Author Archives: News All Around

By Abubakar Sadiq

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed profound disappointment and outrage at the recent actions of the Northern Governors’ Forum regarding the proposed tax reform bills. NAN in a statement issued by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman also condemned in the strongest possible terms the governors’ blatant disregard for the democratic principles of consultation and transparency.

Their unilateral decision to proceed with these bills, after previously assuring the populace of their opposition, constitutes a profound betrayal of public trust and a grave abuse of power. “NAN demands a full and transparent explanation of the governors’ decision-making process, along with a clear accounting of how they arrived at their conclusions without any demonstrable evidence of consultation with the very people they misled.

“The Northern Governors’ initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, leveraging public sentiment and concerns to seemingly champion the interests of the Northern region. They actively campaigned against the bills, portraying them as detrimental to the economic wellbeing of Northerners. This strategic positioning skillfully gained the trust and confidence of the populace, who overwhelmingly rejected the reforms based on the governors’ assurances.

“However, the recent shift in stance demonstrates a cynical manipulation of public opinion, a calculated ploy to win popular support only to subsequently abandon it for reasons yet to be explained. This calculated deception is not merely a political misstep; it is a profound breach of the social contract between the governors and the people they represent.

“The subsequent adoption of the bills without prior notice or meaningful consultation reveals a disregard for democratic processes and a contempt for the will of the people. The Northern Governors’ Forum has failed to provide any credible evidence of consultation with relevant stakeholders before endorsing the tax reform bills. This omission is unacceptable. A crucial element of good governance involves transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.

“Meaningful engagement with communities, civil society organizations, and other representatives of the populace is paramount before enacting legislation with such potentially significant implications. The absence of any public consultation renders the governors’ decision arbitrary and illegitimate. It undermines the democratic foundation upon which their authority rests.

The Northern Awareness Network demands a comprehensive explanation for this lack of consultation, including the identification of all individuals and groups who were involved in the decision-making process. We also demand the release of all documentation relating to the decision to support the bills, including any internal memos, correspondence, and analyses that informed the governors’ change of heart.

The Governors’ attempt to justify their sudden change of heart by suggesting that the tax reforms will ultimately benefit the Northern region rings hollow in the absence of concrete evidence. Their claim that the previously condemned bills will now somehow have a positive impact on the region lacks credibility and smacks of desperation. This assertion appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to buy time and deflect criticism for their about-face. It is a blatant attempt to mask their failures and avoid accountability for their actions.

The Northern Awareness Network challenges the governors to present compelling evidence, backed by rigorous data and independent analysis, to substantiate their claims. We demand a detailed breakdown of how these reforms will specifically improve the economic conditions in the Northern region, addressing concerns about potential negative impacts on vulnerable populations. Without such evidence, the governors’ justification remains unconvincing and further fuels public distrust.

“The Northern Awareness Network demands immediate and concrete action from the Northern Governors’ Forum. We call upon them to Publicly apologize for the deception and betrayal of public trust, Provide a full and transparent explanation of the decision-making process that led to the endorsement of the tax reform bills, including the identification of all individuals and organizations involved, release all relevant documentation pertaining to the decision”.

NAN also demands the governors to conduct a thorough and independent review of the potential impact of the tax reforms on the Northern region, involving representatives from civil society, academia, and other relevant stakeholders, engage in meaningful and inclusive consultations with the people of the North before proceeding with the implementation of the reforms.

“The Northern Governors’ Forum’s actions represent a grave threat to democratic governance in the Northern region. Their blatant disregard for the principles of consultation, transparency, and accountability has eroded public trust and undermined the legitimacy of their authority.

“The Northern Awareness Network will not stand idly by while our elected officials engage in such deceitful and manipulative tactics. We will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that the voices of the Northern people are heard and respected. We will closely monitor the governors’ response to our demands and take further action if necessary to ensure that justice is served and the interests of the people are protected

By Abubakar Sadiq

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed profound disappointment and outrage at the recent actions of the Northern Governors’ Forum regarding the proposed tax reform bills. NAN in a statement issued by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman also condemned in the strongest possible terms the governors’ blatant disregard for the democratic principles of consultation and transparency.

Their unilateral decision to proceed with these bills, after previously assuring the populace of their opposition, constitutes a profound betrayal of public trust and a grave abuse of power. “NAN demands a full and transparent explanation of the governors’ decision-making process, along with a clear accounting of how they arrived at their conclusions without any demonstrable evidence of consultation with the very people they misled.

“The Northern Governors’ initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, leveraging public sentiment and concerns to seemingly champion the interests of the Northern region. They actively campaigned against the bills, portraying them as detrimental to the economic wellbeing of Northerners. This strategic positioning skillfully gained the trust and confidence of the populace, who overwhelmingly rejected the reforms based on the governors’ assurances.

“However, the recent shift in stance demonstrates a cynical manipulation of public opinion, a calculated ploy to win popular support only to subsequently abandon it for reasons yet to be explained. This calculated deception is not merely a political misstep; it is a profound breach of the social contract between the governors and the people they represent.

“The subsequent adoption of the bills without prior notice or meaningful consultation reveals a disregard for democratic processes and a contempt for the will of the people. The Northern Governors’ Forum has failed to provide any credible evidence of consultation with relevant stakeholders before endorsing the tax reform bills. This omission is unacceptable. A crucial element of good governance involves transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.

“Meaningful engagement with communities, civil society organizations, and other representatives of the populace is paramount before enacting legislation with such potentially significant implications. The absence of any public consultation renders the governors’ decision arbitrary and illegitimate. It undermines the democratic foundation upon which their authority rests.

The Northern Awareness Network demands a comprehensive explanation for this lack of consultation, including the identification of all individuals and groups who were involved in the decision-making process. We also demand the release of all documentation relating to the decision to support the bills, including any internal memos, correspondence, and analyses that informed the governors’ change of heart.

The Governors’ attempt to justify their sudden change of heart by suggesting that the tax reforms will ultimately benefit the Northern region rings hollow in the absence of concrete evidence. Their claim that the previously condemned bills will now somehow have a positive impact on the region lacks credibility and smacks of desperation. This assertion appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to buy time and deflect criticism for their about-face. It is a blatant attempt to mask their failures and avoid accountability for their actions.

The Northern Awareness Network challenges the governors to present compelling evidence, backed by rigorous data and independent analysis, to substantiate their claims. We demand a detailed breakdown of how these reforms will specifically improve the economic conditions in the Northern region, addressing concerns about potential negative impacts on vulnerable populations. Without such evidence, the governors’ justification remains unconvincing and further fuels public distrust.

“The Northern Awareness Network demands immediate and concrete action from the Northern Governors’ Forum. We call upon them to Publicly apologize for the deception and betrayal of public trust, Provide a full and transparent explanation of the decision-making process that led to the endorsement of the tax reform bills, including the identification of all individuals and organizations involved, release all relevant documentation pertaining to the decision”.

NAN also demands the governors to conduct a thorough and independent review of the potential impact of the tax reforms on the Northern region, involving representatives from civil society, academia, and other relevant stakeholders, engage in meaningful and inclusive consultations with the people of the North before proceeding with the implementation of the reforms.

“The Northern Governors’ Forum’s actions represent a grave threat to democratic governance in the Northern region. Their blatant disregard for the principles of consultation, transparency, and accountability has eroded public trust and undermined the legitimacy of their authority.

“The Northern Awareness Network will not stand idly by while our elected officials engage in such deceitful and manipulative tactics. We will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that the voices of the Northern people are heard and respected. We will closely monitor the governors’ response to our demands and take further action if necessary to ensure that justice is served and the interests of the people are protected

By Aliyu Umar

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the Northern Governors’ sudden change of heart regarding the national tax reform bills. The governors initially opposed the reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the Northern economy. However, they have now inexplicably capitulated to the reforms, leaving many questioning their motives.

According to the AYCF, the governors’ actions constitute a clear betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Northern people. By initially opposing the tax reforms and then conceding, they have demonstrated a fundamental lack of respect for the electorate. The AYCF has called for greater accountability from the governors, urging them to focus on their primary responsibilities.

The AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, stated that the governors’ initial opposition to the tax reforms was fundamentally flawed. Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services. Instead of engaging constructively with the government, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.

The AYCF believes that the tax reforms are essential for Nigeria’s overall development, despite potential short-term challenges. The organization has maintained its support for the reforms, recognizing that effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation.

The Northern Governors’ opposition to the tax reforms has been linked to their wider failures in managing their respective states. Many Northern states grapple with persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic amenities. The AYCF contends that the governors’ initial opposition was a distraction tactic, an attempt to mask their incompetence and avoid accountability for their shortcomings.

The AYCF has called upon the Northern Governors to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart. The people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms.

The organization has also urged the governors to focus on their primary responsibilities, improving the lives of the people they represent through good governance and effective resource management. The hasty surrender to the tax reform bills without

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of sabotaging the administration of current Governor, Senator Uba Sani. The accusation was made at a press conference held at the Arewa House in Kaduna, where Comrade Musa Mohammed, the National President of NCSPG, revealed that the coalition had uncovered a plot by El-Rufai to undermine Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

According to Mohammed, El-Rufai’s actions are in response to the Kaduna State House Assembly’s adoption of a report recommending that El-Rufai and his aides be investigated for alleged financial mismanagement. The report accused El-Rufai’s administration of leaving behind a debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

Mohammed stated that instead of cooperating with the investigation, El-Rufai had resorted to clandestine meetings and plotting against Governor Uba Sani. The coalition warned El-Rufai to desist from his actions, emphasizing that they would not hesitate to defend Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna State.

The NCSPG expressed satisfaction with Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, citing his commitment to good governance despite the challenges posed by the debt burden inherited from El-Rufai’s administration. Mohammed noted that Governor Uba Sani had decided to follow due process in unraveling the truth about the debt burden, rather than resorting to confrontation.

The coalition vowed to resist any attempts by El-Rufai to unseat Governor Uba Sani, emphasizing that the people of Kaduna State would not be swayed by El-Rufai’s “evil machinations.” Mohammed declared that Governor Uba Sani had done well and would continue to work tirelessly to develop Kaduna State.

Mohammed also called on anti-graft agencies to take immediate action against El-Rufai, citing the recent arrest of his finance commissioner as evidence of embezzlement. The coalition prayed for peace and tranquility in Kaduna State and the country at large.

The press conference was attended by various stakeholders, including journalists, civil society organizations, and community leaders. The NCSPG’s allegations against El-Rufai are likely to generate significant attention and debate in the coming days.

It remains to be seen how El-Rufai will respond to the allegations, but one thing is clear: the political landscape in Kaduna State is set to become increasingly contentious in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how their leaders respond to the challenges ahead.

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State Chapter, has expressed disappointment over Punch Newspaper’s criticism of the federal government’s decision to establish a Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Southern Kaduna. In a press statement signed by the Chairman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF questioned the newspaper’s motives, wondering why it did not condemn the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions.

According to Binniyat, the Punch Newspaper’s editorial of January 7, 2025, dismissing the new university as “political” and a “Greek gift,” was unfair and demonstrated a lack of understanding of the historical marginalization of Southern Kaduna. “We feel that had the Editors of Punch been armed with the shocking marginalization that Southern Kaduna has suffered in the allocation of federal institutions in Kaduna State, they would have written their editorial from a rather sympathetic perspective,” Binniyat said.

The MBF chairman noted that Southern Kaduna, which makes up 12 local government areas out of the 23 in Kaduna State, has been neglected in the allocation of federal institutions. “Kaduna State has an approximate landmass of 46,000 square kilometers, out of which Southern Kaduna has an estimated 26,000 square kilometers. Yet, Southern Kaduna has no single university,” Binniyat lamented.

Binniyat also pointed out that the new university in Kachia already has a well-developed physical structure, courtesy of the privately-built Nok University, which was forfeited to the federal government by the EFCC. “Unlike Speaker Abbas, who secured N80 billion funding for Zaria’s new schools, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is not costing the federal government much to build,” he said.

The MBF chairman questioned the Punch Newspaper’s silence on the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions. “Why didn’t the Editors of Punch write their editorial condemning the creation of new federal universities when Zaria town, which is already saturated with federal institutions, got additional four new ones?” Binniyat asked.

Binniyat also expressed concern that the Punch Newspaper’s criticism may be motivated by a desire to discourage the federal government from establishing the new university. “We suspect that the motive behind the Punch Editorial is to discourage the federal government from seeing the takeoff of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” he said.

The MBF chairman emphasized the importance of the new university to the people of Southern Kaduna, who have been historically marginalized. “A university is not merely a place of learning; it is an economy and a development hub of its own, with accompanied value chains that could dramatically spark unprecedented prosperity to its area of location and environs,” Binniyat said.

Binniyat called on the Punch Newspaper to reconsider its stance on the new university, noting that the MBF would appreciate a follow-up editorial that takes into account the historical context of Southern Kaduna’s marginalization. “We hope that the Punch Newspaper will do the right thing and give us a balanced reportage,” he said.

In conclusion, Binniyat reiterated the MBF’s commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of the people of Southern Kaduna. “We will continue to speak out against injustice and marginalization, and we will not be silenced by critics who do not understand our struggles,” he said.

Apparently angered by the recent alleged claim of assassination,and non performance, the Kaduna Elders Forum has demanded recall of Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central senatorial district for undermining the peace of the State; poor representation and failure to deliver on campaign promises.

According to the Elders Forum,in the history of Senatorial representation in the state, no elected lawmaker has performed beyond expectation like senator Lawal Adamu.

The Kaduna Elders Forum, which demanded for the recall of the Senator in Press Statement signed by the Chairman ,Alhaji Inuwa Bala Rigasa expressed disappointment over his alleged claim of assassination and failure to speak and fight for the masses despite overt biting economic hardship.

Lawal Adamu Usman, the senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, has reportedly survived an alleged assassination attempt.

Recalled the senator, who was elected to the Senate in 2023 raised alarm over attempted assassination, but did not provide detailed information about the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.

The forum disclosed that the Kaduna Police Command in a press release signed by the Public Relations Officer,DSP Mansir Hassan said, “Without mincing words, the Command is yet to receive any formal complaint from the distinguished Senator, aside from this astonishing publication on the social media, and all efforts to contact him proved abortive.”

The statement further reads: Worst of all ,we were embarrassed when Senator Lawal Adamu posted that he was attacked by thugs in Kaduna during the New Year Day .

“We did set up machinery to investigate and confirm the veracity of the attack claim and as the time is issuing this press statement neither the police or members of Kawo communities have confirmed the occurrence of such incident.

“At this stage,we can no longer contain his excuses thus we are demanding for his Recall immediately from the Senate.”

“It is unfortunate that despite being in the red chamber for over 18 months Senator Lawal Adamu Usman has remained mute and unaccessible to his constituents.”

… Queries veracity of the claim

Progressives Forum for Kaduna Development (KFKD) has dismissed the claim of attack by the Senator representing Kaduna Senatorial District, Senator Lawal Adamu popularly known as Mr. LA as a false alarm raised by a drowning lawmaker,who has failed in his duty to deliver since elected.

According to the Forum, Kaduna youths have restrained from such violent attacks on people and communities since Senator Uba Sani became Governor of the State.

It was reported that Senator Lawal Adamu was attacked on Wednesday,New Year Day, while visiting his Senatorial District.

But in a reaction to the claim as reported, the Kaduna based political group,said the alleged assassination attempt on the lawmaker while visiting his constituency for the New Year celebration was nothing but false and should be disregarded.

The statement signed by the Coordinator,Comrade Musa Baba Aliyu further reads: “We can authoritatively say without mincing words that Kaduna citizens have become more refined and peaceful in recent times. And we strongly believe that he’s just raising false alarm to draw sympathy to himself after he couldn’t perform and even speak on matters affecting growth and development of the State.

“Why is it that no lawmaker or politician was attacked over past 19 months despite harsh economy caused by removal of fuel subsidy.

“Though the Senator,who is Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education raised the alarm via his Facebook account,”I have just escaped an assassination attempt by some thugs in Kaduna North, “We demand pictorial or video evidence of when the assailants pelted the lawmaker’s vehicle with stones as claimed and reported.”

“We know that people criticised Senator Usman’s performance at the National Assembly for non-performance since his election. He said some of his constituents are not happy with the lawmaker.

“He also claimed that the action angered the residents and that many people in the senatorial district have vowed to oppose his re-election.

“He is viewed as the worst performing senator in history of lawmakers that have represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District since the return to democracy in 1999

“He has never stood up to speak on matters that affected the state since elected and sworn-in as Senator.”

By Nkechi Okechukwu

Warri, Delta State, Dec 31

– In a heartwarming display of kindness and generosity, the Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has distributed palliatives worth millions of naira to vulnerable individuals in Warri, Delta State.

The event, which took place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, was part of the association’s efforts to support those in need with basic necessities, promoting social welfare and community development.

According to Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, the State Coordinator of UYAN, the association has been providing essential items to youths, women, and the elderly since 2022.

Comrade Fajoye praised the Delta State Governor, Governor Oborevwori, for his remarkable achievements in creating jobs and transforming the state’s economy.

“Governor Oborevwori has done exceptionally well in creating job opportunities for thousands of Deltans, through his developmental projects, especially those from the Warri axis, since he assumed office over a year ago,” Fajoye said while addressing newsmen.

He further commended the governor for his leadership style, which has seen Delta State emerge as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing economies.

“Delta State has become an economic and development hub of the country under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership,” Fajoye noted.

Comrade Fajoye also extolled the virtues of High Chief Kestin Pondi and Godfrey Tare Pondi, citing their instrumental roles in the management of the government’s assets, empowering the citizens of the region (Niger Delta) with Warri inclusive through sustainable job creation and fostering an enabling environment for the youth of Delta State to thrive.

“The duo’s contributions have been pivotal in our association’s efforts to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Deltans,” Fajoye noted.

“I must say that without their support, our initiatives would not have achieved the level of success we enjoy today.”

“High Chief Kestin Pondi and Godfrey Tare Pondi are truly visionary leaders who have left an indelible mark on the lives of the people of the region (Niger Delta) also in Warri and Delta State as a whole.”

“Their selfless commitment to empowering the youth and creating opportunities for economic growth is a testament to their exceptional leadership qualities.”

“Through their efforts, numerous young men and women have been able to acquire gainful employment, thereby improving their socio-economic status and contributing meaningfully to the development of their communities.”

“The impact of High Chief Pondi and Godfrey Tare Pondi’s philanthropic endeavors extends far beyond the realm of job creation.”

“They have also played a significant role in promoting peace, stability, and social cohesion in the region.”

“Their unwavering dedication to the well-being of their people has earned them a special place in the hearts of the citizens of the region (Niger Delta) Warri and Delta State inclusive.”

“As a result, their names have become synonymous with excellence, integrity, and selfless service to humanity,” Fajoye concluded.

The controversy surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged nepotism has taken a dramatic turn, with Senator Shehu Sani firing shots at former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. The bone of contention is El-Rufai’s recent comments on social media, where he shared a post by Farooq Kperogi, a US-based Nigerian professor, accusing Tinubu of governing Nigeria with a Lagos mindset.

Kperogi alleged that Tinubu has dominated the economy with people from the South-West, just as former President Muhammadu Buhari loaded the security sector with northerners during his administration. El-Rufai shared the post, saying “Two wrongs don’t make a right” and emphasizing that sensible inclusion trumps senseless exclusion.

However, Shehu Sani was having none of it. In a swift reaction, he blasted El-Rufai, questioning his silence during Buhari’s regime. Sani pointed out that El-Rufai was quiet when Buhari was appointing his kinsmen to political offices, but has now found his voice to speak out against Tinubu.

Sani’s verbal jab didn’t stop there. He overtly referred to El-Rufai, saying, “Let’s not make reference to the nepotism that marginalized Southern Kaduna for eight years. Kaduna was an apartheid state for eight years.” Sani’s statement is a clear reference to El-Rufai’s tenure as Governor of Kaduna State, which was marked by controversy and allegations of nepotism.

In essence, Sani is saying that El-Rufai has no moral ground to speak out against Tinubu’s alleged nepotism, given his own track record. Sani emphasized that anyone can criticize Tinubu on issues of alleged lopsided appointments or nepotism, but certainly not El-Rufai.

This exchange has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the issue. While some have praised Sani for calling out El-Rufai’s hypocrisy, others have criticized him for being overly partisan.

In a related development, Sani had earlier warned Tinubu against repeating the mistakes of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, in the area of appointments. Sani advised Tinubu to base his appointments on competence, rather than nepotism ¹.