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The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State have separately distanced themselves from claims of a coalition ahead of the August 16 bye-elections, describing the purported alliance as false and misleading.

In a statement signed by the SDP State Chairman, Hon. Adamu Idris, the party dismissed a publication credited to one Hon. Nasiru Maikano, who allegedly announced a partnership between the two parties.

“The said Hon. Nasiru Maikano is neither the chairman nor a representative of the SDP in Kaduna State. He is not a registered member of the party, and no bonafide member of the SDP can be party to such an unholy statement capable of undermining our party’s prospects,” Idris said.

He stressed that the SDP remains independent in the forthcoming polls, fielding Comrade Johnathan Maikaratu Wushiri as its candidate for the Kajuru/Chikun Federal Constituency bye-election. The party also urged voters in Zaria Kewaye and Basawa State Assembly Constituency to disregard any statements from the alleged impostors.

Idris warned that the actions of those behind the coalition claims violate provisions of the SDP’s 2022 constitution (as amended) and would be reported to relevant party organs and security agencies. He called on members to remain law-abiding and comply strictly with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations before, during, and after the elections.

Similarly, the ADC in Kaduna State also denied entering into any alliance with the SDP for the August 16 bye-elections in Kajuru/Chikun Federal Constituency, Zaria Kewaye, and Sabon Gari Constituencies.

By Mike Odeh James

KADUNA

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has issued a scathing condemnation of what it described as a “recalcitrant and illegitimate group” parading itself as the Kaduna State chapter of the MBF under the false chairmanship of one Mr. Samuel Wuya.

In a sharply worded press statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the MBF, the Forum warned the general public, particularly the ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt residing in Kaduna State, to steer clear of a purported congress being convened by the fake faction on August 9, 2025, at Merry Gold Hotel, Kaduna.

The event, promoted in a circulated notice signed by one ‘Comrade’ Chance Cletus, has been dismissed by the MBF as a deliberate attempt to sow confusion and hijack the Forum’s legitimate structures.

“The attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has once again been drawn to the activities of a recalcitrant group… Unfortunately, our genuine interventions have been met with arrogance, disregard, and outright contempt,” the statement reads.

Reaffirming its leadership structure in Kaduna State, the MBF declared that Air Commodore John Bako Ajeye (Rtd.) remains the only duly elected and recognised chairman of the MBF Kaduna State Chapter, having emerged through a valid congress convened by authorised NWC officials on June 22, 2025, at BSS Suites, Barnawa, Kaduna.

Mr. John Haruna was also reaffirmed as the chapter’s legitimate secretary, alongside other chapter officers endorsed by the national leadership.

In a move that signals the gravity of the situation, the MBF has officially called on the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Kaduna Command and the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State to investigate and halt the actions of what it described as a “potential threat to public peace” posed by the impostor group.

“This impostor exco led by Mr. Wuya is not only illegal but dangerous. Their activities are disruptive and undermine the integrity of the MBF’s genuine efforts to unify and protect the interests of the Middle Belt peoples,” Binniyat warned.

He urged members of the MBF across Kaduna State to remain calm and vigilant, noting that the Forum has full confidence in the ability of security agencies to “decisively address this act of mischief and bring it to a logical conclusion.”

This public repudiation comes amid broader concerns over the infiltration and sabotage of sociopolitical platforms in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where regional identity and representation remain fiercely contested.

With this bold move, the MBF has drawn a clear line between legitimate advocacy and counterfeit operations, warning that it will not tolerate impostors attempting to derail its mission or confuse its loyal membership.

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has said that the root cause of Northern Nigeria’s persistent underdevelopment lies not with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but with past Northern leaders who failed to use their time in power to transform the region.

Speaking when members of the Tijjaniyya Grassroots Mobilization and Empowerment Initiative of Nigeria (TIGMEIN) paid him a courtesy visit at his Kaduna residence, Senator Sani said the North gained little during the eight-year administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, despite widespread expectations.

“We had Buhari in power for eight years, but the North remained backward and impoverished. Industries like KTL, UNTL, Nortex, Arewa Textiles, and others were abandoned. Our leaders lacked vision and pursued development only for their families,” he said.

The former lawmaker lamented the dashed hopes of many northerners who believed that electing “one of their own” in 2015 would bring significant improvements. Instead, he said, the region continues to suffer from poverty, insecurity, unemployment, and decaying infrastructure.

According to Sani, it is both deceptive and unjust to blame President Tinubu, who has only been in office for two years, for problems that were long in the making.

“The North’s problems didn’t begin two years ago when Tinubu took over. They stem from selfish power struggles and missed opportunities. Former leaders had the chance to fix education, healthcare, and security, but they failed,” he said.

He accused some of the past Northern leaders of looting public resources, abandoning critical projects, and neglecting to represent the true interests of the region in national development efforts.

“Today, they want to deceive you that Tinubu is your problem. But ask yourself — did these bad hospitals, failed roads, insecurity, and poverty start just 24 months ago? These leaders were in power and failed to act. Some even stopped attending Arewa meetings,” Sani noted.

He also cited neglected infrastructure projects like the Kaduna–Abuja road, Minna–Abuja road, Lokoja–Abuja expressway, Ajaokuta Steel Company, and the Mambilla Power Project as clear indicators of leadership failure.

In a final message, Senator Sani urged the people of the North to resist propaganda aimed at recycling failed politicians, warning that returning them to power would yield no meaningful change.

“No matter how bad things may seem now, know this — your brothers from the North failed you. And if they return to power, nothing will change. The problem is not Tinubu — it is our selfish Northern leaders who had power and wasted it,” he concluded.

Sani, however, commended TIGMEIN for its grassroots empowerment drive, particularly its efforts to equip women and youths with skills for self-reliance and employment, describing it as a critical step towards reducing poverty and promoting peace in the region.

The Sokoto Democratic Youth Forum (SDYF) has come down hard on former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent comments seen as an attack on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a visit to Sokoto.

The Forum accused El-Rufai of fueling regional discord and reminded the public of his past controversial remarks about the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, as well as the arrest of Islamic cleric Sheikh Bello Yabo.

In a statement issued to journalists on Saturday, the Forum expressed dismay at El-Rufai’s political maneuvers, accusing him of attempting to manipulate northern sentiments against the President. They described his campaign against Tinubu as selfish and rooted in personal grievances rather than genuine concern for the people.

“We have not forgotten how El-Rufai insulted the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, nor have we forgotten how he ordered the arrest of respected Sokoto-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Bello Yabo. His visit to Sokoto is a provocation we totally reject,” the Forum stated.

The group criticized El-Rufai’s alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in what they described as a premature and desperate move to unseat President Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

“There is no amount of insult or mobilisation that will discourage the average northerner from supporting President Tinubu. We have seen the bold steps he has taken to recover the economy, enhance security, and improve agricultural productivity across the country,” the statement read.

The Forum emphasized that Northern youths are now more politically aware and will not be manipulated by El-Rufai’s political theatrics. They called on youths across the 19 Northern states to disregard what they described as El-Rufai’s “failed coalition” and “personal vendetta.”

“Just because he didn’t get a ministerial appointment, El-Rufai has chosen to fight President Tinubu under the guise of a false coalition. We want to categorically state that we are in full support of the South completing its constitutionally guaranteed two-term tenure of eight years.”

The Forum concluded by reaffirming their commitment to national unity and democratic stability, stressing that political mischief will not derail the progress already made.

Kaduna, Nigeria — The Kaduna Central Stakeholders Forum has issued a stinging critique of Senator Lawal Adamu, the lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, accusing him of failing to provide tangible legislative representation and deceiving his constituents with what they termed “superficial social media antics.”

In a statement signed by the Forum’s Coordinator, Dr. Mustapha Ibrahim, the group condemned Senator Adamu—popularly known as “LA”—for substituting serious lawmaking with “hollow digital activism,” particularly through his repeated Facebook commentaries.

“Someone who can’t stand up in the Senate and speak on behalf of his people is pretending to be doing well by simply posting on Facebook,” the statement read. “This is an insult to the intelligence of the people who voted him into office.”

The backlash follows a recent Facebook post by Senator Adamu in which he criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for allegedly abandoning the long-suffering Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. In the post, the senator lamented:
“Renewed agony. You abandoned the Abuja-Kaduna road—a very important road that connects the economic growth of the North and Southern Nigeria—yet you are spending over 700 billion naira on an existing airport.”

While the comment garnered engagement from some online followers, the stakeholders dismissed it as political showmanship lacking in legislative weight. They argued that real change for Kaduna Central cannot be achieved through viral posts but through deliberate advocacy, active participation in Senate debates, and policy formulation that addresses insecurity, infrastructure decay, and youth unemployment plaguing the district.

“Representation is not a Facebook popularity contest. Our people need action, not empty online rhetoric,” the Forum emphasized, urging Senator Adamu to rise to the occasion and use his platform in the National Assembly to make substantial contributions rather than “outsourcing his responsibilities to the algorithm.”

The stakeholders also expressed concern that despite the pressing challenges in the district—including rampant bandit attacks, infrastructural decline, and worsening poverty—Senator Adamu has not tabled any motion or sponsored meaningful legislation to address these crises.

“This is not the time for theatrical outrage on social media. Kaduna Central deserves serious, articulate, and focused representation that can bring results, not just noise,” the statement concluded.

As political analysts weigh in on the senator’s performance, many agree that the growing tension between digital advocacy and real-world legislative impact is becoming a defining test for lawmakers across Nigeria. Whether Senator Adamu will heed the call for deeper engagement remains to be seen.

The Northern Professionals and Academics Forum (NPAF) has thrown its weight behind Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, for their recent public endorsements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration—particularly its developmental impact across Northern Nigeria.

Their comments were made at a two-day interactive session on government-citizen engagement, organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) and held at Arewa House, Kaduna.

During the forum, Governor Uba Sani commended President Tinubu for his unprecedented support to state governments, describing him as the most cooperative leader in Nigeria’s democratic history. “No Nigerian President has supported governors like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said. “No governor will oppose him.”

Similarly, NSA Ribadu emphasized improvements in security across Kaduna and its environs, attributing the success to joint efforts by federal and state security agencies. He noted a significant decline in banditry and kidnapping, which has boosted public confidence in road travel and local economic activity.

Responding to critics of the governor and the NSA, the Northern Professionals and Academics Forum issued a strongly worded statement defending both men’s comments. Signed by the Forum’s Head of Communications, Hajiya Fatima Bello, the statement described the remarks as “honest and factual,” reflective of tangible progress in the region under Tinubu’s leadership.

“Those attacking them for speaking the truth are nothing but enemies of the North,” the Forum declared.

According to NPAF, governors now have more resources to invest in public services and meet salary obligations without delays. “It is evident that under President Tinubu, there is a renewed focus on infrastructure, health, education, and security in Northern Nigeria,” the statement noted.

The Forum praised the administration’s “multi-dimensional approach” to governance, calling it a model for inclusive development and national unity. “We salute Governor Uba Sani and Malam Nuhu Ribadu for highlighting these gains, which align with our assessments as professionals and scholars dedicated to Northern Nigeria’s advancement,” the statement added.

NPAF, however, cautioned that some individuals within the region are attempting to undermine the government’s efforts for parochial reasons. It urged political and community leaders to rise above sentiments and support constructive progress.

With over 1,500 members, the Northern Professionals and Academics Forum is a non-partisan coalition of scholars, researchers, and development practitioners committed to policy advocacy, research-driven reforms, and socio-economic growth in Northern Nigeria.

By Christian Simon

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has received an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD Honoris Causa) from the University of Port Harcourt, sparking accolades from the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) for what it called his “fearless and transformative” leadership.

The honor, conferred on Saturday, July 26, 2025, recognizes the governor’s commitment to public service, equity, and inclusive governance that has reshaped Adamawa State.

Forum Applauds Cultural Justice
In its congratulatory message, signed by President Dr. Pogu Bitrus, the MBF praised Fintiri for his bold interventions in correcting historical cultural imbalances. These include creating the Ganye and Mboi Chiefdoms and upgrading several traditional institutions, a move the forum said affirmed “cultural dignity and self-determination for minority groups.”

A Model for Good Governance
The MBF further highlighted the governor’s achievements in road rehabilitation, education reforms, school feeding programs, youth empowerment, and peace-building initiatives. It noted that Fintiri’s administration has become a model of responsive governance not only for Adamawa but for Nigeria at large.

“Governor Fintiri is a son of the Middle Belt who inspires confidence and pride with his inclusive policies and fearless leadership,” Dr. Bitrus said, urging him to remain resolute in his nation-building efforts.

With this recognition, Fintiri joins a select list of Nigerian leaders celebrated for combining political vision with tangible grassroots impact.

The Youth Reformation and Leadership Skills Development Foundation recently conducted independent enquiries regarding allegations levelled against the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, specifically focusing on personnel pay, allowances, and promotions. Our investigations aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Nigerian Army and the initiatives undertaken to enhance the welfare of its troops.

Commitment to Personnel Development

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has consistently demonstrated a robust commitment to uplifting the Nigerian Army through comprehensive training and retraining programs. These initiatives ensure that soldiers are adequately equipped to perform their duties and are prepared to meet future challenges. The focus on continuous professional development is essential for maintaining operational readiness and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Army.

Structured Promotion Procedures

Promotions within the Nigerian Army are strictly governed by well-defined guidelines that prioritize merit, performance, and available vacancies, as detailed in the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen 2024. The Chief of Army Staff has steadfastly upheld these standards, ensuring that promotions are awarded based on hard work, efficiency, and compliance with established criteria.

Improved Pay and Allowances

During General Oluyede’s leadership, significant strides have been made in ensuring the prompt payment of salaries and addressing any outstanding arrears. The recent increase in Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) exemplifies the Army’s commitment to adequately compensating its personnel for their dedicated service. This measure not only boosts morale but also reflects an understanding of the financial challenges that soldiers and their families face.

Enhanced Living Conditions

The Chief of Army Staff has prioritized the construction and renovation of soldiers’ accommodations, hospitals, schools, and recreational areas. Such improvements are vital for fostering a supportive environment that promotes the health and well-being of service members and their families. By investing in essential facilities and amenities, General Oluyede aims to enhance the quality of life for troops.

Findings from Our Independent Assessment

Our independent fact-finding mission allowed us to engage in discussions with personnel across various military formations. The feedback received during these interactions provided valuable insight into the current state of the Nigerian Army.

Commendations and Appreciation

The findings reveal widespread commendation and appreciation for the initiatives implemented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. Personnel expressed satisfaction with his leadership style and acknowledged the tangible improvements in their working conditions and quality of life. Many voiced their loyalty and commitment to the Army and the nation while also expressing hopes for ongoing enhancements to their well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, remains dedicated to the welfare of its personnel. The ongoing initiatives in training, promotion, pay adjustments, and facility improvements reflect a genuine commitment to excellence. The Army values the support and dedication of its personnel, and together, we will continue to pursue a more effective and prosperous service for the benefit of the nation.

E-Signed

Comrade Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu Director General

A coalition of civil society organizations, under the banner of the Coalition for Justice and Equity Forum, has urged the United States Government to disregard a petition seeking a visa ban against the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Monday Okpebholo.

According to a statement jointly signed by the group’s Chairman, Comrade Peter Okafor, and Secretary, Comrade Musa Ndanusa, the petition — allegedly filed by unnamed political actors — is a politically charged ploy intended to derail the developmental efforts and growing achievements of the Okpebholo administration in Edo State.

“The petition is not only malicious but a blatant attempt to weaponize international diplomacy to score local political points,” the statement reads. “Governor Okpebholo has shown leadership, accountability, and a genuine commitment to advancing the well-being of the people of Edo State. Targeting him with a visa ban under the guise of unsubstantiated allegations is both unfair and damaging.”

The petition in question reportedly calls for travel restrictions against the governor and his immediate family members, which, if enacted, would prohibit them from entering the United States.

However, the Coalition stressed that the United States and other foreign governments must be cautious not to allow themselves to be dragged into Nigeria’s internal political battles.

“It is important that foreign governments, including the United States, recognize the political undertones of such petitions. Otherwise, we risk encouraging undue external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs,” the group warned.

They further cautioned that acting on politically motivated petitions could set a troubling precedent where diplomatic tools are abused for electoral or partisan gains. The group emphasized that international policies and sanctions must be rooted in verifiable facts and clear violations, not on conjecture or politically orchestrated narratives.

“We support global standards for justice and human rights, but those standards must not be manipulated for political witch-hunts,” the Coalition stated.

While reiterating their support for global norms of transparency and human rights, the Coalition insisted that the U.S. must uphold the principles of fairness, due process, and non-interference, especially in situations emerging from politically sensitive environments.

The civil society forum also urged other international partners and diplomatic missions in Nigeria to exercise due diligence in vetting politically inclined petitions and ensure they do not become inadvertent tools of political destabilization.

Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office amid a wave of political realignment in Edo State, has been praised by various stakeholders for his efforts in infrastructure, education, and rural development. His rising popularity ahead of the next election cycle has reportedly attracted stiff opposition from political rivals, some of whom are suspected to be behind the petition.

The Coalition concluded by urging the U.S. Government to “see through the smokescreen” and remain focused on partnerships that promote genuine democratic progress and accountability.

Northern based group, Northern Frontiers for Buhari (NFB) has raised allegations about how Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, betrayed the trust of the late President Muhammadu Buhari through sustained criticism and legal confrontations that, according to a civic group, weakened the cohesion of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released to the press by Northern Frontiers for Buhari (NFB)and signed by Comrade Murtala Musa Daura, the group alleged that El-Rufai’s relationship with Buhari, once seen as close and politically strategic, degenerated into public opposition, policy defiance, and subtle sabotage—actions they described as acts of betrayal.

“One such example,” the group said, “was when El-Rufai dragged the Federal Government under Buhari to court over issues related to federal appointments and resource control. Legal records show a governor persistently at odds with the central government—even when it was controlled by his own party.”

The group emphasized that this legal resistance came at a time when Buhari’s administration needed unwavering loyalty from state governors to address pressing economic and security challenges. “El-Rufai’s posture was seen by insiders as a deep betrayal that undermined internal party unity,” the statement read.

They also recalled that in 2023, just months before Buhari’s tenure ended, El-Rufai openly condemned the controversial naira redesign policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), labeling it “senseless” and “ill-timed.” He blamed Buhari’s economic team for worsening the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

In a defiant move, El-Rufai’s Kaduna State government instructed residents to continue using the old naira notes, in direct opposition to federal directives—a stance widely interpreted as an act of rebellion against the presidency.

“Political watchers saw this not just as resistance to policy but a public rejection of Buhari’s leadership—especially shocking, coming from someone believed to have risen politically through Buhari’s support,” the statement added.

The group further alleged that El-Rufai was part of strategic political meetings that backed individuals within the APC who were critical of Buhari’s inner circle. Citing leaked memos, they claimed El-Rufai once described Buhari as “detached” and “surrounded by incompetent loyalists.”

Although El-Rufai never formally distanced himself from Buhari’s administration, his statements and political maneuvers suggested a calculated effort to reposition himself as Buhari’s influence began to wane.

“From being one of Buhari’s most trusted allies and a pillar in the 2015 APC electoral victory, El-Rufai morphed into a sharp critic and political opportunist. His transformation has been described by many as a textbook case of political betrayal,” the statement concluded.

The group also criticized El-Rufai’s continued political posturing even after Buhari’s passing. “El-Rufai is simply an opportunist who hid under Buhari’s political goodwill to pursue his own ambition. Even in death, Buhari’s legacy is still being trampled on by people like him.”