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Former Senator representing Kaduna Central and human rights activist, Senator Shehu Sani, has dismissed allegations linking former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, to an alleged gold smuggling operation reportedly intercepted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kano.

Reacting to videos and reports circulating on social media, Sani described the claims as fabricated, mischievous, and lacking credibility.

In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, the former lawmaker said those behind the videos appeared determined to portray Yari as being involved in the alleged smuggling of gold bars valued at billions of dollars.

“I have watched a couple of videos alleging the smuggling and interception of billions of dollars worth of gold bars in Kano. The content creators struggle hard to package Senator Abdulazeez Yari in the act,” Sani wrote.

He further dismissed the allegations as a poorly executed attempt to tarnish the former governor’s image.

“The fabrication is childish and senseless. They need a good movie director to help them do a better job,” he added.

According to Sani, the allegations may be connected to recent political comments made by Yari, suggesting that the reports were likely motivated by political considerations rather than factual evidence.

“I just guess that it’s a mischievous response to his recent political comments,” the former senator stated.

The allegations against Yari have generated debate on social media in recent days. However, no official statement has been issued by relevant authorities directly linking the former governor to any alleged gold smuggling operation.

Neither the EFCC nor any other law enforcement agency has publicly identified Senator Yari as a suspect in connection with the reports circulating online.

The development continues to attract public attention as discussions surrounding the authenticity of the videos and the allegations remain ongoing.

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In the annals of Nigeria’s energy sector, few appointments have generated as much goodwill and validated confidence as the placement of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi at the helm of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN).

Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 24, 2023, as the third Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Abdullahi has become the very embodiment of purposeful leadership; a man whose competence, passion, and vision align so perfectly with his mandate that the metaphor writes itself: a round peg, firmly and productively seated in a round hole.

Born in Kano and hailing from Okene Local Government Area in Kogi State, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi brings to the ECN an enviable combination of academic distinction and hands-on professional experience that few in his generation can match.

A Chartered Engineer (CEng) and member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, an MSc from the University of Salford in the United Kingdom, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship from the prestigious University of Manchester, where his research on structural integrity was supported by the Industry Collaboration Fund of the United Kingdom, underscoring his standing in global engineering circles.

Prior to his appointment, Dr. Abdullahi had accumulated over 14 years of experience across Nigeria’s energy sector, spanning stints at the Department of Petroleum Resources, now the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), and the University of Manchester, before serving as Senior Technical Adviser to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.

It was, therefore, no surprise when President Tinubu, a leader widely credited with assembling quality hands to deliver on his policy agenda, identified in Dr. Abdullahi the rare qualities of passion, technical depth, and reform instinct required to pilot Nigeria’s energy transition.

From the moment he assumed office, Dr. Abdullahi anchored his leadership on a clear and urgent mission: to make solar energy not a privilege of the few but a practical and accessible reality for millions of Nigerians from university campuses in the South to rural communities in the North.

His five-point agenda, centred on the integration of renewable energy solutions into Nigeria’s mainstream energy mix, has translated into a series of landmark projects that are reshaping the country’s energy landscape.

The most consequential of these is the implementation of the Renewed Hope Solarization Project; the flagship initiative of President Tinubu’s energy agenda, which provides 2 megawatts (MW) of solar hybrid systems across 37 federal universities and 37 tertiary hospitals in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Under Dr. Abdullahi’s stewardship, the ECN has already delivered over 100 MW of solar power, touching the lives of students, healthcare professionals, and communities across the country.

His ambitious goal of achieving full renewable energy coverage for federal tertiary institutions by 2027 is not mere rhetoric but a programme-backed commitment with measurable milestones.

Perhaps the most transformative pillar of Dr. Abdullahi’s tenure is his deliberate push to move Nigeria from solar energy consumer to solar energy producer.

On July 27, 2024, history was made when the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Modules Assembly Plant was held at Ihunekwagu Autonomous Community, Akpugo, in the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State. The plant, once operational, will domesticate solar PV technology in Nigeria, moving the country from small-scale attempts to a full-fledged solar manufacturing ecosystem.

The significance of this is not lost on energy analysts. For decades, Nigeria has been a net importer of solar technology, spending scarce foreign exchange on panels manufactured thousands of kilometres away. Dr. Abdullahi’s vision changes that narrative fundamentally.

Going further, he led Nigeria into a landmark partnership with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd., the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer. Discussions held at LONGi’s headquarters in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China, anchored by an earlier Memorandum of Understanding signed in London centred on the establishment of a 500 to 1,000 MW solar panel production plant in Nigeria. If realised, this single initiative would not only create thousands of jobs but would position Nigeria as a continental leader in solar manufacturing and a destination for clean energy investment across Africa.

He also signed an MOU with China Energy Engineering Corporation to establish State Energy Planning Centres across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, ensuring that energy planning becomes a data-driven, decentralised, and responsive exercise rather than a top-down, Abuja-centric exercise.

Dr. Abdullahi has ensured that the ECN’s network of Research Centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones is not merely academic but actively development-oriented. Under his watch, these centres have been mobilised to develop demonstrable products addressing real energy challenges, from bio-energy systems that reduce dependence on fossil fuels, to solar drying systems that aid rural farmers in preserving their produce, to small, medium, and commercial-scale solar-powered chicken brooding systems that are transforming the agricultural economy at the grassroots level.

His collaboration with ECOWAS to launch the National Energy Information System (NEIS) has also strengthened Nigeria’s energy data architecture, a critical enabler for evidence-based policymaking.

The Renewable Energy Empowerment Programme implemented in communities like Odoli and Owerri further demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the energy transition reach those most often left behind.

Under Dr. Abdullahi’s watch, the ECN unveiled the National Energy Policy (NEP) and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP), the first time in the Commission’s history that Nigeria has had both a comprehensive national energy policy and a corresponding master plan to guide its energy development and sustainability trajectory. This achievement alone represents a foundational contribution to Nigeria’s long-term energy governance that will outlast any single administration.

In a country where square pegs in round holes have too often been the story of public service appointments, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi stands as a refreshing and compelling exception. Stakeholders, industry watchers, civil society, and even Nigeria’s development partners have consistently affirmed that his appointment represents one of the most inspired choices of the Tinubu administration.

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) put it well when it described him as “one of the leading lights in the government’s push for sustainable development.” His peers in the energy sector see in him a man who did not merely arrive at office with a title, but with a blueprint; and has been executing it with rare discipline, innovation, and patriotism.

Nigeria’s power sector crisis is deep and structural. But if the experience of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s tenure at the Energy Commission of Nigeria teaches anything, it is that when the right person occupies the right office with the right mandate, transformation; however incremental, becomes not just possible but inevitable.

The round peg is firmly in the round hole. And Nigeria’s solar future, for perhaps the first time, looks genuinely bright.

The Minister of State for Defence, Mr Mohammed Bello Matawalle, has expressed confidence that critics and opposition figures challenging the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be “shamed” in the 2027 general elections.

Matawalle made the remarks in a solidarity message delivered on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Politics, Hon. Ibrahim Maigandi Danmalikin Gidan Goga, at a Contact and Sensitization Retreat organised by the Northwest Tinubu/Matawalle Peace and Unity Initiatives on Tuesday in Sokoto.

He described critics of the Tinubu administration as perpetrators of falsehood, mischief, and propaganda aimed at tarnishing the image of the President and undermining the government’s performance.

According to him, such narratives would not diminish what he called the “positive stewardship” and “developmental strides” of the Tinubu-led administration.

Matawalle said President Tinubu remains one of Nigeria’s most focused leaders, committed to national unity, selfless service, and confronting the country’s challenges, particularly insecurity and governance deficits inherited from previous administrations.

He further stated that the President had embarked on the execution of key projects across various sectors, with strong support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies in tackling insecurity, especially in parts of the North affected by violence.

He added that the administration has prioritised economic recovery, education, human capital development, and poverty reduction to ease the suffering of Nigerians and stimulate national growth.

“It is a surprise that some groups of Nigerians are partnering with individuals to tarnish the image of Mr President despite his efforts for peaceful coexistence, unity, and progress of the country,” he said.

He further alleged that “mischievous elements” were engaging youths to spread falsehood and negative propaganda against the government for selfish interests.

Matawalle described President Tinubu as an amiable leader focused on addressing Nigeria’s challenges and promoting peace, unity, and development.

He urged young people to shun misinformation and instead embrace values that promote national cohesion and development.

The Minister also advised political actors to remain proactive in supporting community development and contributing to national economic stability and progress.

In his address, the Lead Convener of the retreat, Malam Yusuf Abubakar, said the initiative was aimed at mobilising support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid by highlighting his achievements and governance focus.

Abubakar stressed the importance of continuous engagement with stakeholders to educate Nigerians on the administration’s policies and development efforts.
He commended Matawalle for initiating the sensitisation forum and urged him not to relent in efforts to galvanise support for the President ahead of 2027.

He noted that no fewer than 58 community group leaders, association heads, and ambassadors from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Kaduna States participated in the retreat.

A fresh political storm is brewing in Zamfara State as a group known as the Zamfara State Concerned Citizens has announced plans to institute legal proceedings against former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, over allegations concerning his educational qualifications.

The group, led by Barrister Musa Abdullahi, alleged that Matawalle relied on a certificate obtained from the Vocational Training Centre, Bunza, to secure election into public office and later appointment as a minister, despite what it described as questions surrounding the qualification’s compliance with constitutional requirements.

In a media statement signed on its behalf, Barrister Abdullahi said the group had concluded consultations and was preparing legal action aimed at testing the validity of the credentials before a court of competent jurisdiction.

According to him, public offices are positions of trust that demand honesty, transparency and strict compliance with the law.

The group argued that the use of forged or invalid educational credentials to secure public office, if established by a court, amounts to a grave violation of public trust and undermines the integrity of democratic institutions.

Barrister Abdu maintained that Nigerian laws criminalize forgery, certificate falsification and false declaration, stressing that any public official found guilty of such offences should face appropriate legal consequences.

“We believe that no individual should be allowed to benefit from public office through misrepresentation. The law must apply equally to everyone, irrespective of status or position,” he said.

The group further argued that where a public office holder is found to have obtained office through false credentials, such a person may face disqualification, removal from office and prosecution in accordance with applicable laws.

It also contended that salaries, allowances, benefits and privileges allegedly obtained through such misrepresentation should be recovered by the appropriate authorities.

In a strongly worded statement, the Zamfara State Concerned Citizens said public officials must be held to the highest ethical standards, warning that failure to address allegations of credential fraud could send the wrong signal to young Nigerians and weaken public confidence in governance.

The group also criticized Matawalle’s public interventions on security matters, accusing him of making statements capable of generating unnecessary controversy at a time citizens expect reassurance and constructive engagement from leaders.

According to Barrister Abdu, the planned court action is not only about one individual but about protecting the sanctity of public office and ensuring that honesty remains a fundamental requirement for leadership.

He said the legal challenge would also serve as a deterrent to anyone who might contemplate using false information or questionable credentials to gain access to public office.

The Zamfara State Concerned Citizens insisted that accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law remain essential pillars of democracy and vowed to pursue the matter through all lawful channels.

As of the time of filing this report, Matawalle had not publicly responded to the latest allegations.

KANO The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intercepted 15 suitcases containing gold bars valued at approximately ₦4 billion at the Aminu Kano International Airport. The consignment was being loaded onto an Ethiopian Airlines flight bound for Saudi Arabia when it was seized.

Three suspects were arrested during the operation, including Aliyu Baffa, a serving airport security officer, and two accomplices. According to EFCC sources and airport security officials who spoke on condition of anonymity, the suspects voluntarily confessed that the gold was being smuggled out of the country on the instruction of Senator Abdul Aziz Yari Abubakar, former Governor of Zamfara State.

The suspects further alleged that they are part of a cartel involved in illegal mining operations across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kebbi States, which they claim is controlled by Senator Yari.

A senior airport security official recounted: “Our personnel observed suspicious items concealed in 15 suitcases during cargo loading. We immediately alerted the EFCC, leading to the interception of the physical gold bars.

Following the arrests, a political associate of Senator Yari identified as a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reportedly contacted EFCC officials seeking the release of the seized gold. The request was declined. The associate was also denied access to officials of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Immigration Service, and airport authorities. He was advised to inform Senator Yari to report to the EFCC for questioning, after the detained suspects named the former governor as the alleged principal actor

In a related development, a serving Member of the House of Representatives, described as a known confidant of Senator Yari, was sighted at the EFCC Kano Zonal Office in company of two other individuals.

Senator Yari has previously faced allegations of involvement in illegal mining and the diversion of stamp duty revenues, with claims that proceeds were channeled into funding the ADC. He has not been charged in connection with those allegations.

As of press time, Senator Yari had not responded to multiple telephone calls and 21 text messages seeking his comment on the current allegations.

The EFCC confirmed that the seized gold remains in its custody and that investigations are ongoing.

A civil society organisation, the Coalition for Accountability and National Development (CAND), has accused former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari, of allegedly undermining the Federal Government’s efforts to maximise revenue from Nigeria’s solid minerals sector through illegal mining activities.

The group made the allegation while reacting to the reported interception of an aircraft allegedly conveying gold valued at about N4 billion by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, CAND described the seizure ,linked to Senator Yari as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining and economic sabotage.

According to the organisation, the illicit exploitation and smuggling of gold and other mineral resources have continued to deprive Nigeria of substantial revenue that could otherwise be channelled into critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education and security.

“We commend the EFCC and other security agencies for their vigilance and commitment in tackling illegal mining activities across the country.

” We are happy that the reported interception of gold worth about N4 billion allegedly linked to Yari demonstrates the scale of revenue loss the nation has been suffering due to illicit operations in the mining sector,” the statement said.

The coalition further alleged that some politically exposed persons and influential individuals had continued to benefit from illegal mining activities in mineral-rich states, thereby frustrating ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to reform and regulate the sector.

While specifically mentioning Yari in its allegations, the group called on security and anti-corruption agencies to conduct thorough investigations into all individuals and networks linked to illegal mining and gold smuggling, irrespective of their political status or affiliations.

“We urge the authorities to carry out comprehensive investigations and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law. The fight against illegal mining must not be selective if Nigeria is to derive maximum benefits from its vast mineral resources,” the statement added.

CAND also argued that illegal mining has contributed to environmental degradation, insecurity and the proliferation of armed groups in several mining communities, particularly across Nigeria’s North-West region.

The organisation called on the Federal Government to strengthen monitoring mechanisms within the mining industry, improve collaboration among security agencies and deploy modern technology to track mineral extraction and exports.

It also urged mining regulators to intensify efforts to formalise artisanal mining operations and ensure strict compliance with existing mining laws and regulations.

The EFCC has in recent months intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities, warning that the illicit exploitation of mineral resources poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic growth, environmental sustainability and national security.

The group however vowed to support the ongoing investigation with a view to ensure that the truth is unravelled as the developing story unveils .

Former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West, Senator (Dr) Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, has rejoiced with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his third anniversary in office and Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration, praising the President’s resilience, determination and commitment to national development.

In a goodwill message personally signed by him, alongside with the Obaloyin of Yoruba Land, and 1st Baba Isale of Ikorodu), Yari described the milestone as a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey, noting that the Tinubu administration has continued to confront complex national challenges while pursuing reforms aimed at strengthening institutions, expanding economic opportunities and promoting stability across the country.

The former Senate Committee Chairman and influential political leader said the President’s three years in office have been marked by steadfast leadership and an unwavering commitment to the responsibilities of governance despite prevailing challenges.

According to him, many observers have acknowledged the administration’s efforts in navigating difficult national circumstances while remaining focused on policies and reforms designed to reposition the country for sustainable growth and progress.

“As your staunch political ally and strong backer, I acknowledge the weight of these efforts and the dedication required to sustain them,” Yari stated.

He emphasized that anniversaries provide an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements but also to reflect on the tasks ahead and renew commitment to the collective goal of nation-building.

The former governor reaffirmed his loyalty and support for President Tinubu, pledging to continue working alongside the administration in the pursuit of a more prosperous, secure and united Nigeria.

“I remain committed to working alongside your administration in the shared pursuit of a more prosperous, secure and united nation. The journey of nation-building is continuous, and collaboration remains essential,” he said.

Looking ahead to the fourth year of the administration, Yari prayed for continued wisdom, strength and clarity of purpose for the President, expressing optimism that the work ahead would be guided by a vision that uplifts all Nigerians and further strengthens the nation’s democratic foundations.

He congratulated President Tinubu once again on the twin occasions of his third anniversary in office and Democracy Day, assuring him of his continued 

Samaila David

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has condemned the arrest order reportedly issued against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr. Mele Kyari, by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, describing the action as capable of undermining the principles of fairness and due process.

In a statement issued on Thursday signed by its president, Alhaji Danbature Abdul, the group expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of trial by media and premature public judgment before the conclusion of investigations.

AYAGL acknowledged the constitutional oversight responsibilities of the National Assembly but stressed that such powers must be exercised in accordance with justice, fairness, and established legal procedures.

The group noted that reports indicated that Kyari had communicated his inability to appear before the committee due to medical treatment outside the country and had expressed readiness to honour the invitation upon his return.

According to the youth organisation, the decision to issue an arrest order under such circumstances raises questions about proportionality and respect for due process.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. No individual, institution, region or political group owns this country. Every Nigerian citizen deserves to be treated fairly and accorded the constitutional right to be heard before judgment is passed,” the statement said.

AYAGL also appealed to Senator Adams Oshiomhole to ensure that the matter is handled in a manner that does not create the impression of personal bias.

The group described Oshiomhole as a respected national leader with a longstanding reputation for advocating justice, democracy and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, urging him to promote objectivity and national cohesion in the handling of the matter.

It further warned against attempts by individuals or groups to use public institutions to settle scores or discredit achievements recorded in the petroleum sector during Kyari’s tenure at NNPCL.

The organisation maintained that under Kyari’s leadership, the national oil company witnessed significant reforms, including the publication of audited financial statements, implementation of key provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), strengthening of corporate governance structures, attraction of investments, refinery rehabilitation efforts and initiatives aimed at improving accountability across the petroleum value chain.

While insisting that no public official should be shielded from scrutiny, AYAGL stressed that investigations must not be transformed into persecution or public conviction before the establishment of facts.

The group also called on national leaders to focus attention on pressing challenges facing the country, including insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and youth development.

According to AYAGL, national discourse should be directed towards strengthening economic reforms, promoting national unity and addressing issues affecting the daily lives of citizens rather than creating distractions capable of deepening divisions.

It therefore urged the Senate Committee on Public Accounts and other stakeholders to ensure that all investigations are conducted professionally, fairly and without prejudice.

The group reiterated its commitment to accountability, transparency and the rule of law, while rejecting any attempt to criminalise or demonise individuals before the conclusion of due process.

“Nigeria’s democracy will flourish when justice is guided by evidence, fairness and due process, not by media sensationalism, political pressure or public hysteria,” the statement added.

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure overwhelming support across Northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-West, during the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking on the performance of the current administration, Matawalle said President Tinubu remains politically popular in the region and is likely to receive even greater electoral backing than in previous contests. He argued that the administration’s efforts in addressing insecurity, improving infrastructure, and implementing economic reforms have strengthened public confidence in the government.

The minister dismissed criticisms from opposition groups, accusing them of deliberately amplifying security concerns and spreading misleading narratives to diminish the achievements recorded by the Federal Government.

According to him, opposition politicians have focused on isolated security incidents while ignoring broader successes recorded by the military and other security agencies in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and other forms of criminality.

Matawalle praised members of the Armed Forces and security agencies for their sacrifices in protecting the country, noting that many personnel have lost their lives while defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He stated that the Tinubu administration has adopted a more coordinated, intelligence-based security strategy, particularly in North-West states such as Sokoto State, Zamfara State, Katsina State, Kaduna State and Kebbi State. He said these efforts have led to the elimination of several notorious bandit leaders and the dismantling of criminal hideouts.

The minister added that military operations have helped restore relative calm in many previously troubled communities, allowing residents to return to farming and other productive activities. He also pointed to progress in counterinsurgency operations in the North-East and efforts aimed at reducing violence in parts of North-Central Nigeria.

Highlighting the administration’s broader achievements, Matawalle said the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda has delivered measurable results in security, infrastructure, agriculture, social investment, and economic reform.

He cited ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects, investments in rail and energy infrastructure, agricultural support programmes, food security initiatives, and empowerment schemes targeting young people and women as examples of interventions benefiting Northern communities.

According to him, government efforts to improve education, strengthen local industries, expand economic opportunities, and enhance national security have continued to receive positive feedback from citizens across the region.

Matawalle maintained that the administration’s accomplishments would play a significant role in shaping voter sentiment ahead of the next general election.

He argued that many Nigerians, particularly in the North, are already seeing improvements in security and economic opportunities and would not be swayed by what he described as politically motivated attacks against the government.

The minister said President Tinubu remains focused on governance, national development, and improving the welfare of citizens, expressing confidence that voters would reward those efforts with strong support in 2027.

He also called on political leaders across party lines to prioritize national unity and support initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, security, and development throughout the country.

The statement was issued by Ahmad Dan-Wudil, Personal Assistant on Media to the Minister of State for Defence.

The leadership crisis within the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) has taken a fresh dimension as a faction of the party has petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), challenging the emergence of Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as National Chairman and seeking recognition as the authentic leadership of the party.

The faction, which traces its lineage to the leadership structure established by the late PRP founder, Balarabe Musa, also threatened legal action against INEC if the electoral body fails to recognize its claims.

Speaking with journalists, the faction’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Bashir Bello, alleged that the convention that produced Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as National Chairman was unconstitutional and contrary to the provisions of the party’s constitution.

According to Bello, the late Balarabe Musa had handed over the affairs of the party to former National Chairman, Malam Falalu Bello, who completed his tenure in office in accordance with the party’s constitution. He argued that Falalu Bello lacked the authority to unilaterally transfer leadership of the party to Baba-Ahmed.

“The late Balarabe Musa handed over the affairs of the party to Malam Falalu Bello, who served as National Chairman and completed his tenure. Upon the expiration of his tenure, he ceased to be the leader of the party. However, he single-handedly handed over leadership to Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, creating unnecessary crisis in the party,” Bello said.

He stated that the faction had formally petitioned INEC over the convention that produced Baba-Ahmed, insisting that the process was flawed and violated both the spirit and letter of the PRP constitution.

Bello disclosed that the group had conducted a parallel national convention, compiled its reports and submitted them to INEC, urging the commission to recognize its faction as the legitimate leadership of the party.

“We have petitioned INEC on the conduct of the convention by Falalu Bello that ushered in Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as the party’s National Chairman, which appears flawed and against the spirit and letter of our party’s constitution.
“We have also conducted our parallel convention, compiled and submitted our report to INEC, urging the commission to recognize our faction as the authentic party,” he stated.

The factional spokesman further revealed that his group had successfully conducted primary elections and submitted the names of its candidates to INEC, including its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, Dr. Sani Salih Mustapha.

“Likewise, we have conducted our primaries and submitted the names of our candidates, including our presidential candidate, Dr. Sani Salih Mustapha, to the commission,” Bello said.

He, however, clarified that no court case had yet been filed against INEC, explaining that the faction was awaiting the commission’s response to its petition before taking further legal steps.
“We have not yet filed a court case. We are awaiting INEC’s response to our petition, which we may use as evidence in court if the commission’s decision does not favour us.

“Failure of the commission to recognize our faction will leave us with no other option than to seek judicial redress,” he added.

The latest development marks another chapter in the protracted leadership tussle that has continued to divide the PRP, a party founded on the principles of social justice and popular democracy by the late Balarabe Musa.