Author Archives: News All Around

By Sam Amaku 

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), a prominent voice representing the interests of the northern youth in Nigeria, has refuted statements made by Honourable Aminu Sani Jaji, saying the claims did not only lack credibility but also serve as a smokescreen for his questionable political dealings that have come to light. 

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, averred that Honourable Jaji has attempted to position himself as a champion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a proponent of unity within the party but viewed his actions as a calculated strategy to further his political ambitions, which have been marred by allegations of financial impropriety and deceit. 

According to the statement, *“It is essential to highlight that Honourable Aminu Sani Jaji is widely recognized within political circles as a known political scammer. His most notorious venture, the organization known as ‘All For Baba,’ was ostensibly established to galvanize support for President Muhammadu Buhari. However, it has become increasingly evident that this organization was merely a facade for a more sinister agenda—siphoning funds under the guise of political campaigning. Reports indicate that Jaji colluded with the former Director General of the State Security Services Bichi to misappropriate funds intended for legitimate political activities. This raises serious questions about his integrity and motives.”* 

Shettima queried, *“How can a person who has engaged in such dubious practices claim to represent the interests of the people? The AYCF firmly believes that the people of Nigeria deserve leaders who are transparent and accountable, not those who exploit their trust for personal gain.”* 

The forum said they find it curious that Honourable Jaji chose to address the press in Kaduna rather than his home base of Gusau, stressing that his decision appears to be a deliberate attempt to create further divisions within the APC rather than fostering unity. 

It further averred that by opting for Kaduna, a city with its own political dynamics and tensions, Jaji seems to be more interested in stirring controversy than in promoting cohesion within the party. 

*“The choice of location raises pertinent questions: Is Jaji attempting to manipulate the political landscape for his benefit? Does he seek to undermine the efforts of other party members who are genuinely committed to the APC’s success? The AYCF believes that such actions are counterproductive and detrimental to the collective goal of strengthening the party and serving the interests of the Nigerian people.”* 

The AYCF therefore urged the leadership of the APC to take a closer look at the actions of Honourable Jaji and called for accountability and integrity in political representation. 

*“The youth of Arewa and, indeed, all Nigerians deserve leaders who prioritize the welfare of the populace over personal ambition. It is time for the APC to distance itself from individuals who engage in deceitful practices and to reaffirm its commitment to transparency and good governance.”* 

The AYCF says it stands resolute in its condemnation of Honourable Jaji’s claims and actions and will continue to advocate for a political environment where integrity, accountability, and genuine service to the people are paramount, adding that the youth of Arewa are committed to holding leaders accountable and ensuring that those who seek to exploit our trust are brought to justice. 

ENDS

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman
Introduction
The recent and tragic events in Uromi, Edo State, where 16 Northerners were mercilessly slaughtered by a mob incited by state-owned vigilantes, have once again highlighted the deep-seated ethnic and regional tensions that continue to plague Nigeria. This incident is not merely a reflection of localized violence but a symptom of a broader malaise that threatens the very fabric of the nation. The silence that followed the killings from both the federal and Edo State governments, as well as from the leadership in the North and South, is alarming and indicative of a systemic failure to address the underlying issues of insecurity and inter-ethnic relations.
The Silence After Tragedy
The initial silence after the slaughter is particularly troubling. It suggests a troubling indifference to the loss of life, especially when the victims belong to a specific ethnic group. The absence of immediate and robust condemnation from key governmental and civil society figures raises critical questions about the value placed on human life in Nigeria. The first voice to break this silence was that of Yerima Shetima, the President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), who condemned the killings and called for an investigation. His statement marked a pivotal moment, as it signaled that the Northern community was not willing to remain passive in the face of such brutality.
Following Shetima’s remarks, the Northern Governors Forum added their voice, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability. The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) also weighed in, demanding not only justice for the victims but also compensation for their families. This collective response underscores the anger brewing in the North, a region that has historically faced its share of violence and marginalization. The killings in Edo State are not isolated incidents; they are part of a troubling trend of violence against Northerners in the South, raising questions about the safety and security of individuals based on their ethnic backgrounds.
A Call for Action from Leadership
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for security forces to take action is a necessary step, but it must be accompanied by a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of such violence. The threats of legal action from organizations like the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) indicate a growing frustration with the status quo, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in the handling of such incidents. The security agencies’ claims of making arrests must translate into meaningful action and justice for the victims and their families.
The palpable anger in the North is a call to action for all Nigerians. The killings of Northerners in the South must stop, and this requires a concerted effort from all levels of government and civil society. It is crucial for leaders to foster dialogue and understanding among different ethnic groups to prevent the escalation of violence. The silence that followed the Uromo killings must not be repeated; instead, it should serve as a catalyst for change.
The Need for National Dialogue
Moreover, there is a pressing need for a national conversation about the nature of citizenship and belonging in Nigeria. The idea that individuals can be targeted based on their ethnic background undermines the principles of unity and equality enshrined in the Nigerian constitution. It is imperative for leaders from both the North and South to come together to denounce such acts of violence and to promote a narrative of coexistence and mutual respect.
In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, the strength of its unity lies in the acceptance and celebration of its differences. Ethnic diversity should not be a source of division but rather a foundation for a richer, more vibrant society. The Uromo incident serves as a stark reminder that the threads of our national identity must be woven together with care, respect, and understanding.
Learning from the Past
Historically, Nigeria has witnessed a myriad of conflicts rooted in ethnic and regional disparities. The Biafran War, the religious riots in the North, and the persistent farmer-herder clashes are all manifestations of unresolved tensions that have festered over decades. Each incident leaves scars that deepen the divides between communities, making reconciliation and unity increasingly elusive.
It is crucial to recognize that the violence in Uromo is not an isolated event but part of a continuum of ethnic strife that has plagued the nation. The government must recognize the urgency of addressing these underlying issues. Policies that promote equity, social justice, and inclusivity must be prioritized to mitigate the risks of further violence.
The Role of Civil Society
Civil society organizations have a pivotal role to play in this discourse. They serve as the conscience of the nation, advocating for the marginalized and holding leaders accountable. The growing frustration among these organizations, as evidenced by their calls for justice in the Uromo case, reflects a broader demand for systemic change. They can facilitate dialogue between communities, promote peacebuilding initiatives, and create platforms for understanding that transcend ethnic lines.
Furthermore, educational institutions must also engage in this dialogue. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and understanding among the youth, Nigeria can cultivate a generation that values diversity and seeks peaceful coexistence. Educational curricula should emphasize the importance of empathy, respect for human rights, and the dangers of ethnic stereotyping.
The Path Forward
In conclusion, the tragic events in Uromi should serve as a wake-up call for all Nigerians. The loss of life is a profound tragedy that transcends ethnic boundaries and calls for collective mourning and action. As the North expresses its outrage, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and to work towards a more just and equitable society.
The silence that followed the Uromi killings must not be repeated; rather, it should catalyze a new commitment to fostering understanding and respect among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. Leaders must take proactive steps to ensure that such violence does not recur, and that all Nigerians feel safe and valued, regardless of their ethnic background.
Only through understanding, compassion, and a commitment to justice can Nigeria hope to heal from the scars of violence and division. The time for action is now; the lives lost in Uromo demand nothing less. The future of Nigeria rests upon the collective ability of its people to embrace their diversity and work together towards a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us heed this call and strive for a Nigeria where every citizen is afforded dignity, respect, and the right to live free from fear.

By Tunde Adesina

Kaduna – The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has strongly condemned the brutal mob killing of 16 innocent travelers in Udune Efandion, Uromi, Edo State. The victims, mostly Hausa hunters traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Sallah celebrations, were reportedly lynched based on false accusations of kidnapping.

In a statement issued by the AYCF President-General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, the group expressed shock and deep sorrow over the gruesome incident. According to Shettima, the victims were intercepted around 1:30 p.m. by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes before an irate mob took the law into their hands.

“The subsequent actions of the mob, incited by unfounded allegations, led to an act of extreme barbarism. The victims were mercilessly attacked, with some of their bodies burned inside their vehicle,” Shettima stated.

Eyewitness reports further revealed that some victims were removed with wheelbarrows and thrown into the fire, a horrifying testament to the rising culture of mob violence in parts of the country. The AYCF condemned the incident as a blatant act of lawlessness and called for an urgent investigation into those responsible.

The organization emphasized that justice must be served, not only for the victims and their families but also to restore public confidence in the legal system. Shettima warned that allowing such acts to go unpunished would set a dangerous precedent that could further deepen ethnic divisions in the country.

While acknowledging the pain and anger within the Hausa community in Uromi and beyond, the AYCF urged them to remain calm and avoid retaliation. “We understand the rage and grief this incident has caused, but we must seek justice through lawful means rather than descending into further violence,” he appealed.

The statement reiterated AYCF’s commitment to supporting the families of the victims and ensuring that authorities prosecute all those involved in the heinous crime. The group insisted that swift and decisive action was necessary to prevent a repeat of such an atrocity.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families. We stand with them in their pursuit of justice,” Shettima said. “This tragedy highlights the urgent need for authorities to address the rise in mob actions and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, is protected under the law.”

AYCF also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders across the country to intensify efforts in promoting peace and mutual understanding. “We must reject mob justice in its entirety and work toward building a society where the rule of law prevails over ignorance and violence,” the statement concluded.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence, urging Nigerians to resist ethnic profiling and stereotyping that could further inflame tensions.

Zamfara West Senator, Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, has extended warm felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on his 73rd birthday, describing him as a beacon of hope, progress, and democratic values in Nigeria.

In a goodwill message, Senator Yari reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, commending Tinubu’s steadfast commitment to national development, peace, and stability. He prayed for the President’s continued strength and agility to navigate the nation towards prosperity.

“As you continue to steer the ship of leadership, be assured of my support, prayers, and commitment to the ideals your government represents,” Yari stated.

He also lauded Tinubu’s leadership legacy, urging Nigerians to rally behind the administration to achieve sustainable growth and democratic consolidation.

The message, signed by Yari—who holds the titles Marafan Sokoto and Shettiman Zamfara—reflects the growing support for the Tinubu-led government within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and beyond.

A political pressure group, Action Collective, (AC), has called for the immediate resignation of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imasuen, to allow for an impartial investigation into allegations against the Senate President.

The group said their continued stay in office could compromise the integrity of any probe.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, the National Coordinator of the group, Dr. Onimisi Ibrahim, expressed concern over the handling of the sexual harassment case filed against Senator Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, particularly following the recent withdrawal of Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The judge, who was presiding over the case, reportedly stepped down due to immense pressure, a situation the group described as “deeply troubling and a threat to judicial independence.”

According Action Collective, the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee, which should play a crucial role in investigating the allegations, cannot be trusted under the leadership of Senator Imasuen, given his political ties to the Senate President.

“The only way to ensure a fair and transparent process is for both Akpabio and Imasuen to step aside and allow an independent inquiry to take place,” the group stated.

The pressure group further warned that the credibility of the National Assembly was at stake, emphasizing that Nigerians were watching closely.

“A legislature that cannot uphold ethical standards and protect victims of misconduct loses the moral right to perform oversight functions on the executive and judiciary,” the statement read.

It added that failure to act decisively on the matter could erode public trust in the Senate.

The group also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to shield the Senate President from scrutiny, describing the developments surrounding the case as a calculated attempt to silence Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

It called on civil society organizations and pro-democracy groups to demand accountability from the leadership of the Senate and ensure that justice is not obstructed.

The Kaduna Good Governance Forum (KGGF) is calling out former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his Commissioners for spreading falsehoods about Kaduna’s revenue generation.

El-Rufai claimed that the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) decreased from N7 billion to N2 billion monthly under Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

However, the KGGF in Statement signed by the Secretary, Comrade Tijanni Usman presented records showing that Kaduna State generated ₦62.41 billion in 2023, with the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) contributing 77.1% (₦48.13 billion). In 2024, the IGR increased by 12.5% to ₦70.22 billion, with KADIRS contributing 73.8% (₦51.87 billion) of the total revenue.

The forum attributed the improvement to Governor Uba Sani’s prioritization of robust revenue sector reforms, including the introduction of an electronic portal for revenue collection. This has helped surpass the best years under El-Rufai’s administration.

“The available records reveal that between January and February 2025 alone, ₦14.16 billion was collected proving that revenue mobilization under Uba Sani is not only stable, but growing.

“It’s worth noting that Governor Uba Sani’s administration has been recognized for its efforts in revenue generation.”it stated .

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Kaduna State was ranked as the leading revenue-generating state in Northern Nigeria in 2023, with an impressive N62.48 billion in IGR .

We make bold to say the allegations of secret N100 million withdrawals from the IGR account is nothing short of another falsehood peddled by a drowning man.

El-Rufai and his cohorts in bid to pull down Governor Uba Sani have resorted deliberate attempt to sponsor falsehood and paint a gloomy picture about the good efforts of his predecessor, who is working tirelessly to reverse all his bad deeds while in office .

By: Sandra Umani

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is facing intense criticism for its recent ‘Dollars for Crude’ policy. The Centre for Energy Development and Economic Sustainability (CEDES) has condemned the policy as a deliberate attempt to cripple local refineries and sustain Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports ¹.

At the heart of the controversy is the NNPCL’s decision to replace the Naira-for-Crude arrangement, which allowed refineries to purchase crude oil using the local currency. This policy was designed to stabilize fuel prices and ensure a steady supply of petroleum products within Nigeria’s domestic market ¹.

The Naira-for-Crude arrangement was a six-month agreement between Dangote Refinery and the NNPCL. However, the agreement ended in March 2025, and Dangote Refinery announced a temporary suspension of petroleum product sales in naira, opting instead for US dollar transactions ¹.

This development has sparked concerns among petroleum marketers, who have started adjusting pump prices accordingly. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) warned that marketers might begin selling petrol in US dollars if Dangote Refinery insists on foreign currency transactions ¹.

The implications of this policy change are far-reaching. CEDES warned that the NNPCL’s latest move could have severe consequences for the Nigerian economy, including higher fuel prices, petrol scarcity, worsening inflation, and further hardship for Nigerians ¹.

Market analysts also predict that the decision to stop the naira-based crude supply might lead to volatility in the foreign exchange (FX) market, thereby eroding recent gains ¹.

In October 2024, the federal executive council (FEC) approved the allocation of 450,000 barrels of crude intended for domestic consumption to be sold in naira to Nigerian refineries, with the Dangote refinery serving as a pilot project ¹.

However, the national oil firm has been accused of consistently failing to meet the allocation. The Dangote refinery has expressed concerns over the NNPC’s inability to supply adequate crude oil, with Edwin Devakumar, the vice-president of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), describing the NNPC’s supply as “peanuts” ¹.

As the controversy surrounding the ‘Dollars for Crude’ policy continues to unfold, Nigerians are watching closely to see how the government responds to the crisis. The federal government must carefully consider the implications of this policy and take decisive action to support local refineries and economic stability.

By Nnamdi Agu

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo sociocultural organization, has strongly condemned recent allegations against Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The organization described the allegations as malicious and unfounded, urging all stakeholders to support Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, emphasized that INEC’s credibility and neutrality have improved significantly, making it essential for all stakeholders to support the commission. He noted that the allegations are a deliberate fabrication designed to incite chaos and destabilize the electoral landscape.

Isiguzoro expressed concern over reports of clandestine plans by unprincipled politicians to exploit the ongoing political crisis between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He stated that such maneuvers aim to orchestrate chaos and manipulate the public narrative surrounding Professor Yakubu and his pivotal role at INEC.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improvements in INEC’s independence, credibility, and transparency. The organization believes that Professor Yakubu’s initiatives to reshape INEC for efficient electoral reform should not be undermined by orchestrated, faceless groups.

Isiguzoro emphasized the importance of supporting Professor Yakubu and his dedicated team at INEC. He called upon all Nigerians, regardless of partisan affiliation, to rise in defense of the country’s institutions, denounce falsehoods, and ensure that INEC’s integrity remains sacrosanct.

Interestingly, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has also condemned the smear campaign against INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. This show of support from various groups underscores the importance of protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

In a related development, Ohanaeze Ndigbo had previously cautioned INEC against losing the confidence of Nigerian voters, urging the commission to ensure credible elections.

A desperate plan to compile faceless names from Kogi State purportedly seeking for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate has been uncovered.

The plan, according to Kogi Central based pressure group on the platform of Action Collective, made the revelation public on Wednesday.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is presently serving six months suspension slammed on her over the sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

A statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, signed by its coordinator, Dr. Onimisi Ibrahim, said intelligence also revealed that allies of those fighting Senator Natasha in the Nigerian Senate are behind the plot.

According to the group, findings revealed that the latest move is considered by Senator Natasha’s traducers as ‘nailing the coffin’ to prevent her from seeking justice which she is currently pursuing both here in Nigeria and from the international community.

“We gathered reliably that a former governor in Kogi state has been contacted to carry out this evil plan. We also have an information that some ally INEC staff have also been recruited to commence the recall of Senator Natasha.

“This project which is said to gulped over two million dollars, will involve the recruitment of faceless persons from the various local government areas in Kogi State who would be paid to append false signatures on the purported recall paper,” the group alleged.

The statement also alleged that some highly placed staff of INEC have been paid huge sums of money to carry out and endorse the plan, adding,”that is why it is important to alert the public especially the civil society and Human Rights Activists including the Media, who are the watchdog of the society as well as the security agencies to remain vigilant and subject such documents regarding the planned recall to proper scrutining. A stitch in time saves nine!.”

Kaduna Good Governance Forum(KGGMG)has asked citizens of the State and the general public to ignore the recent allegations of corruption raised by former former Kaduna Governor Malam Nasir Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

According to the forum, instead of Elrufai jumping from one media house to another seeking for relevance, he should present himself to the relevant anti-graft agencies to account for the 423 Billion Naira looted Kaduna money under his administration.

El-Rufai, had appeared on a radio programme where he accused his successor, Uba Sani, of diverting local government funds to buy properties in Seychelles, South Africa and United Kingdom.

However,the forum in a press statement made available to journalists today asked Elrufai to stop finding faults and evil machinations to pull down the good image and works of Governor Uba Sani.

The statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Ibn Mohammed explained,” Governor Uba Sani How can Uba Sani who enjoined local government chairmen to be transparent and accountable in the handling of public finances during their swearing in ceremony at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House will later turnaround.

“As a good governance group, we have frequently followed the allocation from the Federation Account over the past one year and discovered a high level of transparency and accountability.

“We also make bold to ask how did Uba Sani achieved over one thousand per cent (1000%) revenue performance in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) with over fifty billion naira (N50bn) achieved if he is corrupt.

“Governor Uba Sani’s administration Under Sani’s leadership has emerged as a national frontrunner in public sector reform, demonstrating an unbeatable commitment to efficiency, transparency, and professionalism.

“It is unfortunate that a former Governor with case of corrupt acts while in office, could be so careless to name a prudent and accountable leader such as Uba Sani corrupt”.

” At this juncture, we dare Elrufai to present evidence of corruption against Uba Sani or we file a case of character assassination against him . “