Author Archives: News All Around

By Doma Egba

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) categorically rejects the recent allegations made by Sokoto cleric Mallam Bello Asada regarding Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. In a video uploaded by Zagazola, a renowned Counter Insurgency Expert in the Lake Chad, West Africa region, Asada claimed that several notorious bandit leaders, including Sububu, Ada Allero, and Bello Turji, were provided with Hilux vehicles by the minister. NAN maintains that these claims are misleading, fabricated, and entirely untrue.

NAN deeply regrets the cleric’s unfounded criticisms of the government’s unwavering efforts to apprehend bandit leader Bello Turji. The network asserts that the N20 million bounty placed on Turji is a legitimate and serious initiative to combat banditry in the region and should not be dismissed lightly.

Asada’s assertion that Minister Matawalle has full awareness of Turji’s whereabouts and possesses personal knowledge of him is not only unfounded but also libelous, slanderous, and provocative. NAN firmly believes that such statements undermine the ongoing efforts of government officials and security agencies dedicated to restoring peace and order in affected areas.

In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, NAN advises Mallam Asada to reclaim his statesmanship by either engaging in active party politics or maintaining a dignified silence to allow the government and security forces to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The Northern Awareness Network stands with the government in its fight against banditry and urges all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities.

By Sabo Dogo

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has endorsed Adeola Ajayi as the new Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), appointed by President Bola Tinubu. NAN’s chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, expressed the organization’s firm belief that Ajayi’s leadership will bring a transformative approach to national security and stability in Nigeria.

NAN’s endorsement is based on Ajayi’s impressive track record, particularly his successful interventions in states beset by insecurity, including Kogi, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Plateau. His proactive and effective measures have mitigated security threats and fostered communal harmony.

Ajayi’s decisive actions in Bauchi and Plateau States have resulted in significant drops in violent incidents, allowing citizens to reclaim a sense of safety. His strategic operations in Kogi led to the neutralization of the insurgent group Ansaru, demonstrating his capability and commitment to national security.

NAN regards Ajayi’s appointment as a strategic and timely decision by President Tinubu, amidst ongoing security challenges. The organization anticipates that Ajayi’s leadership will embody a more covert and intelligence-driven approach, enhancing the operational effectiveness of the DSS.

NAN calls upon all stakeholders to rally behind Ajayi, urging citizens to exhibit patience, cooperation, and understanding as he embarks on his crucial mandate. They emphasize that this collaborative spirit is vital in establishing an enabling environment that will empower Ajayi to fulfill his vision for a secure and stable nation.

Recognizing the specific security challenges faced in the North, NAN remains optimistic that Ajayi’s deep-rooted understanding of these issues will aid in restoring peace and order throughout the area. The organization believes that exemplary leadership characterized by integrity, professionalism, and community engagement possesses the potential to positively transform Nigeria’s security landscape.

As the nation transitions into a new phase of security strategies under Ajayi’s leadership, NAN stands ready to support his efforts in reinforcing public confidence in the state security apparatus. The coming months are pivotal for assessing the impact of his strategies on national security. NAN encourages all Nigerians to unite in support of Adeola Ajayi, fostering a unified front against the ongoing challenges of insecurity and its profound implications for the future of our country.

Grace Idoko

Following the purported video of the bandits’ kingpin, Bello Turji, seeking reconciliation with the Federal Government, the Northern Elders have cautioned President Bola Tinubu to ignore such antics. In a press statement, signed by Alhaji Mustafa Aliyu Dutsin Ma, Northwest Chairman of Arewa Elders Progressive Group, the group warned against any attempt to reconcile with those who have sponsored banditry, when the morale is now high, people are confident and happy with the operations going around.

The group believes that Turji Bello was only pretending to be ready for reconciliation, considering the number of lives he and his gang have taken in the past few years of banditry in the North-West Nigeria.

“We, the North Elders, are compelled to address a pressing issue that threatens the security and stability of our nation. Recent reports suggest that President Tinubu is considering reconciling with notorious bandit, Turji, and his cohorts. We strongly advise against this move, as it would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the government’s efforts to combat banditry.

Reconciling with those who have perpetrated heinous crimes against innocent citizens would be a betrayal of public trust. While commending the efforts of the Military operations going on so far in some villages of Shinkafi and Jibia, especially air and ground attacks, we want it to be sustained for effective results.

This would be a slap in the face of victims and their families, who have suffered unimaginable trauma and loss. We demand that justice be served, and those responsible for these atrocities be held accountable.

The relocation of minister of state defense, Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defense Staff, other service chiefs and senior military personnel has shown the commitment of FGN and yielded much positive results so far, going by the continued military attacks forcing some of the bandits retreat in other places.

Therefore, reconciliation without accountability would be a miscarriage of justice and a disservice to the nation. The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the security and safety of its citizens. We urge President Tinubu to prioritize this responsibility and avoid any actions that may compromise it.

Turji and his cohorts have committed unspeakable crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and destruction of property. They must face the full weight of the law, rather than being offered a reconciliatory olive branch.

We must prioritize national security over any attempts at reconciliation. The safety of our citizens and the integrity of our nation depend on it. We, therefore call on President Tinubu to ensure that those responsible for banditry are held accountable for their actions. Anything less would be a failure of leadership and a betrayal of public trust.”

In bid to strategies and form a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections in Kaduna , the Speaker of Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon.Yusuf Liman has visited former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani woo him to return to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress.

According to information gathered, part of reasons for the visit was to also thank him for the support and contributions provided during the concluded Investigation of alleged looting of Kaduna State Treasury.

The Kaduna State House of Assembly did set up a 13- member fact finding committee to investigate financial transactions, loans, grants and project executions under the eight year administration of former governor Nasir El-rufai.

The adhoc committee set up by the Assembly carried out the investigations and submitted its report indicting ex-governor Elrufai and some of his appointees of siphoning N423bn State funds.

However, Senator Shehu Sani ,who was elected by the steps taken to recover the looted funds hailed the Kaduna State House of Assembly for probing former governor El-rufai’s administration from 2015-2023 with a strong voice that the people of Kaduna were appreciative of the lawmakers’ courage and determination.

The human rights activist then promised to give all the necessary support needed to recover the looted funds irrespective of whoever is involved.

In appreciation of Shehu Sani’s support and contributions during the investigation by the Assembly, the speaker visited him as measure to return the gesture.

Meanwhile, from information gathered as part of reasons for the visit was to discuss realignment and appeal for his return to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC) to support Governor Uba Sami ahead with of 2027 general election.

Shehu Sani in recent appeared to have resolved the political difference with his bosom friend and Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani in order to work in unity as a formidable force to develop Kaduna State .

Amman Deborah

The Yoruba Youth Council has condemned an online post credited to a former aide of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, one Daniel Bwala, who suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle (State) might be sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he perceived as lack of cooperation between the Army and the Air Force.

Bwala had in a post on his X handle on Sunday insinuated that his perception caused the seizure by bandits of Nigerian military armoured vehicles somewhere in Zamfara State in the Northwest region, leading to a reported video victory celebration by terrorism kingpin Bello Turji and his armed bandits.

Reacting through its leader, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the umbrella Yoruba Youth organisation said: “We wish to state that Bwala just expressed his jaundiced personal opinion to which he is entitled.

‘A keen, careful reading of this shows that his wrong and misleading opinion had an undertone of selfish interest, which he portrayed erroneously as a news story to hoodwink the unwary, and instigate hostility against the persons of the performing ministers for reason(s) best known to him.

“It also shows that he has a hidden agenda in pushing such an unintelligible and illogical opinion to the media space. It was an opinion that brimmed with vendetta, the destructive, and blind pull-him-down syndrome hosted by the writer, his co-travelers and paymasters alone.

“The post was fictitious, cooked out of beer-parlour stupor and borne out of the writer’s wild and reckless imagination.

‘The Presidency never said anything of such. The post was not attributed to anybody. The emergency and mercenary reporter only pushed his personal opinion and wish to the media space. He reported no one but himself, and thereby showed the type of a human being he is. One who should not be taken seriously by right-thinking persons.

“And who is this writer of falsehood?

‘Daniel Bwala was a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, working with that party’s former presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but who is now looking for ways to identify himself with the Tinubu administration. He has been lobbying that he should be appointed as the president’s spokesman.

“However, Yoruba youths advise that such a character cannot be trusted in that the Borno State-born politician, Bwala, portays himself as a betrayal, as his antecedents show.

“A former member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, where he served as a thorn in the opposition PDP’s flesh, he decamped from APC in July, 2023 claiming that he was not convinced in the Ahmed Tinubu/ Kashim Shettima same-faith joint on muslim-Muslim ticket. He said that he would not support any ticket that allegedly excluded a major section of the country from democracy dividends.

“He then jumped into the boat of Tinubu’s most fearsome opponent and the PDP”s presidential flag bearer, Atiku, He immediately became Atiku’s spokesperson, and maligned Tinubu whom he said he held in respect despite his initial promise.”

Oluwole said: “In view of his antecedents, and the implications of the utter falsehood that he peddles concerning this sensitive issue, Bwala should be cautioned not to jeopardize the commendable efforts of the Nigerian security apparatus especially the office of the Minister of State of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

“Where on Earth did he confirm that the ministers might “be shown the way out”?

“We see his post as a baseless attack on the persons of the Defence ministers who have been leading the Nigeria’s security apparatus, especially the Armed Forces in the gallant fight against terrorists and bandits who, for many years before this administration assumed office, had been attacking and killing innocent Nigerians not only in the Northeast and Northwest zones of the country, but across the country generally.”

In his words: Oluwole said: “We wish to state, and it may interest Bwala to know that the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle has swiftly moved in and directed the military to relocate its command structure to the North West as part of efforts to crush the bandits terroring the region.”

“And the fictitious writer insinuated in his post that the ministers were not working and that there was no harmony among the armed forces, the same armed forces that Matawalle has mobilised to the troubled zone to flush out the bandits, an operation he would supervise himself directly on the battlefield.

“We will advise Bwala, and his cohorts and paymasters to desist from peddling lies and falsehood just to malign their perceived enemies”

Specifically on Sunday, Matawalle, in an intensified move to crush banditry and terrorism in the Northwest, directed the nation’s top military brass led by the Chief of Defence Staff to relocate to Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

Also, he assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, and the entire North West region, that the security forces with all their might, would fight the criminals to finish and restore peace, as he directed the Armed Forces to flush out the bandits and terrorists.”

Matawalle said: “We must act decisively against these terrorists to allow our people to live freely. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.”

“I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.”

The Defence Minister of State stressed the determination of the President Tinubu administration to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians, and that the people’s security and well-being remain the administration’s topmost priority. Besides, he urged the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.

Matawalle who described the incident as unacceptable in view of the support that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been giving the Armed Forces, assured that the Federal Goovernment would do everything possible to crush banditry and terrorism, and endure peace in the troubled communities.

The ministry’s spokesman, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, said in a statement on Sunday that “This strategic move underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandit gang are eliminated.”

Fodio Zakari

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

In interviews conducted by journalists in Sokoto on Sunday, residents praised the Federal Government for its commitment to finding a lasting solution to the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. Malam Garba Mailambu, a trader, said the directive demonstrates the government’s intensified effort to restore peace and security in the region.

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

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

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

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

Suggested headlines

1. “FG Relocates Defence Minister, Military Chiefs to Sokoto to Tackle Security Challenges”
2. “Sokoto Residents Jubilate as FG Moves to Crush Bandits, Terrorists”
3. “Defence Minister Leads Military Chiefs to Sokoto to Restore Peace”
4. “FG Declares War on Banditry, Kidnapping, Terrorism in North West”
5. “Minister Matawalle Relocates to Sokoto to Supervise Anti-Banditry Operations”
6. “Sokoto Becomes Base for Military Operations Against Bandits, Terrorists”
7. “FG Moves to Flush Out Bello Turji, Other Bandits in North West”
8. “Residents Hail FG’s Move to Tackle Insecurity in Sokoto, North West”
9. “Military Chiefs, Defence Minister Relocate to Sokoto to Tackle Security Threats”
10. “FG Vows to Restore Peace, Security in North West as Military Chiefs Relocate to Sokoto”

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

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

By Salifu Dogon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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