Author Archives: News All Around

Such characters Don’t Moral right to Attack Tinubu 

Arewa Progressives Elders Forum(APEF) took a swipe at  the Former Youths and Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung for failing to settle the overpayment of 135 thousand Dollars made to the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) during his days as Minister.

According to the Forum, the failure to pay the funds erroneously credited into account of Athletics Federation of Nigeria,no doubt dented the country’s image .

The IAAF in 2017 erroneously sent $150,000 to the AFN instead of the annual $15,000 it usually gives to its affiliates. And subsequently on May 13, 2018 wrote to AFN asking for a refund when it discovered that the whereabouts of the excess could not be traced.

However, the then Minister of Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung who acknowledged receipt of the funds failed to refund until he left office in 2019 .

In a press statement made available to journalists in Kaduna today, the Forum described Dalung as a “Political Misfit” who brought shame to his country.

The statement signed by the Chairman Mal. Mustapha Jalingo, said, ” It’s unfortunate that same Dalung that damage Nigeria’s reputation with such despicable financial scandal could come out to accuse Tinubu of making a historic mistake by worsening economic hardship in the North.”

While stating that the likes of Dalung should be languishing in prison for misappropriating public funds and act of  corruption, the Elders Forum noted,”He who must come to equity must come with clean hands.We are pretty sure it was that act of National disgrace that informed President Muhammadu Buhari decision to drop him as a minister.”

The group however, commended his successor ,the former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Sunday Dare, who later  approved the refund of the $135,000  IAAF Misappropriated Funds.

Meanwhile, the Forum  which said it’s not to late to take legal action against Dalung ,urged the relevant anti graft agencies to immediately arrested and prosecuted him for bringing shame to the country .

By Suleiman Abbah
In a poignant gesture of solidarity, the president of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yerima Shetima, recently extended his condolences to Yusuf Zelani, the former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, following the death of his stepmother, Hajiya Fatima. This visit, while rooted in personal loss, serves as a significant reminder of the interconnectedness of community, leadership, and the collective responsibility to support one another during times of grief. It also highlights the ongoing dialogue about governance and societal progress in Northern Nigeria.
Shetima’s visit underscores the importance of community support in times of mourning. By reaching out to Zelani, he not only expresses empathy but also reinforces the bonds that tie leaders and their constituents together. In a region often beset by challenges, such gestures are vital in fostering unity and resilience. Zelani’s acknowledgment of his stepmother’s passing as “an act of God” reflects a broader cultural understanding of life, death, and the inevitability of fate, reminding us that while loss is personal, it is also a shared experience that can bring communities closer.
Furthermore, Shetima used the occasion to commend the government for its recent efforts in improving the nation’s economy. His assertion that “we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel” is both a hopeful and realistic perspective on the current state of affairs in Nigeria. The acknowledgment of the government’s strides in enhancing security and food supply is crucial, especially in a region that has faced significant socio-economic challenges. By recognizing these efforts, Shetima encourages a spirit of patience and support for the government, suggesting that collective perseverance is necessary for achieving long-term stability and growth.
The call for patience and continued support for the government is particularly relevant in today’s political climate. As Shetima notes, the initial complaints and frustrations experienced by the populace are understandable, but they must be balanced with an acknowledgment of the positive changes taking place. This duality of criticism and commendation is essential for a healthy democratic process, wherein leaders are held accountable while also being encouraged to continue their development efforts.
Shetima’s remarks about the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum’s commitment to holding leaders accountable resonate deeply within the context of Northern Nigeria’s challenges. By commending President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani for their development initiatives, Shetima emphasizes the importance of leadership that is responsive to the needs of its people. The challenges facing Northern Nigeria are multifaceted, and it is imperative that leaders not only address these issues but also engage with the youth, who represent the future of the region.
Zelani’s expression of gratitude for Shetima’s visit reinforces the notion that leadership is not solely about governance but also about community engagement and personal connections. His reflection on being part of the larger AYCF, even when not physically present at meetings, speaks to the shared responsibility that all members of society have in supporting one another. This sentiment is vital for fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, which is essential for overcoming the socio-political obstacles facing Northern Nigeria.
The condolence visit by Yerima Shetima to Yusuf Zelani encapsulates the essence of community solidarity in the face of personal loss. It serves as a reminder that leadership is not just about political power but also about empathy, accountability, and the collective journey towards progress. As Nigeria navigates its path towards improvement, it is crucial for leaders and citizens alike to remain patient, supportive, and engaged in the ongoing dialogue about development and governance. Through such collaborative efforts, there is hope for a brighter future for Northern Nigeria, one where unity and resilience prevail.

By Nnamdi Agu

Kaduna, Nigeria – Daniel Okpen Ejembi has been appointed as the Acting Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) Kaduna State Chapter. This development marks a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to promote the interests and values of the Middle Belt region.

Ejembi’s appointment was confirmed during a valedictory executive meeting in Kaduna, where he took over leadership from the outgoing Chairman, Luka Binniyat. The transition aligns with the Forum’s leadership structure, ensuring continuity and stability within the organization.

Binniyat, now serving as the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the MBF’s National Working Committee (NWC), emphasized that Ejembi’s selection was a unanimous decision by the executive committee. Ejembi received the official endorsement of the Forum’s National President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, along with a formal letter of appointment.

As the new Acting Chairman, Ejembi is expected to build on the progress made by his predecessor while enhancing the chapter’s influence in Kaduna State. His background in human rights advocacy and anti-corruption efforts is anticipated to be an asset in his leadership.

The Middle Belt Forum represents ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria, spanning 13 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Ejembi’s leadership marks another chapter in the Forum’s ongoing efforts to protect and promote the interests of marginalized communities in the region.

A desperate plan to compile faceless names from Kogi State purportedly seeking for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate has been uncovered.

The plan, according to Kogi Central based pressure group on the platform of Action Collective, made the revelation public on Wednesday.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is presently serving six months suspension slammed on her over the sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

A statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, signed by its coordinator, Dr. Onimisi Ibrahim, said intelligence also revealed that allies of those fighting Senator Natasha in the Nigerian Senate are behind the plot.

According to the group, findings revealed that the latest move is considered by Senator Natasha’s traducers as ‘nailing the coffin’ to prevent her from seeking justice which she is currently pursuing both here in Nigeria and from the international community.

“We gathered reliably that a former governor in Kogi state has been contacted to carry out this evil plan. We also have an information that some ally INEC staff have also been recruited to commence the recall of Senator Natasha.

“This project which is said to gulped over two million dollars, will involve the recruitment of faceless persons from the various local government areas in Kogi State who would be paid to append false signatures on the purported recall paper,” the group alleged.

The statement also alleged that some highly placed staff of INEC have been paid huge sums of money to carry out and endorse the plan, adding,”that is why it is important to alert the public especially the civil society and Human Rights Activists including the Media, who are the watchdog of the society as well as the security agencies to remain vigilant and subject such documents regarding the planned recall to proper scrutining. A stitch in time saves nine!.”

Kaduna Good Governance Forum(KGGMG)has asked citizens of the State and the general public to ignore the recent allegations of corruption raised by former former Kaduna Governor Malam Nasir Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

According to the forum, instead of Elrufai jumping from one media house to another seeking for relevance, he should present himself to the relevant anti-graft agencies to account for the 423 Billion Naira looted Kaduna money under his administration.

El-Rufai, had appeared on a radio programme where he accused his successor, Uba Sani, of diverting local government funds to buy properties in Seychelles, South Africa and United Kingdom.

However,the forum in a press statement made available to journalists today asked Elrufai to stop finding faults and evil machinations to pull down the good image and works of Governor Uba Sani.

The statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Ibn Mohammed explained,” Governor Uba Sani How can Uba Sani who enjoined local government chairmen to be transparent and accountable in the handling of public finances during their swearing in ceremony at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House will later turnaround.

“As a good governance group, we have frequently followed the allocation from the Federation Account over the past one year and discovered a high level of transparency and accountability.

“We also make bold to ask how did Uba Sani achieved over one thousand per cent (1000%) revenue performance in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) with over fifty billion naira (N50bn) achieved if he is corrupt.

“Governor Uba Sani’s administration Under Sani’s leadership has emerged as a national frontrunner in public sector reform, demonstrating an unbeatable commitment to efficiency, transparency, and professionalism.

“It is unfortunate that a former Governor with case of corrupt acts while in office, could be so careless to name a prudent and accountable leader such as Uba Sani corrupt”.

” At this juncture, we dare Elrufai to present evidence of corruption against Uba Sani or we file a case of character assassination against him . “

…Says Looted funds must be recovered

Kaduna Good Governance and Monitoring Forum has commended the security operatives in the State for the recent arrest of Malam Jafaru Ibrahim Sani, a commissioner who served under the administration of former Governor of Kaduna State, Mal. Nasir El-Rufai.

According to the group, there is nothing wrong with the arrest and subsequent arraignment of a public office holder on allegations of corruption and money laundering.

The Kaduna Good Governance and Monitoring Forum in a statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Ibn Mohammed, urged the State government to intensify efforts to ensure that all those linked to the funds Looted under the previous administration must be arrested and prosecuted without delay.

Though the charges have not been made public, information gathered by group after preliminary investigation revealed that Jafaru Sani is now facing money laundering charges .

The statement reads: “Recalled the Kaduna House of Assembly Committee probed alleged corruption and financial irregularities during the tenure of ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai and did submit its report, revealed that a total ₦423 billion was allegedly siphoned under his administration leaving the state with huge liabilities.

“We also recalled that some commissioners and aides of Elrufai that were invited and interrogated such as Former Finance Commissioner, Bashir Saidu, was arrested and arraigned for embezzling state funds.

“But instead of Elrufai to allow the law to take it course,he took to his Facebook page on Thursday to accuse the government of day of setting up the arrested, even when evidences have been provided in court.

“As concerned citizens and residents of the State,we are happy and have hope that our looted funds would be recovered and use for development. We are also elated that the two other arms of government are doing their job.However, the judiciary should under no circumstance, succumb to any propaganda within this period of prosecution of anyone found wanting.

“There is no where any country can develop without instruments of checks and balances ,the Kaduna State House Assembly has done great job and now the judiciary is working in line with our desire to recover funds stacked in the hands of corruption politicians.

“Let the people of Kaduna Join hands together with Governor Uba Sani led administration to recover our looted funds”.

By Mike Odeh James

The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has lauded Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro on his first anniversary as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), commending his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives.

In a statement, UYAN extolled Dr. Otuaro’s exceptional dedication and the profound impact of his reforms over the past year. “Your ability to navigate the challenges associated with your office is truly commendable,” the statement read. “We appreciate your hard work, strategic insight, and unwavering support to those in need.”

Dr. Otuaro, a distinguished Niger Delta activist and scholar, was appointed as PAP Administrator in March 2024. His tenure has been marked by significant reforms aimed at enhancing the programme and fostering development in the Niger Delta region. Prior to his appointment, he earned a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin in November 2023, underscoring his commitment to the region’s advancement.

Under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, PAP has experienced growth, innovation, and positive change. His grassroots approach and deep understanding of the Niger Delta’s challenges have been pivotal in steering the programme toward meaningful impact. He has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the Niger Delta, focusing on economic empowerment and human capital development in the region.

In like manner, UYAN has been proactive in supporting vulnerable individuals. As most recently in December 2024, the association distributed palliatives worth millions of naira to less privileged persons in Warri, demonstrating their commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

As Dr. Otuaro marks this significant milestone, UYAN joins all well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating his achievements and anticipates further advancements in PAP under his visionary leadership.

Ani Ini Obi

It has been reliably gathered that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has distributed a total of 50 million naira to former governors and deputy governors of the state in the spirit of Ramadan

The Secretary to Government of Zamfara State (SSG) Abubakar Nakwada was quoted to have disclosed this in an informal discussion said, former Governor Ahmed Rufai Sani Bakura received N15 million, while former Governor Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi was also given N15 million. Additionally, former deputy governors, Muktar Ahmed Anka and Ibrahim Wakala Muhammad, each received N10 million.

However, sources suggest that the payments were made with the aim of garnering political support, particularly from opposition figures.

Although the distribution has sparked criticism from residents, especially considering the widespread poverty and hunger in Zamfara State.

Many are particularly surprised that former Governor Bakura, who played a key role in the introduction of Sharia law in Zamfara and Nigeria, would accept such a sum in a time of hardship.

Some of the resident recalled that former Governor Bakura amputated a man convicted of stealing and now he is receiving money he never worked for which is equal to stealing and should be subjected to same treatment.

Some residents, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, criticized the Governor for what they saw as a misuse of public funds in the pursuit of his own political ambitions.

“Those claiming to be in other political parties are undermining their integrity by accepting such payments. They have shown they cannot be trusted,” one resident remarked.

Another resident expressed disbelief over Bakura’s involvement, saying, “It’s shocking that former Governor Bakura, who introduced Sharia in Zamfara and Nigeria, would accept money when the people of the state are suffering from extreme poverty and hunger.”

Some of the residents claimed that this is against Sharia law and the beneficiaries should be subjected to the law accordingly.

The SSG Nakwada disbursed the money to the former Governors and deputy Governors in conjunction with the State Commissioner for Budget, Abdulmalik Gajam, who is also a son inlaw to former Governor Bakura.

The Commissioner of Budget it was further gathered confirmed the transactions in yet another informal gathering.

ENDS

By Mike Odeh James

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State chapter, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Senator James Manager, and peace advocate Comrade Sheriff Mulade for their impactful contributions towards education and youth empowerment. The trio received Awards of Excellence during the historic maiden convocation of the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, held on March 8, 2025.

Governor Oborevwori was honored for his pivotal role in elevating the institution from the Delta State School of Marine Technology, to Nigeria’s first maritime polytechnic, making it the second such institution in West Africa. Senator Manager was also recognized for his legislative support toward educational development, as one of the loudest voices, to attract the institution to the region, while Mulade was celebrated for advocacy towards the establishments of higher education institutions in Ijaw land.

In his remarks, Comrade Fajoye praised Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to educational infrastructure, stating that, “His efforts have not only raised academic standards but also created pathways for youth employment and skill acquisition.” He also highlighted Senator Manager’s advocacy and Mulade’s grassroots initiatives as critical steps to addressing unemployment.

Professor James Okoro, Rector of the polytechnic, expressed gratitude to the awardees and stakeholders for their support, emphasizing that, the institution’s journey toward academic excellence, would not have been made possible, if not for the selfless supports of both the people and the stakeholders.

Fajoye further lauded Prof. Okoro and the polytechnic for their contributions to youth development, noting that, “This institution has become a beacon of hope, for equipping youths with skills for tomorrow’s challenges.”

Comrade Fajoye noted that, the convocation underscored Delta State government’s strides, in education and youth empowerment, which aligns with UYAN’s mission, to promote skill-based employable youths.

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) continues to champion initiatives fostering peace , employment and innovations, in reinforcing its partnership with state institutions to empower Delta’s younger generation.*

Less than 24 hours after the former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Senator Shehu openly declared support for Governor Uba’s reelection bid, the former Kaduna Governor, Mal. Nasir Elrufai out of alleged fears of the unknown,officially dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party(SDP).

Information gathered revealed that the return of Shehu Sani and other prominent politicians in the State such as Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi; Senator Danjuma Laah , Former Governor Ramalan Yero and others to APC recently unsettled the Elrufai.

Shehu Sani had said his major political interest in 2027 is to see Governor Uba Sani reelected as Kaduna State governor.

Unwilling to face the heat, Elrufai in a Facebook Post today formerly resigned from APC.

He declared: “Today, 10th March 2025, I have submitted a letter resigning my membership of the APC to my ward in Kaduna, effective immediately. Prior to this step, I had concluded consultations with my mentors, colleagues and loyalists across the country about the future. I have now decided to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and adopt it as the platform for our future political engagements and activities.

“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027 by the Grace of God.

“I therefore call on all our supporters and other persons concerned about our country’s future to join us in the SDP in the journey towards making Nigeria flourish as a beacon of pride for Africans and the Black Race.”

Meanwhile,in a reaction via telephone call , Shehu Sani said leaving APC for SDP wouldn’t make any difference for someone with no political relevance again. But one thing is sure , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu And Governor Uba Sani will be voted again.