Yahaya Bello: EFCC’s Tactics Questioned by Arewa Young Lawyers Forum_

By Bala Abdulghafar

The Arewa Young Lawyers Forum (AYLF) has condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of corruption allegations against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

According to Abubakar Kurawa, Esq., President of AYLF, the EFCC’s actions constitute a deliberate attempt to create unnecessary controversy and harm the commission’s reputation.

The EFCC’s establishment statute empowers it to investigate financial crimes, not convict suspects. However, in Yahaya Bello’s case, the commission has overstepped its bounds by convicting him in the public eye.

On September 19, Yahaya Bello voluntarily presented himself for questioning at the EFCC headquarters. Despite this, the commission claimed to have no questions for him, raising concerns about their true intentions.

Later that evening, EFCC operatives arrived at the Kogi State Governor’s residence, shooting sporadically and claiming they were there to arrest Bello.

The AYLF emphasized that every citizen has the right to a fair hearing and that innocence must be presumed until proven otherwise in a competent court of law.

With the matter pending before the court, the AYLF stressed that the EFCC should allow the court to give its judgment, rather than engaging in headline-grabbing tactics.

The AYLF urges the EFCC to operate within the bounds of the law, respect citizens’ rights, and focus on meaningful investigations rather than media trials.

The forum’s intervention highlights the need for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights to ensure a fair and just society.

AYCF Urges Governor Lawal’s Resignation Amidst Alleged Terror Ties

By Kabiru Yusuf

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s immediate resignation due to alleged links to terror groups.

Governor Lawal’s recent demands for Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation are misguided, according to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima.

A leaked document reveals Governor Lawal’s connections to notorious bandit leaders and requests One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious reconciliation programme.

The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a diversion from his alleged complicity with terror groups, exacerbated by his aide’s arrest for gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Minister Matawalle’s efforts have yielded tangible results in combating banditry.

The forum demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, citing his tenure’s dangerous governance-criminality overlap.

If he refuses, the AYCF advocates for a Zamfara State emergency declaration, involving Governor Lawal’s removal and replacement with a military sole administrator.

The people of Zamfara deserve governance prioritizing safety and well-being.

The AYCF urges authorities to investigate Governor Lawal’s alleged ties to terror groups.

AYCF’s call for Governor Lawal’s resignation marks a significant development in the region’s ongoing security crisis.

The forum’s stance reflects growing concerns about governance and security in Zamfara State.

Governor Lawal’s resignation is crucial for restoring order.

The AYCF remains committed to promoting good governance and security.

The people of Zamfara await decisive action.

Breaking: Tax Payment Easier As KADIRS Activates Portal

Kaduna State has officially activated the PAYKADUNA Revenue Administration Portal, marking a seamless transition to a more efficient and transparent tax payment system.

Unveiled by Governor Uba Sani on May 22, 2024, the PAYKADUNA platform is now fully operational across all sectors of the state’s economy.

Designed to fastrack the process of internally generated revenue (IGR) collection, the portal simplifies the tax administration process, making it more accessible for taxpayers and revenue-generating agencies.

Comrade Jerry Adams, Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), announced the official cutover to PAYKADUNA, emphasizing the state’s dedication to leveraging technology for streamlined revenue collection.

“This strategic shift embodies our commitment to efficiency, transparency, and accessibility,” Adams remarked.

The platform centralizes payments for all state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, ensuring secure and unified transactions.

By setting a new benchmark for revenue administration, PAYKADUNA is expected to enhance compliance rates and contribute to Kaduna’s economic growth.

KADIRS also called for continuous collaboration with partners to ensure the system’s success, positioning PAYKADUNA as a model for digital-friendly governance.

How Governor Uba SANI’s Smart City project will change the face of Governance in Nigeria

By Femi Adi, Kaduna

When Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani was sworn -in on May 29,2023, he made promises to inject new ideas of leadership with emphasis on his SUSTAIN Agenda that will change the face of governance in Kaduna and beyond.

No doubt,he has within one year in office achieved the feat and has continued to push for more radical development changes that focuses on the principles of good governance based on world standards.

Despite facing a critical period of cash crunch due to the heavy loan burden, he has remained undeterred in his avowed commitments to create the requisite enabling environment for business and economic prosperity.

Considering the Governor’s administrative process coupled with his smart sense of viable vision, Little wonder, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu invited him to join the super delegation on a State visit to China .

Governor Uba Sani and other senior government officials received the President in Beijing, China for the State Visit to China and the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation #FOCAC Summit with the theme: “Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build High-Level China-Africa Community with Shared Future”.

For Uba Sani , it was not a time for tea party , but an opportunity as a spin doctor to meet chief executive officers of major Chinese corporations to discuss business and various important matters of growth and development.

According to Global Times report, After China and Nigeria elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Uba Sani, the governor of Nigeria’s Kaduna State,said he is thrilled to see his state partner with China in a “smart city” project, which aligns with the country’s industrialization.

Kaduna State lies at the southern end of Nigeria’s northern plateau,and 80 percent of is 5 million population work in agriculture,according to media reports.

The smart city project will be built under cooperation with Chinese tech giant Huawei -“a very reliable partner,” Sani told the Global Times.

The project will enhance public security,efficiency and transparency in public service,and help his state to establish an e-government,make education, healthcare and talent cultivation “smart,” and boost the use of renewable energy, the governor said.

Sani hopes to form a joint committee between Kaduna government and Huawei “in one or two weeks.”

The smart city project is one of several broader deals between China and Nigeria that have been inked during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu held talks on Tuesday and announced the elevation of China-Nigeria ties They also witnessed the signing of
cooperation documents including the application of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, peanut exports to China and news media cooperation.

Sani said that China plays a significant role in Nigeria’s industrialization, and he is “more hopeful and confident that [after this time fat the FOCAC, we will see more fruits.”

Kaduna State has Nigeria’s first modernized railroad, the Abuja-Kaduna Railway. It is the first railway in Africa built based on Chinese technical standards.

Sani revealed that two months ago his state partnered with North China’s Hebei Province to construct an industrial park. Hopefully.

Northern Frowns At  Torture Of Seaman Abbas, Wants Perpetrators Prosecuted

Musawa Musa

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), representing the interests of Northern Nigerian youth and advocating for social justice, equity, and accountability has condemned in strong terms the harrowing case of Seaman Haruna Abbas, who has been unlawfully incarcerated and subjected to inhumane treatment for the past six years.

AYCF in a statement issued by it’s President General Yerima Shettima said, recent revelations made by the Seaman’s wife, Hassana Abbas, on the Berekete Family Radio in Abuja, brought to light the cruelty and injustice that a man, who dedicated his life to serving his nation, has endured at the hands of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and other individuals complicit in this gross violation of human rights.

‘It is with profound sorrow and indignation that we learn of the conditions under which Mr. Abbas has been held captive” Shettima stated.

According to Hassana Abbas, her husband has not only been subjected to wrongful imprisonment but has also endured severe psychological and physical torture during his time in custody.

“Such acts are not only a gross violation of his fundamental human rights but also a stain on our national conscience. It is unacceptable that an individual who served his country diligently in the maritime sector should be treated in this manner by those tasked with upholding justice and protecting our rights as citizens”.

The AYCF unequivocally condemned the actions of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and all those involved in the wrongful conviction, unjust incarceration, and subsequent torture of Seaman Abbas.

“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Abbas, as well as a comprehensive investigation into his case that holds accountable all individuals implicated in this egregious violation of justice. The time has come to reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law, and to ensure that those who perpetrate such abuses do not act with impunity.

“Moreover, we urge the Nigerian Army and the relevant authorities to establish transparent mechanisms for reviewing cases of alleged wrongful detention, especially those involving military personnel who, like Mr. Abbas, continue to suffer in silence while their rights are trampled upon.

AYCF said It is vital that an environment where justice prevails and where the dignity of every citizen is upheld regardless of their profession or background is created.

He stressed that the plight of Seaman Abbas should serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians who value justice and human rights , adding that his story is not just about an individual; it is emblematic of a broader systemic issue that affects many citizens who fall prey to arbitrary detention and abuse of power.

“We recognize that the path to justice can be arduous and fraught with challenges, but we are resolved to amplify Mr. Abbas’s call for justice until he is freed. We call upon human rights organizations, legal advocates, and civil society to join us in this fight for justice.

“It is imperative that we come together as a society to raise awareness of Seaman Haruna Abbas’s plight and to ensure that his story does not fade into obscurity. The collective voices of concerned citizens can foster a culture of accountability and transparency in our institutions.

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum reiterated its unwavering support for Seaman Abbas and his family and her that they stand united in their demand for justice, and continued advocacy for all those who have been wronged by systems intended to serve and protect them, adding that they will not rest until justice is served, and the perpetrators of such heinous crime brought to their rightful place before the law.

AYCF therefore called on the authorities and all concerned parties to respond swiftly and decisively to this grave injustice.

“The time to act is now. Justice for Seaman Haruna Abbas is not just a demand; it is a moral imperative that we must uphold for the sake of humanity, dignity, and the rule of law” Shettima stressed.

Kaduna LP Hails Appointment Nenadi, Danbaki, Others Over Top Appointment National Hq.…wants Abure to refund money and assets

.

By:  Dele Tomas

Again, the appointment of Sen. Usman Nenadi as the Chairman, National Labour Party, Caretaker Committee  (LP-NCC) stakeholders of All Supports Groups and Obedient Movement in Kaduna state yesterday celebrated her appointment and that of Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the Interim Chairman of Kaduna State Labour party among other national appointments that came to the state.
Also, the meeting called on the defunct National Chairman of the LP, Barr.. Julius Abure and others to refund all monies and assets belonging to the party to return them with immediate effect.

This was contained in a communiqué issued by All Support Groups and Obidient Stakeholders in Kaduna Following an Interactive and Strategic Meeting in Kaduna yesterday.
Reads the communiqué:

Following a comprehensive interactive and strategic meeting of all support groups and Obidient stakeholders in Kaduna, the following resolutions were reached:

1. Expression of Gratitude: We extend our sincere appreciation to His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, and the members of the Expanded Stakeholders Committee of the Labour Party for the appointment of the following esteemed individuals from Kaduna State: Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman as the National Caretaker Chairperson of the Labour Party, Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the State Chairman of the Labour Party, Dr. Yunusa Tanko as a key member of the Obidient National Leadership, and Mallam Abdulkareem Ibrahim as the Presidential Candidate’s Spokesman.
Since the appointment of Hon. Solomon Danbaki, we have observed a marked improvement in the trust and confidence within the Party. Activities are being revitalized at all levels, and we are committed to offering our unwavering loyalty and support to the Party and the Obidient Movement across all levels.

2. Congratulations to the New Leadership: We formally congratulate Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman and her team for accepting the responsibility to serve in their respective capacities. Their leadership marks a significant step forward for the Party and the Movement.

3. Condemnation of Anti-Party Activities: We condemn in the strongest possible terms the actions of the immediate past Chairman of the Party, Barrister Julius Abure, and his associates for their involvement in anti-party activities. These actions have caused significant disruption to the Party and its supporters. We urge Barrister Abure to embrace peace and accept the current reality for the greater good of the nation.

4. Reaffirmation of Labour Party’s Position: The current leadership has restored the Labour Party’s rightful position as Nigeria’s main opposition party. We call on all Nigerians to seize this opportunity and rally behind the Party as we work to reclaim the greatness of our nation.

5. Call for Membership Drive and Asset Recovery: We advise the new leadership to immediately embark on a membership drive at all levels and to create a new membership register, as we no longer have confidence in the old one. Furthermore, we recommend that deliberate efforts be made to recover all assets and funds belonging to the Party, which remain in the possession of individuals from the previous executive, led by Barrister Julius Abure.

6. Appeal to Aggrieved Members: We extend a call to all aggrieved members who may have left the Party or felt disillusioned to return and join us in our shared mission to free Nigeria from the clutches of failure. Additionally, we appeal to all Nigerians, particularly those in Kaduna, to vote massively for the Labour Party and to ensure the protection of ballots cast in favor of the Party.

7. Assurance of Commitment: We acknowledge that mistakes were made during the last general elections, which led to a loss of trust despite the many sacrifices of our supporters. We assure all members that every effort is being made to address these anomalies. We remain steadfast in our determination to reclaim Nigeria for ourselves and future generations.

8. Adoption of New Slogan: The Kaduna State Chapter of the Global Obidient Movement has adopted the following slogan: “Obidient Movement! Doing the right thing! Doing the right thing! Go and verify!”
Conclusion: In conclusion, we pray for divine strength and guidance for all the courageous men and women who came out in support of the Labour Party, despite the challenges. We are committed to continuing our efforts and will not be swayed by any opposition, including from figures like Julius Abure.
Thank you all for your attention.
Long live the Labour Party. Long live Kaduna State. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

An Impostor and His Rage: Exposing Mike Auta’s False Claims

Shortly after the September 4th All Important Stakeholders Meeting of the Labour Party at Government House Umahia, which gave birth to the Sen. Usman Nenadi led LP Interim National Caretaker Committee (LP-NCC), one character, Engr Mike Auta came out with outlandish claims and mudslinging against Sen. Nenadi Usman and topnotch leaders of the party in Kaduna state. His outburst was shared on many platforms until our attention was called to it.

His disrespectful posture to our most valued leaders and clear barefaced lies are unworthy of reproduction here, but it suffices to point out the following from his outing

He claimed that Sen. Nenadi Usman and Hon. Jonathan Asake worked against him when he contested for the Senate seat of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone in 2023.
That Sen. Nenadi Usman, Hon. Jonathan Asake, Dr. Datti Baba Ahmed and others worked against the victory of Mr Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential elections.
He also boasted as being the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state.
In a display of shocking guts that are only found among hardened crooks, he said that the Obi/Datti campaign organisation is still owing him.
In utter frustration and bitterness, he rejected the emergence of (LP-NCC) and denounced it as “illegal” among other vulgar invectives.

Though it beats our imagination how he came about the title “Engr”, because his last known honest vocation was carpentry after his apprenticeship, we want to guess that he assumed the title as an alias. In fact it is believed that he didn’t even complete his secondary school being a chronic truant as a school kid.

Now, back to the issues at stake:
His first claim is an absurd lie. Though Sen. Nenadi, Hon Asake et al may have earlier noticed the “Engr” as one of shady and dubious character filled with empty ego, Sen. Nenadi nonetheless in conjunction with Hon. Asake assisted him financially during his campaign and there is irrefutable evidence to show. In fact Hon. Asake took the campaign of this charlatan personally as he entered every nook and cranny of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone campaigning for Mike Auta and Peter Obi, as part of his own gubernatorial campaign. And we have everything in audio and video. Let Mike Auta come out with his own evidence and put a lie to this claim. From events that followed after the Kaduna South Senatorial Zone election, it is now evident that Kaduna South Senatorial Zone was spared the emergence of a conscienceless person who can take school children from here and dump them in Togo under a phoney scholarships scheme.
No one that is in his right mind will accuse Dr. Baba Ahmed of working against his own victory in his own state, when it was obvious that he was going to be vice president elect. What do Sen. Nenadi and Hon. Asake stand to gain if Mr Obi lost in Kaduna state. True observers of our 2023 Presidential campaigns in Kaduna state know that no presidential candidate got the support of our state like Mr Obi. And we still stand on our irrevocable belief that Mr Obi won in Kaduna state, no matter the result that was cooked by INEC. So it is abject madness for Mike Auta to level such accusations. But, bitterness and frustration are mind benders.
For Mike Auta to claim that he was the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state is the same insane and brazen claim he is making as being the owner of Nok University. Mike has unparalleled nerves for snatching what doesn’t belong to him and staking his life to it. Agreed, he rented and furnished his campaign office in Kafanchan, but unknown to most people, including his supporters, Mike made promises in scores of millions which he never fulfilled. During the campaigns he was and still is owing car rental companies; hotel accommodations, filling stations, POS operators and even “mama puts” restaurants. He is a known grabber of Abuja lands and is engaged in numerous shady sales of property in Abuja. His cases in court are in scores. He has to carry truck loads of police to evade arrest and attacks from those he highly owes debts, He was a big embarrassment to the party by the shame he brought upon it through such borrowing from even the struggling poor.The major life line of LP in the entire Kaduna State was Hon. Jonathan Asake. Payments made to Mike Auta can be produced, if he dared such.
A man without integrity have no qualms about making falsehoods. The truth is that Mike Auta was the beneficiary of 75% of the Obi/Datti campaign funds that came to Kaduna South Senatorial Zone. Every Kobo to the last million is well documented, unknown to him.
The tantrums of Mike Auta against the emergence of Sen. Nenadi and her LP-NCC is nothing a non-entity like the fake engineer can do about it. We understand that he has invested some of his ill-gotten wealth in lobbying to be part of the inner caucus of the LP both in Kaduna state and in Abuja. Unfortunately he has no pedigree. His only asset as a party member is that he contested for the Senatorial seat of the LP and lost. Therefore when serious stakeholders of the party are called over matters of national importance to the party, forget his little education, there’s no room for him. Sen. Nenadi and the other party leader he is insulting are light years ahead of him in political attainments, social clout and moral standing. And as he can see, Sen Nenadi has not only been totally accepted by serious LP and Obedient members home and abroad, INEC has duly affirmed her as the true interim leader of our party today, 13th September, 2024.

Finally, let our party members and the general public not be deceived or be misled by Mike Auta as a giant LP member. The truth is that after the presidential elections of 2023, he teamed up with the Lamidi Apapa led faction of the LP. After a kangaroo meeting in Bauchi, he was made vice Chairman of LP, Northwest. Their aim was to fight Peter Obi at the Election Tribunal.

The Labour Party in Kaduna state then called an emergency SEC meeting at the BBS hotel, Kaduna where he was given an indefinite suspension. It still stands till date.

Kindly disregard the frustration and rage of that imposter.

Sign: Campaign for Renewed Labour Party (CRLP).

13/09/2024.

NEF Lauds FG As Banditry Takes a Hit, Commends Military





By Usman Mohammed

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed satisfaction with the reported killing of Halilu Buzu Sububu, a notorious bandit leader, by the Nigerian Military under the leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. This development marks a significant turning point in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region.

NEF Spokesman Abdul-Azeez Suleiman highlighted the growing optimism regarding the military’s efforts, suggesting that the elimination of Sububu, a major arms supplier to bandits, may provide a strategic advantage in diminishing their operational capacity.

Suleiman called upon the Nigerian government to provide greater backing for the Junior Defence Minister, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort to dismantle the network of banditry that has engendered fear and disruption within communities.

He dispelled misconceptions regarding the Forum’s stance towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, articulating a nuanced position that emphasizes constructive criticism as a tool for national progress.

Suleiman emphasized that the fight against banditry is far from over, recognizing the determination of the Nigerian Army and allied security agencies. He called for unity in support of ongoing military operations and discouraged divisive critiques that could undermine progress.

The NEF’s spokesman articulated a vision for Nigeria’s future that balances support for military efforts with a culture of respectful engagement with leadership, promoting collaborative efforts that prioritize the well-being of all citizens.

“Championing military initiatives against banditry while promoting constructive dialogue is a commitment to enhancing societal well-being. This dual approach seeks not only to eradicate insecurity but also to lay the groundwork for a future marked by peace and progress. As we collectively aspire for a Nigeria free from the specter of violence, it is this spirit of cooperation and understanding that will prove pivotal on our path to recovery,” Suleiman said.

The NEF’s spokesman delineates a clear vision for the future of Nigeria amidst the ongoing challenges presented by insecurity. As Nigeria confronts the multifaceted challenges of national security and development, the insights and advocacy of the NEF will remain pivotal in shaping a future where peace and progress are attainable for all citizens.

New Dawn for North-West Nigeria: Military’s Victory Over Banditry”

By Adeyemi Samala

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the bravery and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the astute leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in military’s rigorous operations—spurred by the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—which has initiated a significant turning tide in the persistent battle against banditry, particularly in the North-Western region of Nigeria.

According to the northern group in a statement issued by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman, the Northern region has long been beleaguered by the terror and violence inflicted by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla, whose criminal enterprise, characterized by extortion, intimidation, and the tragic loss of lives, has wrought havoc upon our local communities.

NAN averred that the audacity with which Turji has operated, compelling citizens to pay exorbitant protection levies and perpetuating a culture of fear, is a matter of grave concern for all stakeholders in our beloved nation.

“In a decisive move to combat the incessant menace of banditry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed squarely at dismantling Turji’s illicit activities. This directive symbolizes a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against banditry, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security to vulnerable communities.

“The recent strategic realignment of military resources to Sokoto, where Minister Matawalle has relocated to ensure enhanced oversight, further underscores the government’s urgency to reclaim authority in the region. The commitment shown by both President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle serves as a beacon of hope for citizens weary of insecurity”.

NAN therefore applauded the swift action taken by Minister Matawalle and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Their recent operations have clearly demonstrated effectiveness in incapacitating bandit elements, leading to a marked decline in the organized criminal activities that once seemed unassailable.

Suleiman said reports indicate that bandit leaders, who were once emboldened by a perceived lack of concerted military presence, have been sent scampering into the shadows, with their criminal enterprises thrown into disarray. This newfound momentum in our security apparatus is both reassuring and promising, the group said.

“The neutralization of Halilu Buzu, a foreign national (from the Republic of Niger), a terrorist leader involved in cattle rustling and illegal gold mining in Jawayi Anka LGA of Zamfara State, and a notorious leader of the bandits, marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in Nigeria, reflecting the resolve of local authorities to confront and dismantle criminal networks.

“This development not only reassures residents of Zamfara State but also represents a broader commitment to securing the nation against the threats posed by both domestic and foreign criminals. The fight against banditry is ongoing, but with sustained efforts like those demonstrated by Minister Matawalle, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.

“In light of these recent successes, we call for deeper support and understanding from the public. The collaboration of citizens is paramount in the collective endeavor to restore peace and stability within our communities. The resilience of the Nigerian populace and their participation in intelligence-sharing efforts will serve to fortify the recent gains achieved by our military forces.

“We give glory to God for His divine intervention in the fight against banditry. May His name be forever praised.”

Banditry in North-West Nigeria: A Glimmer of Hope

By Ibrahim Yusuf

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended the recent successes recorded by the military in the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region. The forum attributed the progress to the strategic leadership of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and the renewed commitment of the current administration to restoring peace and security.

The AYCF noted that the North-West has been plagued by banditry, resulting in insecurity and harm to innocent civilians. However, the military’s intensified operations have led to the displacement of bandit elements and a significant reduction in attacks.

The forum urged the military to sustain the momentum and ensure the total eradication of banditry in the region. It also emphasized the need for a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of banditry, including socio-economic development and community engagement.

The AYCF expressed confidence in Minister Matawalle’s ability to lead the military to victory against banditry and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to invest in programs that empower local communities and restore faith in governance.

By working together, the AYCF believes that sustainable peace and security can be achieved in Nigeria’s North-West region, and the communities can flourish without fear of violence.

The forum also commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifices, and urged them to remain vigilant and focused on the mission to restore peace and security to the region.

The AYCF further emphasized the need for continued support and cooperation from local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the military’s operations and the achievement of lasting peace in the region.