Author Archives: News All Around

By Mada Ibrahim

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their exceptional roles in the recent Edo State governorship election.

NAN hailed INEC’s administrative excellence and the security agencies’ professionalism, citing their diligent efforts, unwavering commitment, and vigilance.

The successful election, according to NAN, sets a positive precedent for future electoral processes and underscores the dedication of INEC officials and their partners.

NAN’s Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, commended the efficient management of the election, which allowed voters to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.

“The commendable achievement not only underscores the diligent efforts, unwavering commitment, and vigilance of the Commission but also serves as a beacon of hope and a positive precedent for future electoral processes across our great nation,” Suleiman said.

The citizens of Edo State also received praise for their orderly conduct and respect for democratic principles.

“We extend our warmest congratulations to the winner of the Edo State governorship election. Your victory is a reflection of the aspirations and confidence of the electorate who placed their trust in your leadership,” Suleiman added.

NAN urged the winner to serve with integrity, inclusivity, and transparency.

“We hope that you will strive to serve the people with integrity, inclusivity, and transparency.”

The network also encouraged defeated candidates to exhibit graciousness and sportsmanship, emphasizing the importance of constructive engagement.

“We implore the candidates and supporters of the Labour Party and the Peoples Democratic Party to exhibit graciousness and sportsmanship in their defeat. In a democracy, losing an election is not the end of the road; rather, it offers an opportunity for reflection, growth, and future engagement.”

NAN cautioned against discrediting electoral institutions, stressing that such actions undermine democratic processes and the trust placed in them.

“We call upon them to refrain from discrediting our electoral institutions, as such actions only serve to undermine the integrity of our democratic processes and the trust that the citizenry places in them.”

The network reaffirmed its support for democratic ideals and encouraged stakeholders to prioritize collaboration and respect for the electorate.

“Engaging constructively with the outcome of this election is imperative as Nigeria collectively seeks to strengthen its democratic framework.”

“As we move forward from this pivotal moment, it is essential that all stakeholders—including political parties, civil society, and the electorate—continue to demonstrate their commitment to upholding the values of democracy.”

Together, NAN believes, Nigerians can build a stronger, more resilient democracy that reflects the will and aspirations of all citizens.

“The Northern Awareness Network reaffirms its unwavering support for the ideals of democracy, and we encourage all parties to prioritize collaboration and respect for the electorate moving forward.”

By Sandra Ukeredi

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its exemplary conduct during the recent governorship election in Edo State.

Yerima Shettima, President General of the AYCF, described the successful delivery of a fair, free, and credible electoral process as a pivotal advancement in Nigeria’s democratic experience.

Shettima attributed the success to INEC’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to electoral laws.

The credibility of an election, he noted, is paramount to fostering public confidence in the electoral process.

INEC has demonstrated its dedication to this principle, setting a commendable standard that other states can emulate.

The deployment of efficient electoral technology and systematic training of personnel also contributed significantly to enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

This showcases INEC’s dedication to improvement and reform.

Moreover, the peaceful conduct of voters and the relative absence of electoral violence are indicative of the growing maturity of Nigeria’s political culture.

The participation of citizens and stakeholders in a peaceful and orderly manner highlights a collective aspiration for progress and stability within the region.

The AYCF believes that this trend, if maintained, will invigorate public trust and encourage greater electoral participation in future elections.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winner of the polls, whose election is a clear reflection of the choice made by the electorate.

In light of this victory, we urge the newly elected governor to embrace the spirit of magnanimity, fostering an inclusive administration that seeks to heal the divisions experienced during the campaign period.

In a time when society finds itself polarized by political differences, it is the responsibility of elected officials to build bridges, prioritize unity, and work for the common good of all citizens.

The AYCF also commended the professionalism displayed by security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigerian Army.

Their effective supervision was instrumental in ensuring the safety of voters and the orderly conduct of the election.

By: Adamu Gire

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) reacting to recent troubling incidents involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its treatment of Former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has called on the anti-graft agency to come clean in the matter.

AYCF said it finds the actions of the EFCC on the 18th of September, 2024, alarming and deserving of serious public scrutiny because reports have it that the former governor, popularly known as GYB, voluntarily presented himself to the EFCC’s office, complying with all due processes and protocols expected from a citizen facing scrutiny.

A statement issued by the forum’s President General, Yerima Shettima, said instead of engaging him (GYB) in a meaningful dialogue aimed at clarifying any allegations against him, the EFCC inexplicably failed to follow through, opting instead to plan a heavy-handed operation reminiscent of state-sponsored intimidation.

“The subsequent heavy armed surveillance at the Kogi State Government Lodge in Abuja, including sporadic gunfire purportedly associated with the EFCC’s operatives, not only jeopardizes the safety of GYB but also sends a chilling message regarding the agency’s commitment to impartiality and fairness.

“This behavior poses fundamental questions about the EFCC’s operational integrity and its motivations in targeting specific individuals, particularly those from minority ethnic groups. Moreover, the disparity in the treatment of different political figures raises eyebrows.

“While GYB was met with armed siege, it is notable that the EFCC exhibited a vastly different demeanor when the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, reported to its office amidst a crowd of supporters. This inconsistency indicates an alarming bias that must not only be addressed but also rectified.”

Shettima queried: “What are the true intentions behind these maneuvers by the EFCC? What criteria are they using to determine who is subjected to their procedural scrutiny? The selective operational tactics employed by the EFCC creates the unsettling notion that the agency may be acting under undue influence, serving certain interests rather than fulfilling its paramount duty to uphold justice and equity for all Nigerians.”

The AYCF, however, said it remained resolute in its call for transparency and accountability in the actions of public institutions, especially those tasked with fighting corruption, adding that former governors with cases to answer, regardless of their ethnic affiliations or political connections, must be treated with the same level of scrutiny.

“It is unacceptable for the EFCC, under the leadership of Mr. Olu Olukoyede, to overlook significant financial misappropriations involving individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds while escalating attacks against others.”

Shettima also said the alarming atmosphere of intimidation fostered by the EFCC must be addressed with urgency. “We are particularly concerned about the safety and well-being of GYB in light of these developments. It is imperative that the Nigerian government and relevant authorities take immediate action to protect him and ensure that due process is followed.

“Moreover, we wish to convey our concerns to international community members regarding the concerning patterns of selective justice and the potential implications for human rights. We urge global organizations and foreign governments to monitor these developments closely as we collectively champion the cause of justice for all Nigerians.

“In conclusion, as we heed the words of General Omar N. Bradley, let us remember that a failure to prevent unjust actions can lead to dire consequences.”

AYCF reiterated its firm stand against any misuse of power by the EFCC or any other institution against the people of Kogi State or any state in Nigeria.

By Sadiq Abubakar

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has called on the Zamfara State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Dauda Lawal over his alleged shoddy handling of the deteriorating security situation in their troubled state.

This is even as the youth council cautioned the Governor to stop attacking the Minister of State for Defence and his predecessor, Alhaji Bello Matawalle. The ethnic group also deplored the alleged refusal by the Governor to work in harmony with the Minister in the ongoing sweeping efforts by the military to crush the escalating banditry and thus the worrisome insecurity ravaging the state.

The YYC in a statement issued by its President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, said it is appalling and unacceptable that rather than cooperate with the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in crushing the worsening banditry in his state, Governor Lawal is fuelling the bandits in their bloody attacks which have claimed many lives because his is not a listening Governor.

According to Oluwole, information reaching the YYC through a document on social media shows that Governor Dauda Lawal, on July 2, 2024, approved a whopping N1.378 billion to finance the state government reconciliation programme with bandits in order to bring the menace to an end.

The money was to be shared among five notorious banditry kingpins including Kachalla Dogu Dide (N200 million), Kachalla Bello Turji (N200m), Ado Alero (N200m), Kachalla Halilu Sububu (N150m), and Gwaska Dan Karami (N150m). Among the quoted beneficiaries of the largesse were also six media promoters including a prominent online media outfit (N100m), Jackson Ude (N150m), Bashir Hadejia (N100m), Shaibu Mungadi (N50m), Tijani Lamaran (N50m), and Danbiliki Kwawanda (N20m).

Governor Lawal approved the money from the State Security Trust Fund following a request on June 30, 2024, by the Secretary to the State Government, Mal Abubakar Nakwanda. He had asked the governor to direct the state Ministry of Finance to release the said amount for distribution to the beneficiaries listed above as a matter of urgency.

Oluwole said Governor Lawal should be impeached as Governor of Zamfara State due to his conivance with and funding of bandits with state resources to fund the reign of terror in his state.

Recently, the Yoruba Youths Council monitored Governor Lawal’s interview on a TV station calling for the resignation of Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence.

We make bold to say that viewing the current situation in Zamfara, Mr Governor could not have accused his predecessor of not doing enough. This is because Alhaji Bello Matawalle has tried his best to work with him, but Governor Dauda Lawal has refused his intervention.

We expect that the Governor of a state being ravaged by banditry everywhere is not supposed to jeopardise any effort from anywhere to crush banditry and restore normalcy in the beleaguered state.

Yoruba youths have been monitoring Zamfara issues over time, and we cannot allow Governor Dauda Lawal to continue molesting Alhaji Bello Matawalle as one of the best Ministers in the administration of Tinubu Government.

Bello Matawalle has been a man working hard for the good development of Zamfara state.

Oluwole noted the successes recently recorded by the nation’s gallant armed forces in the ongoing onslaught against banditry in the North, including the neutralization of the notorious banditry kingpin Halilu Sububu and the arrest of another gun running banditry kingpin, Bashir Hadejia.

The YYC President recalled the group’s statement on the achievements being recorded by the military in the ongoing battle to crush banditry titled “Governor Dauda Lawal Faces Public Scrutiny Amid Anti-Banditry Operations in Zamfara.”

According to the statement, in recent months Zamfara State has been a focal point of concern as significant developments unfold in the ongoing battle against insecurity and lawlessness, primarily attributed to the activities of bandit leaders.

The arrest of Bashir Hadejiya, a notorious gun running figure, coupled with the neutralization of infamous bandits such as Halilu Sububu, marks an apparent attempt by the state and federal authorities to regain control over a troubling situation that has plagued local communities for years.

However, these positive strides have been overshadowed by the increasingly complex dynamics between political leadership and public sentiment, particularly regarding Governor

By Ibrahim Abdullahi

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has called for the resignation of Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, citing his failure to provide effective governance and alleged involvement in financial misconduct linked to terror groups.

The forum condemned Governor Lawal’s call for Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation, stating it is misplaced and indicative of deeper governance issues.

Allegations surround Governor Lawal’s request for One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a reconciliation program with notorious bandits, including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami.

The NSCF questioned the ethical governance of Zamfara State, citing the recent arrest of Governor Lawal’s aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Defence Minister Matawalle’s progress against banditry, including eliminating leaders and reducing violence, should not be overshadowed by Governor Lawal’s politically motivated attacks.

The NSCF demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, threatening to advocate for a state of emergency if he fails to step down.

The forum urges stakeholders, including the Federal Government and civil society, to recognize the urgency of the situation and act decisively.

Governor Lawal is urged to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of Zamfara’s citizens above political expediency.

“We implore Governor Dauda Lawal to resign in the interest of peace and security within Zamfara State. The time is now to place the wellbeing of our people above all else, for in their safety and prosperity lies the future of our communities,” said Comrade Danjuma Paul, convener of the NSCF.

By Musa Maye

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed grave concern over Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal’s public criticisms of Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle, citing a reversal of security progress in the North-West.

NAN chairman Salihu Sulaiman stated that Lawal’s actions undermine collaborative efforts against insecurity and threaten safety and stability in the region.

Defence Minister Matawalle has initiated strategic measures to curb violence, including military deployment and community engagement, resulting in notable successes.

Governor Lawal’s attacks raise questions about his intentions, particularly given his alleged culpability in a letter requesting funds for a dubious reconciliation program with bandit leaders.

NAN contends that Lawal’s actions betray a lack of understanding of the security crisis and may embolden criminal elements.

The network calls for Lawal’s immediate resignation to ensure the continuation of Matawalle’s initiatives and suggests federal intervention if he refuses.

NAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the battle against insecurity in Northern Nigeria, applauding the sacrifices of the armed forces and international allies.

The network urges unity and collective action in pursuit of a secure future for North-West residents.

By Luka Gero

The Arewa Young Lawyers Forum (AYLF) has condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of corruption allegations against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

According to Abubakar Kurawa, Esq., President of AYLF, the EFCC’s actions constitute a deliberate attempt to create unnecessary controversy and harm the commission’s reputation.

The EFCC’s establishment statute empowers it to investigate financial crimes, not convict suspects. However, in Yahaya Bello’s case, the commission has overstepped its bounds by convicting him in the public eye.

On September 19, Yahaya Bello voluntarily presented himself for questioning at the EFCC headquarters. Despite this, the commission claimed to have no questions for him, raising concerns about their true intentions.

Later that evening, EFCC operatives arrived at the Kogi State Governor’s residence, shooting sporadically and claiming they were there to arrest Bello.

The AYLF emphasized that every citizen has the right to a fair hearing and that innocence must be presumed until proven otherwise in a competent court of law.

With the matter pending before the court, the AYLF stressed that the EFCC should allow the court to give its judgment, rather than engaging in headline-grabbing tactics.

The AYLF urges the EFCC to operate within the bounds of the law, respect citizens’ rights, and focus on meaningful investigations rather than media trials.

The forum’s intervention highlights the need for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights to ensure a fair and just society.

By Bala Abdulghafar

The Arewa Young Lawyers Forum (AYLF) has condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of corruption allegations against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

According to Abubakar Kurawa, Esq., President of AYLF, the EFCC’s actions constitute a deliberate attempt to create unnecessary controversy and harm the commission’s reputation.

The EFCC’s establishment statute empowers it to investigate financial crimes, not convict suspects. However, in Yahaya Bello’s case, the commission has overstepped its bounds by convicting him in the public eye.

On September 19, Yahaya Bello voluntarily presented himself for questioning at the EFCC headquarters. Despite this, the commission claimed to have no questions for him, raising concerns about their true intentions.

Later that evening, EFCC operatives arrived at the Kogi State Governor’s residence, shooting sporadically and claiming they were there to arrest Bello.

The AYLF emphasized that every citizen has the right to a fair hearing and that innocence must be presumed until proven otherwise in a competent court of law.

With the matter pending before the court, the AYLF stressed that the EFCC should allow the court to give its judgment, rather than engaging in headline-grabbing tactics.

The AYLF urges the EFCC to operate within the bounds of the law, respect citizens’ rights, and focus on meaningful investigations rather than media trials.

The forum’s intervention highlights the need for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights to ensure a fair and just society.

By Kabiru Yusuf

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s immediate resignation due to alleged links to terror groups.

Governor Lawal’s recent demands for Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation are misguided, according to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima.

A leaked document reveals Governor Lawal’s connections to notorious bandit leaders and requests One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious reconciliation programme.

The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a diversion from his alleged complicity with terror groups, exacerbated by his aide’s arrest for gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Minister Matawalle’s efforts have yielded tangible results in combating banditry.

The forum demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, citing his tenure’s dangerous governance-criminality overlap.

If he refuses, the AYCF advocates for a Zamfara State emergency declaration, involving Governor Lawal’s removal and replacement with a military sole administrator.

The people of Zamfara deserve governance prioritizing safety and well-being.

The AYCF urges authorities to investigate Governor Lawal’s alleged ties to terror groups.

AYCF’s call for Governor Lawal’s resignation marks a significant development in the region’s ongoing security crisis.

The forum’s stance reflects growing concerns about governance and security in Zamfara State.

Governor Lawal’s resignation is crucial for restoring order.

The AYCF remains committed to promoting good governance and security.

The people of Zamfara await decisive action.

Kaduna State has officially activated the PAYKADUNA Revenue Administration Portal, marking a seamless transition to a more efficient and transparent tax payment system.

Unveiled by Governor Uba Sani on May 22, 2024, the PAYKADUNA platform is now fully operational across all sectors of the state’s economy.

Designed to fastrack the process of internally generated revenue (IGR) collection, the portal simplifies the tax administration process, making it more accessible for taxpayers and revenue-generating agencies.

Comrade Jerry Adams, Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), announced the official cutover to PAYKADUNA, emphasizing the state’s dedication to leveraging technology for streamlined revenue collection.

“This strategic shift embodies our commitment to efficiency, transparency, and accessibility,” Adams remarked.

The platform centralizes payments for all state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, ensuring secure and unified transactions.

By setting a new benchmark for revenue administration, PAYKADUNA is expected to enhance compliance rates and contribute to Kaduna’s economic growth.

KADIRS also called for continuous collaboration with partners to ensure the system’s success, positioning PAYKADUNA as a model for digital-friendly governance.