Author Archives: News All Around

Stephen Kefas Andrew

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a robust response to the statement from the Coalition of North-East Elders Forum (CNEF), which appeared to reject Senator Ali Ndume’s recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement released by its President General, Yerima Shettima, AYCF accused the CNEF of attempting to suppress dissent and freedom of expression, echoing the foundational democratic values enshrined in both national and international covenants.

Senator Ali Ndume recently made pointed remarks alleging that the current administration is composed of “kakistocrats” and “kleptocrats,” suggesting that the government is being led by the least competent and most corrupt individuals primarily focused on embezzling resources.

The AYCF emphasized that while these remarks represent Ndume’s personal opinions, his right to express them is protected and should be respected.

“The attack from CNEF against Senator Ndume is vindictive, unwarranted, and an unacceptable affront to democratic principles of freedom and fair play,” stated Yerima Shettima.

“It is a brutal encroachment on his right to freedom of expression, safeguarded by various international treaties and conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.”

The AYCF also voiced concerns over growing speculations that Senator Ndume might be relieved of his position as Chief Whip of the Senate.

They warned that any further attempts to breach his fundamental right to hold differing views will be vigorously resisted and vehemently challenged.

“Any government that cannot be criticized is a liability,” stated Shettima, urging the North-East elders to desist from their indiscriminate attacks on Senator Ndume, whom they referred to as an eminent hero of the Northern youth.

While the AYCF clarified that it does not currently favor protests, it stressed that Ndume’s observations regarding the current harsh realities faced by Nigerians are apt and timely.

They urged the government to heed these observations for the benefit of all citizens and warned the North-East elders against manipulating and politicizing security issues for their own gain.

“The observations raised by Senator Ndume should be heeded by the government, as they reflect the collective concerns of many Nigerians facing hardships,” the statement concluded.

The AYCF said it remained committed to upholding democratic values and the right to freedom of expression, and call on all stakeholders to adopt a more tolerant and constructive approach to differing viewpoints.

By Suleiman Abbah

The state of education in Zamfara under the current administration of Governor Dauda Lawal has witnessed a downward spiral in just the past one year.

The administration’s lack of focus on education has led to a deteriorating educational system in the state, with schools in disrepair, teachers underpaid and neglected, and students lacking the necessary resources to thrive academically.

This stands in stark contrast to the transformative changes brought about by Lawal’s predecessor Bello Mohammed Matawalle during his tenure.

Matawalle took office in 2019 when Zamfara was facing multiple challenges, including widespread poverty, insecurity, and a failing education system.

However, through strategic planning and dedicated leadership, he was able to turn the tide and prioritize education in the state.

One of his major achievements was the allocation of 19% of the state’s budget to education, the highest provision in Zamfara’s history.

This enabled the government to embark on various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the state.

Another key focus of Matawalle’s administration was the renovation of science schools and the training of science teachers.

This investment in science education not only equipped students with the necessary skills for the future but also helped to bridge the gap in the STEM fields.

Additionally, over 6,000 primary school teachers who had been neglected for years were promoted, and their salary arrears cleared, demonstrating the government’s commitment to valuing and supporting educators.

Furthermore, Matawalle approved the reinstatement of over 500 teachers who had been dismissed by the previous administration, reaffirming his dedication to ensuring a robust and well-equipped teaching workforce.

He also awarded contracts for the construction of over 600 primary school classrooms and provided modern ICT centers to enhance the learning experience for students.

These investments in infrastructure and resources were crucial for creating a conducive learning environment that fosters academic excellence.

Matawalle’s efforts extended beyond just funding, as he also secured a significant intervention fund for Abdu Gusau Polytechnic and facilitated the enlistment of Zamfara State University by the National Universities Commission.

These actions demonstrated Matawalle’s determination to improve the quality of education in the state and provide opportunities for its students to excel.

The impact of Matawalle’s initiatives had not gone unnoticed, as the Federal Government of then President Muhammadu Buhari recognized and commended him for his efforts in moving Zamfara’s education sector to the top position in the North Western Zone.

The then Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwu Emeka Nwajuba, praised Matawalle for his achievements and highlighted the state’s success in the National Common Entrance Examinations.

This acknowledgment from the Federal Government underscores the significant progress made by Matawalle in the education sector.

The Coalition of North-East Elders Forum (CNEF) said the Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District and the Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, Senator Ali Ndume’s twenty years in the National Assembly has neither helped Borno State nor the northern region that has been bedevilled with incessant attacks by insurgents and bandits.

The group, which took a swipe at the lawmaker, over his recent outburst about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ‘s administration, asked why a lawmaker who has not been able to use his position as ranking officer in the Senate to tackle the security challenges in his state and region have the moral right to question the leadership prowess of the President.

Senator Ndume did attack the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying it’s run by kakistocrats—those deemed the least qualified and most unscrupulous citizens—and kleptocrats, who are merely in power to steal.

But in a reaction to the outburst,the group in a Press Statement signed by the Coordinator, Alhaji Ali Ibrahim Sheriff , said it is overtly shocking that Senator Ali Ndume who has been in various committees in the Senate over the past two decades and from a State worst in terms of insecurity could be so insensitive and trivial to personalize issues of governance.

The statement further reads: “During the days of President Buhari, why did he choose to be silent in the midst of heightened problems of insecurity; pervasive hunger, looting of public funds and bad Governance?

“He must account for total sum of money recieved for Constituency projects and intervention funds allocated for members of his Constituency over the twenty years period in the National Assembly.

” If leadership is as easy as that ,we make bold to ask, all these years, how many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) has he trained; educated and empowered with funds allocated to him?

“Ndume is nothing but a liability and economic burden to the good people of Borno State and entire country.”

The group which called on northerners to shun what it termed , “Ndume divisive vituperations” ,vowed to mobilise citizens of his Constituency in Borno State to stop his re-election bid in 2027.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Friday, commended President William Ruto of Kenya for sacking his entire cabinet following widespread anti-government protests by Gen-Zs.

Frank in a statement in Abuja said the action of Ruto which was in fulfillment of one of the demands of the protesters has shown him as a listening President who is ready to embrace new ideas in moving Kenya forward.

He said: “We commend President Ruto for taking this action in the interests of Kenya. We commend him for listening to the Gen-Z protesters. His decision to sack his ministers is no doubt for the greater good of Kenyans.”

He encouraged Ruto to take further urgent steps to implement other demands of the protesters “because they mean well for him and his government in particular and Kenyans in general.”

He appealed to him to release all protesters arrested during the demonstrations who are currently being detained by the police and other security forces as well as compensate families whose loved ones were shot dead by security agents and the injured.

He implored Ruto to capitalise on the opportunity now availed him by the youth upheaval and protest to rebuild and reunite Kenya.

“He must realise that listening to the protesters and implementing their demands does not mean he is a weak president,” he said.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua’s Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, added: “We urge him to bring on board young people that can make impact in the lives of the ordinary Kenyan in his new cabinet.

“He now has an opportunity to correct past mistakes which he is already doing and we want other leaders from the continent to emulate what Ruto has just done by always lending listening ears to the cries and demands of their people.

“We equally pray that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has seen what happened in Kenya and that they are ready to take the steps Ruto has taken by cutting down the present over bloated cost of governance and withdraw their pernicious economic policies or risk the Kenya-style uprising in the country.”

He equally urged the protesters to see the positive results of their action as a win-win for all sides and pardon Ruto for whatever missteps he must have done and work with him for a better Kenya “since the President appears to have learned his lessons and shown remorse by implementing their demands.

“The young people of Kenya have shown that power truly belongs to the people, not to anybody, or individual.

“Listening to the protesters has shown that the voice of the young people counts and that the President is a true leader who is neither weak nor blinded by the allure of power.

“That the President has harkened to the masses of Kenya who elected him into office shows that he is ready to toe the path of reason and work in the interest of the generality of Kenyans moving forward,” Frank said.

He noted that whatever the protesters had done was done in the interest and for the progress of Kenya and not to destroy or destabilise the country.

Going forward, he urged Ruto and the Kenyan Government to consult widely and consider the best interest of Kenyans before taking any decision that may negatively affect the people.

Salim Ahmed

…

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), a prominent organization dedicated to fostering unity and progress in the Northern region of Nigeria, has shed light on the motivations behind the emergence of fake factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Senator Kabiru Marafa and Aminu Sani Jaji.

According to NAN, the recent political realignment involving Senator Abdulaziz Yari and Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle, which has formed a formidable alliance with significant political influence beneficial to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across the northern region, has provoked a sense of threat among figures such as Marafa and Jaji who are the masterminds of orchestrating actions against President Tinubu and his administration in the North.

In a press statement signed by its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN elaborates on the reasons behind Marafa and Jaji’s pent-up jealousies against the President. The forum asserts that both individuals harbor deep-seated grudges against President Tinubu, driving their current machinations.

“Specifically, Marafa is dissatisfied due to his belief that he was excluded from federal government appointments, while Jaji’s grievances stem from not being appointed Speaker of the House of Representatives despite allegedly contributing N10 billion to Tinubu’s campaign,” the group said.

NAN also called for a thorough investigation into the sources of Jaji’s income to verify the origins of such a substantial sum as claimed. They also stress the need to address Jaji’s use of connections with top security officials to gather potentially damaging information against President Tinubu. Additionally, the forum has accused Jaji of financing religious sermons in Friday mosques aimed at undermining the President and emphasized the urgency for swift and decisive action to counter these calculated attacks.

“We are aware of the slanderous actions being financed and conducted under the guise of religious sermons. The President must take swift and decisive action to counter these calculated attacks,” said Suleiman. “The actions of Senator Kabiru Marafa and Aminu Sani Jaji raise serious concerns about the political future of party politics in Nigeria.

The motivations behind their factions within the APC must be thoroughly investigated, and decisive action must be taken to safeguard the unity and progress of the party. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must remain vigilant in the face of these challenges and strive to uphold the values of integrity and unity within his administration.”

NAN’s stance underscores the importance of addressing factionalism within the political landscape to maintain stability and progress in the country. The organization remains committed to supporting measures that promote unity and integrity within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC.

A coalition of Kaduna-based political groups, the Good Governance and Accountability Forum (GGAF), has slammed former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his aides for attempting to discredit the Kaduna State House of Assembly’s probe report, which alleged fraud and misappropriation of funds totaling N423 billion during El-Rufai’s administration.

The group described El-Rufai and his aides as “shameless” and “disrespectful” for accusing the Assembly of fabricating figures and bias, without providing evidence to counter the allegations. The GGAF demanded that El-Rufai and his aides provide facts and figures to refute the allegations, and called on anti-graft agencies to investigate and take action.

The group also announced plans to submit a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on the allegations of misappropriation of funds by El-Rufai.

In a press statement, the Coordinator of the Forum, Comrade Muhammad Jibrin, said: “El-Rufai’s administration embezzled over N423 billion, but instead of providing evidence to counter the allegations, they are resorting to cheap blackmail and intimidation. We will not be deterred in our quest for justice and accountability. We demand that El-Rufai and his aides be held accountable for their actions.”

By Douglas Ekhenghen

It is truly mind-boggling to witness the audacity of Abdulsamad Dasuki, a member of the family of a failed and discredited former National Security Adviser, attempting to downplay the successes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security team in the fight against insecurity. Dasuki, a Peoples Democratic Party member of the House of Representatives, has the nerve to call for the sacking of all security-related appointees from the northern region of the country, despite his own family’s involvement in a financial scandal related to the purchase of arms.
The recent comments made by Dasuki, the brother of former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, regarding the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria have raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. Dasuki, whose brother was implicated in a scandal involving funds meant for addressing the country’s security challenges, has been vocal in his criticism of the Tinubu government’s approach to addressing the issue. However, his criticism is nothing short of hypocritical, as it is clear that his motives are driven by personal biases and a desire to undermine the current administration, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country.
It is important to note that Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser, was at the center of a scandal involving the misappropriation of funds meant for addressing the country’s security challenges. The scandal, which came to light during the previous administration, raised serious questions about the integrity and accountability of those in power. Given this background, it is ironic that Dasuki, the brother of the implicated official, would have the audacity to criticize the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity.
Dasuki’s motives for criticizing the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity are questionable. It is apparent that his comments are driven by personal biases and a desire to discredit the Tinubu government, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country. By using his family’s connection to the previous administration’s scandal as a platform to criticize the current government, Dasuki is engaging in a political game that serves his own interests rather than the interests of the Nigerian people.
The insecurity that plagues our nation today is a direct result of the mismanagement and corruption that characterized the previous administrations, including the one in which Dasuki’s brother served. The looting of the treasury and the theft of defense resources during the 16 years of PDP rule have left a legacy of insecurity that the current administration is working tirelessly to address.
Instead of acknowledging the progress that has been made in combating insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership, Dasuki and his cohorts are intent on sowing discord and discrediting the government for their own political gain. Their actions are not only irresponsible but also dangerous, as they risk destabilizing the country and undermining the efforts of those who are working to restore peace and security.
Dasuki’s criticism of the Tinubu government’s approach to addressing insecurity in Nigeria is not only hypocritical but also misguided. It is evident that the current administration has made significant strides in addressing the security challenges facing the country, including the fight against Boko Haram and other insurgent groups. The government has implemented various strategies and initiatives to enhance security and protect the lives and property of Nigerians. While there is still much work to be done, it is unfair to dismiss these efforts and undermine the progress that has been made.
It is imperative that we see through the political games being played by individuals like Dasuki and hold them accountable for their actions. The security and well-being of our nation should not be used as a pawn in a political power struggle. It is time for us to stand united against those who seek to exploit our vulnerabilities for their own selfish interests. President Tinubu and his security team deserve our support and recognition for their unwavering commitment to keeping our country safe.
In conclusion, Dasuki’s criticism of the Tinubu government’s efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria is hypocritical and misguided. His comments are driven by personal biases and a desire to undermine the current administration, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country. It is important to recognize the progress that has been made in addressing security challenges in Nigeria and to support the government’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.

Nigerians have been called upon to rise in unison and free the nation through the 2027 ballots, from the privileged few that have been frustrating the dream of a truly prosperous nation.

President of the National Youth Alliance (NYA), Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas made the call in a statement signed by his SA Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday July 2, 2024.

“The time is now for Nigerians to reject the status quo and work towards a nation that serves the interests of all its people, not just a privileged few. Only by doing so can Nigeria fulfill the promise of independence and emerge as a truly democratic and prosperous nation,” Ambassador Abbas was quoted.

According to the statement titled, “Nigeria or Nigeria Ltd: A Nation’s Struggle for True Independence” NYA said that since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960, Nigeria’s journey has been a turbulent one.

“The initial euphoria of self-governance was quickly overshadowed by a series of military coups that plunged the nation into political instability.

“The subsequent military regimes and the devastating Biafra War left indelible marks on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. As we examine Nigeria’s trajectory from its independence to the present, we must confront the unsettling theory that foreign interests have covertly manipulated Nigeria’s leadership, fostering corruption and undermining the country’s sovereignty,” it said.

It explained that Nigeria’s path to independence was characterized by the gradual involvement of indigenous people in the political process.

“The 1950s saw the emergence of nationalist movements and political parties, such as the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo. These movements galvanized the Nigerian populace, advocating for self-rule and greater participation in governance.

“By October 1, 1960, Nigeria achieved independence, with Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the Prime Minister. However, the optimism of the early 1960s was short-lived. Ethnic tensions and regional rivalries began to surface, leading to a series of political crises. The first coup d’état in 1966, led by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, marked the beginning of a dark era in Nigeria’s history.

“The 1966 coup was followed by a counter-coup, bringing General Yakubu Gowon to power. The subsequent years were marked by military rule, which saw the suspension of democratic processes and the centralization of power. The most tragic event of this period was the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafra War, which lasted from 1967 to 1970. The war, fought between the Nigerian government and the secessionist state of Biafra, resulted in significant loss of life and economic devastation.

“The war’s end did not bring peace but rather a succession of military governments, each promising reforms but often entrenching corruption and authoritarianism. The military’s grip on power was solidified by foreign interests, who saw in Nigeria’s instability an opportunity to exert influence and control over the country’s vast natural resources,” it recalled.

The frontline youth movement said that the theory that Nigeria’s coups and even the Biafra War were covertly influenced by foreign interests is not without merit.

“Historical evidence suggests that various foreign governments and multinational corporations have, at different times, supported and protected corrupt Nigerian leaders to advance their economic and geopolitical interests. These external forces provided financial and military support to factions within Nigeria, ensuring that compliant leaders remained in power.

“This manipulation extended beyond mere support. Foreign interests actively encouraged corruption by offering safe havens for illicit wealth and facilitating the laundering of stolen assets. The protection of corrupt leaders by foreign governments allowed these leaders to act with impunity, perpetuating a cycle of corruption and mismanagement that has hindered Nigeria’s development,” it lamented.

The group frowned that the concept of “Nigeria Ltd” posits that Nigeria operates more like a profit-driven company than a sovereign nation.

“This analogy aligns with the economic theories of Milton Friedman, who argued that the primary responsibility of a business is to maximize profits for its shareholders. In the context of Nigeria, the “shareholders” are the political elites and their foreign backers, who benefit immensely from the country’s resources, while the “stakeholders” – the Nigerian people – suffer the consequences.

“This profit-driven model explains the persistent exploitation of Nigeria’s wealth, the mismanagement of public funds, and the lack of meaningful development. The elites prioritize their financial gains over the well-being of the populace, resulting in widespread poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and poor public services. The manipulation of ethnic and religious divisions serves as a distraction, preventing the people from uniting against their common oppressors,” the statement stressed.

NYA expressed worries that compounding this issue is the role of religious institutions in Nigeria.

“Religion, which should ideally serve as a source of hope and moral guidance, has often become the “opium of the people.” As famously quoted by Bishop Desmond Tutu, “They gave us their religion and we closed our eyes. When we opened our eyes, we had their bibles and they had our land.” This poignant statement underscores the way religion has been used to pacify the masses while elites continue to exploit the country’s resources.

“Religious leaders often promise divine intervention and miracles, providing a false sense of hope that keeps people distracted from the harsh realities of their socio-economic conditions. In return, these institutions receive substantial financial contributions from their followers, further enriching the religious elite. This dynamic indirectly supports the “Nigeria Ltd” model, as the populace remains oblivious to the looting of their land and property by the political elites. The intoxication of religious fervor blinds many to the systemic corruption and mismanagement that pervades the nation,” it pointed out.

NYA said that in recent years, Africa has experienced a wave of political activism and upheaval reminiscent of the Arab Spring.

” This “African Spring” has seen citizens across the continent rising up against corruption, economic mismanagement, and authoritarianism. One of the most notable examples is Kenya, where widespread protests and rioting led to the overturning of the contentious Finance Bill. The citizens’ collective action demonstrated their power to hold the government accountable and demand economic justice.

“Similarly, countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal have witnessed significant political changes, including military coups and the emergence of young, vibrant leaders with a fresh mindset compared to their predecessors. These leaders are often characterized by their commitment to addressing corruption, improving governance, and prioritizing the needs of their people. This new wave of leadership offers hope for a brighter future and serves as a stark contrast to the entrenched, self-serving political elites that have long dominated African politics,” it assured.

The group therefore, called on Nigerians to wake up to these Machiavellian games that have pitched them against each other under the guise of tribe and religion.

“The true division lies not in ethnic or religious differences but in the chasm between the ruling elite and the ordinary citizens. The elites do not operate under the same rules; they share wealth and power across ethnic and religious lines, united in their exploitation of the masses.

“Figures like Aisha Buhari and other mavericks have called out the old guard for their continued cabalism of Nigerian polity and their proverbial knees on the necks of the Nigerian masses. It is time for Nigerians to recognize that the current system will only change if they stand up and demand accountability. The youth, in particular, must harness their energy and technological savvy to mobilize for a better future,” NYA advised.

By Dr Kabir Lawal Tsafe

Senator Kabiru Marafa used to be known as part of the Zamfara All Progressives Congress (APC) big boys. However, in recent times, he has found himself on the outskirts of the political scene, struggling to regain the relevance he once enjoyed within the party.

Marafa’s fall from grace within the All Progressives Congress (APC) can be attributed to a combination of factors that have led to his marginalization within the party. One of the key reasons for his decline in influence is his betrayal of the party leadership ideals and his refusal to toe the party line.

In the realm of politics, loyalty to one’s party and its core values is often seen as a crucial aspect of a politician’s career. However, there are times when individuals choose to deviate from this path in pursuit of their own personal ambitions. 

Such was the case with Senator Kabiru Marafa, who decided to align himself with a section of the northern Nigerian elite in a bid to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s  2027 bid as accurately insinuated by Senator Shehu Sani recently

Marafa’s decision to go against the established hierarchy of his party, the APC, ultimately backfired. Instead of working within the party’s framework and supporting its leadership, Marafa chose to align himself with individuals like Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Nasir Elrufai and Professor Dikwa, who are among the prominent names in the Anti-Tinubu project. 

This move not only alienated Marafa from the party’s  mainstream, but also pushed him to the margins of irrelevance and political decay. By aligning himself with a faction that is opposed to the party’s leadership, Marafa effectively isolated himself from the mainstream of the party and lost the support of key party members.

Furthermore, Marafa’s decision to undermine Tinubu was seen as a betrayal by many within the party. Tinubu, as one of the founding members of the APC and current Nigerian president,  commands a significant amount of respect and influence within the party. 

By joining the plot against Tinubu, Marafa not only undermined the party’s leadership but also damaged what remains of his own diminshed reputation within the party.

In the end, Marafa’s decision proved to be a costly mistake. Instead of furthering his own political career, Marafa found himself on the fringes of the party, marginalized and irrelevant. 

By choosing to align himself with a faction opposed to the party’s leadership, Senator Kabiru Marafa ultimately sealed his own fate and found himself on the path to political irrelevance and decay. As a result, his voice, which once carried weight and influence, is no longer taken seriously by many within the party, as he is seen as someone who cannot be trusted to uphold the party’s values and principles.

In an attempt to reclaim his lost status within the APC, Marafa has embarked on a campaign to reassert himself by forming a small circle of friends outside Zamfara state and claiming to hold a faction of the APC. However, instead of seeking to align himself with key party figures like Senator Abdulaziz Yari and Defence Minister Bello Natawalle, Marafa has chosen to continue making inconsequential claims of leading a faction that is non-existent. These efforts have so far been met with limited success, as many within the party remain wary of his intentions and skeptical of his motives.

Marafa’s quest to regain relevance within the APC remains an uphill battle.

 The party leadership is unlikely to welcome him back with open arms, given his history of dissent and his tendency to challenge the status quo. Moreover, his reputation as a maverick and a troublemaker precedes him, making it difficult for him to win back the trust and support of his colleagues.

Marafa must make efforts to mend fences with those he has clashed with in the past and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the party’s values and principles. By aligning himself with key party figures and working towards a common goal, Marafa may be able to rebuild his image within the party and regain the trust of his colleagues. However, if he continues on his current path of division and betrayal, Marafa’s fall from grace within the APC is likely to continue, leading to further marginalization and isolation within the party. Only time will tell whether Marafa can once again become relevant within the party, or whether he will remain a lost politician, struggling to find his way back into the fold.