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By Ada Odeh

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a state-sponsored smear campaign allegedly being orchestrated by the Zamfara State Government to discredit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the forum alleged that approximately two billion naira has been released to certain groups to hold press conferences and circulate media content aimed at tarnishing the image of Minister Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara State, and to question his appointment into President Tinubu’s cabinet.

Comrade Paul stated that the forum, known for promoting peace and national unity, viewed the alleged campaign as politically motivated and dangerous to national cohesion. He accused certain political actors within Zamfara of instigating the media assaults due to their fears over Matawalle’s growing national influence.

“These campaigns of calumny are not grounded in evidence,” the statement read. “They are a deliberate attempt to destroy the reputation of a man who has dedicated himself to addressing Nigeria’s deep security challenges.”

According to the NSCF, the campaign includes plans to pressure the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen investigations into Matawalle’s tenure as governor—despite the lack of new evidence or legal grounds.

The group argued that such efforts are meant to weaken the Defence Minister’s credibility and distract him from his national responsibilities. It warned that the political attacks are not only unfair but could also undermine ongoing security operations in the North.

“Matawalle’s appointment as Minister of State for Defence came at a time when Nigeria urgently needed a hands-on approach to rising insecurity,” Comrade Paul said. “His experience as a former governor of a crisis-ridden state gives him a practical understanding of the threats facing our people.”

NSCF further claimed that the coordinated attacks appear to coincide with intensifying political maneuverings in Zamfara State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The forum alleged that these smear tactics are designed to weaken Matawalle’s influence both within the state and nationally.

“The timing of these attacks is too strategic to ignore. Political actors are clearly preparing for the next elections and are using these campaigns to eliminate perceived obstacles,” the statement continued.

Beyond the politics, the forum expressed concern that the continued circulation of falsehoods and half-truths could further divide the country at a time when national unity is essential.

“This isn’t just about one man,” Comrade Paul warned. “The kind of divisive rhetoric being peddled by these groups has serious implications for our national security. It creates distractions and undermines confidence in the government’s security agenda.”

He stressed that the fight against insecurity must be devoid of political interference, especially in states like Zamfara, which have been ravaged by banditry and violent crimes.

“We cannot afford to let personal ambitions sabotage the collective goal of peace and stability,” he added.

The NSCF called on law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian Police and relevant security institutions, to investigate the funding and origin of the defamatory campaigns. It argued that spreading disinformation for political gain should be treated as a form of political violence.

“This is a deliberate assault on democracy and governance,” Paul said. “Those responsible must be identified and held to account.”

Zamfara has long been a flashpoint in Nigeria’s security crisis. Frequent clashes between state and federal officials over how best to tackle insecurity have fueled tensions. Despite this, Matawalle’s appointment to the federal cabinet was seen by many as a step toward synergy and more effective policy coordination.

In a previous statement, Matawalle dismissed the accusations as baseless, politically charged, and designed to derail his work. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the nation and commitment to working with all stakeholders to secure Nigeria.

“My focus has always been on the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” Matawalle said. “These distractions will not deter me from my mandate.”

The NSCF ended its statement with a broader warning: that unchecked misinformation and politically motivated attacks can corrode public trust and weaken democratic institutions.

“As the political climate heats up ahead of 2027, we must be vigilant. We must put Nigeria first,” the forum stated. “Unity and collaboration, not division and deceit, will deliver peace to this nation.”

ENDS

The Kaduna Youths for Peace and Development (KYPD) group has denied reports of the arrest of Nura Usman, a self acclaimed youth activist and advocate for good governance, by the Kaduna government.

According to the group ,Usman was invited by the police to explain a malicious Facebook post, but he evaded arrest and switched off his phone to create a false narrative.

Sahara Reporters claimed Usman was abducted and tortured by security operatives over his Facebook posts criticizing government policies.

But in a reaction, KYPD denies Usman’s arrest and torture, calling the report false and a cheap blackmail.The group claimed Usman posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state.

In a Statement jointly signed by the Chairman,Comrade Musa Lere and Secretary,Comrade Joseph Maigari the group which expressed sadness over
the Sahara Reporters’ story on Kaduna Government Critic, Nura Usman Abducted, Tortured Over Facebook Post As Wife reported is nothing but false.

It stated further, “He was never arrested and still on the run.He is running away from the law. He posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state. He couldn’t substantiate his claim. His invitation by the security operatives has nothing to do with Kaduna State Government as reported.”

Nura Usman had posted on Facebook handle:”Information reaching my desk just now has revealed that some aides of a governor from Kaduna State have met with some selected student leaders of the state-owned university.

“These aides have commissioned the student leaders to hold a press conference and publicly condemn the ongoing strike by lecturers, who are urging the state government to fulfill outstanding demands after multiple unmet promises.

“Sources indicate that the student leaders have received the sum of N20,000 from the aides in question to facilitate this press conference. We shall see”.

On those behind Nura Usman inciting post ,the group averred,” We see him as someone allegedly being sponsored by former Kaduna State Governor,Mal. Nasiru Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

However, the Sahara Reporters quoted , a petition dated May 2, 2025,where he stated that ” a law firm alleged that Mr. Usman was abducted on the night of April 30 by heavily armed operatives of Operation Fushin Kada, a joint security task force comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and other agencies.

“The law firm in the petition claimed the arrest was ordered by powerful officials within the Kaduna State Government, allegedly in retaliation for Facebook posts made by Mr. Usman on April 28 and 29 that criticized certain government policies.

“This is untrue and should be disregard by the public.”it stressed.

A former Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, has lambasted Senate President Godswill Akpabio, asking him to directly address the sexual harassment allegations levelled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and others, rather than hiding behind what he described as “hired blackmailers and image launderers.”

Abdullahi made the call while referencing the recent public campaign led by one Professor Mgbake, who has emerged as a vocal critic of Senator Natasha.

He accused Mgbake of peddling falsehoods and engaging in a calculated effort to distract from the serious allegations against the Senate President.

“While Mgbake publicly denied any link to the Senate President, she contradicted herself by revealing Senator Akpabio’s private phone number during her media attacks,” Abdullahi said, adding that such an act strongly suggests coordination between her and Akpabio’s camp.

He described Mgbake’s involvement as “a desperate media campaign” to shield the Senate President from accountability, urging Nigerians not to be distracted by what he termed “a circus of deception.”

Abdullahi further raised concerns about Mgbake’s reputation, citing past allegations of fraud and deception.

He referenced multiple online reports, including a Nairaland thread labelling her a con artist, and an investigative piece by Secrets Reporter, which accused her of defrauding clients using front companies.

He also linked her to a recent smear campaign against Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, shared on her Facebook page.

“It is both disgraceful and cowardly for a high-ranking public officer like the Senate President to associate with individuals of such questionable reputation,” Abdullahi said. “Rather than defend himself with honour, Akpabio has chosen to hide behind people whose public records are smeared with controversy and criminal allegations.”

He also cast doubt on the credibility of Mgbake’s academic qualifications, saying her claim to a professorship remains unverified.

“It is unfortunate that a matter as sensitive and serious as sexual harassment is being reduced to a media circus involving paid agents and individuals who themselves lack public trust,” he added.

Abdullahi concluded by urging Senator Akpabio to respond to the allegations with the dignity and transparency expected of a national leader.

“This is about integrity and accountability. No Nigerian, no matter how highly placed should be above scrutiny,” he said.

“The Senate President must rise to the occasion and prove his innocence through facts, not hired propaganda.”

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has called on Nigerians to ignore what it described as “sponsored groups” mobilized to discredit the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group said Kyari had served the nation with dedication and patriotism, and therefore did not deserve the wave of attacks being orchestrated against him.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service, as is the practice in most developed countries,” the group stated.

The FGGN expressed disappointment that the protesters had failed to acknowledge Kyari’s significant contributions, particularly his efforts to revive the country’s ailing refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

Describing Kyari as the most outstanding GCEO in the history of NNPCL, the group dismissed those behind the attacks as “jobless individuals with no vision for the future.”

The statement, signed by its Chairman, Comrade Bala Usman Sani, highlighted some of Kyari’s key achievements during his tenure. It noted that Kyari inherited a struggling NNPC but succeeded in transforming it into a more efficient and credible institution.

“He was recognized as the Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022 by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria,” the statement noted. “He maintained a national strategic fuel reserve that served the country effectively during fuel shortages and worked tirelessly to stem the smuggling of petroleum products across borders.”

The group also credited Kyari with encouraging private investments in refinery development—such as the Dangote Refinery and other modular refinery projects—and for pushing forward the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries.

It added that Kyari played a pivotal role in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which led to the successful incorporation of NNPC under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

“Under Kyari, the national oil company recorded significant progress, including increased domestic natural gas consumption, an oil production boost to 1.8 million barrels per day, and the revival of two major refineries,” the statement read.

The group also pointed to the introduction of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda under Kyari’s leadership, which it said helped address inefficiencies and restore public trust in the national oil firm.

FFGN concluded its statement by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not allow “politically motivated distractions” to undermine the achievements of those who have genuinely served the country.

By Victoria Odele

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a stern warning to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding what it describes as a potentially costly political miscalculation — accepting Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State into the party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN urged the APC to exercise “prudence and foresight” as speculation grows over Governor Lawal’s possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) amid mounting political pressure.

The group expressed concern that Governor Lawal’s rumoured move to the APC is not based on shared ideology or commitment to the party’s principles but rather as a tactical escape from rising political threats. Chief among these threats are the influential Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor Senator Abdulaziz Yari — two powerful figures who have consolidated their influence within the APC and could pose a formidable obstacle to Lawal’s re-election ambitions.

“The dynamics of Zamfara’s political arena are fraught with challenges,” the statement reads. “It is evident that Governor Lawal’s position is increasingly precarious, and his desperation to find political refuge should not be mistaken for strength.”

NAN argues that Dauda Lawal’s entry into the APC would be more of a liability than an asset. They accuse him of having a controversial track record that may weaken the party’s internal cohesion at a critical time when unity is essential for electoral success.

“His political value is questionable,” NAN stated. “His inclusion could sow discord and division within the party ranks. The APC must consider the implications of aligning with a leader whose political capital is clearly waning.”

The organization warned that embracing Lawal could alienate core supporters, tarnish the APC’s reputation, and send the wrong message about the party’s direction and values.

“Instead of strengthening the APC, his presence could ignite factional tensions and destabilize the political equilibrium in Zamfara and beyond. This is not the kind of distraction the party can afford as it prepares for future electoral contests.”

NAN concluded by urging the APC to stay focused on grooming credible, grassroots-oriented leaders who reflect the aspirations of the northern people and can drive sustainable progress.

“We urge the APC to heed this warning and prioritize the collective interests of our people over individual ambitions. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the progress and prosperity of the N

Yosef Moses

A northern-based advocacy group, Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing not only to the North but to Nigeria as a whole, citing his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation’s capital.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a visionary decision in appointing Wike as FCT Minister, asserting that the appointment was akin to “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

In a statement issued by the Speaker of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group applauded Wike’s pragmatic approach to governance, especially in addressing urban development challenges and security issues in Abuja.

“Since assuming office, Wike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, taking bold steps to address illegal developments, encroachments on public land, and persistent security lapses. His actions reflect a deep commitment to restoring the Abuja master plan and enforcing long-neglected laws,” Danbature said.

He highlighted Wike’s firm measures, including the demolition of unauthorized structures and the removal of street beggars, as necessary and long overdue. According to him, these reforms have reinvigorated public confidence in the FCT administration’s capacity to manage the capital effectively.

The group also commended Wike’s collaboration with neighboring states in tackling insecurity

By Likita Ekani

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has strongly criticized the reported plan by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal Dare, to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as an act of fear and political desperation.

In a statement signed by the forum’s chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group said the governor’s anticipated move is not based on principles or a desire to deliver better governance but rather on anxiety over the growing political influence of APC stalwarts in the state—specifically the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor, Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC,” the NSCF said. “This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State.”

The forum said Governor Lawal has shown himself to be a political liability within the PDP, failing to unite the party or make meaningful contributions to its progress. His defection, they warned, would further expose his inability to handle political pressure and provide stable leadership.

“Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political baggage within the PDP. His tenure has been marked by underperformance and a lack of vision. Instead of fostering unity and inspiring confidence, he has only deepened internal divisions,” the statement read.

According to the NSCF, the governor’s move to the APC would not resolve the leadership vacuum in the state but rather worsen existing political tensions. They cited the internal strife already plaguing the APC in Zamfara, which they argue would only be intensified by the governor’s entry into the party.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already dealing with internal struggles. Bringing in a governor with questionable leadership credentials will only complicate the situation and heighten instability in the state’s political landscape.”

The forum further warned that the defection signals a retreat from accountability and transparency.

“

Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

Manu Mani

The Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG) has raised an alarm over alleged unconstitutional tenure elongation schemes by Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen in Lagos, urging President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene. The non-partisan group highlighted three LCDAs where successors of deceased chairmen are seeking third terms, contravening 2018 constitutional amendments.

**Key Details:** 
1. **Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA:** Vice Chairman Famuyiwa assumed office after Chairman Arologun’s 2019 death, won re-election in 2021, and now seeks a third term. 
2. Onigbongbo LCDA: Chairman Dotun Adekanye, who succeeded the late Dayo Oke in 2020, died in 2024; his successor’s eligibility for 2025 polls is questioned. 

3. Ikosi Isheri LCDA: Vice Chairman Abolanle Bada, who took over following Abdulfatai Oyesanya’s 2020 death, now faces criticism for a third-term bid after a 2021 re-election. 

Legal Context:

The group cited the *Fourth Alteration Bill No. 16 (2018)*, which limits successors completing a predecessor’s term to one additional term. Former presidential aide Ita Enang clarified this applies even if the initial term was incomplete. Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution mandates democratically elected local councils, reinforcing term limits.

Appeals for Action: 

LSGG called on Tinubu to leverage his “moral authority” and past opposition to tenure elongation under Obasanjo. 

Urged the Attorney-General to issue advisories clarifying term limits for local governments. 
– Pressed Lagos State’s electoral body to disqualify candidates violating term rules and adopt reforms ensuring free polls. 

– “Our democracy cannot afford normalization of constitutional violations,” stated LSGG Coordinator Ademola Gafar. 
– The group referenced Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka: “The greatest threat to democracy is… incremental violations of established norms.” 

**Broader Implications:** 
LSGG warned Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, risks setting a “dangerous precedent” if unchecked. They cited transparent council elections in Ondo, Akwa-Ibom, and northwestern states as models. 

The LSGG vowed to pursue “all legal means” to uphold term limits, urging affected chairmen to “prioritize constitutional integrity over personal ambition.” The situation tests Tinubu’s democratic credentials amid rising scrutiny of Lagos governance practices. 

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*Reported by [Your Name], [News Outlet]. Follow for updates on this developing story.*