya progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the political landscape of Nigeria. A polarizing environment can lead to the exploitation of public sentiment by those with ulterior motives. Tijjani Ramalan’s anxiety is emblematic of a broader reckoning—one that necessitates introspection within the media industry and accountability among those who wield the power of information. It underscores the necessity for vigilance both legally and ethically as society grapples with the consequences of actions that blur the lines of dissent and crime.
In conclusion, the investigation into Bashir Hadejiya is more than an inquiry into his alleged crimes; it is a critical juncture that challenges the relationship between governance, media, and public discourse in Nigeria. For Tijjani Ramalan, the implications are immediate and personal, as the specter of legal retribution looms large. It remains to be seen how this complex situation will unfold, but one thing is certain: the repercussions of these events will be felt far beyond the confines of the investigation, shaping the future of both public trust in the media and the intricate dance between authority and dissent in Nigeria.

Musa Bello

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has brought to public’s attention disturbing developments concerning the planned dissemination of a press statement by the Arewa Integrity League, allegedly sponsored by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.

The said statement is expected to contain false claims and fabricated allegations aimed at discrediting key figures in Nigeria’s national security architecture, including the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Department of State Security, Mr. Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to the Chairman NAN, Salihu Suleiman, in the planned offensive by the Arewa Integrity League, its spokesman, Comrade Musa Garba, would seek to create a narrative suggesting that these esteemed officials have engaged in manipulative tactics to engineer false reports implicated in a high-profile ongoing investigation tied to the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya.

He said, such unfounded attack aims primarily to tarnish the reputations of individuals who are steadfast in their commitment to national security and the principles of justice, while simultaneously seeking to obfuscate the real issues surrounding the investigation.

“We, at NAN, firmly believe that any attempts to distort the truth for political leverage are not only unethical but also detrimental to the integrity of our national institutions. The nature of these allegations raises serious concerns regarding the intentions behind such a coordinated smear campaign against responsible officials who are executing their duties to ensure law and order within our great nation”

NAN therefore called on the public to remain vigilant and discerning when consuming information that may serve as propaganda rather than fact. The role of the media and the public is crucial in upholding our democratic values and ensuring that truth prevails over deceitful narratives.

It also called on Law Enforcement Agencies to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. We encourage these bodies to diligently pursue the ongoing investigations without political interference and to ensure that those who promote falsehoods face the necessary legal repercussions.

NAN further called on political leaders to conduct their affairs with integrity and honor, refraining from engaging in character assassinations that detract from the greater good of society. It is imperative for leaders to focus on genuine issues affecting our communities, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics that threaten our unity.

” We also call on Civil Society Organizations to play their part in safeguarding the integrity of our governance systems by calling out misinformation and holding accountable those who perpetuate falsehoods for their own ends”.

The NAN also declared their stand in solidarity with the individuals targeted by this nefarious campaign, recognizing their dedication and service to our nation’s security and stability. We will not shy away from advocating for truth and justice while exposing those who choose to weaponize falsehoods for personal or political gain.

NAN reiterated their commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of truth in governance and implored all citizens and leaders to reject division and embrace integrity, prioritizing the collective interest of our nation above all else.

By Josiah Onne

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has alerted the public to a plan by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, to disseminate baseless allegations against national security officials.

According to the NSCF, Governor Lawal is orchestrating a press release through a group known as the Arewa Integrity League, aimed at leveling unfounded allegations against esteemed national security officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Directorate of State Security, Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

The NSCF described the intended allegations as irresponsible and damaging to the integrity of the national security apparatus, and called for them to be condemned unequivocally.

The forum emphasized the importance of conducting investigations grounded in facts, rather than responding to politically motivated smear campaigns, and urged the public, media, and all relevant stakeholders to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of such spurious allegations.

The NSCF also called on security agencies to be proactive in acting quickly to checkmate the maneuvers of those involved and bring them to justice, to serve as a deterrent.

In conclusion, the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum stood resolutely in solidarity with those devoted to the truth, and pledged to continue advocating for transparency, accountability, and integrity in all matters concerning the nation’s security and governance.

Comrade Aliyu Sani,
Spokesperson,
Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF)

A group, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Credibility Movement, has described the series of allegations against the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, in recent weeks as baseless.

The group’s Chairman, Musa Sadauki, said in a statement on Friday that Mele Kyari has faced a barrage of unsubstantiated accusations from a shadowy group known as the Tinubu Legacy Coalition (TLC) over the past week.

According to Sadauki, this group, led by figures such as Bala Abu, Princess Ajibola, and Dr. Thomas, has launched a campaign to tarnish Kyari’s reputation with unfounded claims.

Musa labeled the attacks a “campaign of calamity” destined to fail.

The APC supporters argued that Kyari’s track record as a transformative leader in the oil and gas sector is undeniable.

Sadauki said, “Through his implementation of the TAPE synergy—an initiative aimed at curbing corruption and waste within the NNPCL—Kyari has proven himself a formidable administrator.”

The Chairman argued that these attacks are driven by disgruntled elements whose illegal activities, including oil bunkering, have been thwarted under Kyari’s leadership.

“We contend that these individuals are attempting to destabilize the NNPCL to pave the way for their own economic interests, but emphasize that their efforts are futile,” he said.

Musa reminded the attackers that Nigeria’s interests are far greater than any individual’s personal gain.

Meanwhile, the statement called on those behind the smear campaign to abandon their efforts and instead contribute positively to the nation.

“As Nigeria continues to face numerous challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity, President Bola Tinubu remains focused on his mission to address these issues,” the statement said.

It stressed that undermining key figures like the NNPCL boss will only hinder the nation’s progress.

The group expressed confidence in Kyari’s leadership and commitment to transparency and accountability.

They urged Nigerians to disregard the baseless allegations and support the NNPCL’s efforts to transform the oil and gas sector.

The APC Credibility Movement pledged to continue supporting Kyari and the NNPCL in their efforts to promote Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

In conclusion, the group emphasized that the allegations against Kyari are unfounded and will not distract him from his mission to transform the NNPCL and promote Nigeria’s interests.

By Jonathan Itodo

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has condemned in strong terms recent calls for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kyari, describing it as mischievous.

Speaker AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature in a statement said, the call for Kyari’s sack was yet another subtle way to get at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after their failed efforts to hijack the peaceful protests to destabilize the country.

He averred that those sponsoring and clamouring for his sack are those who engaged in oil theft who no longer have the opportunity to continue with such business and are committed to getting at the President using the call for Kyari’s sack as a cover in the first instance.

According to Danbature, it is in public space that from a low of 900,000 barrels monthly oil production in the last quarter of 2022, under the Kyari-led NNPCL, Nigeria in July 2024 hit 1.53 million barrels per day, including condensates, according to data from the upstream regulator.

He recalled that, “When Kyari assumed duty as the head of NNPC on July 7, 2019, it was at a critical period not only in the life of the corporation but for the entire Nigerian oil and gas sector as well as the national economy. It was a turbulent period characterized by low production, burgeoning vandalism of oil pipelines, oil theft on a grand scale, and demoralized staff of the corporation”

The Speaker also averred that Kyari has been a beacon of transparency and accountability. “His scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

“When Kyari took over as GMD in 2019, he inherited a company plagued by questions about its business practices. But he has since turned things around with his Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) initiative.

“He has published audited financial statements, made monthly financial and operations reports available to the public, and has been instrumental in the rehabilitation of refineries.

“Despite these achievements, some individuals are bent on destroying Kyari’s reputation. It is clear that these forces of evil are motivated by jealousy and a desire to bring Kyari down. But their efforts will not succeed. Kyari’s achievements speak for themselves, and he has the support of the government and the people,” he said.

He therefore appealed to progressive Nigerians not to listen to such calls for the sack of a man who is committed and giving his best in the oil sector, adding that their efforts to destabilize the oil sector through such envious calls has failed.

“As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector” he stressed.

Northern based Group, Arewa Development Forum (ADF) has commended the Minister of Works , Engr. Dave Umahi for his unwavering commitment to ensuring speedy work and visible progress made so far on the Lagos- Badagry to Sokoto Super Highway road projects.

According to the group, the excellent job of combining the expertise of the critical terrain with the political will by the Minister to push through the different land mines without compromising standards is a feat worthy of commendation.

“We observed with keen interest that despite being from the southeast part of Nigeria, the Minister of Works is leaving now stone unturned to ensure speedy completion of the protracted work of the Abuja to road projects in northern areas”. It stated .

In statement made available to journalists in Kaduna today, Arewa Development Forum, which made the commendations said , the decision to single out the Minister of Works was informed by quality of work being done on the ongoing road projects

While thanking President Bola Tinubu for the bold initiative to construct the 1000-kilometre Sokoto-Badagry superhighway,the Forum described the project as another evidence of his commitment to driving phenomenal socio-economic growth across the country.

The Forum noted that the road will not only create thousands of jobs ,but will also open up the North western economy to the rest of the country and the World.Adding that Umahi is the best Works minister in the history of the country.

It stated , “We can recall that the Sokoto-Badagry road has been in the pipeline for the past 48 years, without considerations from successive administrations, including immediate past Buhari led administration to kick start the project. But today,it is a reality and we are not in doubt that the legacy projects will be complete within time scheduled.

“For us as northerners, we view the bold vision of President Tinubu as an evidence of the priority placed on development that commensurate with infrastructure to connect northern regions to all parts of Nigeria.”