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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.

BY OJOGBE OGECHI

Kaduna

As part of end of year activities preparatory to the celebration of Christmas, the Seat of God (SOG) ministries hosted over 1000 of both members of the church and non-members to a get-together.

The get-together followed a thanksgiving service where praises and prayers were offered in appreciation to the Almighty God as many testified to the goodness of God over their lives and those of their families from January to December 2024.

Aside from the get-together which involved dining and winning, the church also distributed food items and cash to members and non-members as a way of reaching out to those in need.

Earlier in his sermon during the thanksgiving service, His Lordship, Bishop Ademola Tinuoye charged the congregants to always have a reason to thank God, stressing that if for nothing at all, at least because they are counted among the living.

“A grateful heart will always be thankful, when you are thankful to God, he will always do more for you,” he said, citing how ten lepers were healed but only one returned, and only that one was made whole.

He emphasized that thankfulness is the gate pass to the presence of God, adding that when we are thankful to God for what he has done, God will not only perfect it, he will do more.

Some of the beneficiaries of the food items and cash commended the church for its magnanimity and prayed God to increase the ministry.

For Mrs. Dorathy Ejimatswa, “I am indeed grateful for the show of love; we were fed with sumptuous food and thereafter given food items and cash. May God bless the church, I am grateful to the Church and the Bishop.”

In recognition of his contributions to environmental causes , Kaduna State University (KASU) has appointed former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani’s the Ambassador of the institution’s Green Sustainability Initiative.

The appointment conveyed in a letter signed by the Chairman, Green KASU Committee, Kaduna State University,Dr. Aliyu Jafaar Abubakar revealed that the decision to appoint Senator Shehu Sani was based on his vast knowledge, national and international connections, and proven track record of advocacy uniquely position as an invaluable ally in advancing the mission.

According to the letter, the Green KASU Sustainability Initiative is driven by the Institution’s collective resolve to foster environmental awareness; implement sustainable practices, and build partnerships that champion a
greener and more resilient future.

The letter further reads,”In light of this, it is my great honor, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and Kaduna State University, to nominate you as an Ambassador of the “Green KASU” Sustainability Initiative.

“As an ambassador, your influence and guidance would be instrumental in fostering collaborations, securing resources, and raising awareness about sustainability, both within our institution and beyond.

This opportunity aligns with the legacy of leadership and advocacy you have built over the years.Your contributions as an ambassador would cement your indelible mark in shaping a greener future for generations to come.

This role is not only a recognition of your contributions to environmental causes, but also an invitation to partner with us in expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.

“Your keen interest,insightful perspectives, and demonstrated commitment to environmental
causes left an indelible impression on us.

“We were particularly inspired by your quiet yet impactful contributions to advancing environmental sustainability, which reflect both your deep understanding of these issues and your unwavering dedication to societal well-being.”

By Jonathan Mendo

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is calling on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Yazid Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

According to NAN, in a statement signed by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman, “While we respect the President’s decision-making process, we believe that Yazid’s integrity and philanthropy make him the ideal candidate for this important role. Yazid Shehu Danfulani is a leader who embodies the qualities of change and progress.

His unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the people and his commitment to transparency and accountability have set him apart as a valuable asset to any organization. In contrast, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi feels like a betrayal of the people’s trust.

Fatima had nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, yet she failed to leave a lasting impact. Yazid Shehu Danfulani’s leadership style is characterized by his proactive approach to addressing the needs of the people.

He has shown a deep understanding of the challenges facing the community and has worked tirelessly to implement solutions that bring about positive change. His ability to listen to the concerns of the people and take decisive action has earned him the respect and admiration of those he serves.

Furthermore, Yazid Shehu Danfulani’s commitment to transparency and accountability sets him apart as a leader who is truly dedicated to serving the best interests of the people. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to be open and honest in his dealings, ensuring that the community is kept informed and involved in the decision-making process.

This level of transparency fosters trust and confidence in his leadership, making him a reliable and trustworthy figure in the eyes of the people. On the other hand, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi raises questions about the integrity and effectiveness of her leadership.

Despite having nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, Fatima failed to leave a lasting impact on the community. Her lack of tangible results and failure to address the pressing issues facing the people suggest a lack of commitment and dedication to the welfare of those she serves.

It is time for a new direction in the leadership of the SMDF/PAGMI, and Yazid Shehu Danfulani is the right person to lead the way. His vision for progress and his unwavering commitment to integrity make him the ideal candidate for this position.

We believe that Yazid’s leadership will bring about positive change and create a lasting legacy for the organization. We urge President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Yazid Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI. It is time for a fresh perspective and a new approach to leadership in this important organization.

Yazid’s integrity and philanthropy are unmatched, and we believe that he is the best person to lead the SMDF/PAGMI into a successful future.