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By Christian Simon

Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has withdrawn allegations previously made against former Zamfara State Governor and current Minister of State for Defense, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, admitting that the group was misinformed by political opponents.

At a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, CNF Chairman Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed declared that the earlier statements were based on misleading information aimed at tarnishing Matawalle’s image.

“I wish to unequivocally state that I was misled by the information presented to me, and the content of the press text was blown out of proportion,” Mohammed stated. “It was a political witch hunt, deliberately orchestrated and propagated by the opposition who are envious of the Minister’s achievements.”

The chairman had earlier urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Matawalle for alleged financial impropriety during his tenure as governor, but has now retracted the call, labeling it part of a broader political strategy.

Mohammed praised Matawalle’s leadership in Zamfara, citing numerous achievements across critical sectors including security, infrastructure, health, education, and economic development.

He highlighted key projects such as the construction of a new airport, major road projects, water system improvements, and the procurement of over 200 Hilux vehicles and ambulances. He also noted the installation of solar-powered streetlights in the state capital and the establishment of primary healthcare centers in all 147 wards.

In education and technology, the former governor was credited with settling examination backlogs for NECO and WAEC, and establishing a Digital World ICT Center and a Command and Control Room in Gusau.

Mohammed also mentioned investments in infrastructure such as the renovation of the State House of Assembly, construction of a governor’s lodge in Kaduna, and the acquisition of Best Premier Hotel in Abuja as a state asset.

The CNF chairman alleged that the Zamfara State Government had released over two billion naira to fund a smear campaign against Matawalle, whom he described as a political threat to the current administration in the state.

“We call on the general public to disregard such toxic news and any future press conferences sponsored to malign the Minister,” he said. “Matawalle to the best of our knowledge did well as Governor and is presently doing extremely well in the security sector towards actualizing the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu.”

Mohammed concluded with an appeal to Nigerians to support the administration’s vision: “We deeply acknowledge and commend the efforts of this administration in restructuring and ultimately building a new Nigeria.”

ENDS

By Grace Manaya

A prominent youth advocacy group in Zamfara State, Zamfara Youth for Progress (ZYP), has strongly condemned what it describes as a politically-driven plot to discredit the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, warning that such moves could undermine the ongoing progress in the fight against insecurity across the North.

In a statement released to the media on Monday and signed by its chairman, Tijjani Musa Tsafe, the group alleged that a press conference was being planned by certain individuals, purportedly sponsored by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, to malign the image and efforts of Minister Matawalle.

“We hereby issue this statement as a clarion call to the youth and citizens of Zamfara, urging them to reject any attempts to destabilize the ongoing fight against insecurity in our region,” the group stated.

According to the youth group, the North—especially Zamfara State—has witnessed a significant reduction in banditry and other violent crimes, thanks to the focused and strategic operations led by Minister Matawalle in collaboration with the military and other security agencies.

Chairman Tijjani Musa Tsafe noted that several notorious bandit leaders have been neutralized under Matawalle’s leadership, resulting in the restoration of relative peace to many communities that were once under siege.

“It is imperative that we recognize and celebrate these achievements rather than allow ourselves to be drawn into divisive politics that serve only the interests of a few,” he said.

The group criticized the alleged plan to host a press conference targeting the Minister as “ill-timed, unpatriotic, and a distraction from the urgent task of securing the region.” According to ZYP, the individuals and groups behind the move are “disorganized, unrepresentative, and motivated solely by personal ambition and the desire for public recognition.”

“They are hungry for attention and recognition, but their actions threaten to derail the progress we have made in combating insecurity,” the statement added.

The group emphasized that Zamfara—and by extension, the entire North—cannot afford any distractions at this critical time when real gains are being recorded in the war against banditry.

“We call upon these non-existent groups to desist from their misguided plans. The people of Zamfara deserve leaders who prioritize the welfare of their constituents above personal ambitions,” Tsafe said.

He urged political actors to allow Minister Matawalle and the Federal Government the space and support needed to continue executing effective security strategies that are already showing results. “The stakes are too high, and the consequences of such distractions could be dire for our communities.”

The youth group went further to describe Matawalle as a “beacon of hope for the North,” noting that his leadership and commitment have brought tangible changes to a region long plagued by insecurity.

“The reduction in banditry and violence is not merely a statistic; it is a testament to the lives saved and the families reunited,” the statement said. “As a community, we must rally behind him and support his efforts, for he is now the only remaining hope for the Northerners.”

ZYP concluded by urging citizens to remain vigilant and united against any schemes meant to destabilize the fragile peace currently enjoyed in many parts of the North.

“We must focus our energies on supporting those who are genuinely working to improve our lives rather than engaging in futile political squabbles,” the statement concluded. “Let us stand together in solidarity, championing the cause of peace and security for Zamfara and the North as a whole.”

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By Ada Odeh

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a state-sponsored smear campaign allegedly being orchestrated by the Zamfara State Government to discredit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the forum alleged that approximately two billion naira has been released to certain groups to hold press conferences and circulate media content aimed at tarnishing the image of Minister Matawalle, a former governor of Zamfara State, and to question his appointment into President Tinubu’s cabinet.

Comrade Paul stated that the forum, known for promoting peace and national unity, viewed the alleged campaign as politically motivated and dangerous to national cohesion. He accused certain political actors within Zamfara of instigating the media assaults due to their fears over Matawalle’s growing national influence.

“These campaigns of calumny are not grounded in evidence,” the statement read. “They are a deliberate attempt to destroy the reputation of a man who has dedicated himself to addressing Nigeria’s deep security challenges.”

According to the NSCF, the campaign includes plans to pressure the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen investigations into Matawalle’s tenure as governor—despite the lack of new evidence or legal grounds.

The group argued that such efforts are meant to weaken the Defence Minister’s credibility and distract him from his national responsibilities. It warned that the political attacks are not only unfair but could also undermine ongoing security operations in the North.

“Matawalle’s appointment as Minister of State for Defence came at a time when Nigeria urgently needed a hands-on approach to rising insecurity,” Comrade Paul said. “His experience as a former governor of a crisis-ridden state gives him a practical understanding of the threats facing our people.”

NSCF further claimed that the coordinated attacks appear to coincide with intensifying political maneuverings in Zamfara State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The forum alleged that these smear tactics are designed to weaken Matawalle’s influence both within the state and nationally.

“The timing of these attacks is too strategic to ignore. Political actors are clearly preparing for the next elections and are using these campaigns to eliminate perceived obstacles,” the statement continued.

Beyond the politics, the forum expressed concern that the continued circulation of falsehoods and half-truths could further divide the country at a time when national unity is essential.

“This isn’t just about one man,” Comrade Paul warned. “The kind of divisive rhetoric being peddled by these groups has serious implications for our national security. It creates distractions and undermines confidence in the government’s security agenda.”

He stressed that the fight against insecurity must be devoid of political interference, especially in states like Zamfara, which have been ravaged by banditry and violent crimes.

“We cannot afford to let personal ambitions sabotage the collective goal of peace and stability,” he added.

The NSCF called on law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian Police and relevant security institutions, to investigate the funding and origin of the defamatory campaigns. It argued that spreading disinformation for political gain should be treated as a form of political violence.

“This is a deliberate assault on democracy and governance,” Paul said. “Those responsible must be identified and held to account.”

Zamfara has long been a flashpoint in Nigeria’s security crisis. Frequent clashes between state and federal officials over how best to tackle insecurity have fueled tensions. Despite this, Matawalle’s appointment to the federal cabinet was seen by many as a step toward synergy and more effective policy coordination.

In a previous statement, Matawalle dismissed the accusations as baseless, politically charged, and designed to derail his work. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the nation and commitment to working with all stakeholders to secure Nigeria.

“My focus has always been on the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” Matawalle said. “These distractions will not deter me from my mandate.”

The NSCF ended its statement with a broader warning: that unchecked misinformation and politically motivated attacks can corrode public trust and weaken democratic institutions.

“As the political climate heats up ahead of 2027, we must be vigilant. We must put Nigeria first,” the forum stated. “Unity and collaboration, not division and deceit, will deliver peace to this nation.”

ENDS

The Kaduna Youths for Peace and Development (KYPD) group has denied reports of the arrest of Nura Usman, a self acclaimed youth activist and advocate for good governance, by the Kaduna government.

According to the group ,Usman was invited by the police to explain a malicious Facebook post, but he evaded arrest and switched off his phone to create a false narrative.

Sahara Reporters claimed Usman was abducted and tortured by security operatives over his Facebook posts criticizing government policies.

But in a reaction, KYPD denies Usman’s arrest and torture, calling the report false and a cheap blackmail.The group claimed Usman posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state.

In a Statement jointly signed by the Chairman,Comrade Musa Lere and Secretary,Comrade Joseph Maigari the group which expressed sadness over
the Sahara Reporters’ story on Kaduna Government Critic, Nura Usman Abducted, Tortured Over Facebook Post As Wife reported is nothing but false.

It stated further, “He was never arrested and still on the run.He is running away from the law. He posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state. He couldn’t substantiate his claim. His invitation by the security operatives has nothing to do with Kaduna State Government as reported.”

Nura Usman had posted on Facebook handle:”Information reaching my desk just now has revealed that some aides of a governor from Kaduna State have met with some selected student leaders of the state-owned university.

“These aides have commissioned the student leaders to hold a press conference and publicly condemn the ongoing strike by lecturers, who are urging the state government to fulfill outstanding demands after multiple unmet promises.

“Sources indicate that the student leaders have received the sum of N20,000 from the aides in question to facilitate this press conference. We shall see”.

On those behind Nura Usman inciting post ,the group averred,” We see him as someone allegedly being sponsored by former Kaduna State Governor,Mal. Nasiru Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

However, the Sahara Reporters quoted , a petition dated May 2, 2025,where he stated that ” a law firm alleged that Mr. Usman was abducted on the night of April 30 by heavily armed operatives of Operation Fushin Kada, a joint security task force comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and other agencies.

“The law firm in the petition claimed the arrest was ordered by powerful officials within the Kaduna State Government, allegedly in retaliation for Facebook posts made by Mr. Usman on April 28 and 29 that criticized certain government policies.

“This is untrue and should be disregard by the public.”it stressed.

A former Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, has lambasted Senate President Godswill Akpabio, asking him to directly address the sexual harassment allegations levelled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and others, rather than hiding behind what he described as “hired blackmailers and image launderers.”

Abdullahi made the call while referencing the recent public campaign led by one Professor Mgbake, who has emerged as a vocal critic of Senator Natasha.

He accused Mgbake of peddling falsehoods and engaging in a calculated effort to distract from the serious allegations against the Senate President.

“While Mgbake publicly denied any link to the Senate President, she contradicted herself by revealing Senator Akpabio’s private phone number during her media attacks,” Abdullahi said, adding that such an act strongly suggests coordination between her and Akpabio’s camp.

He described Mgbake’s involvement as “a desperate media campaign” to shield the Senate President from accountability, urging Nigerians not to be distracted by what he termed “a circus of deception.”

Abdullahi further raised concerns about Mgbake’s reputation, citing past allegations of fraud and deception.

He referenced multiple online reports, including a Nairaland thread labelling her a con artist, and an investigative piece by Secrets Reporter, which accused her of defrauding clients using front companies.

He also linked her to a recent smear campaign against Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, shared on her Facebook page.

“It is both disgraceful and cowardly for a high-ranking public officer like the Senate President to associate with individuals of such questionable reputation,” Abdullahi said. “Rather than defend himself with honour, Akpabio has chosen to hide behind people whose public records are smeared with controversy and criminal allegations.”

He also cast doubt on the credibility of Mgbake’s academic qualifications, saying her claim to a professorship remains unverified.

“It is unfortunate that a matter as sensitive and serious as sexual harassment is being reduced to a media circus involving paid agents and individuals who themselves lack public trust,” he added.

Abdullahi concluded by urging Senator Akpabio to respond to the allegations with the dignity and transparency expected of a national leader.

“This is about integrity and accountability. No Nigerian, no matter how highly placed should be above scrutiny,” he said.

“The Senate President must rise to the occasion and prove his innocence through facts, not hired propaganda.”

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has called on Nigerians to ignore what it described as “sponsored groups” mobilized to discredit the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group said Kyari had served the nation with dedication and patriotism, and therefore did not deserve the wave of attacks being orchestrated against him.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service, as is the practice in most developed countries,” the group stated.

The FGGN expressed disappointment that the protesters had failed to acknowledge Kyari’s significant contributions, particularly his efforts to revive the country’s ailing refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

Describing Kyari as the most outstanding GCEO in the history of NNPCL, the group dismissed those behind the attacks as “jobless individuals with no vision for the future.”

The statement, signed by its Chairman, Comrade Bala Usman Sani, highlighted some of Kyari’s key achievements during his tenure. It noted that Kyari inherited a struggling NNPC but succeeded in transforming it into a more efficient and credible institution.

“He was recognized as the Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022 by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria,” the statement noted. “He maintained a national strategic fuel reserve that served the country effectively during fuel shortages and worked tirelessly to stem the smuggling of petroleum products across borders.”

The group also credited Kyari with encouraging private investments in refinery development—such as the Dangote Refinery and other modular refinery projects—and for pushing forward the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries.

It added that Kyari played a pivotal role in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which led to the successful incorporation of NNPC under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

“Under Kyari, the national oil company recorded significant progress, including increased domestic natural gas consumption, an oil production boost to 1.8 million barrels per day, and the revival of two major refineries,” the statement read.

The group also pointed to the introduction of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda under Kyari’s leadership, which it said helped address inefficiencies and restore public trust in the national oil firm.

FFGN concluded its statement by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not allow “politically motivated distractions” to undermine the achievements of those who have genuinely served the country.

By Victoria Odele

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a stern warning to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding what it describes as a potentially costly political miscalculation — accepting Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State into the party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN urged the APC to exercise “prudence and foresight” as speculation grows over Governor Lawal’s possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) amid mounting political pressure.

The group expressed concern that Governor Lawal’s rumoured move to the APC is not based on shared ideology or commitment to the party’s principles but rather as a tactical escape from rising political threats. Chief among these threats are the influential Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor Senator Abdulaziz Yari — two powerful figures who have consolidated their influence within the APC and could pose a formidable obstacle to Lawal’s re-election ambitions.

“The dynamics of Zamfara’s political arena are fraught with challenges,” the statement reads. “It is evident that Governor Lawal’s position is increasingly precarious, and his desperation to find political refuge should not be mistaken for strength.”

NAN argues that Dauda Lawal’s entry into the APC would be more of a liability than an asset. They accuse him of having a controversial track record that may weaken the party’s internal cohesion at a critical time when unity is essential for electoral success.

“His political value is questionable,” NAN stated. “His inclusion could sow discord and division within the party ranks. The APC must consider the implications of aligning with a leader whose political capital is clearly waning.”

The organization warned that embracing Lawal could alienate core supporters, tarnish the APC’s reputation, and send the wrong message about the party’s direction and values.

“Instead of strengthening the APC, his presence could ignite factional tensions and destabilize the political equilibrium in Zamfara and beyond. This is not the kind of distraction the party can afford as it prepares for future electoral contests.”

NAN concluded by urging the APC to stay focused on grooming credible, grassroots-oriented leaders who reflect the aspirations of the northern people and can drive sustainable progress.

“We urge the APC to heed this warning and prioritize the collective interests of our people over individual ambitions. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the progress and prosperity of the N

Yosef Moses

A northern-based advocacy group, Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing not only to the North but to Nigeria as a whole, citing his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation’s capital.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a visionary decision in appointing Wike as FCT Minister, asserting that the appointment was akin to “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

In a statement issued by the Speaker of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group applauded Wike’s pragmatic approach to governance, especially in addressing urban development challenges and security issues in Abuja.

“Since assuming office, Wike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, taking bold steps to address illegal developments, encroachments on public land, and persistent security lapses. His actions reflect a deep commitment to restoring the Abuja master plan and enforcing long-neglected laws,” Danbature said.

He highlighted Wike’s firm measures, including the demolition of unauthorized structures and the removal of street beggars, as necessary and long overdue. According to him, these reforms have reinvigorated public confidence in the FCT administration’s capacity to manage the capital effectively.

The group also commended Wike’s collaboration with neighboring states in tackling insecurity

By Likita Ekani

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has strongly criticized the reported plan by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal Dare, to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as an act of fear and political desperation.

In a statement signed by the forum’s chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group said the governor’s anticipated move is not based on principles or a desire to deliver better governance but rather on anxiety over the growing political influence of APC stalwarts in the state—specifically the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor, Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC,” the NSCF said. “This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State.”

The forum said Governor Lawal has shown himself to be a political liability within the PDP, failing to unite the party or make meaningful contributions to its progress. His defection, they warned, would further expose his inability to handle political pressure and provide stable leadership.

“Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political baggage within the PDP. His tenure has been marked by underperformance and a lack of vision. Instead of fostering unity and inspiring confidence, he has only deepened internal divisions,” the statement read.

According to the NSCF, the governor’s move to the APC would not resolve the leadership vacuum in the state but rather worsen existing political tensions. They cited the internal strife already plaguing the APC in Zamfara, which they argue would only be intensified by the governor’s entry into the party.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already dealing with internal struggles. Bringing in a governor with questionable leadership credentials will only complicate the situation and heighten instability in the state’s political landscape.”

The forum further warned that the defection signals a retreat from accountability and transparency.

“