Author Archives: News All Around

By Abdulrazak Kanni

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned in strong terms the torture and unlawful incarceration of Seaman Haruna Abbas, who has been held captive for six years.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, the case is a “gross violation of human rights” and demands the immediate release of Mr. Abbas.

Recent revelations by Mr. Abbas’s wife, Hassana Abbas, exposed the cruelty and injustice suffered by her husband at the hands of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and other individuals complicit.

AYCF unequivocally condemned the actions of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and all those involved in the wrongful conviction, unjust incarceration, and subsequent torture.

The group demanded accountability for all individuals implicated in this egregious violation of justice.

AYCF also called for the establishment of transparent mechanisms for reviewing cases of alleged wrongful detention.

Especially those involving military personnel who continue to suffer in silence while their rights are trampled upon.

The plight of Seaman Abbas should serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians who value justice and human rights.

His story is emblematic of a broader systemic issue that affects many citizens who fall prey to arbitrary detention and abuse of power.

AYCF reiterated its unwavering support for Seaman Abbas and his family.

The group vowed to continue advocating for all those who have been wronged by systems intended to serve and protect them.

Until justice is served, and the perpetrators of such heinous crimes are brought to their rightful place before the law.

AYCF urged human rights organizations, legal advocates, and civil society to join them in this fight for justice.

The collective voices of concerned citizens can foster a culture of accountability and transparency in our institutions.

The time to act is now; justice for Seaman Haruna Abbas is not just a demand but a moral imperative that we must uphold for humanity, dignity, and the rule of law.

By Odeh James

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Kaduna State chapter of the Labour Party has hailed the appointment of Senator Nenadi Usman as the Chairman of the party’s Caretaker Committee and Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the Interim Chairman of the state chapter.

According to a communiqué issued by the All Support Groups and Obidient Stakeholders, Kaduna State Chapter, the stakeholders congratulated the new leadership and expressed gratitude to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, and Dr. Alex Otti.

At a strategic meeting held in Kaduna, the stakeholders condemned the actions of immediate past Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, and his associates, accusing them of anti-party activities.

The communiqué called on Abure to refund party assets and funds, urging him to “embrace peace and accept the current reality for the greater good of the nation.”

The stakeholders advised the new leadership to embark on a membership drive and create a new membership register.

They also appealed to aggrieved members to return, assuring them that efforts are being made to address past anomalies.

The meeting adopted a new slogan: “Obidient Movement! Doing the right thing! Doing the right thing! Go and verify!”

With the new leadership, party stakeholders expressed optimism about the party’s prospects.

“We remain steadfast in our determination to reclaim Nigeria for ourselves and future generations,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting was attended by representatives of support groups and stakeholders from across Kaduna State.

Musa Kankara

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the bravery and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the astute leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle in military’s rigorous operations—spurred by the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which has initiated a significant turning tide in the persistent battle against banditry, particularly in the North-Western region of Nigeria.

According to the northern group in a statement issued by it’s Chairman Salihu Suleiman, the Northern region has long been beleaguered by the terror and violence inflicted by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla whose criminal enterprise, characterized by extortion, intimidation, and the tragic loss of lives, has wrought havoc upon our local communities.

NAN averred that the audacity with which Turji has operated, compelling citizens to pay exorbitant protection levies and perpetuating a culture of fear, is a matter of grave concern for all stakeholders in our beloved nation.

“In a decisive move to combat the incessant menace of banditry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed squarely at dismantling Turji’s illicit activities. This directive symbolizes a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against banditry, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security to vulnerable communities.

“The recent strategic realignment of military resources to Sokoto, where Minister Matawalle has relocated to ensure enhanced oversight, further underscores the government’s urgency to reclaim authority in the region. The commitment shown by both President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle serves as a beacon of hope for citizens weary of insecurity”.

NAN therefore applauded the swift action taken by Minister Matawalle and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Their recent operations have clearly demonstrated effectiveness in incapacitating bandit elements, leading to a marked decline in the organized criminal activities that once seemed unassailable.

Suleiman said, reports indicate that bandit leaders, who were once emboldened by a perceived lack of concerted military presence, have been sent scampering into the shadows, with their criminal enterprises thrown into disarray. This newfound momentum in our security apparatus is both reassuring and promising, the group said.

“The neutralization of Halilu Buzu a foreign national (from the Republic of Niger)is a terrorist leader involved in cattle rustling and illegal gold mining in Jawayi Anka LGA of Zamfara State and a notorious leader of the bandits marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in Nigeria, reflecting the resolve of local authorities to confront and dismantle criminal networks.

“This development not only reassures residents of Zamfara State but also represents a broader commitment to securing the nation against the threats posed by both domestic and foreign criminals. The fight against banditry is ongoing, but with sustained efforts like those demonstrated by Minister Matawalle, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.

“In light of these recent successes, we call for deeper support and understanding from the public. The collaboration of citizens is paramount in the collective endeavor to restore peace and stability within our communities. The resilience of the Nigerian populace and their participation in intelligence-sharing efforts will serve to fortify the recent gains achieved by our military forces.

By Emeka Anyana

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended the recent strides made in the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region, particularly under the strategic leadership of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF recognized the overwhelming response orchestrated by the current administration, reflecting a renewed commitment to restoring peace and security to the communities.

The forum noted that the North-West has been besieged by a terrifying surge in banditry, casting a pall of insecurity that has affected the daily lives of countless citizens. The relentless campaign of terror by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla has involved extorting protection levies and inflicting grievous harm on innocent civilians.

The AYCF commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking decisive action by mandating Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed at dismantling Turji’s criminal enterprise. The forum believes that this redirection in military strategy is a vital step towards reclaiming the dignity and safety of the people.

Under Matawalle’s guidance, the troops have risen to the occasion, confronting banditry not as faceless adversaries but as defenders of honor tasked with the noble duty to restore peace within the borders.

The AYCF firmly believes that the government’s renewed dedication to total disarmament, demobilization, and reconstruction of affected areas is both timely and critical. The proactive measures taken thus far have already resulted in the displacement of bandit elements, an encouraging indication of the military’s resolve.

The forum urged the troops to maintain this momentum and ensure the total eradication and capture of all criminal elements in the region. It expressed unfaltering confidence in Minister Matawalle’s ability to guide the military forces to victory against the scourge of banditry.

However, the AYCF emphasized the need to address the systemic issues that underlie banditry, noting that sustainable peace in the North-West requires comprehensive solutions that encompass socio-economic development and community engagement.

The forum urged President Tinubu’s administration to adopt a holistic approach that intertwines military action with equitable socio-economic development, investing in programs that empower local communities and restore faith in governance.

By doing so, the AYCF believes that the conditions that allow banditry to thrive can be mitigated, paving the way for sustainable peace and security in Nigeria’s North-West region.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Member representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency, has praised the management and staff of the Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN) in Maradi, Niger Republic, led by Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for their outstanding achievements over the past 12 years.

In a press release issued on September 10, 2024, Hon. Talba highlighted the university’s impressive track record, noting its significant contributions to the field of education. “I want to use this medium to extend my warmest gratitude to Prof Gwarzo and the staff cum students of this wonderful institution,” she said.

The university has produced five Provosts of Nursing Colleges in Borno, Yobe, and Bauchi States, including Kiloh Nifor, Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences in Jalingo, Taraba State, and Dr. Yusuf Bello, Provost of the Kaduna State College of Nursing Sciences. Hon. Talba noted, “Twelve years after its establishment, MAAUN has made tremendous progress, and this is evident in the number of talented individuals it has produced.”

Furthermore, the university has produced over 1,000 Medical Laboratory Scientists, with many practicing in Nigeria and abroad. Hon. Talba commended this achievement, saying, “This is a testament to the university’s dedication to equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields.”

Hon. Talba also commended the university’s excellence in law and other fields, noting its commitment to providing a well-rounded education. She praised Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership, saying, “I am impressed by the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its impact on Nigerian society. Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the university’s success.”

Hon. Talba concluded by reiterating her admiration for the university’s achievements, saying, “I applaud Prof. Gwarzo’s dedication to nurturing young minds, and I am confident that MAAUN will continue to make significant contributions to education in Nigeria and beyond.”

Madam Danteni

…
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.