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Renowned Islamic scholar and prominent figure, Professor Mansur Sokoto, has joined other Islamic clerics in issuing a stern warning to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, urging him to abandon political rhetoric and address the festering security crisis engulfing the state with immediate and decisive action.

In a scathing statement released in a video clip, Professor Sokoto criticized Governor Lawal’s lack of commitment to tackling the issue, accusing him of shirking responsibility and indulging in blame-shifting tactics.

Professor Sokoto, a respected figure known for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Zamfara people, expressed profound concern over the deteriorating security situation. He minced no words in emphasizing the gravity of the crisis, highlighting the pervasive fear, displacement, and loss of life that have become a grim reality for countless residents. “Governor Lawal,” Professor Sokoto asserted, “cannot afford to ignore the escalating violence and suffering.

The buck stops with him, and he must act swiftly and decisively to protect the lives and property of his constituents.”
Professor Sokoto pointed out that Governor Lawal, fully aware of the state’s security challenges before assuming office, has failed to demonstrate the necessary leadership and commitment to addressing the crisis.

“It is time for Governor Lawal to move beyond mere political discourse and engage in tangible actions that can demonstrably improve the security situation,” Professor Sokoto stated.
The Professor further condemned Governor Lawal’s persistent efforts to shift responsibility onto others.

“The governor cannot continue to blame his predecessors or external forces while neglecting his own duty to provide security for his people. This is a grave betrayal of the trust placed in him by the citizens of Zamfara,” he asserted. He pointed out that the Governor’s continued emphasis on political posturing and public pronouncements, devoid of concrete action, has only exacerbated the situation.

Professor Sokoto’s criticism extends to Governor Lawal’s apparent disregard for the pleas and advice of religious leaders. “The Governor has seemingly ignored the warnings and appeals of Islamic scholars, including myself, who have consistently urged him to prioritize the welfare of his people.

The lack of responsiveness to our calls is deeply concerning,” he lamented. He urged the Governor to embrace the fear of God and prioritize the well-being of the people he has been elected to serve.
The Professor’s statement underscores the urgency of the situation and the moral imperative to address the security crisis head-on.

The people of Zamfara are desperate for concrete action, not empty promises or finger-pointing. Professor Sokoto’s bold call for decisive leadership from Governor Lawal serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that rests on the shoulders of those in power. It remains to be seen if the governor will heed the warnings and take the necessary steps to bring peace and security back to the state.

CONCLUSION

Professor Mansur Sokoto’s unwavering call for decisive action on the security crisis in Zamfara state stands as a powerful indictment of Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership.

The scholar’s message underscores the grave consequences of inaction and the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address the multifaceted challenges facing the state. As Professor Sokoto aptly highlighted, the buck stops with the Governor, and the people of Zamfara deserve a leader who prioritizes their safety and security above all else. It remains to be seen whether Governor Lawal will heed the warnings and step up to the daunting task of restoring peace and order in the state.

Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed, the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.
The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector.

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

By Peter Yusuf

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CCSOs) of Nigeria has written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to address the recent calls for the resignation of Alhaji Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The coalition considers these calls unjustified and potentially harmful to Nigeria’s economy and democracy.

Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones, including facilitating independent power projects, road maintenance, and significant blockage of revenue leakages, resulting in increased revenue for Nigeria ¹. These accomplishments demonstrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), signed the letter on behalf of the coalition, stressing that the APC Solidarity Forum’s actions appear driven by political motivations rather than genuine concerns for the nation’s well-being.

The coalition demanded that Akpabio:

• Condemn Unwarranted Attacks: on Alh. Mele Kyari and the NNPC
• Investigate Motivations: behind these calls for resignation
• Prevent Interference: in NNPC’s operations

They also requested Akpabio ensure the APC Solidarity Forum is held accountable for their actions and that the nation’s interests are protected ¹.

*Urges him to reverse “bad” economic policies

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, described President Tinubu’s directive on the release of minors arrested and detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests as a step in the right direction.

Frank who made this assertion in a statement in Abuja, however, urged the President to equally order the release of all detainees being held for exercising their constitutional right to protest against bad policies of government because the “President is known to have embarked and led series of protests during the pro-democracy struggle and in 2012 when the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan removed fuel subsidy.”

He urged the President to equally reverse some of his bad economic policies like the floating of the naira and outright removal of fuel subsidy which have brought untold hardship in the country and worsened the condition of living of majority of Nigerians.

He expressed commitment to commend the President when he takes a positive step in governance and criticize him when his action is against the wellbeing of the generality of Nigerians.

He called on the Federal Government to compensate the minors, after release, for violating their fundamental human rights and cruelty meted on them by the police who detained them for over three months under dehumanizing conditions without trial.

Frank said: “We warmly welcome President Bola Tinubu’s decision to order the immediate release of minors arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests from detention.

“The President’s action acknowledges the concerns of Nigerians and the international community regarding the treatment of protesters, especially minors.

“However, we also call for accountability and reform within the intelligence community.

“The fact that minors were detained for over 90 days without prompt attention from the President’s office raises concerns about the effectiveness of our intelligence agencies.

“We urge the President to investigate this lapse and consider replacing intelligence chiefs who failed to bring this matter to his attention.”

He demanded that the probe ordered by the President should start from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Commissioners of Police in-charge of Kano and Kaduna states who arrested the minors.

“This probe must not be swept under the rug, we shall monitor to ensure that the findings are made public and appropriate sanctions meted out to officers found to be complicit,” he said.

Besides, to ensure adequate justice for the victimised and oppressed minors, he urged the Federal Government to provide financial assistance to their families, offer the minors scholarships and enroll them in reputable boarding schools to help them overcome their traumatic experiences.

“The minors should also be availed the services of professional counsellors to address any emotional or psychological distress.

“By taking these steps, we can begin to heal the wounds of the past and build a more just and compassionate society for all Nigerians,” he said.

By Emmanuel Okorie

The President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has strongly condemned the arrest, detention, and trial of minors under 18 for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests. Shettima described the government’s actions as unacceptable and a clear violation of children’s rights.

Shettima emphasized that these malnourished and frail children, who are advocating for an end to hunger and suffering, should not be used as scapegoats by the government. Instead, he urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of hunger and hardship in the country. “The government should focus on arresting hunger and hardship, not children who are legitimately asking for a better future,” Shettima stressed [1).

The AYCF President’s statement comes after reports of minors being detained for over 90 days and facing trial for alleged treason. He called on the government to stop further trials of these minors, emphasizing that such treatment of harmless, impoverished, and malnourished children is unacceptable.

Shettima also highlighted the international embarrassment caused by Nigeria’s actions, pointing out that these children should be in school, building a future for their country, rather than facing trial. This incident has sparked concerns about the protection of children’s rights and the government’s response to peaceful protests in Nigeria.

The #EndBadGovernance protests began on July 29, 2024, with demonstrators demanding an end to economic hardship and bad governance in Nigeria ¹. The protests escalated on August 1, 2024, when Nigerian security agencies attempted to quell them, resulting in casualties and arrests.

Key Concerns:

• Protection of Children’s Rights: The arrest and trial of minors under 18 for participating in peaceful protests.
• Government Response: The use of force to quell protests and the detention of harmless, impoverished, and malnourished children.
• International Embarrassment: Nigeria’s actions have sparked international concern and criticism.

The AYCF President’s statement has added to the growing calls for the government to address the root causes of hunger and hardship in Nigeria and to protect the rights of all citizens, including children.

By: Musawa Ado

Kaduna, Nigeria – Senator Danjuma Laah, the immediate past Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District at the 8th Assembly, has been cleared of allegations of misappropriating N390 million meant for Zonal Intervention Projects and Capital Projects in his zone.

A recent publication on Metro Daily online titled “Former Sen. Laah in Murky Waters over N390M Kaduna South Senatorial District ZIP, Capital Project Funds” alleged that Senator Laah collected the funds via Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) 14 months after losing his seat.

However, Alh. Yahaya Suleiman, former aide to Senator Laah on Project Monitoring, described the allegations as “fake news” and “highly malicious and libelous.” He clarified that Senator Laah never carried out any contract or was directly or indirectly linked to any companies that executed constituency and capital projects during his tenure.

Clarifications:

• Senator Laah’s major mandate was to ensure project execution and quality based on contract specifications.
• There is no location as “Zangon Kataf – Kwali road” in Kaduna South Senatorial Zone.
• The National Livestock Training Center, Kachia project, was never included in Senator Laah’s constituency projects.
• MOFTREH CONSTRUCTION Nigeria Ltd executed the Rehabilitation/Reconstruction Of Kwoi – Kafanchan Road, with no links to Senator Laah.

Suleiman challenged anyone with contrary facts to produce evidence, emphasizing that Senator Laah is a philanthropist committed to his people’s progress and well-being.

Investigations and Next Steps

The ICPC, not EFCC, is responsible for investigating National Assembly members’ constituency and capital projects. Suleiman urged the writer to approach ICPC with a petition instead of spreading false information.

Senator Laah is considering legal actions against the perpetrators of this malicious story.

The former Senator’s commitment to transparency and accountability remains unwavering, and he will continue to serve his people with integrity.

Verification Efforts

Efforts to verify the authenticity of Metro Daily’s publication revealed that the address provided does not exist. The contact number provided was also unreachable.

Conclusion

The allegations against Senator Danjuma Laah are baseless and malicious. The Senator’s dedication to his people and commitment to transparency remain unshaken.

Related Stories:

• Senator Danjuma Laah’s Philanthropic Efforts in Kaduna South
• ICPC to Investigate National Assembly Members’ Constituency Projects

Source:

Office of Senator Danjuma Laah

Date:

October 24, 2024

Location:

Kaduna, Nigeria

By Ibrahim Kabir

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and support groups, has criticized Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote Refinery, over non-disclosure of premium motor spirit (PMS) prices. The group accuses Dangote of “hanky panky” dealings.

In contrast, AYAGL commended Mele Kolo Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), for efforts to make PMS available despite challenges.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, AYAGL Speaker, praised Kyari’s holistic approach to addressing the fuel shortage but urged Dangote to reveal the cost of a liter of petrol from his refinery. DanBature questioned Dangote’s sincerity, citing waivers granted to his refinery and the need for transparency.

The group warned that if Dangote fails to disclose the information, they will seek means to compel him to do so. AYAGL emphasized its commitment to good governance and transparency, calling on the Federal government and organizations to alleviate citizens’ suffering.

“We are committed to good governance and will support any organization providing good governance and transparency. Enough of the blame game, it’s time to know who is not being truthful to Nigerians,” the group stated.

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) and other support groups has taken a swipe on Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote refinery, over non

By Isah Muhammad

Kaduna Peaceful Frontiers (KPF) has commended the successful conduct of the local government elections by the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KAD-SIECOM) in Kaduna State. The peaceful and transparent nature of the elections is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders involved in the electoral process and the impressive turnout of voters en masse and orderly conduct is quite commendable.

A statement issued by its Chairman, Abubakar Alhasaan, said, “We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the elected officials who emerged victorious in the elections. We also urge them to serve the people of Kaduna State with integrity and dedication, and to work towards the development and progress of the state.”

The group averred that it is imperative that the elected leaders prioritize the needs of the people and work tirelessly to improve the lives of all residents of Kaduna State.

“We also commend the professionalism displayed by the security agencies during the electoral process. Their efforts in ensuring the safety and security of all participants are highly appreciated. We also applaud the mass of the people for their orderly conduct throughout the elections.”

“We call on all candidates who were not successful in the elections to accept defeat in good faith. It is important for the losers to demonstrate sportsmanship

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Sunday, raised the alarm over an alleged plot by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to secure a court injunction to block releases from the Federation Account to the 22 Local Government Councils in Rivers state.

Frank who made this disclosure in a statement in Abuja, said Wike and his co-travelers that are opposed to the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, resorted to the plot, following their failure to stop local government elections in the state which held successfully on Saturday October 5, 2024.

According to him, Wike through his proxies will tomorrow (Monday) or any day soon, approach a Federal High Court in Abuja with spurious writ with prayers that monthly funds allocation to the 22 LGAs in Rivers State should henceforth be withheld with claims that the elections were held in violation of a court ruling.

However, the Bayelsa-born political activist called on Wike to abandon the plot in the interest of the people of Rivers State and find alternative means to settle his rift with Governor Fubara.

He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to allow Wike to dent his democratic credentials with such a retrogressive court action seeing that local councils in Lagos state suffered similar fate during his administration as Governor through the devious orchestration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also warned the Judiciary especially Judges and Justices always out to do Wike’s bidding for personal gain not to grant any frivolous prayer brought before them on this matter.

Besides, he condemned the partisan role the police have played so far in the
political crises rocking the state and called on them to protect all Rivers’ people instead of taking sides with the Ruling All Progressives Congress.

He said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot afford to fold his arms and watch as Wike plots to reverse democracy in Rivers State and by extension Nigeria.

“The anti-democratic tendency of former President Olusegun Obasanjo who seized funds meant for local councils in Lagos during Tinubu’s administration as Governor must not be allowed to repeat itself in Rivers State.

“As we speak, Wike is putting finishing touches to plans to secure a kangaroo court order to stop monthly funds allocation to local government councils in Rivers State. This must not be allowed to happen.”

He warned that such a move could lead to economic disruption in Rivers State in particular and the country in general as well as reversal of of democratic gains the country has made since 1999.

“Any action capable of truncating democracy in the country similar to ongoing scenarios in some West African States must be avoided.

“The people of Rivers State have elected their council chairman and councilors in line with the recent ruling of the Supreme Court to democratize all LGAs in Nigeria and any attempt to truncate democracy in Rivers would be resisted by the people,” he said.

While urging Fubara not to be distracted by the evil machinations of his traducers and political opponents, he congratulated the people of Rivers for successfully electing their council representatives and urged them to redouble their support for the Governor.