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By: Paul Audi

A Kaduna based Youth group, Eagle Brain Youth
Transformative yesterday berated Board and Management of Kaduna Electric Distribution Company (KEDCO) over the ongoing protracted strike by its workers that has seen power outage in Kaduna state and three others, saying it was going to sue the company over damages incurred by its members over the development.
In a Press Statement issued in Kaduna yesterday obtained by our correspondent signed by its Chairman, Daniel Ejembi, the group accused KEDCO of being insensitive to its workers welfare and that of its customers.
Reads the statement:

“As the industrial action embarked by workers of Kaduna Electric Company (KEDCO) entered its fourth day Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative wished to make an intervention at this point.

“It is very disturbing that four days after workers of the company down tools over what is their legitimate rights to protest unfair, inhuman and illegal actions of the management of KEDCO, all we get from the management are sore Press Statements that portend even darker days ahead.
“As capitalists who see huge profit and business expansion above the dignity of the human person and service to society, we are not surprised at the leisurely pace of their negotiations with critical stakeholders in the fray as Nigerians keep suffering in darkness.

“Today, over 2 millions homes in Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states and hundreds of thousands of businesses that largely depend on KEDCO are experiencing severe losses in hundreds of Millions of Naira daily.
“For KEDCO to heartlessly say that it sacked 450 workers, not 900 as claimed by the workers union, is to emphasize how it cares very little for the financial, economic and social security of its workers that endanger their lives daily to deliver power to its customers.
“You don’t sack rightfully engaged workers in hundreds and at a go like chasing away a horde of flies and try to downplay numbers.
“KEDCO cannot also owe workers all kinds of areas including Five years pension while netting billions in profit every quarter, outside the billions of Naira in subsidies it enjoys from the Federal Government and not expect the workers it has enslaved to react when backstabbed without any warning.
“The management of the company ought to know that it is running an essential, critical service to Nigerians and ought to have behaved in a manner that would not plunge its customers into undue suffering by selfishly provoking its staff into this industrial action.

“Apart from that, protracted darkness in some parts of the affected states is also of grave security concerns at a time that kidnapping and banditry is reigning supreme in these affected states.

“The Chairman of KEDCO, Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, his Board and management have alternative power sources and as such may not give a hoot to their suffering customers no matter how long this strike continues.

“The Board and Management of KEDCO should bear all responsibility for the huge losses incurred by customers of KEDCO.

“We are hereby calling on all customers of KEDCO to come together, form a group and take legal steps to redeem all their losses for these dark days based on their rights as enshrined in the 2005 Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Act.
“As for Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative, we shall exercise our rights in court to remediate all the calculated damages that our members have suffered as a result of the callous actions of the Board and management of KEDCO for the days that this industrial action lasts. This therefore serves as an advanced notice to KEDCO.

“Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative is an association of young and dynamic youths with passion for free, safe and progressive Nigeria where social justice, rule-of-law and development reign,” the statement concluded.

By Kaduna Watchdog

A group known as Concerned Kaduna Citizens has publicly disavowed former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of improperly using their name without permission. This development is the latest in the ongoing feud between El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani.

In a disclaimer issued to journalists in Kaduna, the group stated that El-Rufai’s use of their name as a hashtag in a recent publication, in which he attacked his successor Governor Uba Sani, did not imply endorsement or authorization. The group emphasized that they did not grant El-Rufai permission to use their name, and his actions were unauthorized.

The group’s chairman emphasized that any views expressed by El-Rufai in relation to their name were solely his own and did not represent the position of the group or its members. The chairman reiterated that the Concerned Kaduna Citizens group is an independent entity that does not align itself with any individual or group that seeks to undermine the progress of Kaduna State.

The disclaimer further stated that the group disclaims any association, responsibility, or liability for El-Rufai’s misuse of their name. This move is seen as a clear indication that the group will not tolerate any actions that may bring their name into disrepute.

El-Rufai’s actions have been widely criticized, with many accusing him of attempting to use the group’s name to legitimize his personal vendetta against Governor Sani. The Concerned Kaduna Citizens group has made it clear that they will not be party to such antics.

The development is a significant blow to El-Rufai’s credibility, as it highlights his willingness to misuse the names and reputations of others to further his own interests. The people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how El-Rufai responds to this public rebuke.

Coalition of Northern Elders across the three geopolitical zones today called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint the Chief Health, Safety and Environment Officer Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Dr. Bala Wunti to succeed Engr. Mele Kyari, the outgoing Group Chief Executive Officer of the country’s oil company.

According to the Elders, the appointment of a Northern to succeed Kyari would no doubt clear the misgivings and impression that the President favours only people from the south, especially southwest for ‘juicy’ appointments.

“We strongly believe if Wunti from Bauchi State is appointed,the erroneous impressions about the lopsided appointments would disappear because the Northerners would celebrate the feat”. They said .

The elders, who made the appeal in a statement made available to journalist in Kaduna explained,”The decision to speak as elders is to douse tension and tell the President that north deserve rewards in form of appointments for the overwhelming support he enjoyed during the 2023 general elections.

The statement signed by Chairman of Coalition,Prof. Inuwa Wada Mohammed further stated:”We have carefully studied all Northerners within the oil and gas sector,and resolve to support Bala Wunti, a thoroughbred oil and gas industry professional with 30 years’ experience covering Technical, Commercial, Managerial and Executive roles across the oil and gas value chain.

“From records obtained,His leadership in various NNPC roles, from upstream investment management to gas policy reform, shows competence.

“Information gathered about revealed that he is qualified as graduate of Chemistry from Ahmadu Bello University,Moreso as an individual with a Master’s degree in Business Administration,his capacity to deliver is not in doubt.”

The Elders, who acknowledged his selfless commitment and hard work at his current and previous positions in NAPIMS, say President will the service of such oil and gas expert.

“Mele Kyari-led team, alongside Bala Wunti and others, has its name written in gold in the history of the Nigerian oil sector despite challenges and distractions within and outside the sector, therefore the President as head of Nigeria’s apex oil company has the power to decide on who takes over from Kyari.

“We urge Mr President to do this for us and he would assured of our full support in the forthcoming 2027 elections .”

By Emmanuel Ameh

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has risen to the defense of Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, against criticisms from Chief Eze Chukwuemeke. According to NAN, Chief Eze’s criticism of Minister Matawalle’s actions as “unwarranted intimidation” lacks crucial context and oversimplifies a complex situation.

NAN Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, stated that Minister Matawalle’s response was justifiable and essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s future. He emphasized that freedom of speech is not absolute and is limited when it incites violence, hatred, or poses a clear and present danger to national security.

The Northern Awareness Network argued that Minister Matawalle’s actions should be seen as a necessary assertion of governmental authority to maintain order and prevent potential chaos, rather than an attack on free speech. NAN noted that Chief Eze’s criticism ignores the broader context and potential consequences of Amaechi’s statements.

The group emphasized that Minister Matawalle’s response was not only justifiable but essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s future. The Northern Awareness Network believes that Minister Matawalle’s actions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the principles of justice.

By directly challenging those who might feel above the law, Matawalle sets a powerful precedent. NAN stated that Minister Matawalle’s response serves as a stark reminder that no one is exempt from accountability, regardless of their past political positions or influence.

The group emphasized that the government must show its commitment to upholding the rule of law by addressing any instance of incitement to violence. The Northern Awareness Network emphasized that addressing potentially destabilizing political statements is not a distraction from security concerns but a critical element in maintaining them.

Minister Matawalle’s actions can be viewed as proactive measures to prevent the escalation of political tensions into significant security threats. NAN noted that the concern extends beyond the actions of high-profile individuals like Amaechi.

The implication for the entire political landscape is immense. If those who have held positions of power resort to inciting violence or destabilizing rhetoric, what can we expect from ordinary citizens? The Northern Awareness Network emphasized that the potential for escalation is significant.

Therefore, it’s vital that a strong message be sent: opposition, while vital for a healthy democracy, must remain within the confines of the law and engage in constructive dialogue rather than inflammatory tactics. NAN stated that Minister Matawalle’s intervention serves as a critical step in establishing this precedent.

The Northern Awareness Network believes that Chief Eze’s criticism of Minister Matawalle is fundamentally misplaced and misinformed. The condemnation lacks crucial context and oversimplifies a complex situation with significant potential consequences.

NAN emphasized that Minister Matawalle’s response should be seen not as an act of intimidation, but as a necessary assertion of governmental authority to maintain political stability and national security. Strong leadership necessitates decisive action, especially when dealing with issues that threaten national unity and security.

The Northern Awareness Network unequivocally supports Minister Matawalle and his commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding Nigeria’s future. His actions demonstrate the necessary firmness required to protect the nation from the dangers of unchecked inflammatory rhetoric and its potential for destabilization.

In conclusion, the Northern Awareness Network believes that Minister Matawalle’s actions are a step in the right direction towards maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria. The group urges all Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to promote national unity and security.

As the nation moves forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of responsible leadership and the need for decisive action in the face of adversity. The Northern Awareness Network remains committed to promoting the values of peace, justice, and national unity.

By Emmanuel Anthony

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed its full support for the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in his recent warning against the use of inflammatory rhetoric, particularly when directed at prominent figures such as Rotimi Amaechi.

The AYCF believes that Matawalle’s actions signify a crucial step towards holding individuals accountable for their actions and maintaining the rule of law in the nation.

In a statement by its President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF averred that, in a time where political tensions are high and divisive rhetoric is prevalent, it is essential for leaders like Minister Matawalle to speak out against language that seeks to incite violence or destabilize the country.

“By condemning inflammatory rhetoric, Matawalle is sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those who engage in it will face consequences. The AYCF commended Minister Matawalle for his bold stance and believes that his actions are in the best interest of the nation.

“It is imperative that leaders at all levels of government take a firm stand against any form of speech that could lead to violence or civil unrest. By upholding the rule of law and holding individuals accountable for their actions, we can work towards a more peaceful and united Nigeria.

“Nigeria, a nation of diverse ethnicities and political viewpoints, requires a delicate balance to maintain peace and stability. Recent pronouncements by Amaechi and other certain political figures have threatened this equilibrium, prompting concerns about incitement and the potential for widespread unrest.

“While healthy political discourse and opposition are essential for a thriving democracy, deliberate incitement to violence crosses an unacceptable line. The comments attributed to Rotimi Amaechi, intended to incite violence or unrest, are a serious threat to national security.

“Such actions undermine the democratic process, sow seeds of discord among citizens, and can lead to catastrophic consequences, including loss of life and property. Nigeria’s government, in its responsibility to protect its citizens, must not tolerate such deliberate attempts to incite chaos from any individual or group, irrespective of their political standing.

“The law must be applied equally to all. Minister Matawalle’s bold stance deserves commendation. His decision to publicly address the issue and call out individuals perceived to be inciting violence is a necessary and courageous act.

“It demonstrates a commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the principles of justice. By directly challenging those who might feel above the law, Matawalle sets a powerful precedent. His actions serve as a stark reminder that no one is exempt from accountability, regardless of their past political positions or influence.

“It sends a strong message that the government will not stand idly by while individuals deliberately fan the flames of discord. Such firm stance is crucial not only for maintaining immediate peace but also for setting a standard of responsible political conduct.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its unity and diversity. This unity is threatened when individuals prioritize personal gain or political ambition over the well-being of the nation.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum unequivocally supports Minister Matawalle’s call for calm and his firm stance against political incitement. We believe that his actions are not only necessary but also crucial for safeguarding the peace and stability of Nigeria”.

He emphasized that the government must show its commitment to upholding the rule of law by addressing any instance of incitement to violence, regardless of the perpetrator’s political standing.

“We urge all political actors to engage in responsible and peaceful discourse, prioritize national unity, and work together to build a better future for all Nigerians. The nation’s future hinges on our collective responsibility to maintain peace and uphold the principles of justice and fairness”.

All Progressives Congress Support Vanguard(APCSV) has faulted the failure on side appointed aides to respond to former Minister of Transportation and former Rivers state governor, Rotimi Amaechi over alleged incitement of anarchy against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

According to the Support group, it is unfair for Party members, especially appointed aides to pretend not understand the implications of such vituperation from Amaechi and others in recent time with no response from them .

The APC Support Vanguard, which states this in a statement made available to journalists today, observed that, “Aside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, who issued a warning to the former Minister of Transportation, over what he described as reckless and inciting statements regarding the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, we are yet to see other that rose in his defense of the Tinubu “.

In the statement signed by the Chairman , Abdullahi Mohammed Tofa , the group said the former Minister of Transportation warning that President Bola Tinubu will not relinquish power to the younger generation without resistance and pushing for alleged do-or-die election is dangerous to our existence as a people .

The statement further reads ,”For anyone to make public statements such as, “If you think Tinubu will just give you power, you are wasting your time”, is nothing but,an incitement. And seeing majority of his aides main sealed lips leave a lots to be worried about.

“We Recalled how same Amaechi in 2024 questioned the preparedness of President Bola Tinubu on the removal of the fuel subsidy and returning again in 2025 to say the political class, including President Bola Tinubu, would not willingly cede power to the younger generation.

“We are not against criticism of any sort,but let it be such that will be constructive and not overheat the polity .” It stated .

While noting that the aides can’t claim not to understand the erroneous signals being sent to the public and the subtle push for anarchy ahead of the 2027 general elections, the group said ,”As concerned support group,who are disturbed about the unwarranted attacks on Tinubu within the party hierarchy such as; Amaechi and Elrufai, we call on appointees ,the party structure and friends of the President to reply Amaechi immediately and put the records straight.”

The former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial zone , Senator Shehu Sani took a swipe at former Kaduna Governor,Mal Nasir Elrufai over his recent political comments of ,” Illiterates In Leadership Position”.

According to Shehu Sani, Elrufai in power practiced tyranny, but out of power he preaches democracy.

Former Kaduna Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, had accused his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), of abandoning its founding principles and fostering poor leadership, saying “You cannot afford to have illiterates, semi-illiterates, and cunning people as your leaders. This is why we end up with the poor leadership we have today,”

But in a reaction to Elrufai’s comments, Senator Shehu Sani via a telephone interview said ,”The man with a history of undisguised intolerance to opposition and hypersensitive allergy to criticisms have no moral and saintly feet to stand on the pulpit of democracy to preach about good governance.

While stating that Elrufai is like a man who is turned down by a woman and resorted to speaking ill of her, he posited that ,”If Nasiru is in a Keke napep, he will call it a Lamborghini; if he is thrown out of the Lamborghini,he will call it a Keke Napep.

He demonised the opposition when in the palace and now embracing them when in the wilderness.

According to him , today Tinubu’s Government is led by illiterates, because they refused to hire Professor Nasiru,who left behind a heap of garbage in kaduna and now preaching hygiene in Nigeria

By: Abubakar Sadiq

The decision of Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, to re-award the revoked section of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway to a new company has received backing from Northern Professionals. The group praised the move, stating that the re-award of the road contract for the important route linking northern states is laudable.

The Federal Government had previously revoked a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway contract handled by Julius Berger Construction Company due to a price dispute and completion timeline issues. However, with the recent decision, Northern Professionals have expressed joy, stating that their initial fears of possible delay and abandonment have been allayed.

In a statement jointly signed by Chairman Dr. Isa Samaila Getso and Secretary Comrade Ibrahim Mohammad Geidam, the group thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking proactive action to complete the Abuja-Kaduna road. They acknowledged being bitter and unsettled when the contract handled by Julius Berger was revoked but expressed happiness that the road, which had become a death trap, would now be completed.

“We want to unequivocally thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking proactive action to complete the Abuja Kaduna road,” the statement read. “We were highly bitter and unsettled when the news filtered that the contract handled by Julius Berger was revoked, but with the recent decision, we are happy that the road that has become death traps would now be completed.”

The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road project is a significant highway project aimed at improving connections between northern regions of Nigeria and the southern parts to enhance transportation, trade, and economic development in the region.

The Northern Professionals further stated that the completion of the road project would have a positive impact on the economy and security of the region. They commended Minister Umahi for his commitment to completing the project and expressed their support for the Federal Government’s efforts to improve infrastructure in the country.

By Mustafa Olayinka

The Akeja family of Aleke village in Isiwu town, Ikorodu Area of Lagos state is appealing for intervention from the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbotekun, Department of State Security and other relevant security agencies for immediate intervention in a land dispute involving the family and an alleged land grabber, Mr. Kamorudeen Lamina Olaseni popularly known as sir Kay Olowo who sold out their lands.

The family is seeking for justice over a long standing land disputes cases between the family and Mr. Adeniyi Odu Okemati, Mr. Rasheed Ogunbanwo among others which they claimed bought their lands from the land grabber.

Recall that Justice L.B Lawal Akapo of Lagos state court Ikeja Division Court No.15 on June 26th, 2024 ruled in favor of the members of Akeja of Aleke village as the geniune owners of the land.

In his judgement the judge said ” A declaration that members of the Akeja and Adembori families of Aleke village who have farms at Aleke village are the persons entitled to the grant of statutory/customary right of occupancy in respect of their respective farmlands at Aleke village over which they have exercised acts of ownership, enjoyed physical possession and control pursuant to Ijebu land holding system as ‘alego’ particularly described and contained in survey of Lagos government plans.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Elder name withheld due to threat said the issues is causing torture, unrest and disrupting the lives of family members and the residents in the community.

The source alleged that the land grabber has been mobilizing touts to beat and intimidate family members that dare to go against his wish.

Some of the touts mentioned to this medium includes Azeez awobo ( aka popo ), Kolawole Emmanuel ( aka stainless), Seun onifade (oro killer)
Bode oduyebo (aka general), Akeem (aka spirit), Semiu asikolaye (aka aji white)
Afolayan ( aka afo), Tajudeen ( aka obasanjo), Alahaji isiaka (aka elegusi) to deal mercilessly with any person that crosses their parts.

Recall that the Lagos State Property Protection Law, 2016, prohibits the use of force or self-help to take over landed property, but its implementation remains a concern.

Several attempts to get contact if the alleged land grabber at the time of filing this report was not successful.

Angered by the recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu policies by prominent northerners , the Northeast based Socio-Political Group under umbrella of Forum for Northeast Development has condemned Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Major Hamza Almustapha Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head of State , Gen Sani Abacha, Major Almustapha.

The Forum, which claimed Tinubu’s reform would be of great benefits to the north in the long run said, it has carefully studied the President after he was sworn in, and discovered he means well .

He however, stated that it has come out to back the new tax reform policies initiated by President Bola Ahmed Bola Tinubu, because the Northeast and entire northern region will benefit immensely.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Forum,Alhaji Baba Mala Biu and Comrade Lawan Mohammed, the Forum for Northeast Development explained :”First,we have no reason to complain because our son that the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima is from the northeast geopolitical zone and we believe he can’t betray us as a people as one of the trusted individuals that we rely upon politically.

“It is really unfortunate that some northerners such as :Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head State ,Major Hamza Almustapha have raised voices against a president that is working hard to restore the economy and indices of growth and development.

Whiles urging people of northeast and other parts of the north to remain hopeful and have confidence in Tinubu and Shettima led administration, it expressed optimism that the tax Reform policies and other economic reform policies are geared toward establishing a solid foundation for sustainable development in the region.

So, it is unwise and unacceptable for anyone from northeast region to join haters of the President to criticize reforms geared revamping our economy.

The forum however, condemned the duo of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to Late Head of State,Gen. Sani Abacha for their unnecessary criticisms and game of playing to gallery to gain cheap popularity.

Recalled that former Chief Security Officer and ex-presidential candidate of Action Alliance (AA), Major Hamza Al-Mustapha claimed President Bola Tinubu squandered has his goodwill with his shambolic performance since assuming office, highlighting the need for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s potential, describing it as a ‘blessed but disorganised land.

Similarly ,Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, had criticised President Bola Tinubu, saying his economic reform policies are putting the North and Nigerians at large under strain.

But, we are putting the records straight that President Tinubu together with Senate Kashim Shettima are two set of focused and committed individuals who are passionate and have sound knowledge about good governance and selfless service to the humanity.

It against this back that we asked people from the Northeast to support President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to succeed and take us that desires level of development.