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…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 .

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent resurgence of diphtheria in the Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria serves as an urgent clarion call for public health stakeholders in Nigeria. This tragic outbreak, marked by the loss of five children in a mere 24-hour span, underscores the authentic and perennial threats posed by infectious diseases. The alarming symptoms observed—severe throat infections, pronounced breathing difficulties, and notable cutaneous manifestations—have placed families and health officials on high alert, casting a dark shadow of a potential epidemic over not just Tukur-Tukur, but potentially the broader Nigerian landscape.
Historically, Nigeria has made commendable strides in controlling diphtheria through extensive immunization campaigns. Nonetheless, recent epidemiological trends and enduring socioeconomic challenges have rendered the fading specter of this once-controlled disease alarmingly potent. On a biological front, diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which secretes a virulent exotoxin capable of inducing severe systemic complications. The primary mode of transmission, facilitated via respiratory droplets, complicates containment efforts, particularly within densely populated regions where human interactions are frequent and close.
The unsettling outbreak in Tukur-Tukur, confirmed by health authorities including Dr. Bello Jamo, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, marks a broader, disturbing trend prevalent across Nigeria. Data indicates that multiple states—Kano, Yobe, Bauchi, Katsina, Borno, and Jigawa—have reported confirmed cases of diphtheria since the beginning of 2023, painting a somber picture of an outbreak that is both expansive and alarming. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has documented over 20,000 suspected cases, with a staggering 12,000 confirmed, alongside a concerning fatality rate of 4.6%. This situation necessitates prompt and decisive action from public health systems at multiple levels.
Several interlinked factors converge to facilitate the resurgence of diphtheria, primarily a notable decline in vaccination coverage. Most disquietingly, approximately 69.4% of confirmed cases reside within children aged 1 to 14 years. Inadequate access to diphtheria antitoxin and limited diagnostic capabilities in many healthcare facilities compound the crisis; startlingly, only 26.5% of confirmed cases had adhered to the necessary diphtheria vaccination schedule. To mitigate future outbreaks and safeguard public health, the ramifications of community reluctance surrounding vaccination initiatives must be tackled urgently.
The current resurgence is not isolated; it embodies broader public health challenges that Nigeria continues to confront. On December 1, 2022, the NCDC reported suspected outbreaks in Lagos and Kano states, and by January 2023, diphtheria had spread to other regions—including Osun and Yobe. The statistics are staggering, with over 20,000 suspected cases and approximately 12,086 confirmed cases reported by December 3, 2023. Vulnerable populations, particularly children aged 1-14, account for 69.4% of these confirmed cases, indicating an urgent need for targeted public health interventions.
Given these multi-layered challenges, formulating effective and immediate response measures is imperative to mitigate the outbreak’s impact. A multifaceted strategy, integrating both immediate public health interventions and long-term systemic changes, is vital for strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare framework.
A coordinated response from public health authorities—spanning local, state, and federal levels—is essential for addressing the resurgence of diphtheria. Despite initial response measures in progress, significant challenges remain across several public health domains. A robust surveillance system must be established to facilitate rapid detection and response to diphtheria cases. This involves training healthcare workers to recognize symptoms and report effectively, along with enhancing lab capabilities for precise diagnosis.
Central to combating diphtheria is an aggressive immunization strategy that emphasizes comprehensive vaccination programs targeting high-risk populations. School-based and community outreach initiatives can be employed to raise awareness and ensure vaccine access. Staunch efforts must be taken to educate communities on the critical importance of adhering to the vaccination schedule and dispelling myths that may hinder compliance.
In addition to proactive vaccination efforts, intensified public awareness campaigns are vital to curb the outbreak. The messaging should clearly articulate modes of transmission, recognizable symptoms, and the necessity for early medical intervention. Engaging local community leaders and influencers in these educational endeavors can enhance the credibility of health communications and encourage better health-seeking behaviors.
Investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in regions severely affected by diphtheria, is vital. Ensuring consistent supply chains for vaccines and therapeutic agents, alongside training healthcare providers in recognizing and addressing diphtheria cases, can significantly bolster the nation’s public health response.
The intricacies of addressing diphtheria call for collaboration with global health entities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). These partnerships can offer essential technical support, resources, and expertise that can enhance Nigeria’s ability to manage the outbreak effectively.
The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria elucidates a complex public health crisis, underpinned by a myriad of social, economic, and healthcare challenges. Addressing this pressing issue demands a coherent, collaborative approach that prioritizes vaccination, strengthens diagnostic and surveillance mechanisms, and promotes public awareness. Only through synergistic efforts engaging healthcare providers, governments, and international partners can Nigeria hope to quell this crisis, safeguard public health, and prevent future outbreaks of diphtheria.
Responding to this public health emergency necessitates strategic action informed by empirical data and the insights of the affected communities. By employing a multifaceted approach and enhancing collaboration among local, state, and international health organizations, Nigeria can strive towards ensuring a healthier future for its most vulnerable populations—particularly its children—who find themselves on the frontline of this outbreak. Through collective action and a strengthened commitment to public health, Nigeria can transform the impending threat of diphtheria from an immediate crisis into a manageable concern, thereby fortifying the well-being of its future generations.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a heart-stopping display of compassion and leadership, Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Member representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency, has thrown a lifeline to the desperate flood victims in Nangere and Potiskum Local Government Areas. As the ravaging waters recede, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair, Hon. Talba’s generous donation has brought a glimmer of hope to the affected communities.

The devastating flood disaster had left the victims on the brink of collapse, with many facing starvation, homelessness, and disease. But Hon. Talba’s timely intervention has changed the narrative, providing a safety net for the most vulnerable. Her donation of food, non-food items, and cash has been a godsend, restoring dignity and hope to the affected families.

The sheer scale of the donation is a testament to Hon. Talba’s commitment to her constituents. 170 bags of rice, 80 cartons of pasta, 170 bags of grains, and 10 cartons of vegetable oil will feed the hungry and nourish the malnourished. 170 blankets, 100 children’s wear, 170 mats, 80 women’s wrappers, and drugs will provide comfort and warmth to those who have lost everything. And the 2 million Naira cash assistance will empower the victims to rebuild their shattered lives.

In this darkest of hours, Hon. Talba’s selfless act has shone a light of hope. Her leadership and compassion have inspired a sense of resilience and determination among the affected communities. As they begin to rebuild their lives, they will never forget the heroic donation that saved them from the abyss.

Hon. Talba’s donation is more than just a gesture of kindness – it’s a beacon of hope in the midst of devastation. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are still heroes among us, willing to go the extra mile to save others.

By Manga Mandawari

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) support groups Wednesday carried out a peaceful solidarity rally in Abuja to declare their total and unalloyed support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari.

The support rally was on the premise of several calls for President Tinubu to relief the NNPCL boss of his position on grounds of challenges facing the oil sector, a call some viewed as subtle efforts targeted at President Tinubu by enemies of the country who are committed to fighting back following the removal of the fuel subsidy by this administration.

Addressing journalists on the sideline of the peaceful support rally , the leader of the rally and Speaker of the AYAGL Ambassador Abdul DanBature said, the solidarity rally was basically to urge President Tinubu to disregard such calls as it is the handiwork of enemies of his administration.

” As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector”he stressed.

” Kyari’s scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

Also, the Speaker said, the solidarity rally is to further urge Mr Kyari to continue the good works of repositioning the NNPCL towards greatness, adding that he should not be discouraged by calls for his sack by faceless individuals.

” For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization be it government or individual that is providing good governance and that is why we declared our support for Mele Kyari and to assure him publicly that we will always support him” Danbature said.

By Shaidu Somma

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Professionals Support Movement Group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently call his Minister of State Defense, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, to order for using his ministerial power to intimidate, destroy, and weaken some of its party elders over frivolous accusations.

Addressing a group of journalists in Kaduna on Thursday, the group Chairman, Dr. Muazzam Lawal Sadauki (Yariman Bukkur), described the action of the Minister against some of the PDP influential leaders in the region as uncalled for.

The group condemned Matawalle’s use of power to persecute opposition leaders, particularly in the Northwest, and demanded that President Tinubu call him to order to focus on governance rather than political vendetta.

Recently, the group heard about the alleged accusation of implicating some of its party leaders with spurious accusations of collaboration with a man called Bashir Hadejia, who is now under detention by the security agencies. This, the group views as illegal and an attempt to intimidate and persecute its leaders.

The group believes that former Zamfara governor and now Minister of Defense Bello Matawalle is becoming desperate to destroy or persecute anybody perceived to be a threat to Mr. President’s political ambition ahead of 2027.

The Minister should explain to the PDP, especially in the North-West, the causes of his enmity against its leaders, especially Gen Aliyu Gusau (rtd), former governors Attahiru Bafarawa, Sule Lamido, and others, who he continually castigated or tried to bring down because of their opposition to APC.

Many of the party’s political leaders, including former governors, a retired army officer, and serving governors, have been marked to be relegated and implicated either because of their allegiances to PDP or are not in good names with the Presidency.

Since after the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria solidarity rallies, some of the party’s supporters are now targeted or becoming victims of harassment by certain people in the APC-led government, more especially in the northwest.

The group wants to remind Mr. President to understand that government is about the people, not using power to subdue or destroy opposition because of political interest or alliance.

It is on this note that the group is reiterating its earlier demand that Mr. President should immediately call Matawalle and others in his shoes to order, by directing them to face their work so he can deliver his campaign promises to Nigerians.

The group also wants to remind President Tinubu that he should focus on governance and delivering his campaign promises to Nigerians rather than engaging in political persecution and vendetta.

The PDP Professionals Support Movement Group is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians to rise up and condemn this act of political persecution and intimidation.

The group is also calling on the international community to take note of this development and prevail on President Tinubu to stop this act of political vendetta.

In conclusion, the group is reiterating its commitment to democracy and the rule of law and will continue to speak out against any act of political persecution and intimidation.

Ronald Odinku

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has described recent remarks made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, calling for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle as an unfortunate.

According to the security forum, such call coming amid the troubling climate surrounding the abduction of the Emir of Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto state, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa and his son is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible, unstatesmanlike and alarmingly disingenuous.

The statements from the forum which was signed by the Chairman Tijjani Auwalu said, it was crucial to affirm that while the situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is of utmost concern, the challenges faced are national in scale, engulfing various facets of our society—from urban centers to rural localities.

It stressed that Lamido’s attempt to limit Matawalle’s responsibilities solely to Sokoto or the North is a gross misrepresentation of the reality that security is an ongoing national issue, requiring collective efforts and shared accountability across government tiers.

“The timing and target of Lamido’s critique raise significant questions regarding his underlying motives. It is disconcerting that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while overlooking Badaru Abubakar, the senior Defence Minister, who coincidentally shares the same home state of Jigawa with Lamido.

“We must ask: why direct unrelenting attacks towards a loyal ally of President Tinubu, while seemingly absolving a senior counterpart? Such selective criticism indicates a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining the political framework supporting our President, rather than a genuine concern for the nation’s security.

“Moreover, the contrasting nature of Lamido’s recent expressions of empathy for a singular Emir in captivity stands in stark contradiction to his silence throughout the years of suffering endured by ordinary Zamfara communities and other ordinary Nigerians”.

The forum noted that thousands have fallen victim to heinous acts of abduction, torture, extortion, and displacement over the past two decades and the absence of Lamido’s voice in addressing these widespread tragedies all this while raises concerns about his commitment to empathy and meaningful advocacy for the Nigerian people.

This singular attack on Matawalle cannot be detached from the backdrop of emerging investigations of Bashir Hadejiya, linked to serious criminal activities including, terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross border crimes, the.forum stated.

“The growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations unfold. NISF expects that as this inquiry progresses, more personalities with dubious affiliations will be brought to light, further revealing the motivations behind such orchestrated smear campaigns.

“It bears noting that the relentless criticism directed at Matawalle is indicative of a concerted effort by a faction of inconsequential northern politicians—of which Lamido is a prominent member—to weaken the integrity and growing influence of President Tinubu in the North”.

NISF posited that Matawalle’s unwavering allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies the support necessary for a resilient governance and political structure. Hence, these attacks serve as a testament to Matawalle’s reliability and dependability, which must be subdued if these politicians wish to see President Tinubu rendered vulnerable.

“We solemnly caution that in the fullness of time, the extent of involvement of several figures in the crimes of Bashir Hadejiya would be exposed. The ongoing investigation into Bashir Hadejiya’s criminal activities will inevitably blow open the cover of those whose actions contradict their public personas”.

The forum therefore urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast and resolute against attempts to incite division within his solid support base in the North, adding that the loyalty embodied by figures such as Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is indispensable to the integrity of the current administration and national security.

“The NISF stands firm in our commitment to supporting our President’s efforts of fortifying the Northern region’s security and integrity. We shall not waver in promoting a united front against any efforts to undermine our collective strength in pursuing a safer and more prosperous Nigeria” the statement added.

By Tunji Salami Adeou

The rising tide of political unrest and criminal activities in Nigeria has reached a pivotal juncture with the ongoing investigation of Bashir Hadejiya, a figure now embroiled in a web of allegations that ranges from treason to transnational crimes. The Federal Capital Territory’s Police Command recently issued a search warrant, dating August 12, 2024, which outlined Hadejiya’s purported offenses, including subversive activities and gun-running.

The ramifications of this investigation extend beyond Hadejiya himself, reaching deep into the networks of individuals believed to have facilitated these alleged crimes. Among those individuals is Tijjani Ramalan, a Kaduna-based media practitioner who now finds himself enmeshed in palpable anxiety as the investigation unfolds.

The accusations levied against Hadejiya are grave. He stands charged with treason—a charge that underscores the severity of his alleged actions against the State. Such accusations carry profound legal ramifications, with the potential for extensive prison sentences if found guilty. His involvement in treason and subversion poses significant questions about the stability of governance in Nigeria and the roles individuals play in fostering dissent.

Hadejiya’s purported activities, particularly his role in inciting the recent #Endbadgovernance protests, have drawn scrutiny, illuminating how media manipulation can stir public unrest and lead to violence. The consequences of such orchestration reverberate throughout society, making Ramalan’s connection to Hadejiya all the more concerning.

Tijjani Ramalan’s role is perceived as pivotal in this narrative. As an established media practitioner, he has allegedly acted as a conduit for disseminating fabricated propaganda materials that bolster Hadejiya’s agenda. The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya suggests not only complicity but an extensive network of influence that has the potential to engage and mobilize public sentiment against the Nigerian government. In this context, Ramalan’s panic can be understood as a survival instinct, a reaction to the tightening noose of an investigation that threatens to expose the intricacies of his involvement in potentially illicit activities.

The unfolding investigation represents a turning point not just for Hadejiya, but for individuals like Ramalan who may have enabled, directly or indirectly, the alleged subversion of state authority. The anxiety that Ramalan feels is amplified by the understanding that law enforcement agencies are keenly aware of the interconnected webs of relationships that suggest coordination in these alleged criminal activities. The crackdown on Hadejiya raises the specter of further investigations into his associates, thereby creating an atmosphere of distrust and paranoia among those who have navigated the same circles.

Furthermore, the implications of Ramalan’s situation extend into the broader context of civil discourse and media integrity in Nigeria. The #Ebdbadgovernance protests, in which many citizens voiced their grievances, highlight an increasingly frustrated population seeking accountability from their government. However, when figures in the media, like Ramalan, are alleged to propagate misinformation or incite violence, the credibility and ethical responsibilities of the media as a pillar of democracy are brought into question. Ramalan’s involvement may thus not only implicate him in a legal sense but could also serve as a cautionary tale regarding the dissemination of information and the potential perils of partisanship that color journalistic practice.
The origins of Ramalan and Hadejiya’s collaboration can be traced to an underhanded arrangement during President Buhari’s term, wherein Hadejiya and Tunde secretly orchestrated benefits that favored personal ambitions over national interests. The central piece of this political chess game was the appointment of Ramalan’s son to a prominent role within the Nigerian Ports Authority—a move that was met with both opportunism and skepticism. This placement was more than mere nepotism; it was a calculated strategy that effectively positioned Ramalan’s family as gatekeepers of key information.
The lucrative posting not only gratified personal ambitions but also established Ramalan’s son as a critical asset in Hadejiya’s network. By exploiting his son’s role, Hadejiya gained unprecedented access to confidential materials—intelligence that could be weaponized against Tinubu’s administration. Such access is invaluable in political maneuvering, where knowledge is power and information can dictate narratives and influence public opinion.
The collaboration between Ramalan and Hadejiya has not been limited to passive intelligence gathering. Their partnership is characterized by active participation in various machinations directed against President Tinubu’s emergence in 2023. Throughout the election cycle, it became apparent that Hadejiya, with Ramalan’s backing, was deploying a series of tactics aimed at undermining Tinubu’s credibility and political capital. This included orchestrated smear campaigns, misinformation, and strategically timed leaks that sought to destabilize the incoming administration.
Hadejiya’s role as the orchestrator of these antagonisms was bolstered by the privileged information siphoned through Ramalan’s son. This relationship fostered an environment where political subterfuge was not only tolerated but encouraged as a means to achieve desired political outcomes. The ramifications of this collaboration mean that Tinubu’s administration has had to navigate a landscape fraught with deceptive narratives and politically motivated disruptions—a reality that serves as a testament to the potency of alliances based on ulterior motives.
The ramifications of Ramalan and Hadejiya’s alliance extend beyond immediate political conflicts. The antagonisms established during the 2023 electoral contestants are poised to carry through to the 2027 elections. The strategic nature of their collaboration indicates a long-term plan aimed at not merely destabilizing the current administration but also shaping the narrative and conditions under which future elections will unfold. By embedding themselves in the opposition narrative, Ramalan and Hadejiya have positioned themselves as pivotal players in a game that transcends the present administration, seeking to influence the political landscape for years to come.
The intensity and implications of the relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya highlight the unique complexities of Nigerian governance, where alliances often forego ideological coherence in favor of self-serving ambitions. As the political climate intensifies in preparation for the forthcoming electoral cycle, the roles of Ramalan and Hadejiya will remain crucial, carrying their antagonisms forward as they attempt to shape the narrative surrounding Tinubu’s administration and beyond.
The relationship between Ramalan and Hadejiya serves as a poignant case study of the dynamics of Nigerian politics, where strategic alliances, underhand deals, and the manipulation of information can significantly alter the political landscape. Their collaboration, rooted in opportunism and driven by a desire to undermine President Tinubu, underscores the challenges of governance in a system rife with competing interests and power struggles. As the intrigues unfold in the years leading up to 2027, it will be essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant to the machinations that could potentially destabilize the fabric of governance and impede the pursuit of genuine national progress. Ultimately, the blend of personal ambition with political strategy presents a critical challenge for Nigeria as it navigates its path towards a more accountable and transparent political future.
As the investigation of Bashir Hadejiya progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within the political landscape of Nigeria. A polarizing environment can lead to the exploitation of public sentiment by those with ulterior motives. Tijjani Ramalan’s anxiety is emblematic of a broader reckoning—one that necessitates introspection within the media industry and accountability among those who wield the power of information. It underscores the necessity for vigilance both legally and ethically as society grapples with the consequences of actions that blur the lines of dissent and crime.
In conclusion, the investigation into Bashir Hadejiya is more than an inquiry into his alleged crimes; it is a critical juncture that challenges the relationship between governance, media, and public discourse in Nigeria. For Tijjani Ramalan, the implications are immediate and personal, as the specter of legal retribution looms large. It remains to be seen how this complex situation will unfold, but one thing is certain: the repercussions of these events will be felt far beyond the confines of the investigation, shaping the future of both public trust in the media and the intricate dance between authority and dissent in Nigeria.

Markus Mikhail

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has brought to public’s attention disturbing developments concerning the planned dissemination of a press statement by the Arewa Integrity League, allegedly sponsored by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.

The said statement is expected to contain false claims and fabricated allegations aimed at discrediting key figures in Nigeria’s national security architecture, including the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Department of State Security, Mr. Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to the Chairman NAN, Salihu Suleiman, in the planned offensive by the Arewa Integrity League, its spokesman, Comrade Musa Garba, would seek to create a narrative suggesting that these esteemed officials have engaged in manipulative tactics to engineer false reports implicated in a high-profile ongoing investigation tied to the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya.

He said, such unfounded attack aims primarily to tarnish the reputations of individuals who are steadfast in their commitment to national security and the principles of justice, while simultaneously seeking to obfuscate the real issues surrounding the investigation.

“We, at NAN, firmly believe that any attempts to distort the truth for political leverage are not only unethical but also detrimental to the integrity of our national institutions. The nature of these allegations raises serious concerns regarding the intentions behind such a coordinated smear campaign against responsible officials who are executing their duties to ensure law and order within our great nation”

NAN therefore called on the public to remain vigilant and discerning when consuming information that may serve as propaganda rather than fact. The role of the media and the public is crucial in upholding our democratic values and ensuring that truth prevails over deceitful narratives.

It also called on Law Enforcement Agencies to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. We encourage these bodies to diligently pursue the ongoing investigations without political interference and to ensure that those who promote falsehoods face the necessary legal repercussions.

NAN further called on political leaders to conduct their affairs with integrity and honor, refraining from engaging in character assassinations that detract from the greater good of society. It is imperative for leaders to focus on genuine issues affecting our communities, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics that threaten our unity.

” We also call on Civil Society Organizations to play their part in safeguarding the integrity of our governance systems by calling out misinformation and holding accountable those who perpetuate falsehoods for their own ends”.

The NAN also declared their stand in solidarity with the individuals targeted by this nefarious campaign, recognizing their dedication and service to our nation’s security and stability. We will not shy away from advocating for truth and justice while exposing those who choose to weaponize falsehoods for personal or political gain.

NAN reiterated their commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of truth in governance and implored all citizens and leaders to reject division and embrace integrity, prioritizing the collective interest of our nation above all else.

Ushafa Mercy

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) said the forum is compelled to publicly address a concerning development that has come to her attention regarding the intentions of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal.

It has been reported that Governor Lawal is allegedly orchestrating a press release through a group known as the Arewa Integrity League, the purpose of which appears to be the dissemination of unfounded allegations and fabrications against esteemed national security officials which includes high-ranking individuals such as the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Directorate of State Security, Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to the forthcoming press statement, purportedly to be issued by one Comrade Musa Garba, accusations are expected to be leveled against these defense officials claiming that they have manipulated false reports with the intent to unjustly implicate Governor Dauda Lawal, former National Security Adviser Aliyu Gusau, and Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar in alleged criminal activities connected to the ongoing investigation involving the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya.

NSCF in a statement issued by it’s spokesperson Ali Muhammad Sani said, they find such intended allegations not only to be irresponsible but also profoundly damaging to the integrity of our national security apparatus, adding that the relentless effort to tarnish the names of respected officials, who are fulfilling their commitments to the nation, should be condemned unequivocally.

“The ongoing investigation concerning the activities surrounding Bashir Hadejiya represents a matter of significant public interest and demands transparency, integrity, and utmost seriousness from all parties involved.

The NSCF firmly advocated for accountability and justice. We recognize the imperative of conducting investigations grounded in facts, as opposed to responding to politically motivated smear campaigns.

“The claims to be made by the Arewa Integrity League warrant rigorous scrutiny, for they serve only to distract from the legitimate work and responsibilities of security officials who diligently work to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of all citizens in our diverse communities.

“We urge the public, media, and all relevant stakeholders to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of such spurious allegations. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of evidence-based assertions and to reject rumors that could lead to irreparable harm to individuals’ reputations and erode public trust in our institutions.

“As a forum committed to enhancing awareness and promoting transparency throughout Northern Nigeria, we call upon all citizens to prioritize truth and integrity during these disconcerting times. The alleged machinations of Governor Dauda Lawal and the Arewa Integrity League present a stark reminder of the necessity for caution, discernment, and a steadfast commitment to justice over political theatrics.

“We call on the security agencies to be proactive in acting quickly to checkmate the manoeuvres of these unpatriotic enemies of state and bring whoever is involved either directly or remotely to justice to serve as deterrent.

“In conclusion, the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum stands resolutely in solidarity with those devoted to the truth. We will continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and integrity in all matters concerning our nation’s security and governance. The principles we champion are not just vital for maintaining the rule of law but are essential for fostering trust and harmony within our society”.

Comrade Aliyu Sani,
Spokesperson,
Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF)

A group, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Credibility Movement, has described the series of allegations against the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, in recent weeks as baseless.

The group’s Chairman, Musa Sadauki, said in a statement on Friday that Mele Kyari has faced a barrage of unsubstantiated accusations from a shadowy group known as the Tinubu Legacy Coalition (TLC) over the past week.

According to Sadauki, this group, led by figures such as Bala Abu, Princess Ajibola, and Dr. Thomas, has launched a campaign to tarnish Kyari’s reputation with unfounded claims.

Musa labeled the attacks a “campaign of calamity” destined to fail.

The APC supporters argued that Kyari’s track record as a transformative leader in the oil and gas sector is undeniable.

Sadauki said, “Through his implementation of the TAPE synergy—an initiative aimed at curbing corruption and waste within the NNPCL—Kyari has proven himself a formidable administrator.”

The Chairman argued that these attacks are driven by disgruntled elements whose illegal activities, including oil bunkering, have been thwarted under Kyari’s leadership.

“We contend that these individuals are attempting to destabilize the NNPCL to pave the way for their own economic interests, but emphasize that their efforts are futile,” he said.

Musa reminded the attackers that Nigeria’s interests are far greater than any individual’s personal gain.

Meanwhile, the statement called on those behind the smear campaign to abandon their efforts and instead contribute positively to the nation.

“As Nigeria continues to face numerous challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity, President Bola Tinubu remains focused on his mission to address these issues,” the statement said.

It stressed that undermining key figures like the NNPCL boss will only hinder the nation’s progress.

The group expressed confidence in Kyari’s leadership and commitment to transparency and accountability.

They urged Nigerians to disregard the baseless allegations and support the NNPCL’s efforts to transform the oil and gas sector.

The APC Credibility Movement pledged to continue supporting Kyari and the NNPCL in their efforts to promote Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

In conclusion, the group emphasized that the allegations against Kyari are unfounded and will not distract him from his mission to transform the NNPCL and promote Nigeria’s interests.