Author Archives: News All Around

Lukmon Alabi

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) today addresses a matter of grave national concern, yet one which provides an avenue for unity and enhanced commitment to our shared future. Our recent collective focus on the security of the Nigerian state has been underscored dramatically by the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya. This operation, orchestrated by our diligent security agencies, represents a remarkable achievement in safeguarding the integrity and sovereignty of Nigeria.

We commend the Nigerian Police and the myriad security agencies involved in this extraordinary success. Your commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of our communities is exemplary. The apprehension of individuals like Bashir Hadejiya not only protects our borders but also underscores the importance of vigilance in combating increasingly sophisticated networks of crime.

The AYCF emphasized the importance of vigilance in combating criminal networks and ensuring the safety of communities. The forum also called for a united front against forces that threaten national stability and sovereignty.

The AYCF reiterated its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in its efforts to maintain national security and social cohesion. The forum urged policymakers, security agencies, and civil society to engage in robust discourse on how to fortify political institutions against criminal influences.

l

Samaila Yusuf

Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has called on the leadership of the National Assembly particularly the House of Representatives to investigate the Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga led disbanded committee.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna Tuesday, the stakeholders forum demanded immediate action regarding the troubling allegations involving Honorable Ikenga, a member of the House of Representatives on issues which borders on accountability and transparency which are not merely legal requirements; they are moral imperatives essential to the functioning of democracy.

A text of the briefing which was read by the spokesperson Comrade Ali Mohammed Sani in the presence of the convener Yerima Shettima, the Secretary General Comrade Danjuma Paul and patron of the forum Abdulazeez Suleiman, the group said the recent misconduct alleged against Hon. Ikenga threatens to undermine the trust of the Nigerian populace and its elected officials and the legislative framework that governs our national affairs.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) in partnership with 72 other organizations said they are united to advocate for accountability, transparency, and ethical governance in Nigeria, hence it is an imperative moment that characterized not just by concern, but by urgency to address the alarming recent developments concerning the conduct of Hon. Ikenga.

“As a group, we are committed to uphold the principles of democracy. Our mission is to ensure that those who have been elected to serve the people adhere unwaveringly to their responsibilities. This is because accountability lies at the very heart of a functioning democracy; when representatives err or engage in misconduct, it is the duty of us all to highlight these discrepancies and demand justice.)”.

The stakeholders forum noted that in recent weeks, Nigeria has been enveloped in significant turmoil, particularly within the energy sector, stressing that such tumultuous climate, exacerbated by the ongoing tensions between the Dangote Refinery and regulatory bodies, compelled them to reflect on the implications of the actions or inactions of our lawmakers.

“In the light of our commitment to promoting transparency, we have undertaken an investigative approach regarding the recent crisis surrounding the joint committee tasked with overseeing the oil industry. Reports indicate that this committee has been disbanded, primarily due to egregious and unscrupulous conduct attributed to one of its co-chairman, Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga.

“Accusations against Hon. Ikenga suggest that he also solicited for a financial bribe and according to reports from the Daily Nigerian, Hon. Ikenga has further been accused of boasting about his alleged payment of $1.7 million to secure his committee chairmanship—a claim that raises profound concerns about the integrity of our legislative processes.

“Our ongoing investigations have unearthed deeply troubling patterns of behavior. As recently as July 4, 2024, unusual activities were reported around the House of Representatives premises. Subsequent inquiries unveiled that private investigators had been engaged by Hon. Ikenga, purportedly to gather information for the purpose of blackmail against the Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, as well as the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Kalu Benjamin”.

The group averred that such actions appeared to be aimed at assembling compromising evidence to intimidate the House of Representative leadership into allowing his continued leadership of the Committee on Petroleum (Downstream).

“In our quest for truth, we earnestly call upon the leadership of the House of Representatives to procure and review the CCTV footage from the House complex on the mentioned date. We are confident that these recordings will validate the claims, revealing various meetings held between Hon. Ikenga and the private investigators within his office premises.

“Alarmingly, it seems Hon. Ikenga sought to obscure his conversations by augmenting the volume of a television, mistakenly believing it would mask their dialogues from surveillance devices. However, we assert that these security measures successfully captured their exchanges, laying bare the malicious intent behind their actions.

“Moreover, we have uncovered indications that Hon. Ikenga harbors aspirations to cultivate deleterious information about Deputy Speaker Kalu, whom he views as a potential rival. This rivalry appears to stem from the perception that Deputy Speaker Kalu operates as a facilitator for funds from the Dangote Refinery. Such dynamics illustrate a troubling environment, where personal ambitions overshadow civic duty.

“The unsettling reality we confront today reflects an Assembly that has deviated from the ideals of service and integrity—an institution where the corrupted ethos has permeated the legislative framework.

“The allegations against Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga underscore a disconcerting narrative of exploitation and corruption, which is detrimental to the trust bestowed upon our legislative representatives. In the interest of restoring public confidence and institutional integrity, we implore the Speaker of the House to initiate a comprehensive investigation into these serious allegations, particularly concerning the activities of the disbanded committee”.

The stakeholders posited that the broader implications of such behavior if left unchecked poses a significant risk to our democratic foundations and must be addressed with utmost severity, while urging all stakeholders to embrace the collective responsibility in the matter, adding that, “We advocate for a transparent, accountable, and ethical legislative process, one that genuinely serves the Nigerian populace and reinstates faith in our democracy.

“Let us work together for the greater good, ensuring that the actions of our leaders are reflective of the values we espouse as a nation, the integrity of our democratic institutions is imperative to ensuring that the will of the people prevails. It is the duty of our representatives to act decisively, firmly ensuring that accountability is upheld at all levels. We must collectively strive for a transparent, ethical, and accountable legislative process that ultimately benefits the Nigerian populace”.

ENDS

By Suleiman Abbah

The revelation by Ambassador Abdul Danbature of a $50,000 blackmail plot against Nigeria’s Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle has sent shockwaves across the nation. This disturbing report, originally brought to light by the Pacific News Times, exposes a dangerous scheme aimed at undermining Nigeria’s national security by tarnishing the reputation of a key government official.
The earlier emergence of a video featuring a notorious bandit leader making baseless allegations against Minister Matawalle, coupled with the timing of these allegations in conjunction with the foiled #Endbadgovernance protests, paints a grim picture of an orchestrated campaign intended to destabilize the North and weaken the federal government’s machinery.
Danbature’s disclosure that the financial inducement was offered to tarnish the image of a senior government official suggests a meticulously planned campaign with potentially dire consequences. The ambitious offer to assassinate the character and reputation of a key defense figure within the Nigerian government is emblematic of a troubling trend of international interference in the country’s internal affairs.
The context surrounding this blackmail plot suggests a more comprehensive agenda at play, drawing connections between the alleged smear campaign and strategic sociopolitical events transpiring in Nigeria’s northern region. The correlation between these events and the presence of media narratives featuring unsubstantiated accusations against Minister Matawalle hints at a local conspiracy with the potential involvement of international collusion
This revelation highlights the vulnerability of Nigeria’s political system to external interference and manipulation. It raises questions about the integrity and security of the country’s government officials and institutions. If a Defence Minister can be targeted for blackmail, what other key figures in the government are at risk of being compromised?
The implications of this blackmail plot go beyond just one individual or ministry. It speaks to broader issues of corruption, influence-peddling, and foreign interference in Nigeria’s political landscape. It raises concerns about the extent to which the country’s sovereignty and national security are being threatened by external actors seeking to manipulate and control key decision-makers.
The fact that the offer came through a local intermediary suggests that there may be domestic collaborators involved in this nefarious scheme. This raises questions about the extent to which corruption and collusion are undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s political system and eroding public trust in the government.
Ambassador Abdul Danbature’s decision to expose this blackmail plot takes courage and integrity. It demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. It sends a strong message that such attempts to undermine Nigeria’s national security will not go unchallenged and that those responsible will be held accountable.
The involvement of external actors in Nigeria’s internal affairs is a cause for concern and requires a coordinated response from the government, law enforcement, and security agencies. It is essential to identify the individuals and entities behind this blackmail plot and to take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The ongoing machinations aimed at disrupting the relationship between the President and Matawalle serve as a reminder of the complex interplay of power, loyalty, and influence in Nigerian politics. The Minister’s steadfast defense of the President’s ideals highlights not only his indispensable role within the administration but also underscores the threats felt by those who perceive his growing influence as a challenge.
The engagement of foreign collaborators in this political tug-of-war signifies more than mere transactional politics; it reflects a deep-seated anxiety among self-appointed adversaries of President Bola Tinubu. These individuals perceive the Matawalle’s growing influence and proximity to the President as a direct challenge to their aspirations and agendas. In a political landscape that is fraught with volatility, the Minister emerges as a singularly indomitable force, showcasing not only loyalty but also a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in governance.
Indeed, the Matawalle’s ability to cross these treacherous waters, marked by both external pressures and internal dissent, positions him as a crucial bulwark against the multitude of storms that threaten Tinubu and the administration. His unwavering support for the President’s ideals, coupled with a strategic vision for the future of Nigeria, illustrates why he is increasingly seen as the only reliable figure amidst a cacophony of competing interests. This reality is particularly disconcerting for those who feel their political capital waning in light of the Minister’s ascendancy.
Moreover, the deliberate attempts to create rifts between the President and Matawalle seem to stem from an understanding that collaboration between these key figures is essential for reinforcing governance and addressing the myriad challenges facing Nigeria today. The Minister’s role in fortifying this collaboration and enhancing the President’s support base cannot be overstated. His commitment to the President’s agenda reflects a rare blend of political acumen and visionary leadership, qualities that his detractors find increasingly threatening.
As Nigeria navigates its multifaceted challenges, the Minister’s position as a reliable ally of the President will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape and ensuring that Tinubu’s ideals of governance are effectively promoted and defended.
The timing of this revelation, during a period of heightened political sensitivity, indicates that there are concerted efforts to destabilize Nigeria’s leadership and create chaos and confusion. It is imperative that the government remains vigilant and takes proactive steps to safeguard the country’s national security and protect its key officials from external threats.
The fact that a foreign source was willing to offer such a significant sum of money to compromise the Defence Minister’s credibility underscores the lengths to which some actors are willing to go to achieve their nefarious objectives. It is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by external interference in Nigeria’s political affairs and the need for constant vigilance and decisive action to counter such threats.
.As Nigeria’s political environment grows increasingly complex, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must remain vigilant and proactive in countering destabilizing maneuvers aimed at undermining the government. Collaboration with international partners who share a vested interest in maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria is crucial. It is imperative for the international community to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and support its government in upholding law and order.
The issue of national integrity and security is of paramount importance for Nigeria, a nation facing numerous internal and external threats to its stability and democratic order. Nigeria’s unity and security are constantly under strain from various sources – an insurgency and banditry in the North, ethnic and communal tensions, secessionist agitations, and the infiltration of criminal elements. Robust and proactive measures are absolutely necessary to confront the forces of destabilization and safeguard the principles of democracy, peace, and good governance.
Decisive action is required to neutralize these threats and reaffirm the government’s capacity to protect its people. Crucially, this effort must involve a united national front, with all arms of government, security agencies, and the general public working in concert. Divisive partisanship or sectarian loyalties have no place when the very foundations of the Nigerian state are at risk.
Politicians, community leaders, and opinion-shapers must rise above narrow interests and rally the populace around the common cause of preserving the country’s territorial integrity and social cohesion. Beyond the domestic front, Nigeria also requires the understanding and support of the international community.
As the most populous country in Africa and a regional powerhouse, Nigeria’s stability is intrinsically linked to the peace and security of the entire sub-Saharan region. A destabilized Nigeria would have dire consequences, from exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in neighboring countries to fueling the scourges of human trafficking and irregular migration.
Therefore, Nigeria’s bilateral and multilateral partnerships must be anchored in the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, the promotion of peace, and adherence to international legal norms. While the international community has a legitimate role to play in encouraging democratic reforms and upholding human rights, its interventions should not be employed to undermine Nigeria’s legitimate efforts to restore law and order.
Peaceful protests are a constitutional right, but violence and destruction of public property cannot be tolerated in the name of protest. Ultimately, the defense of Nigeria’s national integrity and security is a responsibility that transcends partisan politics or ideological divides. It requires a comprehensive strategy that combines robust law enforcement, intelligence-gathering, and conflict resolution mechanisms with a unifying national narrative that resonates with all Nigerians.
Only through such a concerted effort can the country overcome the specter of chaos and uphold the democratic aspirations of its people.

By Jone Adigwu

Danbature who is the Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) said, the offer which is coming from outside the country was extended to him through one of their agents in Nigeria.

According to him, the offer is for him to engage in a two months two weeks of constant attack through press conferences, issuance of press releases on the person and personality of Bello Matawalle.

“They offered me $50,000 to blackmail the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle, and to tarnish his image and cordial working relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the good people of Zamfara State.”

“Infact, the Terrorists kingpin Bello Turji who came out recently in a viral video where he made unsubstantiated allegations against the Minister was offered same amount to carry out such hatchet job” he further disclosed.

Ambassador Danbature said, the Youths which he represents are committed to good governance and leadership and will not in any form allow themselves to be given to any form of gratification for image slandering and blackmail of any government personality, individual or organization.

He said, he is forced to speak out because there are individuals who are committed to tarnishing images of personalities for political interests, while calling on Youths to beware of such individuals and avoid their antics and manipulations.

“For me, the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle is a good man who gave his best as Governor of Zamfara State and currently contributing in no small measure to stabilizing the security situation in the country.”

“I therefore wish to use this medium to call on all and sundry that I cannot, neither can our group be used to malign any body in an attempt to settle political scores” he stressed.

BY Abike Kadiri

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) said they are now ready to dialogue with the Federal Government and have the governor between now and the end of next week to initiate the dialogue process or will be left with no option than to return back to the streets in protest.

Speaker of the AYAGL, Ambassador Andul Danbature who is one of the organizers of the protest stated this in a telephone conversation shortly after he appeared on Channels Television to give more insight into the protest and it’s suspension.

According to him, “We started this movement because we want to express our grievances and anger and the need for the federal government to meet our needs.

“Some of our demands include;, the return back of fuel subsidy, creation of employment opportunities for youths, stoppage of payment to ex governors , relocation of all service Chiefs to North West to address insecurity holistically
dress insecurity holistically and reversal of harsh government policies among several others”.

“We however commended the Federal Government for calling for dialogue which we have agreed to because the peaceful protest which we started has been hijacked by hoodlums which is not part of our plans and that is why we have suspended the protest to take the part of dialogue with the government.

“Our major problem is the removal of fuel subsidy and naira inflation which has affected poor masses and resulted in unemployment. There is no single development on ground that will benefit the poor masses directly, all we know is that money is being released from the federation account to the National Assembly and also to the governors.

“When we started this movement, we sensitize the youths to understand that our major problem is the governors who sit on allocations from the federal government. We also engaged our coordinator at the local government to engage the governors.

“We are ready to dialogue with the Federal government on our demands and we are giving the government between now and next week, in which failure to do so, we will return back to the streets and.continue the protest” he stressed.

ENDS

By Comrade Martins

Extreme weather and climate change have worsened Africa’s food insecurity, especially in Nigeria, where oil dependency and other socio-economic factors further strain the food ecosystem. Transforming the agricultural sector is crucial to meeting these challenges, and the cassava value chain offers a viable solution for combating hunger, improving livelihoods, and sustaining the rural economy.

Cassava, a perennial woody shrub with an edible root, was first cultivated in South America and introduced to Nigeria in the sixteenth century. It is a major staple food for millions across the globe and was introduced to Nigeria in the sixteenth century. With Nigeria producing about 63 million tonnes in 2022 (FAO 2022), there’s still a 24 million tonnes deficit in meeting domestic demand. Issues like low farm yields, inadequate land management, poor storage and transportation, pests, diseases, and limited access to improved varieties hinder cassava production.

Despite government efforts over the years, the supply hasn’t kept pace with the growing demand.

To address these challenges, Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and CEMUOA Limited have been collaborating since 2020 on the Building an Economically Sustainable and Integrated Cassava Seed System (BASICS II) project. As part of the program activities, Demand Creation Trials (DCT) are set up in Akwa Ibom State to increase farmers’ and processors’ awareness of adopting high-quality cassava varieties to improve production, increase food security, and promote sustainability in Nigeria.

On 17 July 2024, this partnership hosted a Farmers’ Field Day event at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Mr. Emmanuel Ameh, Programme Analyst at Sahel Consulting, highlighted the importance of showcasing high-quality cassava varieties to stakeholders and the use of DCT as an evidence-based tool for making informed decisions on the sustainability of cassava varieties.

A critical success factor for this initiative is the active engagement and investment from private sector partners. Mrs. Caroline Udom, Executive Director of CEMUOA Limited, emphasized the success of this collaboration in providing smallholder farmers with improved cassava seedlings.

‘It has been a satisfying experience working with Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited. With better cassava varieties and superior seeds, CEMUOA Limited can easily achieve more. With what we’ve accomplished here, we’ll go back and multiply the seeds to ensure that our farmers have unimpeded access to high-quality and improved seeds over the course of the next five to six farming seasons.’’ Mrs. Caroline Udom, Executive Director of CEMUOA Limited.

Mr. Uche ThankGod Oche, Senior Researcher Supervisor of the Cassava Breeding Unit at IITA, praised the DCT as a crucial tool for integrating cassava breeding into Nigeria’s seed system activities. He emphasized the importance of strategic innovation and collaboration for food sustainability in Nigeria.

“How to feed Nigeria’s constantly expanding population is one of the country’s most urgent issues. It is therefore revolutionary to adopt the DCT approach in the production and processing of cassava.

Collaboration with regional processors, such as CEMUOA Limited in Uyo, was essential to proving the effectiveness of the many cassava varieties used in the Basic II (DCT) initiative”.

Mrs. Theresa Akpan, President of Women Link Agro International Commission, shared how the DCT project has transformed cassava farming for women in Uyo. She reported that since the group’s founding in 2018, they have never seen such success. The introduction of high-yield varieties like Ayaya and Baba 70 has increased cassava yield and allowed women farmers to better support their families and communities.

The Demand Creation Trails are raising awareness and adoption of high-quality cassava varieties, serving as a vital decision tool for breeders, seed producers, and farmers. Sahel Consulting is dedicated to transforming Nigeria’s agriculture and nutrition landscape, ensuring food security and sustainable development for all.

Join us in this mission and help build a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria. Reach out to learn more about our initiatives!

By Chioma Ambrose

As the ongoing nationwide protests enters the fourth day, prominent stakeholders within the government and private sectors in the four walls of Nigeria who are patriotic and optimistic about the progress of this country political and socio-economic structures have continued to plea with the youths to shelves their swords.

One among these dignified epitomes is a Real Estate Serial Entrepreneur with decades of successful experiences, Chief Executive Officer of MYK Limited Alhaji Abubakar Mayaki who is calling on the youths to renounces their fate towards the protest.

Speaking to Journalists on Sunday, Alhaji Mayaki said “As a real estate entrepreneur, I understand the frustrations and challenges faced by Nigeria’s youth. However, I strongly advise against resorting to nationwide protests, which can lead to destruction of property, loss of lives, and economic instability.

“Instead, I encourage the youths to channel their energy into constructive dialogue with the Federal government to provide entrepreneurship, and community development platforms for direct benefits.

” Though, I understand that there is economic challenges causing skyrocketed inflation, epileptic electric supply, hunger and poverty but Let’s work together to build a better Nigeria through innovative solutions, job creation, and collaborative governance.

“Remember, our collective future is brighter when we build, not destroy. Let’s focus on creating opportunities, promoting peace, and driving progress for all Nigerians.”

The Innovator tasked on all tiers of government to listen to the concerns and demands of the protesting youths, and engage in open and honest dialogue to understand their perspectives.

According to him the government should address unemployment and economic empowerment by implementing policies and programs to create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, and support small businesses to address economic challenges.

He said ” improve education and skills development to enhance access to quality education, vocational training, and skills development programs to equip youths for the future.

“Ensure good governance and accountability by demonstrating transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs, and tackle corruption and mismanagement.

“Provide mental health support by offering access to mental health services and support to address the emotional and psychological well-being of youths.

Alhaji Mayaki tasked the government to foster inclusivity and diversity to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of ethnicity, religion or socio-economic background.

He said ” Address security concerns to ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly youths, and address issues like police brutality and extortion.

Meanwhile, the Serial Entrepreneur commended the Nigerian Police Force and other security personnel for their professionalism and restraint during the the ongoing protests.

“Your commitment to maintaining peace and order while respecting the rights of citizens to express themselves is truly commendable. Your actions demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of protecting human rights and upholding the principles of democracy. By not resorting to harmful tactics, you have shown that it is possible to maintain security without compromising the safety and well-being of citizens.

“We recognize that your role is crucial in ensuring the stability and security of our nation, and we appreciate your dedication to serving and protecting the people of Nigeria as your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we encourage you to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”

Kaduna State Senator who represented the Central Senatorial District in the 8th Assembly, Comrade Shehu Sani has urged protesters to discontinue the nationwide protest to save lives and properties of citizens.

Reacting to what he described as unfortunate development , Senator Sani, in a tweet on X said the situation where hoodlums have hijacked the protest is unacceptable.

While expressing disappointment over the manner hoodlums hijacked the protest and destroyed properties of innocent citizens in Kaduna; Kano and other parts of the country on day-one of the protest, he advised those willing to encourage continuation of the protest, especially in the north to reconsider their stands based on potential danger ahead.

He tweeted:”With scores dead,hundreds injured and properties worth billions of Naira belonging to private businesses and Government destroyed by hoodlums,mostly in Northern states,those wishing to encourage the continuation of this protest,especially in the North should reconsider.At our end its violent protest without visible leadership and must be discontinued.”

According to him ,the protest constitutional right of Nigerians, but should be peaceful and without any threat to life and property.

He commend the proactiveness of the security agencies in the state for their quick intervention. “

In the statement via his X handle, Senator Sani pointed out curious patterns in protest participation, raising questions about the motivations and historical consistencies of different regions , with his comments sparking discussions about the complex interplay of regional politics, economic concerns, and public demonstrations in Nigeria.

Speaking further about the current situation,he noted the apparent absence of protests in the South East, despite what he perceives as support for the cause among many South Easterners. This observation highlights the complex political landscape of the region and raises questions about the factors influencing public demonstrations there.

He however, commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for the proactive measures taken so far to calm raging nerves in the state. Adding that dialogue and consultation are two instrument that have always helped in any crisis situation.

After hoodlums yesterday burnt down a government agency; looted and destroyed properties worth millions in State, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani swift into action to hold meetings and consult with security agencies and citizens to avoid escalation of violence.

The planned peaceful protest against bad governance held in Kaduna yesterday turned violent, leaving no fewer than 3 youths dead and many other protesters injured.

However,the swift consultations made by Governor to stop the palpable tension stirred up by violent protests and impending mayhem appeared to have yielded results with the visible relative normalcy that has returned on the day-two of the protest.

Our Correspondent who took a tour round the metropolis today , observed that the relative calm could be linked to the deliberate efforts my by Governor Uba Sani ,who immediately meet with security agencies and embarked on wide consultations with opinion leaders as well as stakeholders to avoid further breach of peace and fall out of Kano situations.

Though Some residents out of fear of further breach public peace and destruction of properties had called for 24-hour curfew to be imposed on the state ,but Governor Uba Sani had allayed the fear of the residents,with an assurance that situation is under control in the state.

The Governor, who posted on his social media handle yesterday allayed the fears. Saying,there was no need for curfew as the heightened situation and tension is under control .

Meanwhile, information gathered from the tour round the metropolis also revealed that the overt palpable tension stirred up by yesterday’s violent protests have doused down amongst residents.

Some of residents interviewed at Barnawa; Sabon-Tasha , Nasarawa,Kudenda ,Rigasa ,Kawo and other areas within the metropolis expressed joy that the protest today appeared coordinated with everyone calm.They therefore commended the Governor for his swift reaction and efforts made to provide adequate security.

Meanwhile , the former lawmaker and Senator who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Senato Shehu Sani expressed disappointment over the manner hoodlums hijacked the protest and destroyed properties of innocent citizens in Kaduna.

He advised those willing to encourage continuation of the protest, especially in the north to reconsider their stands .

The Human Rights Activist who stated this via Twitter handle,Said,”With scores dead,hundreds injured and properties worth billions of Naira belonging to private businesses and Government destroyed by hoodlums,mostly in Northern states,those wishing to encourage the continuation of this protest,especially in the North should reconsider.At our end its violent protest without visible leadership and must be discontinued.”

Group condemns attempt to burn Matawalle’s house under protest pretence

.Insists Tinubu is the target

.Asks Gov Dauda Lawal to thread softly

Group, Zamfara Peace Initiatives Forum (ZAPIF) has strongly condemned an attempt to raze the Minister for State Defence, Bello Matawalle’s house in Guzau, Zamfara State on Thursday.

The group in a statement by its Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Bako
(Danmadamin Kucheri) alleged that the attempt was initiated by political enemies of President Bola Tinubu under the guise of the ongoing nationwide protests.

According to the group, it was saddening to see children between 15 to 17 years of age from Lalan, Gada Biyu, Tudun Wada, Birnin Ruwa, Hayin Maigemu and Unguwar Dallatu, to be mobilised by suspected agents of the State Government to make such an attempt on Matawalle’s property.

To this group, “President Tinubu’s political allies including Matawalle, Sen Abdul’aziz Yari, Sen Sahabi Yau, Hon Rikiji among others, were being targeted and attacked by hired miscreants just to get at him.

“Such open attacks on these highly respected elders by the sponsors of the protest in Gusau, Talata Mafara and Kaura Namoda are doing so to get political sympathy from the people and they must be stopped.

“It is unfortunate that the same state government that failed to account for billions of naira released by the federal government through allocations, COVID-19 intervention for sustainable development and fight against poverty, hunger, and insecurity could be blaming President Tinubu’s administration for its failure

“We, therefore call on well-meaning Zamfara State indigenes to caution Gov Dauda Lawal, to focus on good governance rather than promoting vandalism and intimidation of his perceived political enemies.

“We also call on parents to put their houses in order by way of cautioning their children from being used as an instrument of violence and social unrest in the state while the children of their sponsors are enjoying their lives abroad.

“To the security agents, we acknowledge your efforts at maintaining peace and order in Zamfara and Nigeria a s a whole. However, be reminded that it is your constitutional responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians by placing miscreants to where they belong”, the group cautioned.