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By Sadiq Abubakar

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has called on the Zamfara State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Dauda Lawal over his alleged shoddy handling of the deteriorating security situation in their troubled state.

This is even as the youth council cautioned the Governor to stop attacking the Minister of State for Defence and his predecessor, Alhaji Bello Matawalle. The ethnic group also deplored the alleged refusal by the Governor to work in harmony with the Minister in the ongoing sweeping efforts by the military to crush the escalating banditry and thus the worrisome insecurity ravaging the state.

The YYC in a statement issued by its President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, said it is appalling and unacceptable that rather than cooperate with the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in crushing the worsening banditry in his state, Governor Lawal is fuelling the bandits in their bloody attacks which have claimed many lives because his is not a listening Governor.

According to Oluwole, information reaching the YYC through a document on social media shows that Governor Dauda Lawal, on July 2, 2024, approved a whopping N1.378 billion to finance the state government reconciliation programme with bandits in order to bring the menace to an end.

The money was to be shared among five notorious banditry kingpins including Kachalla Dogu Dide (N200 million), Kachalla Bello Turji (N200m), Ado Alero (N200m), Kachalla Halilu Sububu (N150m), and Gwaska Dan Karami (N150m). Among the quoted beneficiaries of the largesse were also six media promoters including a prominent online media outfit (N100m), Jackson Ude (N150m), Bashir Hadejia (N100m), Shaibu Mungadi (N50m), Tijani Lamaran (N50m), and Danbiliki Kwawanda (N20m).

Governor Lawal approved the money from the State Security Trust Fund following a request on June 30, 2024, by the Secretary to the State Government, Mal Abubakar Nakwanda. He had asked the governor to direct the state Ministry of Finance to release the said amount for distribution to the beneficiaries listed above as a matter of urgency.

Oluwole said Governor Lawal should be impeached as Governor of Zamfara State due to his conivance with and funding of bandits with state resources to fund the reign of terror in his state.

Recently, the Yoruba Youths Council monitored Governor Lawal’s interview on a TV station calling for the resignation of Alhaji Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence.

We make bold to say that viewing the current situation in Zamfara, Mr Governor could not have accused his predecessor of not doing enough. This is because Alhaji Bello Matawalle has tried his best to work with him, but Governor Dauda Lawal has refused his intervention.

We expect that the Governor of a state being ravaged by banditry everywhere is not supposed to jeopardise any effort from anywhere to crush banditry and restore normalcy in the beleaguered state.

Yoruba youths have been monitoring Zamfara issues over time, and we cannot allow Governor Dauda Lawal to continue molesting Alhaji Bello Matawalle as one of the best Ministers in the administration of Tinubu Government.

Bello Matawalle has been a man working hard for the good development of Zamfara state.

Oluwole noted the successes recently recorded by the nation’s gallant armed forces in the ongoing onslaught against banditry in the North, including the neutralization of the notorious banditry kingpin Halilu Sububu and the arrest of another gun running banditry kingpin, Bashir Hadejia.

The YYC President recalled the group’s statement on the achievements being recorded by the military in the ongoing battle to crush banditry titled “Governor Dauda Lawal Faces Public Scrutiny Amid Anti-Banditry Operations in Zamfara.”

According to the statement, in recent months Zamfara State has been a focal point of concern as significant developments unfold in the ongoing battle against insecurity and lawlessness, primarily attributed to the activities of bandit leaders.

The arrest of Bashir Hadejiya, a notorious gun running figure, coupled with the neutralization of infamous bandits such as Halilu Sububu, marks an apparent attempt by the state and federal authorities to regain control over a troubling situation that has plagued local communities for years.

However, these positive strides have been overshadowed by the increasingly complex dynamics between political leadership and public sentiment, particularly regarding Governor

By Ibrahim Abdullahi

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has called for the resignation of Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, citing his failure to provide effective governance and alleged involvement in financial misconduct linked to terror groups.

The forum condemned Governor Lawal’s call for Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation, stating it is misplaced and indicative of deeper governance issues.

Allegations surround Governor Lawal’s request for One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a reconciliation program with notorious bandits, including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami.

The NSCF questioned the ethical governance of Zamfara State, citing the recent arrest of Governor Lawal’s aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Defence Minister Matawalle’s progress against banditry, including eliminating leaders and reducing violence, should not be overshadowed by Governor Lawal’s politically motivated attacks.

The NSCF demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, threatening to advocate for a state of emergency if he fails to step down.

The forum urges stakeholders, including the Federal Government and civil society, to recognize the urgency of the situation and act decisively.

Governor Lawal is urged to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of Zamfara’s citizens above political expediency.

“We implore Governor Dauda Lawal to resign in the interest of peace and security within Zamfara State. The time is now to place the wellbeing of our people above all else, for in their safety and prosperity lies the future of our communities,” said Comrade Danjuma Paul, convener of the NSCF.

By Musa Maye

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed grave concern over Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal’s public criticisms of Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle, citing a reversal of security progress in the North-West.

NAN chairman Salihu Sulaiman stated that Lawal’s actions undermine collaborative efforts against insecurity and threaten safety and stability in the region.

Defence Minister Matawalle has initiated strategic measures to curb violence, including military deployment and community engagement, resulting in notable successes.

Governor Lawal’s attacks raise questions about his intentions, particularly given his alleged culpability in a letter requesting funds for a dubious reconciliation program with bandit leaders.

NAN contends that Lawal’s actions betray a lack of understanding of the security crisis and may embolden criminal elements.

The network calls for Lawal’s immediate resignation to ensure the continuation of Matawalle’s initiatives and suggests federal intervention if he refuses.

NAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the battle against insecurity in Northern Nigeria, applauding the sacrifices of the armed forces and international allies.

The network urges unity and collective action in pursuit of a secure future for North-West residents.

By Luka Gero

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.