Author Archives: News All Around

By Grace Adaji

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

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

Nonso Chibedum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By George Egba

The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria, notably marked by alarming reports regarding the outbreak in the Tukur-Tukur community of Zaria, stands as a dire reminder of the continual challenges posed by infectious diseases within the nation. The tragic loss of five children within only 24 hours due to this dangerous disease not only raises concerns but also highlights the necessity of vigilant leadership and swift community action.

In this light, it is imperative to commend Abdul-Azeez Suleiman for his proactive response and readiness to confront this crisis, as well as to acknowledge the broader role of the Tukur-Tukur community in advocating for health measures that safeguard their population and neighboring areas. Suleiman, a prominent leader and director in the Northern Elders Forum, exemplifies dedication to public health through his vigilance and prompt intervention in raising awareness about the outbreak. His leadership has galvanized support and facilitated local initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis, thus underscoring the essential role that community leaders play in public health management.

It is essential for both the national government and international health organizations to recognize and encourage such humanitarian commitments. By acknowledging these efforts, governments can create an environment where grassroots initiatives flourish, ensuring that communities are well-equipped to manage public health challenges as they arise.

The response from the Kaduna State health authorities has also been commendable, particularly under the astute guidance of the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Bello Jamo. The efficient and professional handling of this outbreak reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations. The comprehensive immunization programs established in response to this resurgence emphasize the need for immediate, targeted action, particularly directed towards high-risk populations such as children aged 1 to 14, who constitute a staggering 69.4% of confirmed cases.

These programs highlight the critical importance of school-based and community outreach initiatives that not only facilitate access to vital vaccines but also raise awareness about the significance of immunization. Integral to this endeavor has been the collaboration between the Kaduna health authorities and global health stakeholders, notably the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). Such partnerships are invaluable, providing critical technical support, resources, and expertise that enhance Nigeria’s capability to manage public health crises effectively.

By working together, local health authorities and international organizations can forge a resilient health infrastructure capable of addressing emerging threats, solidifying the foundation upon which Nigeria can cultivate a robust public health system.

However, equally paramount in this endeavor is the Tukur-Tukur community’s proactive initiative for heightened public awareness. The community has recognized that information campaigns are imperative for controlling the outbreak, and efforts are underway to engage residents by clearly communicating modes of transmission, symptoms, and the critical importance of early medical intervention. Such educational campaigns engage local leaders and influencers, enhancing credibility and driving community participation in health-seeking behaviors.

This grassroots engagement is fundamental; empowering communities with knowledge not only builds resilience but also fosters a culture of proactive health management.

In conclusion, the resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria necessitates an urgent, multifaceted response that is underpinned by community engagement, effective leadership, and strategic partnerships at local, national, and international levels. It is vital for the Nigerian government to recognize and encourage humanitarian commitments from community leaders and organizations, such as those exemplified by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman and the Tukur-Tukur community. By fostering a collaborative framework inclusive of public health stakeholders, Nigeria can cultivate an environment conducive to effective disease management and prevention.

Through collective action, informed by community involvement and robust governmental support, the specter of diphtheria can transform from an urgent threat into a manageable concern, thereby safeguarding the health and future of Nigeria’s vulnerable populations, particularly its children. The time to act is now, and the lessons learned from this outbreak should pave the way for the establishment of a resilient healthcare system that ensures better health outcomes for all Nigerians.

By Akiu Amali

N’West: APC Youth Group Slams PDP Over Alleged Harassment Of Members – Demands Apology to Matawalle over accusations All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing Mobilisation Vanguard has called on People Democratic Party elders in the North West to focus their political crisis and solution over intrigues that are bedeviling their survival rather than bringing Minister of State Defence, Hon Bello Mohammed Matawalle into their failure.

Chairman of the group Alhaji Ashiru Tukur stated this while reacting to the PDP’s alleged accusations of political harassment of their supporters in the Northwest by Minister of State Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Professionals Support Movement on Thursday asked President Bola Tinubu to stop Minister of State Defense, Mohammed Bello Matawalle from alleged harassment of opposition leaders in the region.

The chairman declared that the allegations of political harassment by whatever means against any political groups in the country under the present administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu are baseless and cheap political propaganda aimed at tarnishing the image of the led APC administration.

He described the PDP in the North as a collection of disappointed and failed political group of people that have mastered mischief purposefully to create political instability and unleash havoc and distrust among Nigerians.

“Apart from PDP’s woeful failure, they failed to govern even in a state wrecked by poverty and economic degradation coupled with insecurity as a result of negligence and poor governance. Anytime PDP wants to bury their inability at the state, they will resort to mudslinging and name-calling. This is a mere display of incompetence and weakness associated with hatred and blackmail of targeted political personalities like Minister Matawalle in an attempt to create heightened tension, conflict, and disharmony at a time when people are looking for solutions to end insecurity, hunger, and poverty” Said Tukur

Matawalle is such a philanthropist that even now, as a Minister, he still identifies with the people of the state in times of hardship and joy. Just recently, he and Senator Abdulaziz Yari donated millions of cash, food items, and assorted materials respectively to the people affected by the flood disaster in Gummi local government of the state. All these, despite the aggression and enmity displayed, against him and his political cohorts under the PDP watch.

Therefore, it becomes imperative to recognize the deleterious consequences associated with the PDP’s deliberate attempt to smear the name of Matawalle as this undermines the foundation of collaborative endeavors, hinders social cohesion, and fosters an environment antithetical to the pursuit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

President Tinubu wants to cultivate a society characterized by mutual respect, understanding, and progress. it is essential therefore for this kind of leader to eschew divisive tactics, and foster an ethos of cooperation, empathy, and constructive communication rather than heating the polity at a very tender stage as sponsored by these enemies of peace, cohesion, and progress.

While we demand an urgent apology from those PDP leaders over their sponsored campaign of calumny against our hard-working and trusted leader, Hon Bello Matawalle and other APC leaders castigated we urged Nigerians to be wary of these alarmists who are only interested in destroying our common interest for their selfishness.

By Jameel Bayan

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

By Amali Adiku

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Musa Maye

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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