Author Archives: News All Around

Mike Aduku

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has faulted comments made by the former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, in which he accused the current administration of President Bola Tinubu of incompetence and ineptitude in an apparent attempt to incite the youth into violent protests and civil disobedience.

The forum in a statement issued by its President General Yerima Shettima said, “We find it to be the height of shameless recklessness and insanity for Dalung to make such baseless accusations considering his own track record of mismanagement and corruption while he held office as Minister of Sports.

“During his tenure, Nigerian athletes faced numerous challenges due to his incompetence. One glaring example is when Nigerian athletes were sent to the Rio Olympics in 2016 without proper sports kits and uniforms, which brought embarrassment to our country on the global stage.

Moreover, Dalung unlawfully withdrew $130,000 from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), which had been mistakenly credited to the Ministry of Sports and refused to pay it back despite the serious consequences that Nigeria faced as a result. That money was eventually repaid only after his dismissal by the Buhari administration and the efforts of his successor, Mr. Sunday Dare.

It is indeed ironic that Dalung, who has a long record of misgovernance, incompetence, and corruption, would dare to pass judgment on any administration or official. His attempts to return as a minister after being sacked, and his failed bid for a House of Representatives seat in 2023 under the SDP ticket after being rejected by both the PDP and LP, further highlight his lack of integrity and popular support’ the forum stressed.

It is also worth mentioning that Dalung was appointed as a minister by President Buhari, in part, due to his controversial record in constantly attacking his Christian indigene in Plateau State—a clear testament to his lack of dedication to true public service.
Solomon Dalung is a failed minister, a Judas who sold his people for personal gain, and a man without a political home.

The AYCF condemns his actions and calls for accountability for his numerous acts of misgovernance and corruption. We urge all Nigerians to reject individuals like Dalung who put their own interests above those of the country.

The AYCF condemned Solomon Dalung’s baseless accusations and calls for him to be held accountable for his actions while in office. We urge the Nigerian public to reject his attempts to regain political relevance and to support leaders who are committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

ENDS

The Arewa Progressives For Good Governance (APGG) has blasted former minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung for supporting nationwide protest over economic hardship and alleging that some prominent personalities will join the protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration.

The group described Dalung as a failed Minister and liar, said it’s not true that personalities such as former Lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani’s, Senator Adams Oshiomhole , ACF Your Leader, Yerima Shettima and several others have agreed to join the planned protest.

Dalung via his Facebook Page had said,”The rights of Nigerians to protests cannot be taken by executive fiat. The duties of the @PoliceNG is to provide security for the protesters, anything to the contrary is unlawful. The revolution was declared by @officialABAT against bad governance, and since he is the occupant of Aso Rock, this call to duty must be obeyed by all.

The group however said , “We understand the pains Nigerians are going through because of the current hardship caused by withdrawal of Petroleum subsidy, but we can authoritatively says there will light at the end of the dark tunnel.

“Any northerner calling for protest against Tinubu’s Administration over economic hardship is not fair .Our son, former President Muhammadu Buhari was President for eight and collapsed the economy,but our Northern brothers kept quiet.”

The Arewa Progressives For Good Governance,which this in a statement made available to Journalists questioned the morality of the former Minister.Notimg that he who must come to equity must come with clean hands.

In the statement signed by the Chairman, Mal Ibrahim Musa Bichi ,the group which revealed what it termed:”Six Facts About The Sacked Buhari Minister, Solomon Dalung”, averred that “Dalung was appointed a minister by President Buhari for his record of constantly attacking his Christian indigenes of Plateau State.

“As a Minister of Sports Nigerian Athletes went to Rio Olympics in 2016 without sports kits and uniforms.A situation that embarrassed Nigeria at the Global scene.

“In 2018,the International Athletes Association mistakenly credited the account of Nigeria’s Sports ministry with the sum of $133,00.Dalung unlawfully withdrew the money and pocketed it.The IAAF had to write several letters and issued threats to suspend Nigeria.Arrest warrant was issued against Dalung until the Buhari Government sacked him and the money was paid by the successor minister Mr Sunday Dare.”

It alleged that Dalung tried unsuccessfully to return as a minister but was rebuffed by Buhari and he started attacking him.

It also recalled that “In 2023,Solomon Dalung returned to his village,picked up the SDP ticket after he was rejected by PDP and LP.He contested the House of Reps seat and was beaten even by a party that had no candidate.

“A Failed Minister,A Judas who sold his people and now without a home.”

By IBRAHIM HUSSAINI TINJA

Arewa Ears Community Development Forum in an effort to lend support to other Northerners who are in dire need of upliftment of their lives decided to express interest in establishing partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), a government establishment to assist Nigerians.
We are greatly impressed by the work SMEDAN have been doing under your  leadership since your appointment as Director General in October 2023.
Arewa Ears is currently recognized as one of the most outstanding organizations in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region, for its unwavering commitment to providing hope and a sense of belonging to the common citizens across the 19 Northern states. Some of what we have achieved is offering entrepreneurship skills training and providing support to individuals to kickstart small businesses, enabling them to meet their basic needs and enhance their livelihood.
We firmly believed that addressing the root causes of issues such as hunger, poverty, and unemployment is crucial in promoting peace and stability in any society. Arewa Ears understands that hunger can lead to anger, and unchecked anger can escalate to violence. We recognized that beneath the surface of anger lie deep-seated emotions such as hurt, fear, frustration, sadness, and vulnerability. By addressing these underlying emotions and providing sustainable solutions, we aim to foster a peaceful and prosperous environment in the Northern region of Nigeria.
It is disheartening to witness the transformation of the once peaceful and welcoming Northern region into an area plagued by ignorance, banditry, poverty, child trafficking, unemployment, and various forms of criminal activities.
However, we are optimistic that through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, we can effect positive change and uplift the lives of the people in the region.
We equally believed that collaborating forces with SMEDAN, we can leverage our respective strengths and resources to create greater impact and reach more needy individuals. Together, we can work towards building a more resilient and thriving community in the Northern states of Nigeria.
We would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential areas of collaboration and explore how our organizations can complement each other’s efforts towards achieving our shared goals. Your support and partnership would be invaluable in advancing our collective mission of promoting entrepreneurship, reducing poverty, and fostering sustainable development in the Northern region.
We identify SMEDAN as a crucial entity in addressing pressing issues, particularly concerning poverty and unemployment, within the 19 Northern states.
During the meeting the Chief Executive Officer of Arewa Ears Community Development Forum, Ambassador Mohammed Muazu who in company by his fellow members Ambassador Sadiq Ibrahim Adamu , Ambassador Nura Garba Ahmad, Ambassador Sudais Suleiman Sokoto, Ambassador Lawan Munkailla, Ambassador Hadiza Mohammed Borno and Ambassador Ibrahim Hussain Tinja. Recently as part of efforts to secure succour for our esteem youths had a meeting with the Director General of SMEDAN, Dr. Charles Odii, along with Ms Bridget Ohikhokai -Deputy Director F&A and Alh Moshood Lawal-Head Corporate Affairs (SMEDAN)
During the meeting, Ambassodor Mohammed Muazu briefed the Director General, Dr Odii on what Arewa Ears Community Development forum is all about and its mission and vision to promote and develop the good people of Northern Nigeria irrespective of religion, tribe and ethnicity. Ambassodor Muazu highlighted the urgency of intervention in certain states that are mostly affected by unemployment. He informed plans to launch sensitization programs targeting youth in these states and invited SMEDAN to actively participate in these initiatives.
He disclosed that Arewa Ears Community Development Forum is an organization dedicated to addressing the pressing issues that are affecting the people of Northern Nigeria, particularly high levels of poverty and unemployment. Ambassador Muazu expressed his concerns about these issues and emphasized the need for collaboration with SMEDAN to support their cause. He also highlighted the fact that poverty and unemployment are major root causes of insurgency in the region, which has destabilized the entire Northern region.
Responding, Dr. Charles Odii promised to collaborate with Arewa Ears Community Development Forum and support their efforts to address these issues. He pledged to travel to all 19 Northern states of Nigeria together with Arewa Ears to raise awareness and find solutions to the challenges facing the region. He also committed to supporting 3000 active members of Arewa Ears with sensitization Program and professional entrepreneurship skills training through the application of INITIAL CREATE START SKILLS (ICSS) and Empowerment programs.
The meeting between Arewa Ears community development forum and SMEDAN marks a significant step towards addressing the socio-economic challenges facing Northern Nigeria. By working together, these organizations can make a real difference in the lives of the people in the region and help to create a more prosperous and stable future for all.
Arewa Ears Community Development Forum sees Dr. Charles Odii as a beacon of hope for the youth, given his remarkable vision, capacity, and track record as a problem solver. His commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and startups in Africa to drive economic growth and create jobs is truly inspiring. With over a decade of experience in senior management roles in technology and business development, Dr. Odii has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a talent for building successful partnerships.
In his first 100 days in office, Dr. Charles Odii have already made a tangible impact through various initiatives. His efforts have led to the creation of 15,000 jobs and the facilitation of over 7 billion Naira in funding for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Such achievements underscore his dedication to driving positive change and fostering growth within the SME sector.
As stakeholders, it is essential for us to acknowledge and support the transformative work being carried out under Dr. Odii’s leadership at SMEDAN. The experience garnered as a season administrator has injected into SMEDAN which have brot progress to the the organisation and Nigerians. The initiatives spearheaded by him not only have immediate benefits but also hold the promise of a brighter future for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Nigeria.
We look forward to witnessing the continued success and progress under Dr. Odii’s stewardship at SMEDAN.

By Daniel Ibgede

A versatile land property and real estate seasoned entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of MYK Properties Ltd, Alhaji Abubakar Mayaki has described social media reports maligning his name for criminal act as baseless and malicious orchestrated by some jobless people and some competitors in the estate business.

He made the disclosure while speaking to a team of Journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to him, should there be any further publication against his reputable image which he has built over the years with hard work without any stain, he will have no choice than to embrace legal alternatives against such publication.

The Chief Executive Officer said ” About three months ago when I traveled out of Lagos I got information that two different factions of the out-lawed Cult confraternity were fighting amongst themselves at a village called Igbein in Agbowa-Ikosi area of Lagos State were one of them was shot and later died in a yet to be verified circumstances.

Information at our disposal revealed that a notorious man ( name withheld) went to the family members of the victim at Igbein promising to assist them get justice, unknown to them that he has his own ulterior motive.

According to our source who preferred not be mentioned revealed that the murdered person who was alleged to be a cult member and land grabber was murdered during a fight between Eiye and Aiye cult groups in Igbein a town very close to Ota-Ikosi where Mayaki’s company is developing.

“We also scooped that the murdered guy was also working with a popular alleged land grabber called Sirkay Oluwo before he met his untimely death.

” Then the police Intervened by commencing investigation on the issue by inviting the Igbein Community and Ota community in to order to avoid taking the law into their hands.

Alhaji Abubakar Mayaki revealed that he was dragged into the matter because his company is working in Ota-Ikosi a neighbouring town to Igbein where the alleged incident occurred.

He praised the police for their prompt action in maintaining laws and order averting crisis in the area.

Alhaji Mayaki further distance himself from any harassment or threat to life of anybody in respect of the alleged murder case under investigation by the police.

The astute real estate entrepreneur called on his Clients and the general public to disregard the baseless and malicious allegations against him.

Attempts to reach the Force Police Public Relations Acp Muyiwa Adejobi at the time of filing this report was not successfully as his calls contact were not reachable.

Uriah Micah

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is deeply concerned about the escalating public anger and growing calls for protest across Nigeria. As an organization dedicated to promoting dialogue, understanding, and unity, we recognize the legitimate grievances of the Nigerian people, especially the youth, who are bearing the brunt of the current hardships and insecurity.


The situation in Nigeria is indeed dire, with a combination of economic challenges, insecurity, and social injustices fueling widespread frustration and anger among the populace. The recent spate of protests and calls for mass demonstrations are a clear indication of the urgent need for change and accountability at all levels of governance.


While we support the right of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their grievances, we must also recognize the potential for violence and escalation in such situations. The history of protests in Nigeria, and indeed around the world, has shown that peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn violent if not managed carefully.


This is why NAN is calling for restraint and caution in the face of mounting public anger. According to a statement issued by the Chairman Salifu Suleiman “We believe that dialogue and engagement are the most effective ways to address the root causes of the current crisis. It is crucial for all stakeholders – government officials, civil society organizations, community leaders, and citizens – to come together in a spirit of openness and cooperation to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the nation”


NAN also called on the government to take urgent and meaningful steps to address the grievances of the people and restore confidence in the leadership. It is essential for the authorities to demonstrate that they are listening to the concerns of the populace and taking concrete action to improve the situation for all Nigerians.


“At the same time, we must also recognize the need to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens. While peaceful protests are a fundamental right in a democracy, violence and destruction are never acceptable or justifiable. It is crucial for all protesters to exercise their rights responsibly and lawfully, without resorting to violence or acts of aggression.


“NAN stands ready to support and facilitate constructive dialogue and engagement between all parties involved in the current crisis. We urge all Nigerians to come together with a spirit of unity, understanding, and empathy to overcome the challenges facing our nation. By working together towards a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity, we can build a brighter future for all citizens of Nigeria”.

Markus Yusuf

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) is deeply concerned about the intolerable level of hardship and the general and pervasive insecurity being experienced across Nigeria. The rising cost of living, the lack of basic amenities, and the increasing spate of insecurity have made life unbearable for many Nigerians.

According to a statement issued by the spokesperson Comrade Paul Danjuma, the acknowledge the right of citizens to legitimate protests as a means of calling the attention of the government to the situation and the urgent need for taking visible steps towards pacifying the mounting public anger in order to avert a looming mass protest that is pregnant with unforeseen consequences.

“We plead with the public, particularly the youth everywhere and in the North in particular, to exercise restraint and stay action on the planned protests to allow room for honest, open-ended dialogue. While we understand the frustrations and grievances of the people, we believe that violence and chaos will only exacerbate the current situation.

“We call for the urgent intervention of critical stakeholders for a peaceful, transparent, and practically acceptable resolution of the situation. It is imperative that the government listens to the cries of its citizens and takes concrete steps towards addressing the root causes of the current crisis.

“We urge the government to prioritize the welfare and security of all Nigerians and to work towards creating a conducive environment for economic growth and development. The people deserve to live in peace and dignity, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that this is possible”.

The forum reiterates their commitment to the peace and unity of Nigeria and call on all stakeholders to come together in a spirit of cooperation and understanding to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing our beloved country. Together, we can build a better future for all Nigerians.

ENDS

Fatima Mani

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of affairs in Nigeria, saying the prevailing harsh living conditions have reached a critical juncture, leading to escalating frustration and anger among the populace. A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima said, The AYCF has been closely observing the burgeoning discontent, particularly among the youth, who are disproportionately suffering due to economic hardships and societal challenges. He further averred that the mounting resentment within the population has reached an alarming tipping point, with the likelihood of imminent mass protests becoming more pronounced, adding that the youth, in particular, are experiencing a profound sense of disillusionment and disenfranchisement, which has eroded their hopes for a better future. Shettima pointed out that widespread poverty, rampant unemployment, lack of basic amenities, and rising insecurity are cultivating an environment ripe for unrest.

“The economic situation is dire, with Nigerian citizens grappling to make ends meet as the cost of living continues an upward trajectory. Unemployment rates have surged to record levels, businesses are collapsing, and the purchasing power of the average citizen is diminishing at an alarming rate.

“The lack of basic services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare is exacerbating the plight of the people, further contributing to the growing discontent. There is a palpable sense of marginalization and neglect, leading to a collective sense of betrayal towards the government.

“Should these tensions go unchecked, they could give rise to widespread protests, potentially escalating into uncontrollable unrest.”

The youth leader, however, implored the youth to abstain from violent protests or actions that could further aggravate the situation, stressing that violence will only breed further destruction and loss of life, without effectively addressing the root causes of our grievances.

“We advocate for channeling frustrations and grievances through peaceful and constructive means of engagement that can foster positive change. It is imperative that the youth of Nigeria refrain from participating in any protests or demonstrations that could disrupt the nation’s stability.

“Violence and chaos will only deepen our crises and harm our society. Instead, we must harness our energies towards constructive dialogue and engagement with the government to seek sustainable solutions.”

He also called upon the government to take immediate action to alleviate the brewing tensions and avert impending public unrest. The authorities must prioritize the welfare of the citizens, working diligently to improve living conditions for all Nigerians. This includes the creation of job opportunities, enhancement of social welfare programs, and provision of essential services to the needy.

“There is an urgent need for comprehensive reforms across economic, social, and security sectors to foster an environment conducive to growth, development, and prosperity. The government must respond to the needs and concerns of the people, engaging with sincerity, empathy, and a clear commitment to addressing national challenges.

“The time for action is now; failure to act could result in an uncontrollable scenario of public outrage. We urge all Nigerians to maintain calm and composure amidst these adversities. Let us, as a nation, unite to address the challenges we face, and work towards building a better future for current and future generations. Together, we can overcome these hardships and create a more prosperous and equitable society for all.”

Maiyaki Bubu

As Nigeria prepares for a potential nationwide protest on July 29, 2024, concerns over national security have intensified. The protest, driven by youth demands, has the potential to escalate into a significant threat, reminiscent of unrest seen in other African countries. Honourable Tahir Ahmed Muhammed, a prominent aspirant for the position of National Youth Leader under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the government to engage with the youth and address their concerns. Tahir emphasized the importance of dialogue, warning that ignoring these demands could result in dire consequences.

“The government must listen to the youth’s demands and consider them seriously. Addressing these issues is crucial to averting the protest, which, although intended to be peaceful, could be hijacked by elements opposed to progress, potentially turning violent,” Tahir stated.

The underlying grievances fueling the protest are rooted in widespread economic hardship. Citizens are grappling with skyrocketing prices, with essential goods and services increasing by over 50 percent. According to government statistics, a significant portion of the population is mired in multidimensional poverty. Hunger is becoming a pervasive nightmare, and many families are struggling to afford school fees for their children. Insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria, has become a constant topic of discussion, further exacerbating the people’s plight.

The looming protest has raised alarms about the potential destruction of life and property. Tahir’s caution reflects a broader anxiety that even well-intentioned demonstrations can be exploited by opportunistic actors, leading to chaos and violence. Authorities are urged to take preemptive measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens while respecting the rights of individuals to express their grievances peacefully.

The international community watches closely as Nigeria navigates this critical juncture, hoping for a resolution that maintains stability and addresses the underlying issues fueling the unrest.

Maiyaki Bubu

As Nigeria prepares for a potential nationwide protest on July 29, 2024, concerns over national security have intensified. The protest, driven by youth demands, has the potential to escalate into a significant threat, reminiscent of unrest seen in other African countries. Honourable Tahir Ahmed Muhammed, a prominent aspirant for the position of National Youth Leader under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the government to engage with the youth and address their concerns. Tahir emphasized the importance of dialogue, warning that ignoring these demands could result in dire consequences.

“The government must listen to the youth’s demands and consider them seriously. Addressing these issues is crucial to averting the protest, which, although intended to be peaceful, could be hijacked by elements opposed to progress, potentially turning violent,” Tahir stated.

The underlying grievances fueling the protest are rooted in widespread economic hardship. Citizens are grappling with skyrocketing prices, with essential goods and services increasing by over 50 percent. According to government statistics, a significant portion of the population is mired in multidimensional poverty. Hunger is becoming a pervasive nightmare, and many families are struggling to afford school fees for their children. Insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria, has become a constant topic of discussion, further exacerbating the people’s plight.

The looming protest has raised alarms about the potential destruction of life and property. Tahir’s caution reflects a broader anxiety that even well-intentioned demonstrations can be exploited by opportunistic actors, leading to chaos and violence. Authorities are urged to take preemptive measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens while respecting the rights of individuals to express their grievances peacefully.

The international community watches closely as Nigeria navigates this critical juncture, hoping for a resolution that maintains stability and addresses the underlying issues fueling the unrest.

Dan Abel Dan

As Nigeria prepares for a potential nationwide protest on July 29, 2024, concerns over national security have intensified. The protest, driven by youth demands, has the potential to escalate into a significant threat, reminiscent of unrest seen in other African countries. Honourable Tahir Ahmed Muhammed, a prominent aspirant for the position of National Youth Leader under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the government to engage with the youth and address their concerns. Tahir emphasized the importance of dialogue, warning that ignoring these demands could result in dire consequences.

“The government must listen to the youth’s demands and consider them seriously. Addressing these issues is crucial to averting the protest, which, although intended to be peaceful, could be hijacked by elements opposed to progress, potentially turning violent,” Tahir stated.

The underlying grievances fueling the protest are rooted in widespread economic hardship. Citizens are grappling with skyrocketing prices, with essential goods and services increasing by over 50 percent. According to government statistics, a significant portion of the population is mired in multidimensional poverty. Hunger is becoming a pervasive nightmare, and many families are struggling to afford school fees for their children. Insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria, has become a constant topic of discussion, further exacerbating the people’s plight.

The looming protest has raised alarms about the potential destruction of life and property. Tahir’s caution reflects a broader anxiety that even well-intentioned demonstrations can be exploited by opportunistic actors, leading to chaos and violence. Authorities are urged to take preemptive measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens while respecting the rights of individuals to express their grievances peacefully.

The international community watches closely as Nigeria navigates this critical juncture, hoping for a resolution that maintains stability and addresses the underlying issues fueling the unrest.