Author Archives: News All Around

Mary Sambo

The Yoruba Youth Council, (YYC) has called on the Zamfara State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Dauda Lawal over his alleged shoddy handling of the deteriorating security situation in their troubled state.

This is even as the youth council caution the Governor to stop attacking the Minister of State for Defence and his predecessor, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

The ethnic group also deplored the alleged refusal by the Governor to work in harmony with the Minister in the ongoing sweeping efforts by the military to crush the escalating banditry, and thus the worrisome insecurity ravaging the state.

The YYC in a statement issued by its President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, said ,”It is appalling and unacceptable that rather than cooperate with the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in crushing the worsening banditry in his state, he is the one fuelling the bandits in their bloody attacks which have claimed many lives because his is not a listening Governor

According to Oluwole: “Information reaching us through a document in a social media shows that the Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, on July 2, 2024, approved a whopping N1.378 billion “to finance the state government reconciliation programme with bandits in order to bring the menace to an end”.

“The money was to be shared to five notorious banditry kingpins including Kachalla Dogu Dide (N200 million); Kachalla Bello Turji (N200m); Ado Alero (N200m): Kachalla Halilu Sububu (N150m); and Gwaska Dan Karami ((N150m).

Among the quoted beneficiaries of the largesse were also six “media promoters” including a prominent online media outfit (N100m); Jackson Ude (N150m); Bashir Hadejia (N100m); Shaibu Mungadi (N50m); Tijani Lamaran (N50m); and Danbiliki Kwawanda (N20m).

Governor Lawal, it was learnt approved the above money as shared, from the State Security Trust Fund following a request on June 30, 2024 by the Secretary to the State Government, Mal. Abubakar Nakwanda.

He had asked the governor to “Direct the state Ministry of Finance to release the said amount for distribution to the beneficiaries listed above as a matter of urgency.”

Oluwole said: “We think that Dauda Lawal should be impeached as the Governor of Zamfara State in view of his conivance with, and funding of bandits with state resources to fund the reign of terror in his state.

“Regrettably still, recently, the Yoruba Youths Council monitored Governor Lawal’s interview on a TV station calling for the resignation of Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence.

“We make bold to say that viewing the current situation in Zamfara, Mr Governor could not have accused his predecessor of not doing enough. This is because Alhaji Bello Matawalle has tried his best to work with him, but Governor Dauda Lawal has refused his intervention.

“We expect that the Governor of a state being ravaged by banditry everywhere is not supposed to jeopardise any effort from anywhere to crush banditry and restore normalcy in the beleaguered state.

“Yoruba youths have been monitoring Zamfara issues over time, and we cannot allow Governor Dauda Lawal to continue molesting Alhaji Bello Matawalle as one of the best Ministers in the administration of Tinubu Government.

“Bello Matawalle has been a man working hard for the good development of Zamfara state.”

Oluwole noted the successes recently recorded by the nation’s gallant armed forces in the ongoing onslaught against banditry in the North, including the neutralization of the notorious banditry kingpin Halilu Sububu, and the arrest of another gun running banditry kingpin, Bashir Hadejia.

The YYC President recalled the group’s statement on the achievements being recorded by the military in the ongoing battle to crush banditry. It was titled “Governor Dauda Lawal Faces Public Scrutiny Amid Anti-Banditry Operations in Zamfara”

According to the statement:: “In recent months, Zamfara State has been a focal point of concern as significant developments unfold in the ongoing battle against insecurity and lawlessness, primarily attributed to the activities of bandit leaders.

“The arrest of Bashir Hadejiya, a notorious gun running figure, coupled with the neutralization of infamous bandits such as Halilu Sububu, marks an apparent attempt by the state and federal authorities to regain control over a troubling situation that has plagued local communities for years.

“However, these positive strides have been overshadowed by the increasingly complex dynamics between political leadership and public sentiment, particularly regarding Governor Dauda Lawal’s governance.

“As Yoruba Youths Council, it is our duty to scrutinize the current state of affairs in Zamfara. The state’s precarious situation has intensified scrutiny of Governor Lawal’s role amid the enduring efforts led by the Defence Minister, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

The apparent successes in the offensive against banditry should ideally foster a climate of collaboration and unity among leaders. Yet, the observable discord between Lawal and Matawalle signals an unsettling narrative where personal grievances threaten the integrity and efficacy of collective efforts in curbing violence and insecurity.

“The political landscape in Zamfara has become fraught, dominated by a palpable sense of urgency and frustration. Governor Lawal’s recent public outbursts targeting Minister Matawalle not only highlight his dissatisfaction but also project a deeper unease regarding the trajectory of governance in the state.

“The tone and context of these exchanges suggest an authoritarian shift that is deeply troubling. Governance, at its core, hinges on collaboration and mutual respect among state actors, particularly in situations of crisis where the populace’s welfare hangs in the balance.

“The diverging paths of these leaders could undermine progress and instill a climate of uncertainty among the populace, raising serious concerns about Lawal’s approach to leadership during such a crucial period.

“The sentiments emanating from the State House and the streets of Zamfara reflect a growing sentiment of distrust among citizens regarding the Governor’s intentions and capabilities. As perceptions shift towards the belief that Governor Lawal may be part of the problem rather than a solution, the potential for societal discontent rises exponentially.

“When the populace begins to view their leaders as impediments to peace and security, it sets a perilous precedent that can lead to widespread instability.

“The historical underpinnings of insecurity in Zamfara cannot be overstated. With years of systemic neglect, coupled with the socio-economic vulnerabilities that have been exacerbated by banditry, the fabric of community safety has been severely weakened.

“In light of this, the role of the elected officials, particularly the Governor, should pivot towards fostering unity, engaging in dialogue with security operatives, and enhancing the participatory role of civil society organizations. It is critical for Governor Lawal to recalibrate his approach, moving from a place of distress and antagonism towards one characterized by collaboration and strategic planning.

“Furthermore, the current political tension poses the risk of diverting attention from the pressing needs of Zamfara’s citizens—needs that range from security to healthcare and education. An unchecked escalation of rivalry between key leaders can distract from fundamental governance issues, leaving the populace vulnerable.

“As such, it is imperative for Governor Lawal to demonstrate a commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity rather than engaging in personal conflicts that detract from his responsibilities.Recent developments in Zamfara State, notably the arrest of key figures involved in gunrunning and banditry, have opened a window of opportunity for restoring law and order.

“However, this window may close quickly if political dynamics are allowed to devolve into a cycle of dispute and accusation. Governor Dauda Lawal’s current posture, underscored by recent public statements, raises critical questions about his vision for the state amid these tumultuous times.

“It is our prerogative and responsibility to urge for a unifying approach that cultivates trust, collaboration, and above all, prioritizes the welfare of the people of Zamfara. The stakes are high, and decisive leadership is imperative now more than ever.”

By Ibrahim Markus

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has called for the resignation of Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, citing his failure to provide effective governance and alleged involvement in financial misconduct linked to terror groups.

The forum condemned Governor Lawal’s call for Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation, stating it is misplaced and indicative of deeper governance issues.

Allegations surround Governor Lawal’s request for One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a reconciliation program with notorious bandits, including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami.

The NSCF questioned the ethical governance of Zamfara State, citing the recent arrest of Governor Lawal’s aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Defence Minister Matawalle’s progress against banditry, including eliminating leaders and reducing violence, should not be overshadowed by Governor Lawal’s politically motivated attacks.

The NSCF demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, threatening to advocate for a state of emergency if he fails to step down.

The forum urges stakeholders, including the Federal Government and civil society, to recognize the urgency of the situation and act decisively.

Governor Lawal is urged to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of Zamfara’s citizens above political expediency.

“We implore Governor Dauda Lawal to resign in the interest of peace and security within Zamfara State. The time is now to place the wellbeing of our people above all else, for in their safety and prosperity lies the future of our communities,” said Comrade Danjuma Paul, convener of the NSCF.

By Felix Adebayo

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed grave concern over Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal’s public criticisms of Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle, citing a reversal of security progress in the North-West.

NAN chairman Salihu Sulaiman stated that Lawal’s actions undermine collaborative efforts against insecurity and threaten safety and stability in the region.

Defence Minister Matawalle has initiated strategic measures to curb violence, including military deployment and community engagement, resulting in notable successes.

Governor Lawal’s attacks raise questions about his intentions, particularly given his alleged culpability in a letter requesting funds for a dubious reconciliation program with bandit leaders.

NAN contends that Lawal’s actions betray a lack of understanding of the security crisis and may embolden criminal elements.

The network calls for Lawal’s immediate resignation to ensure the continuation of Matawalle’s initiatives and suggests federal intervention if he refuses.

NAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the battle against insecurity in Northern Nigeria, applauding the sacrifices of the armed forces and international allies.

The network urges unity and collective action in pursuit of a secure future for North-West residents.

Sandra Ukeredi

The Arewa Young Lawyers Forum (AYLF) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of the corruption allegations against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

According to Abubakar Kurawa, Esq., President of AYLF, the EFCC’s actions constitute a deliberate attempt to create unnecessary controversy and harm the commission’s reputation. The EFCC’s establishment statute empowers it to investigate financial crimes, not convict suspects.

The AYLF noted that the EFCC has overstepped its bounds by convicting Yahaya Bello in the public eye, rather than following the law and allowing the courts to adjudicate. This is a clear violation of the principle of presumption of innocence.

On September 19, Yahaya Bello voluntarily presented himself for questioning at the EFCC headquarters. However, the commission surprisingly claimed to have no questions for him. This sudden change raises questions about the EFCC’s true intentions.

Later that evening, EFCC operatives arrived at the Kogi State Governor’s residence, shooting sporadically and claiming they were there to arrest Bello. This dramatic turn of events has sparked widespread concern.

The AYLF emphasized that every citizen has the right to a fair hearing and that innocence must be presumed until proven otherwise in a competent court of law. The forum urged the EFCC to respect this fundamental right.

With the matter pending before the court, the AYLF stressed that the EFCC should allow the court to give its judgment, rather than engaging in headline-grabbing tactics. This is essential to upholding the rule of law and protecting Nigeria’s democracy.

The AYLF’s stance is clear: the EFCC must operate within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of all citizens. The forum called on the commission to focus on meaningful investigations rather than media trials.

Ultimately, the AYLF’s intervention highlights the need for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts. By upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights, the country can ensure a fair and just society for all.

By Yusuf Benjamin

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s immediate resignation due to alleged links to terror groups.

Governor Lawal’s recent demands for Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation are misguided, according to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima.

A leaked document reveals Governor Lawal’s connections to notorious bandit leaders and requests One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious reconciliation programme.

The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a diversion from his alleged complicity with terror groups, exacerbated by his aide’s arrest for gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Minister Matawalle’s efforts have yielded tangible results in combating banditry.

The forum demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, citing his tenure’s dangerous governance-criminality overlap.

If he refuses, the AYCF advocates for a Zamfara State emergency declaration, involving Governor Lawal’s removal and replacement with a military sole administrator.

The people of Zamfara deserve governance prioritizing safety and well-being.

The AYCF urges authorities to investigate Governor Lawal’s alleged ties to terror groups.

AYCF’s call for Governor Lawal’s resignation marks a significant development in the region’s ongoing security crisis.

The forum’s stance reflects growing concerns about governance and security in Zamfara State.

Governor Lawal’s resignation is crucial for restoring order.

The AYCF remains committed to promoting good governance and security.

The people of Zamfara await decisive action.

By Musa Moses

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a stern call for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to resign immediately. This demand comes amidst alarming evidence linking Governor Lawal to financing terror groups operating in the region.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, Governor Lawal’s recent comments demanding the resignation of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, are misguided. Instead, it is Governor Lawal who should step down due to his alleged involvement with criminal enterprises.

A recently circulated document, RE-NORTH-WESTERN GOVERNORS/UN-ORGANIZED SECURITY SUMMIT IN KATSINA, exposes Governor Lawal’s intricate ties to notorious bandit leaders. The document reveals a request for One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious state government reconciliation programme.

This initiative raises serious ethical and legal concerns, particularly considering the funds were earmarked for distribution to high-profile bandit leaders, including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami. Additionally, payoffs were planned for certain media houses and influencers.

The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a desperate attempt to divert attention from his own alleged complicity with terror groups. His unease has escalated since the arrest of his former aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Furthermore, the elimination of bandit leader Halilu Sububu and the diminishing power of criminal factions, attributed to Minister Matawalle’s efforts, have weakened Governor Lawal’s alleged affiliates.

Governor Lawal’s calls for Matawalle’s resignation reflect a grave misunderstanding of the region’s dire circumstances. The AYCF stresses that Minister Matawalle’s ongoing efforts have yielded tangible results in the battle against banditry.

The forum urges Governor Lawal to step down, citing his tenure’s dangerous overlap of governance and criminality. Should he fail to resign voluntarily, the AYCF advocates for a total state of emergency in Zamfara State.

This emergency declaration would entail Governor Lawal’s removal and the appointment of a military sole administrator. The AYCF believes this measure is essential to restore order and address the deteriorating security situation.

In conclusion, the people of Zamfara and the broader region deserve governance prioritizing their safety and well-being. As the AYCF emphasized, “The time for decisive action is now.”

The Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria Chartered (ISMNC), on Thursday expressed its readiness to partner with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation in providing strategic leadership training and capacity building for senior-level public servants.

President and Chairman, Governing Board of the Institute, Mr Alex Ndudi Enebeli, said this when he led a delegation of the Institute’s officials on a courtesy visit to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack in Abuja.

He said the Institute which was founded in 2003 and chartered in 2023, is Africa’s premier institution dedicated to the strategic development of professionals and organisations.

Enebeli said the mission of the Institute is to advance knowledge and skills in strategic management, leadership, governance, entrepreneurship and innovation through research, education, training, certification and the induction and regulation of members.

He said the purpose of the visit was to seek the partnership of the Office of the Head of Civil Service for greater impact strategic leadership and policy implementation, saying, the office “as the hub of government operations, plays a critical role in the execution of government policies and programmes.”

According to him, the collaboration will be mutually beneficial, as it will help in strengthening both the office of the Head of Civil Service and the broader public service.

He said the Institute has identified three key areas of collaboration which include programme support; supporting the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025 and public service professionalisation.

“At ISMNC, we are committed to delivering quality and result-oriented professional development. We believe in transformative innovation – not only through methodologies but through mindset change. Our aim is not just to respond to known challenges, but unlock new opportunities through strategic design and execution.

We prepare people to be flexible specialists. The world is changing so fast and only those who are flexible can meet up”, Enebeli said.

Responding, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, expressed delight over the mission of the Institute, which she said aligns with that of her office.

“You know, we have so much in common, not only for me as an individual, but also the office itself. Because I see that much of what you are doing are things that this office actually is greatly involved in. And so, your vision of strategic management, leadership and governance, and innovation are critical to some of the key areas that we deal with in this office.

“Specifically, we have the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, which is actually the strategy document housing the ongoing civil service reforms. And in this document, we have the six pillars of the reforms. And I would let you know that the very first pillar is capability building and talent management.

“And so I see that your vision resonates squarely with pillar one of our strategy documents. And so I listened carefully to all that you said and to the three key areas which you have identified for collaboration with this office. I’ll take them one at a time.

“You talked about programme support and the fact that you are offering to us a short course on leading strategic change. I think this is a good place to Start. Because without mincing words, yes, yes, and yes.

“Our vision actually is to tackle capability building from all angles. Right now, we’re in the process of procuring an e-learning platform. And as you mentioned, we chose that e-learning platform so that you are fully abreast of our activities.

“We have the SMART-P and LEAD-P programmes. At the moment, we are thinking of expanding pillar one to the extent that we will have a centre of excellence which will manage all the different programmes under pillar one. And so I’d like to appreciate your offer and to say we accept your offer and we will look into how we can expand it as time goes on”, she said.

She urged the Institute to provide her office with a contact person who will liaise with the permanent secretary, career management office, so they can work out the details of the different levels of collaboration.

Among members of the delegation from the Institute include, Mr Obitunde Obiyemi, Registrar and CEO; Dr Jummai Umar-Ajijola, Chair, Board of Fellows; Dr Otive Igbuzor, past President; Mr Adeyemi Mapaderun, member, Governing Board; Mrs Rachel Kotso, Chair, Abuja Chapter; Dr Vitalis Emeka Obi, Permanent Secretary, Budget and Dr Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary, Aviation.

The meeting also had in attendance, permanent secretaries, directors and other top officials from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.

Kaduna State has officially activated the PAYKADUNA Revenue Administration Portal, marking a seamless transition to a more efficient and transparent tax payment system.

Unveiled by Governor Uba Sani on May 22, 2024, the PAYKADUNA platform is now fully operational across all sectors of the state’s economy.

Designed to fastrack the process of internally generated revenue (IGR) collection, the portal simplifies the tax administration process, making it more accessible for taxpayers and revenue-generating agencies.

Comrade Jerry Adams, Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), announced the official cutover to PAYKADUNA, emphasizing the state’s dedication to leveraging technology for streamlined revenue collection.

“This strategic shift embodies our commitment to efficiency, transparency, and accessibility,” Adams remarked.

The platform centralizes payments for all state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, ensuring secure and unified transactions.

By setting a new benchmark for revenue administration, PAYKADUNA is expected to enhance compliance rates and contribute to Kaduna’s economic growth.

KADIRS also called for continuous collaboration with partners to ensure the system’s success, positioning PAYKADUNA as a model for digital-friendly governance.

By Femi Adi, Kaduna

When Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani was sworn -in on May 29,2023, he made promises to inject new ideas of leadership with emphasis on his SUSTAIN Agenda that will change the face of governance in Kaduna and beyond.

No doubt,he has within one year in office achieved the feat and has continued to push for more radical development changes that focuses on the principles of good governance based on world standards.

Despite facing a critical period of cash crunch due to the heavy loan burden, he has remained undeterred in his avowed commitments to create the requisite enabling environment for business and economic prosperity.

Considering the Governor’s administrative process coupled with his smart sense of viable vision, Little wonder, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu invited him to join the super delegation on a State visit to China .

Governor Uba Sani and other senior government officials received the President in Beijing, China for the State Visit to China and the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation #FOCAC Summit with the theme: “Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build High-Level China-Africa Community with Shared Future”.

For Uba Sani , it was not a time for tea party , but an opportunity as a spin doctor to meet chief executive officers of major Chinese corporations to discuss business and various important matters of growth and development.

According to Global Times report, After China and Nigeria elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Uba Sani, the governor of Nigeria’s Kaduna State,said he is thrilled to see his state partner with China in a “smart city” project, which aligns with the country’s industrialization.

Kaduna State lies at the southern end of Nigeria’s northern plateau,and 80 percent of is 5 million population work in agriculture,according to media reports.

The smart city project will be built under cooperation with Chinese tech giant Huawei -“a very reliable partner,” Sani told the Global Times.

The project will enhance public security,efficiency and transparency in public service,and help his state to establish an e-government,make education, healthcare and talent cultivation “smart,” and boost the use of renewable energy, the governor said.

Sani hopes to form a joint committee between Kaduna government and Huawei “in one or two weeks.”

The smart city project is one of several broader deals between China and Nigeria that have been inked during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu held talks on Tuesday and announced the elevation of China-Nigeria ties They also witnessed the signing of
cooperation documents including the application of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, peanut exports to China and news media cooperation.

Sani said that China plays a significant role in Nigeria’s industrialization, and he is “more hopeful and confident that [after this time fat the FOCAC, we will see more fruits.”

Kaduna State has Nigeria’s first modernized railroad, the Abuja-Kaduna Railway. It is the first railway in Africa built based on Chinese technical standards.

Sani revealed that two months ago his state partnered with North China’s Hebei Province to construct an industrial park. Hopefully.

By Abubakar Jangudo

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) and over 500 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have withdrawn their ultimatum and call for protest against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over the recent fuel price increase.

This decision was reached after a careful review of the situation and advice from Northern leaders, elders, and security forces on the potential implications of the protest.

According to AYAGL Speaker Ambassador Abdul DanBature, the decision to withdraw the protest call was taken to avoid exacerbating the already challenging economic situation in the country.

The group commended NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kolo Kyari, for his efforts in addressing the fuel shortage and ensuring availability.

AYAGL praised Kyari’s leadership, citing his commitment to transparency and accountability. The group noted that Kyari’s success has attracted envy and opposition from forces seeking to tarnish his reputation.

The group had previously held a solidarity rally in support of President Tinubu and urged him to disregard calls for Kyari’s sack. AYAGL reiterated its support for Kyari, citing his impressive scorecard and dedication to repositioning NNPCL.

AYAGL called on the Federal government to provide palliatives to alleviate the suffering of the masses amidst the current hardship. The group emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians.

In conclusion, AYAGL’s decision to withdraw its protest call demonstrates its commitment to national interest and constructive engagement. The group will continue to support leaders like Kyari who prioritize good governance and effective leadership.