Author Archives: News All Around

By Sarah Oyale

The North-East Youth Revival Movement (NEYM) has condemned the deadly Boko Haram attack on a Nigerian Army base in Marte, Borno State, describing it as another tragic sign of systemic failures in the nation’s security apparatus. The group is demanding the resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, citing what it called repeated negligence and incompetence in the fight against terrorism.

In a press release signed by NEYM Chairman, Abbarious Lawal, the group expressed heartbreak over the loss of five soldiers during the attack and called for accountability at the highest levels of Nigeria’s defense leadership.

“In light of this devastating event, we hereby call for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar,” the statement read. “This demand reflects a growing frustration among the citizens of Nigeria regarding the government’s failure to provide adequate security and effectively combat the escalating threat posed by insurgents.”

According to the group, the Boko Haram fighters launched a coordinated attack on a forward operating base in Marte, overwhelming the soldiers, looting weapons, and seizing military vehicles. NEYM said the consequences were devastating—not only for the troops involved but also for nearby communities, which have now been thrown into a state of fear and displacement.

“This alarming behavior illustrates a critical crisis of confidence within our military ranks,” NEYM noted. “The sight of essential military assets—including a commanding officer’s vehicle—falling into the hands of terrorists compromises our operational effectiveness and erodes the morale of our armed forces.”

NEYM said the fallout from the attack has triggered widespread displacement, with civilians fleeing to towns like Dikwa, Lukumani, and Mafa. Internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in these areas are reportedly overstretched and lacking essential services, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The group backed its claims with data from SBM Intelligence, which reported that more than 2,000 Nigerians died in violent incidents between January and March 2025. Borno State alone accounted for a significant portion of those fatalities: 892 civilians, 462 bandits, and 234 Boko Haram members.

“Our call for the resignation or retirement of Minister Badaru Abubakar by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is emblematic of a broader demand for accountability within our government,” NEYM said. “The perception of incompetence in handling the escalating insecurity in the region is not unfounded.”

They argued that the government has consistently failed to engage communities, invest in strategic defense planning, or provide adequate support to frontline soldiers. NEYM also emphasized that desertion by soldiers under fire is more a symptom of systemic neglect than individual cowardice.

“Our soldiers are often thrust into perilous situations without adequate training, equipment, or support,” the statement continued. “This leaves them vulnerable and unprepared, and it severely weakens our national defense capability.”

NEYM concluded by calling on President Tinubu to take decisive action—not only by removing ineffective officials but by initiating a comprehensive security reform agenda that prioritizes troop welfare, community engagement, and long-term strategy.

“The call for the resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar is a reflection of deep-seated frustration with the status quo and a demand for meaningful change,” the group stressed. “As our nation grapples with the consequences of ongoing violence, we must prioritize accountability, reform, and a renewed commitment to the safety and security of all Nigerians.”

“Only through concerted efforts to address these pressing issues can we hope to overcome the challenges posed by insurgency and restore peace and stability to the North-East and beyond.”

By Maria Abuchi

The North-West Alliance for Security (NWAS) has called for the immediate resignation of Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, over what it described as his persistent failure to address the escalating crisis of insecurity in the North-West region of the country.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Musa Zakaria, the group declared that it “stands resolute in its commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens of the North-West region of Nigeria,” and expressed deep concern over what it described as the “unrelenting activities of bandits and violent extremists.”

“The North-West has tragically become synonymous with lawlessness, as criminal gangs known as ‘bandits’ wreak havoc on our communities,” Zakaria said. “The situation has deteriorated to such an extent that, as highlighted by military officials, these bandits have formed alarming alliances with violent extremist organizations, blurring the lines between banditry and terrorism.”

According to NWAS, infiltration by jihadist and terrorist elements into the ranks of criminal gangs has raised the stakes, posing an existential threat to the entire region. The statistics, the group said, paint a grim picture: thousands have been killed, millions displaced, and economic life across the region is on the brink of collapse due to the unrestrained activities of bandits.

The group pointed to states such as Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara as epicenters of the crisis. “An estimated 30,000 bandits operate across nearly 100 gangs,” the statement noted. “Radicalization, long-standing disputes over land and resources, worsening environmental conditions, and an influx of weapons have only deepened the crisis.”

Zakaria lamented the breakdown of traditional conflict-resolution systems. “The traditional systems of mediation that once preserved harmony in our communities have been undermined, leaving a vacuum now filled by violence and terror,” he said.

NWAS expressed dismay over what it called the Defence Minister’s “woefully inadequate” response to the crisis, accusing him of failing to follow through on promises of increased military presence and strategic operations.

“The situation continues to deteriorate, with communities living in daily fear and uncertainty. This failure to protect our people is not merely a political oversight; it is a grave dereliction of duty,” the group stated.

NWAS emphasized that accountability must remain central to governance. “Minister Badaru Abubakar has had ample time to demonstrate his commitment to securing our region. Yet, the violence persists and his inaction speaks volumes,” the statement said.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act swiftly by relieving Badaru of his duties and appointing a “capable and dedicated leader who can bring fresh ideas and a renewed resolve to combat the security challenges in the North-West.”

“This is not just a political demand,” Zakaria stressed, “it is a moral imperative. Our people deserve safety, stability, and the assurance that their government is working in their best interest.”

NWAS concluded by calling on civil society, traditional institutions, and the wider public to rally behind its call. “The time for decisive action is now. We will not relent until our communities are free from the shackles of fear and violence,” the statement said.

ENDS

13th May 2025 – Asaba

The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has expressed strong concern over the recent invitation extended to High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement signed by the Chapter Chairman, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, UYAN described the EFCC’s action as suspicious and potentially politically motivated, particularly given the timing of the invitation.

“It is quite telling that this invitation comes shortly after High Chief Tompolo publicly declared his full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and urged the people of the Niger Delta to rally behind the President’s re-election bid in 2027,” Fajoye said.

The UYAN Chairman further stated that “the timing raises serious questions and lends credence to the belief that certain political actors who are opposed to President Tinubu’s growing popularity and acceptance—especially in the South-South—may be using state institutions to pursue a hidden agenda.”

Fajoye called on the EFCC to maintain its integrity and avoid being drawn into political battles that may undermine national cohesion and democratic stability. “We must remind the EFCC that Tompolo is not only a respected leader but also a deeply loved figure in the Niger Delta. Any attempt to intimidate or harass him will not only backfire but could also alienate a significant portion of the electorate from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).”

According to UYAN, President Tinubu is beginning to enjoy widespread support across the region due to his developmental initiatives and bold leadership style. “Tompolo’s endorsement is a reflection of this growing goodwill, and such a gesture should be seen as a unifying move rather than a threat,” the statement continued.

“We urge the EFCC to tread with caution and exercise restraint. Nigeria cannot afford to descend into politically motivated witch-hunts, especially at a time when unity and stability are paramount.”

Signed:
Comrade Gbenga Fajoye
Chairman, Delta State Chapter
Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN)

–

Kaduna, Nigeria – May 13, 2025 — The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has officially announced the commencement of its screening process for applicants seeking admission into the 77 Regular Course for the 2025 academic session. The announcement, made by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Mohammed Maidawa, outlines the requirements and key dates for prospective candidates.

According to the statement, all applicants who participated in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and selected the NDA as their first-choice institution are eligible for consideration—provided they meet the minimum score requirements.

“A minimum UTME score of 180 is required for all courses, while candidates applying for engineering courses must have scored at least 210,” the release stated. Only those who meet these criteria will be allowed to select a screening centre and sit for the NDA Screening Test.

The nationwide NDA Screening Test is scheduled for Saturday, 24 May 2025. Candidates who are successful in the screening phase will proceed to the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) held at the Academy in Kaduna. There, they will undergo comprehensive evaluations including medical, physical, and psychological tests, as well as other assessments.

The final list of successful candidates is expected to be published in national newspapers and on the official NDA website in due course.

Meanwhile, the Academy has raised an alarm over a growing trend of online fraudsters impersonating NDA officials through fake social media accounts. These individuals reportedly disseminate false information and solicit payments under the guise of facilitating admission.

“The NDA has not authorized any individual or group to collect money on its behalf. Admission into the Academy is strictly based on merit, and the process is transparent,” warned Major Maidawa.

Prospective applicants and the general public are urged to rely only on the NDA’s verified communication channels for authentic updates. Official information is available on the Academy’s social media platforms, including:

TikTok: @ndefenceacademy

Facebook: facebook.com/@ndefenceacademy

Twitter (X): x.com/ndefenceacademy

Instagram: instagram.com/ndefenceacademy

YouTube: youtube.com/@ndefenceacademy

For direct inquiries, applicants may contact the NDA Registry via email at academyregistrar@nda.edu.ng.

The NDA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of training, discipline, and academic excellence, and looks forward to welcoming the next generation of officer cadets.

Markus Aden

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has cleared a misconception on the recent attacks on Honourable Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle through a sponsored fake protest calling on the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Chairman of the forum Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani described the protest as another shameless and dishonest act perpetrated by a so-called faceless and non-existent group that claimed to be All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA), who took to the street in another charade of a protest demanding the probe of Matawalle.

“This is nothing but another episode in the series of sponsored, devilish, and character-damaging campaigns by certain unpatriotic, dishonest enemies of democracy, threatened by the gigantic successes achieved by the Minister and the opposition who have allegedly set aside a sum of 2 billion naira for such purposes.

“Behold, all their series of campaigns are nowhere close to the truth but are full of jargon, falsehoods, and devilish notes meant for destructive purposes. You are all aware this is not their first, they have tried with different organizations and persons who have all failed, but they have refused to back down and accept the truth.

“We are here to expose them to Nigerians, reveal their real identities as the criminals and frauds that they are, and bring an end to their sponsored and unpatriotic plot. Hence; the APC-YLA is non-existent and nonfunctional and has only surfaced for the purpose of a campaign of calumny against Defence Minister Matawalle.

“Its address is fake; it is a marketplace that carries no bearing or any precise direction; it is a formulation to serve its scandalous agenda.The crowd for the protest was absurd; only a few of them were above 18, and the rest were minors and hired; they knew nothing about APC-YLA or Matawalle but were offered pea nuts and used to serve the agenda of the sponsors by holding placards and chanting slogans they knew nothing about.

“In the same vein, we are reporting to the APC, whose organization’s reputation is dragged to serve this devilish purpose, who is possibly infiltrated. We are also petitioning the group to APC and relevant security agencies to take immediate note and action against these imposters as we believe some of them are not even members of the APC. Furthermore, we demand a full list and membership details of their members and organizations”.

The group expressed hope that the APC will never allow the ruling party to be used as a tool for a witch hunt or a subject of personal attack. It also, expressed confidence that the security agencies will not rest until these imposters are checkmated.

“We maintain that this madness must stop, sanity must return and the normal status quo must be followed” it stressed.

ENDS

By Tersoo Zango

A youth advocacy group, Zamfara Youth for Progress (ZYP), has raised alarm over an alleged plan to stage a politically motivated press conference aimed at discrediting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. The group described the move as a dangerous distraction from the fight against insecurity in the North.

In a press statement issued on Monday in Gusau, signed by its chairman, Tijjani Musa Tsafe, the group alleged that the planned press briefing is being orchestrated with the support of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and warned that the action could destabilize recent gains in security across the region.

“We hereby issue this statement as a clarion call to the youth and citizens of Zamfara, urging them to reject any attempts to destabilize the ongoing fight against insecurity in our region,” the statement read.

The youth group noted that, in recent months, the Northern region has experienced a significant reduction in banditry and violent crimes—a development it credited to the strategic leadership of Minister Matawalle.

Tsafe said the minister’s approach has led to the neutralization of several bandit leaders and the recovery of previously terrorized communities. “It is imperative that we recognize and celebrate these achievements rather than allow ourselves to be drawn into divisive politics that serve only the interests of a few,” he added.

ZYP condemned the alleged planned press conference as “ill-timed and counterproductive,” saying it was being driven by groups with no legitimate claim to represent the youths or people of Zamfara State. “They are hungry for attention and recognition, but their actions threaten to derail the progress we have made in combating insecurity,” the group stated.

The statement further urged all well-meaning citizens to resist attempts to politicize security issues at a time when stability is gradually being restored. “The people of Zamfara deserve leaders who prioritize the welfare of their constituents above personal ambitions,” Tsafe said.

He urged the alleged sponsors of the smear campaign to desist, adding that Minister Matawalle deserves support, not sabotage. “It is crucial for us to allow Minister Matawalle and the federal government to concentrate on their mission of enhancing national security without undue distractions. The stakes are too high, and the consequences of such distractions could be dire for our communities.”

The group described Matawalle as a “beacon of hope” for Northern Nigeria, citing the tangible results of his leadership in the ongoing anti-banditry campaign. “The reduction in banditry and violence is not merely a statistic; it is a testament to the lives saved and the families reunited,” the statement added.

The group concluded by calling on Zamfara residents and Northern citizens at large to unite in support of leaders making real progress in security and governance.

“We must focus our energies on supporting those who are genuinely working to improve our lives rather than engaging in futile political squabbles,” Tsafe said. “Let us stand together in solidarity, championing the cause of peace and security for Zamfara and the North as a whole.”

By Christina Ocholi

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has accused the Zamfara State Government of sponsoring a well-funded smear campaign aimed at discrediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a press statement signed by the forum’s Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group alleged that a staggering sum of about two billion naira has been released to various groups tasked with organizing press conferences and disseminating negative narratives targeted at both the President and the Defence Minister.

The NSCF, a group known for its advocacy for peace and unity in Nigeria, said the alleged campaign is designed to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation and call into question President Tinubu’s judgment in appointing him into the federal cabinet.

“These are orchestrated attacks with the sole aim of undermining a key figure in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity,” the statement read. “Matawalle’s track record in public service is well documented. These recent attempts to damage his image are politically motivated and based on no verifiable facts.”

The group said the alleged plot includes plans to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen investigations into Matawalle’s tenure as governor of Zamfara State. It emphasized that these calls lack credible justification and appear to be driven by political vendettas.

“Matawalle has always been committed to the fight against insecurity, especially during his time as Governor of Zamfara,” Comrade Paul stated. “Now, as Defence Minister, he remains focused on national service. These baseless attacks only serve to distract from that mission.”

According to the NSCF, opposition to Matawalle’s appointment stems from local political rivalries within Zamfara. The group accused certain elites of feeling threatened by the minister’s rising national profile and seeking to diminish his influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The timing of these smear campaigns is telling,” the forum noted. “As political interests clash ahead of 2027, some factions are trying to control the narrative by launching coordinated attacks against their perceived opponents.”

The group condemned what it described as the deliberate spread of misinformation, warning that such actions have far-reaching implications beyond personal reputations.

“At a time when Nigeria is battling severe security threats, engaging in divisive and false campaigns is both reckless and dangerous,” the forum said. “Such rhetoric not only targets individuals but undermines national unity and the fight against insecurity.”

The forum stressed that sabotaging efforts at the federal level—especially in the Defence Ministry—could worsen the already dire security situation in Zamfara and other northern states grappling with armed banditry and insurgency.

Comrade Paul called on security agencies, including the police and other intelligence institutions, to investigate those allegedly behind the smear efforts.

“Political blackmail must not be tolerated,” he said. “Those behind these defamatory activities must be exposed and held accountable. Disinformation is a form of political violence, and it must be treated as such.”

Zamfara State has long been one of the epicenters of insecurity in Nigeria, with ongoing conflicts between criminal groups and security forces. The forum said Matawalle’s appointment was widely regarded as a strategic move by President Tinubu to bring in someone with field experience to help coordinate better responses to the crisis.

Despite ongoing political tension, the forum noted that Matawalle has remained focused and undistracted by attacks on his character.

In an earlier statement, the Defence Minister described the campaigns against him as baseless and politically motivated. He reaffirmed his commitment to securing Nigeria and working collaboratively with state governments and local communities.

“My focus remains the safety and protection of all Nigerians,” Matawalle said. “These attempts to derail our national efforts will not succeed.”

The NSCF concluded its statement with a call for unity, urging political actors across the country to set aside self-interest and prioritize the nation’s stability and security.

“The road to lasting peace is paved with collective responsibility,” the forum said. “We must come together—regardless of political affiliation—to face the real enemies of our nation: insecurity, division, and misinformation.”

ENDS

A former Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, has lambasted Senate President Godswill Akpabio, asking him to directly address the sexual harassment allegations levelled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and others, rather than hiding behind what he described as “hired blackmailers and image launderers.”

Abdullahi made the call while referencing the recent public campaign led by one Professor Mgbake, who has emerged as a vocal critic of Senator Natasha.

He accused Mgbake of peddling falsehoods and engaging in a calculated effort to distract from the serious allegations against the Senate President.

“While Mgbake publicly denied any link to the Senate President, she contradicted herself by revealing Senator Akpabio’s private phone number during her media attacks,” Abdullahi said, adding that such an act strongly suggests coordination between her and Akpabio’s camp.

He described Mgbake’s involvement as “a desperate media campaign” to shield the Senate President from accountability, urging Nigerians not to be distracted by what he termed “a circus of deception.”

Abdullahi further raised concerns about Mgbake’s reputation, citing past allegations of fraud and deception.

He referenced multiple online reports, including a Nairaland thread labelling her a con artist, and an investigative piece by Secrets Reporter, which accused her of defrauding clients using front companies.

He also linked her to a recent smear campaign against Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, shared on her Facebook page.

“It is both disgraceful and cowardly for a high-ranking public officer like the Senate President to associate with individuals of such questionable reputation,” Abdullahi said. “Rather than defend himself with honour, Akpabio has chosen to hide behind people whose public records are smeared with controversy and criminal allegations.”

He also cast doubt on the credibility of Mgbake’s academic qualifications, saying her claim to a professorship remains unverified.

“It is unfortunate that a matter as sensitive and serious as sexual harassment is being reduced to a media circus involving paid agents and individuals who themselves lack public trust,” he added.

Abdullahi concluded by urging Senator Akpabio to respond to the allegations with the dignity and transparency expected of a national leader.

“This is about integrity and accountability. No Nigerian, no matter how highly placed should be above scrutiny,” he said.

“The Senate President must rise to the occasion and prove his innocence through facts, not hired propaganda.”

…Says they are jobless

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has asked Nigerians to ignore what he termed ‘Sponsored Groups ” mobilised against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL) , Engineer Mele Kyari.

According to the group, Kyari has successfully served the country with a good sense of patriotism and should not be rewarded with such sponsored attacks and protests.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service as obtainable in most developed countries.” It added.

The group, which made the appeal in a Statement made available to journalists today expressed dismay over failure on side of these sponsored protesters to recognize and appreciate that sacrifices made by Mele Kyari to refloat the moribund refineries in Port Harcourt,Warri and Kaduna is worthy of commendation and not condemnation.

While stating that Kyari is the Best Group Chief Executive Officer that Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited ever had, the group condemned and wrote off those behind the sponsored groups as jobless people with no vision for future.

The statement signed by the Chairman Comrade Bala Usman Sani further reads: “We want those behind the sponsored attacks to know that Kyari inherited an NNPC that was still struggling to shake off the negative image of a national oil company where nothing works.But he turned the situation around and he was recognized as the “Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022” by the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).

“He ensured that NNPC maintained a national strategic fuel reserve capable of serving the country’s needs for a reasonable period till normalcy was restored with the curtailment of massive smuggling of petroleum products across the country’s borders.

“Apart from encouraging private investors, like Dangote Group and other mini-refineries developers in the country to be involved in the construction of private refineries, Kyari ensured his agenda for the rehabilitation of the four refineries were on course, stopped oil theft and supported exploration of crude oil in the north

“We want to also remind them that he was instrumental to the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act(PIA) ensuring smooth transition of NNPC to a fully incorporated company under the Companies and Allied Matter Act

“Under Kyari,the national oil company achieved significant progress, which includes the revival of two major refineries, increase in domestic natural gas consumption, and a boost in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.

“Recalled that Kyari introduced the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda, which helped to address inefficiencies within the corporation