Gov Lawal’s Leadership Accountability Questioned in Wake of Tsangaya School Tragedy

Mohammed Sani Ilu

The recent fire outbreak at a Tsangaya school in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State has generated significant grief and alarm, particularly given the tragic loss of 17 young lives. Additionally, this incident injured at least 16 other pupils. The ramifications of this disaster extend beyond immediate loss as it intertwines with broader socio-political issues within Zamfara State. The perception that these incidents are omens linked to the governance of Dauda Lawal Dare has emerged among community members, raising concerns about leadership accountability and systemic failures.
The Tsangaya, or Almajiri, school system is a traditional form of education in northern Nigeria. Unfortunately, these schools are often underfunded and inadequately equipped. The tragic fire incident exemplifies this vulnerability. Many residents expressed anger over the lack of basic safety measures in a facility that serves vulnerable children. Such instances highlight systemic failures in educational infrastructure and student safety. This raises questions regarding the state government’s commitment to improving conditions in educational institutions, especially those catering to marginalized groups.
The current administration has faced increased scrutiny over its inability to respond effectively to such tragedies. Many residents have begun associating these incidents with a perceived jinx tied to Dauda Lawal Dare’s leadership. Some argue this perspective is unjustified, positing that natural disasters and accidents are not solely the responsibility of governance. However, the failure to prevent or address these calamities effectively reflects inadequacies in governance.
The political implications of this incident cannot be overstated. Since Dauda Lawal Dare assumed office, there has been a series of unfortunate events in the state, leading many to opine that his leadership has brought a “bad omen.” This belief can be partially attributed to a string of crises, including disasters and increased insecurity in the region. For instance, the boat accidents that occurred in September 2024 further illustrate the state’s problems. Reports indicate that numerous boat mishaps claimed dozens of lives, with incidents such as the one in Mashayar Yandaga River resulting in five survivors and nine recoveries of deceased individuals. Such events have prompted residents to question the effectiveness of governance and disaster management within the state.
Moreover, the following boat accident, where at least 64 people were feared dead, only heightened these sentiments. These accidents were closely followed by another capsizing in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, underlining how precarious life can be in Zamfara State. With inadequate regulations in place, riverine communities have faced significant dangers, and the fear of losing lives has created a climate of anxiety. This recurring cycle of despair has led to calls for more effective leadership that prioritizes public safety and welfare.
The broader impact of these incidents on the community cannot be overlooked. The recent floods that displaced thousands of individuals further compounded the challenges faced by the residents of Zamfara State. The Displacement Tracking Matrix assessed the consequences of extensive flooding, identifying over 61,000 individuals impacted. A large proportion of this affected population continued to live in their homes, despite damage that varied from partial to complete destruction. The economic ramifications are staggering, affecting the primary income sources of many families reliant on farming and petty trading. Loss of homes and livelihoods not only exacerbates poverty but also erodes community resilience.
Furthermore, it is critical to examine the historical context of resource allocation in Zamfara State. Over the years, the state has faced challenges in securing adequate funding for critical sectors, including education and disaster management. Irregularities in developmental planning have often left communities ill-prepared for emergencies. Influential local leaders and NGOs have advocated for better governance, yet tangible changes remain limited. The current administration’s struggle to address these historical failures has resulted in widespread disillusionment among residents.
Critics of Dauda Lawal Dare’s government highlight that effective leadership should involve proactive disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. Events like the recent fire outbreak in the Almajiri school, coupled with recurrent boat accidents and flooding, demand a comprehensive approach. This includes investing in educational infrastructure, improving safety protocols, and developing a robust disaster response mechanism. Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort between governmental agencies and community members to foster resilience.
In terms of future developments, the Zamfara State government must prioritize resource allocation towards building a more robust disaster management framework. Engaging with community leaders and local organizations can provide substantial support for raising awareness and strengthening local capacities. Active involvement of residents in governance processes may foster accountability and ensure their voices are heard in confronting these crises.
In conclusion, the recent tragedies in Zamfara State, marked by the heart-wrenching loss of young lives in a fire at a Tsangaya school and a series of boat accidents, necessitate urgent reflection and action. The interplay of governance challenges, infrastructural inadequacies, and socio-economic vulnerabilities must be urgently addressed. As residents grapple with their grief and loss, the call for accountable leadership that truly prioritizes the welfare of its people grows louder. Effective governance must rise to meet these challenges, ensuring that such devastating incidents are prevented in the future.

INEC’s Decisive Action: A Boost to Nigeria’s Electoral Integrity

By Victoria Nwosu

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed its support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and President Bola Tinubu over their recent decisive actions in dismissing three suspended Residents Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states. This commendation underscores the vital role of maintaining electoral integrity and accountability within Nigeria’s democratic processes.

According to NAN in its statement signed by the Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the dismissal of the three RECs in March 2023 stemmed from serious allegations of unlawful assumption of roles and dereliction of duty during the recent general elections adding that these suspensions are emblematic of the commitment by INEC to upholding the integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria.

“INEC’s actions not only address immediate concerns of misconduct but also bolster public confidence in the electoral system’s capacity to adjudicate fairly against corruption and negligence. This proactive approach is critical in setting a precedent that faces electoral malpractice head-on.

“Within the context of Nigerian politics, the urgency of maintaining electoral integrity has become increasingly pronounced. The country’s recent history has been plagued with instances of electoral fraud and malpractice, regularly undermining democratic institutions.

“The conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud further reflects the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions during the electoral process. Such legal actions signal to the public and potential offenders that ethical violations will have consequences. The relationship between accountability and integrity is crucial for enhancing the legitimacy of electoral results and the overall democratic environment in Nigeria.

“In light of these developments, the Northern Awareness Network urges all stakeholders involved in the electoral process, including security agencies and political parties, to imitate INEC’s example by implementing stringent internal disciplinary measures against those engaging in misconduct”. Suleiman said, upholding ethical standards across the board is paramount for fostering a political culture that values integrity and transparency adding that Political parties, in particular, are in a unique position to influence their members’ conduct. By establishing clear ethical guidelines and adhering to them, parties can not only avoid scandals but also improve their relationships with the electorate.

“It is also important to recognize the complexities surrounding the disciplinary procedures within INEC itself. The organization has faced criticism in the past for its handling of electoral malfeasance. The thoroughness of INEC’s investigation and execution of the dismissals indicates a commitment to procedural integrity, which is essential for maintaining public trust.

“Adherence to due process ensures that actions taken are justified and transparent. This, in turn, reinforces the credibility of the electoral system, as decisions are based on established norms and legal frameworks rather than arbitrary judgment. Moving forward, the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders can play a significant role in consolidating democracy in Nigeria. Ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections is a shared responsibility. This collaboration could manifest in various forms, such as joint training programs for election officials and security personnel, workshops aimed at raising awareness about electoral ethics, and fostering collaborations between civil society organizations and electoral bodies. The Northern Awareness Network says it stands prepared to support initiatives aimed at promoting accountability and integrity in future electoral events, signaling a commitment to fostering a democratic culture that emphasizes the electoral rights of citizens.

“Additionally, global perspectives on electoral integrity provide useful insights for Nigeria. Countries that have successfully strengthened electoral processes often do so through comprehensive electoral reforms that involve a range of stakeholders. These countries exemplify the importance of continuous assessment of electoral practices and the necessity for adaptability in regulatory frameworks.

“Embracing lessons from such examples can guide Nigeria toward reforms that bolster the integrity of its electoral system. The actions taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission and President Bola Tinubu in dismissing the three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners represent a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s electoral landscape”. The group further stressed that upholding electoral integrity and accountability is essential not only for the immediate future of Nigerian democracy but also for fostering public trust in its institutions. The Northern Awareness Network’s call for collaboration among all stakeholders underscores the necessity of a collective commitment to establishing a fair electoral process. By reinforcing ethical standards, ensuring accountability, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria can make significant strides toward a more representative and resilient democracy, the group added.

Electoral Integrity: AYCF Lauds Tinubu, INEC Over Dismissal of 3 RECs

By Ameh Ochagwe

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their firm stance on accountability in the dismissal of three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.

AYCF in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, said he believed that such decision is a bold step towards restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process and promoting ethical conduct among election officials.

The forum also applauded President Tinubu’s request to the Senate to terminate the appointments of the suspended RECs, as it aligns with constitutional oversight provisions and demonstrates a commitment to upholding electoral integrity.

Furthermore, the AYCF said it acknowledged INEC’s efforts in upholding electoral integrity, citing the recent conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud during the 2019 elections as a significant victory against election malpractice.

Shettima said the successful prosecution sets an important precedent and sends a strong message to those who seek to compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, adding that by holding individuals accountable for their actions, the confidence in the electoral system will be restored, and citizens can have faith in the fairness and transparency of future elections.

AYCF also urged other stakeholders, such as the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Police, other security agencies, and political parties, to follow suit by enforcing internal disciplinary measures against individuals who engage in misconduct during elections.

“This call for accountability extends beyond electoral officials and emphasizes the importance of all parties involved in the electoral process upholding ethical standards and conducting themselves with integrity. By working together to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a stronger democracy for the nation as a whole.

“The AYCF also acknowledges the complexity of disciplinary processes within INEC and expresses appreciation for the time it took for the suspended RECs to be dismissed. We recognize that adherence to due process is essential in maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and ensuring that decisions are made fairly and transparently.

“By taking time to investigate and follow proper procedures, INEC demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is crucial for building public trust in the electoral process”. Shettima said.

The AYCF stands in solidarity with INEC and President Tinubu in their efforts to promote accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process while calling on all Nigerians to support such initiatives and work towards building a stronger democracy for the nation.

“By holding individuals accountable for their actions, enforcing ethical standards, and upholding the principles of transparency and integrity, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a fair and inclusive electoral system that serves the interests of all citizens” Shettima stressed.

Tiktok Video: You have No honour to attack Ribadu…

Enraged by her recent Tiktok Video comments, Kano based women group, Kanawa Womenu Forum for Development (KWFD) has said Hajiya Naja’atu Mohammad, the Police Service Commission member has no moral right and honour to attack the National Security Adviser ,Mal. Nuhu Ribadu.

  1. Kano women Group blast Naja’atu

According to the women group, Naja’atu Muhammad should not be speaking against the National Security Adviser who has been able to use his office to relatively secure the north and its people from daredevil bandits and insurgents .

Najaatu in the video, claimed that during Ribadu’s tenure as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senators George Akume and Orji Uzor Kalu, of being among the most corrupt Governors in Nigeria.

The Kanawa Women Forum for Development in statement made available to journalists in Kaduna which claimed,Naja’atu is working for Atikui said, “Though the National Security Adviser did demand for a public apology and retraction from Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad over the allegations she made in the viral TikTok video, we are giving her 7-day ultimatum to go back on same tiktok to apologize”.

The statement signed by the Leader of the group,Hajiya Amina Musa Lawan posited that he who must talk about equity must be ready to come with clean hands, thus part of reasons we are revealing her this her dark titled: “The ABC of Naja’atu the Saint” .

The statement further reads: ” Naja’atu’s first husband Dr. Bala Muhammad,was the political adviser of late Kano Governor Rimi in the 80s.Dr Bala was killed in kano by members of the faction of his party.Naja’atu went ahead to marry one of the foes of her late Husband.She had married and divorced over 7 times and now she is single.

“During the reign of General Sani Abacha,Naja’atu distanced herself of progressive politicians and befriended the wife of the late dictator.She defended that regime in the face of the looting and the rights violations.She benefited financially and bought a lot of properties.At the time of the Abacha transitions,She contested the Senate seat for Kano central,As results were tricking in favour of Senator Kura Muhammad of blessed memory,Soldiers were ordered to invade collation center and Naja’atu was illegally declared the Winner,and it never lasted. That is why you will never hear her say anything about Abacha’s family or his looting.

“Naja’atu has a track record of blackmailing successive Kano state Governors in the last 25 years.During the Government of Shekarau,She brought in a Chinese Company to the Governor and demanded that billions of Naira contract should be awarded to her,when shekarau declined,she started campaign against him and ran away from kano.

“Naja’atu was praising Buhari and wanted Buhari to appoint her minister,when he refused and appointed her the cv of Federal University Dutse Jigawa state,she declined and started attacking him. “

Youth Group Berate KEDCO, Threatens Legal Actions Over Protracted Power Outage

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.

El-Rufai’s Latest Misstep: Kaduna Group Disavows Former Governor

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.

NNPCL: Northern Elders Groups Root for Bala Wunti as New NNPCL Boss

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 .”

NAN DEFENDS MATAWALLE AGAINST CRITICISMS, SAYS HE ACTED IN NIGERIA’S BEST INTEREST

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.

MATAWALLE: THE LONE VOICE AGAINST INCITING COMMENTS AS AYCF HAILED HIS STANCE

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”.

Amaechi’s Attacks on Tinubu;Group expresses concern for no response

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.”