Author Archives: News All Around

By Ikoojo Okopi

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has thrown its weight behind Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amidst protests orchestrated by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the guise of a non-existent group, the APC Akida.

According to NAN Chairman Salihu Suleiman, these protests are not only an affront to democratic processes but also an attempt to undermine the federal government’s efforts to address insecurity in the region. The protests, characterized by politically charged rhetoric, raise questions about the motivations behind them ¹.

The APC Akida appears to be a phantom entity, lacking a clear mandate or representation, which raises concerns about the authenticity of the protests and the intentions of those orchestrating them.

Defence Minister Matawalle has been instrumental in ensuring national security and stability, particularly in Nigeria’s northern regions. NAN commends the federal troops’ bravery in the fight against insecurity and acknowledges President Tinubu’s leadership in fostering cooperation among security agencies.

NAN also appreciates Nigeria’s international partners for their invaluable support in the fight against insecurity. The organization urges Minister Matawalle and security forces to remain vigilant against emerging threats, particularly the rising menace of Lakurawa.

Key Challenges Facing Nigeria’s Security

• Insecurity and Corruption: Nigeria’s security challenges are exacerbated by corruption, which undermines the government’s ability to provide basic services and ensure public safety ².
• Ethno-Religious Conflicts: The country’s complex ethnic and religious landscape has led to frequent conflicts, further destabilizing national security ².
• Porous Borders: Nigeria’s unsecured borders facilitate the influx of illegal weapons and militants, contributing to the country’s insecurity ².

The Way Forward

To address these challenges, NAN calls on all stakeholders to unite in the fight against insecurity, rise above political machinations, and work collaboratively towards a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

Isaac Obey

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) have averred that the recent protests and disturbances orchestrated against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle are not mere expressions of dissent; rather, they form part of a broader scheme aimed at destabilizing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

AYCF in a statement by it’s President General Yerima Shettima alleged that, such orchestrated campaign is being driven by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) operating in proxy for the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.

The AYCF in the statement said it recognizes that Matawalle has emerged as a formidable voice for the President in Northern Nigeria, adding that his unwavering commitment to the security and well-being of our communities has made him a target for those who perceive his influence as a threat.

“The recent protests are a desperate attempt by these perpetrators to undermine his credibility and, by extension, the integrity of President Tinubu’s administration. It is evident that they see Matawalle’s steadfastness and dedication as significant obstacles to their political ambitions, which is why they are hell-bent on orchestrating his downfall.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Matawalle in his cabinet is a powerful endorsement of the Minister’s performance and contributions to national security. In an era where political machinations often overshadow genuine governance, President Tinubu has demonstrated remarkable foresight and courage by standing firm with Matawalle despite the relentless challenges posed by the PDP faction, which has been masquerading as the APC Akida.

“This group, under the influence of Governor Dauda Lawal, has sought to exploit the political landscape for their gain, leveraging misinformation and incitement to create discord” Shettima stated.

AYCF urged the Minister of State to remain undistracted by the provocations, stressing that his track record in combating banditry and ensuring the safety of the people speaks volumes about his capabilities and dedication.

“The recent threats posed by the Lakurawa and other criminal elements should be met with the same tenacity and resolve that he has exhibited in the past. Matawalle’s leadership has been pivotal in the fight against insecurity, and we have every confidence that he will continue to rise to the occasion”.

The AYCF called upon all stakeholders, particularly the youth of Northern Nigeria, to recognize the larger implications of these protests and disturbances, adding that it is imperative that they remain vigilant against divisive tactics that seek to undermine our collective progress, saying the unity of our region and the stability of our nation depend on our ability to discern between genuine grievances and politically motivated attacks.

“We reaffirm our unwavering support for Bello Mohammed Matawalle and urge him to persist in his vital work for the security of our communities. The AYCF stands ready to mobilize our members and allies in defense of our leaders who are committed to the welfare of our people. Together, we will confront the challenges ahead and ensure that the forces of destabilization do not prevail” the forum assured.

by Uchechukwu Okpara

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has raised concerns over the emergence of a new terrorist group, LAKURAWA, operating in Nigeria’s Northwest region, particularly in Kebbi and Sokoto States.

In a statement issued by Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organization emphasized that LAKURAWA’s activities have rapidly escalated into a direct threat against the safety, dignity, and livelihood of Igbo people in the region.

The group has reportedly displaced traditional rulers in Kebbi State, assuming their roles and spreading fear instead of upholding the law. The situation is dire, with Igbo communities facing constant harassment, robberies, and violent assaults, resulting in tragic loss of life.

The organization urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take comprehensive action, specifically tasking Dr. Bello Matawelle, Minister of State for Defence, to implement decisive measures to quell the rebellion.

Key Demands:

• Immediate Deployment of Resources: Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls on President Tinubu to deploy necessary resources to aid Dr. Matawelle and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
• Robust Military Response: The organization urges Dr. Matawelle and Ribadu to relocate to the Northwest and orchestrate a decisive military response against LAKURAWA.
• Federal Government Action: Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores the Federal Government to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and act with urgency.

The organization reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the safety and well-being of Igbo people, emphasizing the need for collective action against terrorism.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is a socio-cultural organization formed in 1976 to represent the interests of all Igbo communities within and outside Nigeria.

…Tells NASS to pass the Bill without delay

Northern Business Professionals have backed the proposed tax reform bills on grounds that the gains far outweighs the disadvantages and guarantee business development.

According to group , the tax reform bills are long awaited as they will help to stimulate the economy and establish a streamlined tax administration system; free multiple taxation and reshape Nigeria’s fiscal landscape aa well as drive economic growth and sustainability.

The President had on September 3, 2024 submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, based on recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, led by Taiwo Oyedele, to review existing tax laws.

In a press statement made available to Kaduna journalists today , the Northern Business Professionals said, there is no basis to entertain any fear about the bills. Adding” If anything, Nigerians will commend Tinubu for laying a solid foundation that will ensure the fiscal stability of the country.

In the statement signed by Mal. Abubakar Mustapha Kauru ,they gave assurance that ,”When Nigerians get to know the details of the documents, they will know that the president is working to bring relief to them and their businesses.”

While noting that multiplicity of taxes is one factor that has continued to impede efficiency in Nigeria’s tax system, with a negative impact, it stated that ,” The four executive bills seek to tidy up the fiscal policy and legislation environment in the country.

Adding,”These bills seek to translate the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, into an implementable legislative framework for the benefit of Nigerians.

“Though the transimission of the bills to National Assembly sparked debates in the polity about the purpose of the bills with some persons expressing fears that it might encapsulate proposals calling for a raise in tax rates in a way that will further burden the citizens.”

However it explained: “There a dire need to modernize the nation’s tax framework, the reforms in order to o consolidate tax structures, unify revenue collection,promote economic development,and provide for price transparency and monitoring of publication costs and fees.

“The greatest news is that the bills seek to offer a clear and concise legal framework for all taxes and reducing disputes, thus we urge the National Assembly to pass it without delay.”

Amalgamation of Islamic groups under umbrella of Islamic Forum for Unity of the Ummah have concluded arrangements to meet on Wednesday to discuss the controversial Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

According to the Islamic Forum, sensitive government policy, such as the proposed tax reforms needs wider consultations with stakeholders, groups and the citizens before been passed into law.

The President had, on September 3, transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration.

But in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Mallam Adam Awwal Muhammad and Secretary Sheikh Akanbi Rashidi Bolaji, Islamic Forum for Unity of the Ummah expressed concerns over the rejection of the bills by northern governors and National Economic Council recommendation for withdrawal.

The statement further said ,”At the Meeting convened by Sheikh Mustapha Al-Arabi convener, members of Islamic groups are expected to discuss the content of bills with regards to interest and economic implications as well as benefits to Muslim communities across the country and take a stand.

It also hinted that the decision to meet over the controversial tax reform bills stemmed from the concerns raised in some quarters over the new derivation-based model for VAT distribution and the contents of the bills, which the northern governors claimed did not align with the interests of the North and other subnational entities.

While noting that the bills have not been presented for a second reading where the principles of the bills will be debated, it stated, “We don’t want to be Hoodwinked into accepting a tax reform the will affect our people and their economic wellbeing,thus our decision to meet and get informed knowledge about the reforms before taking a stand.

The Forum further said:”We have read the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms headed by Taiwo Oyedele, for the review of existing tax laws.

“From the document read ,we observed that the bills are the Nigeria Tax Bills are expected to provide the fiscal framework for taxation in the country, and the Tax Administration Bill, which will provide a clear and concise legal framework for all taxes in the country and reduce disputes.

” We noticed it proposes several key changes, that include a gradual increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 7.5% to 15% by 2030 and an adjustment in Company Income Tax, which would set a rate of 27.5% for large companies, reducing to 25% by 2026.Additionally, the bill proposes a 4% development levy on companies to fund the Student Education Loan Fund, along with a 5% excise duty on sectors such as lottery, gaming, and telecommunications.
” We hope that the issues of transparency, particularly through provisions requiring price transparency and monitoring of publication costs are upheld” .

The National President of Nigeria’s Unemployed Youths Association (UYAN), Ebi Clifford Zuofa, has called for the swift removal of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director, Sam Ogbuku, citing gross incompetence, negligence, and disregard for the region’s welfare ¹.

After a tense town hall meeting with South-South representatives in Kaduna, Zuofa lambasted Ogbuku for the NDDC’s catastrophic failure to address Niger Delta’s crippling poverty, corruption, and underdevelopment. “Ogbuku must go,” Zuofa emphasized, highlighting that since Ogbuku took office, Niger Delta has seen no development and no reduction in joblessness ¹.

UYAN’s concerns are backed by alarming statistics, revealing that 87% of Nigeria’s poor people reside in the Niger Delta, and the region has the second-highest out-of-school children after the North ¹. Zuofa stressed that endemic corruption is devouring resources in the Niger Delta, evident in the NDDC’s performance.

Key Demands:

• Immediate Removal of Ogbuku: UYAN demands Ogbuku’s removal due to gross incompetence and negligence.
• Protest Actions: The group threatens massive protests in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other cities if Ogbuku remains in office.
• Adherence to NDDC Act: UYAN insists Delta State should produce the next NDDC boss, as Ogbuku’s tenure has expired.

Next Steps:

UYAN plans to collaborate with northern groups to pressure the Federal Government into providing a conducive environment for employment opportunities ¹. With over 3 million youths registered for NDDC’s Project HOPE initiative, the region’s development and job creation remain pressing concerns ².

The NDDC boss has previously faced criticism, but also received praise from notable figures like former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, who commended Ogbuku’s achievements in the region ³. However, UYAN’s demands underscore the urgent need for effective leadership and development in the Niger Delta.

Renowned Islamic scholar and prominent figure, Professor Mansur Sokoto, has joined other Islamic clerics in issuing a stern warning to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, urging him to abandon political rhetoric and address the festering security crisis engulfing the state with immediate and decisive action.

In a scathing statement released in a video clip, Professor Sokoto criticized Governor Lawal’s lack of commitment to tackling the issue, accusing him of shirking responsibility and indulging in blame-shifting tactics.

Professor Sokoto, a respected figure known for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Zamfara people, expressed profound concern over the deteriorating security situation. He minced no words in emphasizing the gravity of the crisis, highlighting the pervasive fear, displacement, and loss of life that have become a grim reality for countless residents. “Governor Lawal,” Professor Sokoto asserted, “cannot afford to ignore the escalating violence and suffering.

The buck stops with him, and he must act swiftly and decisively to protect the lives and property of his constituents.”
Professor Sokoto pointed out that Governor Lawal, fully aware of the state’s security challenges before assuming office, has failed to demonstrate the necessary leadership and commitment to addressing the crisis.

“It is time for Governor Lawal to move beyond mere political discourse and engage in tangible actions that can demonstrably improve the security situation,” Professor Sokoto stated.
The Professor further condemned Governor Lawal’s persistent efforts to shift responsibility onto others.

“The governor cannot continue to blame his predecessors or external forces while neglecting his own duty to provide security for his people. This is a grave betrayal of the trust placed in him by the citizens of Zamfara,” he asserted. He pointed out that the Governor’s continued emphasis on political posturing and public pronouncements, devoid of concrete action, has only exacerbated the situation.

Professor Sokoto’s criticism extends to Governor Lawal’s apparent disregard for the pleas and advice of religious leaders. “The Governor has seemingly ignored the warnings and appeals of Islamic scholars, including myself, who have consistently urged him to prioritize the welfare of his people.

The lack of responsiveness to our calls is deeply concerning,” he lamented. He urged the Governor to embrace the fear of God and prioritize the well-being of the people he has been elected to serve.
The Professor’s statement underscores the urgency of the situation and the moral imperative to address the security crisis head-on.

The people of Zamfara are desperate for concrete action, not empty promises or finger-pointing. Professor Sokoto’s bold call for decisive leadership from Governor Lawal serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that rests on the shoulders of those in power. It remains to be seen if the governor will heed the warnings and take the necessary steps to bring peace and security back to the state.

CONCLUSION

Professor Mansur Sokoto’s unwavering call for decisive action on the security crisis in Zamfara state stands as a powerful indictment of Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership.

The scholar’s message underscores the grave consequences of inaction and the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address the multifaceted challenges facing the state. As Professor Sokoto aptly highlighted, the buck stops with the Governor, and the people of Zamfara deserve a leader who prioritizes their safety and security above all else. It remains to be seen whether Governor Lawal will heed the warnings and step up to the daunting task of restoring peace and order in the state.

Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed, the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.
The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector.

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

By Peter Yusuf

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CCSOs) of Nigeria has written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to address the recent calls for the resignation of Alhaji Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The coalition considers these calls unjustified and potentially harmful to Nigeria’s economy and democracy.

Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones, including facilitating independent power projects, road maintenance, and significant blockage of revenue leakages, resulting in increased revenue for Nigeria ¹. These accomplishments demonstrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), signed the letter on behalf of the coalition, stressing that the APC Solidarity Forum’s actions appear driven by political motivations rather than genuine concerns for the nation’s well-being.

The coalition demanded that Akpabio:

• Condemn Unwarranted Attacks: on Alh. Mele Kyari and the NNPC
• Investigate Motivations: behind these calls for resignation
• Prevent Interference: in NNPC’s operations

They also requested Akpabio ensure the APC Solidarity Forum is held accountable for their actions and that the nation’s interests are protected ¹.