Author Archives: News All Around

Madam Danteni

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The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) categorically rejects the recent allegations made by Sokoto cleric Mallam Bello Asada regarding Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

In a video uploaded by Zagazola, a renowned Counter Insurgency Expert in the Lake Chad, West Africa region, Asada claimed that several notorious bandit leaders, including Sububu, Ada Allero, and Bello Turji, were provided with Hilux vehicles by the minister.

NAN maintains that these claims are misleading, fabricated, and entirely untrue.

NAN deeply regrets the cleric’s unfounded criticisms of the government’s unwavering efforts to apprehend bandit leader Bello Turji. The network asserts that the N20 million bounty placed on Turji is a legitimate and serious initiative to combat banditry in the region and should not be dismissed lightly.

Asada’s assertion that Minister Matawalle has full awareness of Turji’s whereabouts and possesses personal knowledge of him is not only unfounded but also libelous, slanderous, and provocative.

NAN firmly believes that such statements undermine the ongoing efforts of government officials and security agencies dedicated to restoring peace and order in affected areas.

In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, NAN advises Mallam Asada to reclaim his statesmanship by either engaging in active party politics or maintaining a dignified silence to allow the government and security forces to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The Northern Awareness Network stands with the government in its fight against banditry and urges all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities.

Debo Adele

The Yoruba Youth Council has condemned an online post credited to a former aide of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, one Daniel Bwala, who suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle (State) might be sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he perceived as lack of cooperation between the Army and the Air Force.

Bwala had in a post on his X handle on Sunday insinuated that his perception caused the seizure by bandits of Nigerian military armoured vehicles somewhere in Zamfara State in the Northwest region, leading to a reported video victory celebration by terrorism kingpin Bello Turji and his armed bandits.

Reacting through its leader, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the umbrella Yoruba Youth organisation said: “We wish to state that Bwala just expressed his jaundiced personal opinion to which he is entitled.

‘A keen, careful reading of this shows that his wrong and misleading opinion had an undertone of selfish interest, which he portrayed erroneously as a news story to hoodwink the unwary, and instigate hostility against the persons of the performing ministers for reason(s) best known to him.

“It also shows that he has a hidden agenda in pushing such an unintelligible and illogical opinion to the media space. It was an opinion that brimmed with vendetta, the destructive, and blind pull-him-down syndrome hosted by the writer, his co-travelers and paymasters alone.

“The post was fictitious, cooked out of beer-parlour stupor and borne out of the writer’s wild and reckless imagination.

‘The Presidency never said anything of such. The post was not attributed to anybody. The emergency and mercenary reporter only pushed his personal opinion and wish to the media space. He reported no one but himself, and thereby showed the type of a human being he is. One who should not be taken seriously by right-thinking persons.

“And who is this writer of falsehood?

‘Daniel Bwala was a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, working with that party’s former presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but who is now looking for ways to identify himself with the Tinubu administration. He has been lobbying that he should be appointed as the president’s spokesman.

“However, Yoruba youths advise that such a character cannot be trusted in that the Borno State-born politician, Bwala, portays himself as a betrayal, as his antecedents show.

“A former member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, where he served as a thorn in the opposition PDP’s flesh, he decamped from APC in July, 2023 claiming that he was not convinced in the Ahmed Tinubu/ Kashim Shettima same-faith joint on muslim-Muslim ticket. He said that he would not support any ticket that allegedly excluded a major section of the country from democracy dividends.

“He then jumped into the boat of Tinubu’s most fearsome opponent and the PDP”s presidential flag bearer, Atiku, He immediately became Atiku’s spokesperson, and maligned Tinubu whom he said he held in respect despite his initial promise.”

Oluwole said: “In view of his antecedents, and the implications of the utter falsehood that he peddles concerning this sensitive issue, Bwala should be cautioned not to jeopardize the commendable efforts of the Nigerian security apparatus especially the office of the Minister of State of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

“Where on Earth did he confirm that the ministers might “be shown the way out”?

“We see his post as a baseless attack on the persons of the Defence ministers who have been leading the Nigeria’s security apparatus, especially the Armed Forces in the gallant fight against terrorists and bandits who, for many years before this administration assumed office, had been attacking and killing innocent Nigerians not only in the Northeast and Northwest zones of the country, but across the country generally.”

In his words: Oluwole said: “We wish to state, and it may interest Bwala to know that the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle has swiftly moved in and directed the military to relocate its command structure to the North West as part of efforts to crush the bandits terroring the region.”

“And the fictitious writer insinuated in his post that the ministers were not working and that there was no harmony among the armed forces, the same armed forces that Matawalle has mobilised to the troubled zone to flush out the bandits, an operation he would supervise himself directly on the battlefield.

“We will advise Bwala, and his cohorts and paymasters to desist from peddling lies and falsehood just to malign their perceived enemies”

Specifically on Sunday, Matawalle, in an intensified move to crush banditry and terrorism in the Northwest, directed the nation’s top military brass led by the Chief of Defence Staff to relocate to Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

Also, he assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, and the entire North West region, that the security forces with all their might, would fight the criminals to finish and restore peace, as he directed the Armed Forces to flush out the bandits and terrorists.”

Matawalle said: “We must act decisively against these terrorists to allow our people to live freely. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.”

“I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.”

The Defence Minister of State stressed the determination of the President Tinubu administration to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians, and that the people’s security and well-being remain the administration’s topmost priority. Besides, he urged the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.

Matawalle who described the incident as unacceptable in view of the support that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been giving the Armed Forces, assured that the Federal Goovernment would do everything possible to crush banditry and terrorism, and endure peace in the troubled communities.

The ministry’s spokesman, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, said in a statement on Sunday that “This strategic move underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandit gang are eliminated.”

Uka Abigail

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the recent remarks made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, concerning the security apparatus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Mr. Bwala in his comment suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle, might be shown the exit door which the leadership of AYCF find such statement as not only unfounded but also a diversion from the real issues that plague our region and nation.

A statement issued by the President General of AYCF Yerima Shettima reminded Mr. Bwala of his positions during the recent electoral cycle. His open opposition to the Tinubu candidacy and his support for Mr. Atiku Abubakar which positioned him on the other side of the political divide.

It begs the question: where exactly was Mr. Bwala when the electorate strongly endorsed President Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria? His sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of this administration raises eyebrows about his motivations and credibility, Shettima said.

He further stated that it is imperative for stakeholders in our political landscape to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to unfounded attacks on individuals who are collectively working towards the primary goal of securing the North, adding that Ministers Badaru and Matawalle have made significant strides in addressing the unique security challenges that our region faces.

“We commend their efforts and encourage their continued service in cracking down on insecurity, which remains a pressing concern for all northerners. Furthermore, we take exception to Mr. Bwala’s thinly veiled ambition as he appears to be attempting to usurp the narrative for his own gain.

“We remember his earlier declaration about aspiring to hold the position of Mr Ngilari, which could have influenced his harsh rhetoric against established leaders who are dedicated to the safety and advancement of our communities”.

The AYCF said, Bwala ‘s motives come into question when juxtaposed with the realities faced by the North, which requires unity and cooperation rather than divisive political machinations.

“As representatives of the northern youth, we express concern over any attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s administration through baseless criticisms. The ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region deserve the support of all stakeholders, including critiquing voices.

“It is precisely this spirit of collaboration towards a common goal that we hope Mr. Bwala can embrace rather than spiral into personal grievances. We caution President Tinubu to be wary of allowing such individuals to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North.

“The youth of Arewa stand firmly behind those in positions of leadership who are genuinely focused on the security and welfare of our people. Our collective will is directed towards recovery and proactive measures that can only be realized through steadfast leadership and dialogue, eschewing the toxicity of political opportunism.

“We urge Mr. Bwala to redirect his energies to addressing his self-created challenges and refrain from disparaging ministers who are striving to create a safer, more secure North. The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum remains committed to holding accountable not only public officials for their responsibilities but also those who would seek to mislead the public or distract from crucial efforts underway” the statement stressed.

Saminu Sarki

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the recent remarks made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, concerning the security apparatus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Mr. Bwala in his comment suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle, might be shown the exit door which the leadership of AYCF find such statement as not only unfounded but also a diversion from the real issues that plague our region and nation.

A statement issued by the President General of AYCF Yerima Shettima reminded Mr. Bwala of his positions during the recent electoral cycle. His open opposition to the Tinubu candidacy and his support for Mr. Atiku Abubakar which positioned him on the other side of the political divide.

It begs the question: where exactly was Mr. Bwala when the electorate strongly endorsed President Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria? His sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of this administration raises eyebrows about his motivations and credibility, Shettima said.

He further stated that it is imperative for stakeholders in our political landscape to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to unfounded attacks on individuals who are collectively working towards the primary goal of securing the North, adding that Ministers Badaru and Matawalle have made significant strides in addressing the unique security challenges that our region faces.

“We commend their efforts and encourage their continued service in cracking down on insecurity, which remains a pressing concern for all northerners. Furthermore, we take exception to Mr. Bwala’s thinly veiled ambition as he appears to be attempting to usurp the narrative for his own gain.

“We remember his earlier declaration about aspiring to hold the position of Mr Ngilari, which could have influenced his harsh rhetoric against established leaders who are dedicated to the safety and advancement of our communities”.

The AYCF said, Bwala ‘s motives come into question when juxtaposed with the realities faced by the North, which requires unity and cooperation rather than divisive political machinations.

“As representatives of the northern youth, we express concern over any attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s administration through baseless criticisms. The ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region deserve the support of all stakeholders, including critiquing voices.

“It is precisely this spirit of collaboration towards a common goal that we hope Mr. Bwala can embrace rather than spiral into personal grievances. We caution President Tinubu to be wary of allowing such individuals to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North.

“The youth of Arewa stand firmly behind those in positions of leadership who are genuinely focused on the security and welfare of our people. Our collective will is directed towards recovery and proactive measures that can only be realized through steadfast leadership and dialogue, eschewing the toxicity of political opportunism.

“We urge Mr. Bwala to redirect his energies to addressing his self-created challenges and refrain from disparaging ministers who are striving to create a safer, more secure North. The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum remains committed to holding accountable not only public officials for their responsibilities but also those who would seek to mislead the public or distract from crucial efforts underway” the statement stressed.

by John Wesley Odeh and Ada Ukeredi

The North-West Solidarity Forum (NWSF) expresses its profound support for the recent directive issued by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, to mobilize the Chief of Defence Staff and senior military officials to Sokoto. This strategic move aims to enhance joint military operations against the dangerous bandits wreaking havoc in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

NWSF commended the minister’s commitment to allocate the necessary resources for the eradication of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his criminal gang. This decisive action follows the alarming dissemination of videos showing a Nigerian military armored vehicle immobilized in a waterlogged region of Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Such bold leadership is both encouraging and reassuring to our communities suffering from the scourge of banditry. According to a statement signed by the spokesperson of the group Tanimu Danlawal, the presence of Minister Matawalle and the Service Chiefs in the North-West signifies a determined effort to oversee military operations firsthand. This proactive engagement underscores the gravity with which the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is addressing the ongoing threat posed by these criminals.

“The time has come for the Federal Government to take concrete steps to combat the menace of banditry head-on. The commitment to deploy all necessary assets demonstrates a firm resolve to restore peace and security to our communities.”

As we collectively face this challenge, the NWSF stands in solidarity with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which have received unprecedented support from the current administration. The determination to eliminate the criminal elements threatening the fabric of our society is both commendable and imperative.

We remain hopeful that this initiative will weaken the bases of these bandits, allowing for a restoration of peace and normalcy in our regions. We call upon residents of the North-West to stay vigilant and cooperate closely with security personnel to prioritize their safety and the well-being of all Nigerians.

Together, we believe that the tides are turning, and the time for change is at hand. We pray for the success of our brave men and women in uniform as they confront and dismantle these criminal networks.

By Grace Adaji

The Federal Government’s directive for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto has sparked widespread jubilation among residents. The move aims to address the escalating security challenges in the North West region.

In interviews conducted by journalists in Sokoto on Sunday, residents praised the Federal Government for its commitment to finding a lasting solution to the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

Malam Garba Mailambu, a trader, said the directive demonstrates the government’s intensified effort to restore peace and security in the region.

Dr. Habibu Ahmed Mada, an academician at Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, described the move as a relief and a great service to humanity. He praised Minister Matawalle’s strategic approach, citing his successful track record in fighting insurgents during his tenure in the state.

Other residents, including Mr. Shehu Haruna and Mr. Ibrahim Dandare, commended the Federal Government’s efforts and urged the Minister to intensify supervision and ensure the flushing out of Bello Turji and his bandits gang.

The Coalition for Opposition Parties in Katsina also expressed support for the directive, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister Matawalle for their foresight in deploying military assets to tackle insecurity challenges in the region.

According to Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, the relocation is aimed at ridding the North West of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. He cited a recent incident in Zamfara where bandits celebrated the stuck Nigerian military Armoured vehicle, emphasizing that such incidents are unacceptable.

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent pronouncement by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity in the Northwest region. The directive for the Chief of Defence Staff and military leaders to converge upon Sokoto, the operational headquarters covering Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to dismantle the escalating threats posed by banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The lion roars, signifying a determination to assert control over regions plagued by criminal violence.
As the minister articulates the government’s strategy, it is essential to grasp the gravity of the current situation. The Northwest has seen an alarming rise in terrorist activities and banditry, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. Access to critical resources, regular economic activities, and general peace have been severely undermined. Communities that once thrived face an existential threat that displaces families, disrupts education, and stifles economic opportunities. Against this backdrop, Dr. Matawalle’s recent commitments symbolically signal a pivot towards rebuilding stability in the region.
This strategic move presents a clear demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and security. By relocating military leadership and resources to the affected areas, it is evident that the government aims to recalibrate its operational methodologies. Engaging directly with the local leadership on ground gives military commanders the opportunity to reassess the complexities of the security landscape they face, ensuring a tailored response that reflects the unique challenges of the Northwest.
Moreover, the focus on flushing out notorious bandit Bello Turji and his gang illustrates a specific operational target—an essential tactic for restoring confidence in state power. Criminal elements that propagate insecurity through violence must be met with an unyielding stance, and the government’s current approach suggests such a commitment.
The distressing incident which surfaced in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State—where bandits jeered at the operational failures of military personnel—further complicates the prevailing security issues. Videos showcasing the vulnerability of Nigerian armed forces can undermine public confidence in the military and the government’s ability to maintain order. Such occurrences are intolerable, as they wage psychological warfare not only against the security forces but also against the populace who rely on them for protection.
The proactive measures now being undertaken must, therefore, encompass strategies that address both the immediate needs of security personnel and the longer-term systematic issues that contribute to banditry. Efforts to bolster military capabilities, logistics, and intelligence-gathering operations have to be prioritized. In tandem, initiatives directed at social, economic, and educational development in affected regions must be considered. The efficacy of military operations is diminished if contextually, the root causes of insecurity remain unaddressed.
The ongoing support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Armed Forces of Nigeria plays an instrumental role in this crucial phase. It reflects a unified government stance that prioritizes security as an imperative national interest. The collaborative efforts between political leadership and military command signal a strategic alignment necessary for confronting multifaceted threats in the Northwest.
The lion’s roar from the Ministry of Defence should be heard as a clarion call for renewed engagement and investment in strategies against insecurity. The gravity of the situation in Northwest Nigeria demands unwavering commitment and cooperation across all levels of government, security agencies, and the communities themselves. With strategic military deployment, clear operational goals, and an integrated approach that addresses underlying socio-economic issues, the ultimate end of insecurity may very well be within sight. The collective resolve to restore peace in this beleaguered region of Nigeria must translate into tangible outcomes, ensuring that the lion remains vigilant and empowered in the face of challenges that threaten its dominion.

Nonso Chibedum

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has officially pledged its unwavering support for the strategic military deployment proposed by the Defence Minister of State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, aimed at relocating military assets to Sokoto. This initiative is viewed as a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat the escalating security challenges inherent in the northern region.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima said, as violence, criminality, and insurgency threatens the safety and socio-economic stability of northern Nigeria, the AYCF recognizes the urgent necessity for decisive action. He said, the call for an enhanced military presence in Sokoto State is rooted in a broader desire to restore peace and order which are critical components for fostering an environment ripe for development and prosperity.

“Recognizing the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security. The organization highlights its unwavering support for measures that prioritize the protection of citizens and the stability of communities. In the face of this seriousness, Shettima. said, AYCF leaders are aware that some collaborators may emerge, attempting to undermine this commendable initiative with various agendas that hamper progress toward a peaceful and secure environment.

“We call on the federal government to arrest immediately any such voices, whether in the guise of misinformation, dissent, or undue skepticism, and prosecute them appropriately,” they stated, emphasizing that any attempts to obstruct national security efforts cannot be tolerated.

Emphasizing the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, the AYCF leaders underscored that any attempts to obstruct these efforts will not be tolerated. They urged both governmental and non-governmental organizations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue to deter divisive narratives and protect initiatives aimed at societal growth and safety.

The AYCF is committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens. They believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development.

The AYCF called upon citizens to remain vigilant, stay informed, and support initiatives that promote peace, unity, and security. Together, we can build a resilient society that can withstand the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The AYCF reiterated its dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria. The organization encourages citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives that serve the greater good of the nation.

“The call for enhanced military engagement in the North must be accompanied by proactive measures to foster public trust,” the AYCF noted. The forum advocates for an inclusive approach where the government transparently communicates the objectives, coordinates dialogues with local stakeholders, and actively addresses community concerns.

Moreover, the AYCF encouraged vigilance against potential undermining forces, stressing that the fight for security transcends military deployment—it involves navigating a multifaceted landscape of both local and international actors that may seek to disrupt progress.

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

The former lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani has praised the people and residents of Gobir Communities in Sokoto State,North-west Nigeria for heeding to call for People’s Shahada Actions and move into Forests to confront the so call daredevil bandits face to face.

In a viral video seen online , thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State stormed the forest in large numbers to confront bandits who have been terrorizing their community in recent years.

In his reaction to video , the human rights activist said , it’s high time the people took over the fight against banditry frontally without fear.Stressing,”No better time for People’s Shahada Actions than now.”

Shehu Sani, who has expressed anger over killing of Emir of Gobir and the incessant cases of kidnap by ravaging bandits in the northern regions, said failure on side of security agencies to tackle issues of insecurity, especially banditry compelled him to make the call for People’s Shahada Actions as the potent solution to contain the excesses of bandits.

In a post via his Facebook handle today,Shehu Sani averred that , “The solution to the incessant and intractable problems of the cruelty and menace of Banditry in the North West is a People’s Shahada action,which is a masses movement to fumigate and disinfect their lands,forests and farms against banditry and bandits.

“This theory is aimed at permanently freeing the people from the criminality of kidnappings and killings so that they can take back their lives,their farms and schools.

“Vigilante and security agencies can all collaborate and cooperate on this in order to achieve results.
May Allah brings peace to our dear country.”

Senator Sani had in past raised alarm severally about how bandits took over the north and how they were able to establish governance structure.

His words: “Virtually now, bandits in the North West have become a state within a state.They have been able to establish governance structure in the sense that they don’t just kidnap and extort money, it has reached a point where they even install.”

He also did make frantic efforts to call on security agencies to make bold steps to solve problems Boko Haram and surging banditry before getting out of hands while he was in the Senate as a lawmaker.

He equally did same, when he made a video speaking on need to rescue the late Emir of Gobir before he was brutally killed by bandits.

But this time ,the former lawmaker rather enjoined all citizens and residents across the three geo-political regions of the north to move into Forests and dislodged all bandits.

“Enough of the killings of innocent people for no just reason. I strongly believe the People’s Shahada Actions is the best option to rid our region of bandits and criminal elements ” he emphasised .