Author Archives: News All Around

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has declared that the recent Federal High Court ruling affirming the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership has silenced opposition claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is interfering with the judiciary or plotting to impose a one-party state on Nigeria.

In a fiery statement issued through his Media Aide, Ahmed Dan Wudil, Matawalle said the court’s dismissal of a suit filed by House of Representatives member Leke Abejide challenging the ADC leadership had once again demonstrated that President Tinubu remained committed to judicial independence, due process and the rule of law.

The former Zamfara State Governor maintained that despite sustained political attacks by opposition figures and some members of the political elite, the President had never interfered with judicial proceedings or attempted to influence the outcome of politically sensitive cases.

“President Tinubu’s democratic credentials were built long before he became President,” Matawalle said.

“So having participated in the struggle for the restoration of democracy, he fully understood the importance of preserving democratic institutions.”

He emphasised that the sanctity of the judiciary remained non-negotiable under the current administration because the President believed that a strong and independent judiciary was fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic survival, political stability and national cohesion.

Matawalle accused some opposition politicians of deliberately spreading falsehood and propaganda to discredit the President, alleging that they were quick to accuse him whenever court decisions did not favour their political interests but unwilling to acknowledge judgments that reflected the independence of the judiciary.

He argued that genuine patriots should be fair enough to commend the President when court decisions clearly showed that democratic institutions were functioning without executive interference.

On security, Matawalle said the Federal Government remained undeterred, noting that troops under Operation Fansan Yamma had recorded significant successes by dismantling several bandits’ enclaves, neutralising notorious bandit leaders and recovering communities previously under the control of criminal elements across the North-West.

“Similar operations by the military and other security agencies across different parts of the country had continued to weaken terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups, leading to improved security in many affected communities,” he maintained.

He assured Nigerians that President Tinubu remained resolute in ending insecurity across the country and would continue to provide the Armed Forces and other security agencies with the necessary support, equipment and political backing to defeat all criminal elements.

Former lawmaker urges Nigerians to assess Oluremi Tinubu’s overall contributions rather than focus on controversial ‘akara’ remark

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Former lawmaker and human rights activist, Shehu Sani has defended Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, urging Nigerians to judge her public service record based on her humanitarian interventions rather than the controversy generated by her recent remarks encouraging small-scale entrepreneurship.

Sani made the appeal in a post on his verified X account on Monday, following widespread public criticism of the First Lady’s suggestion that Nigerians facing economic hardship could engage in low-capital businesses such as frying akara, roasting corn and selling kuli-kuli to earn a living.

The remarks sparked intense debate on social media, with critics describing them as insensitive to prevailing economic realities, while supporters argued that they promoted self-reliance and entrepreneurship.

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Sani Highlights First Lady’s Philanthropic Achievements

Defending the First Lady, Sani said her contributions to humanitarian causes since assuming office alongside President Bola Tinubu in May 2023 have been substantial and should not be overshadowed by a single comment.

“The record of the First Lady as one who raised billions for the moribund National Library on her birthday, and financially supported nursing schools, cancer research, tuberculosis eradication, tertiary education, widows and orphans of fallen soldiers, victims of communal and terrorist violence in Plateau and Borno states, the elderly across the states, artists and even victims of tanker explosions, should ideally be assessed and appreciated beyond the Akara comment,” Sani wrote.

He added: “Be fair, use facts and figures and just compare her outings with that of her recent predecessors.”

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Public Debate Continues Over Economic Realities

Sani’s intervention comes amid sustained public discourse over the role of public officials in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over rising living costs and declining purchasing power.

Supporters of the First Lady have pointed to several interventions undertaken through the Renewed Hope Initiative, including financial support for healthcare, education, social welfare, agricultural empowerment, assistance to widows and vulnerable groups, as well as humanitarian relief for victims of disasters and violent conflicts.

According to publicly announced programmes, the initiative has also committed significant funding to tuberculosis control, breast cancer intervention, nutrition programmes and educational scholarships across the country.

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Mixed Reactions Across Political Circles

The debate has continued to generate mixed reactions across political and social circles, reflecting broader public concerns over the nation’s economic situation. While critics insist that government officials should demonstrate greater sensitivity in their public comments, supporters maintain that encouraging entrepreneurship remains a practical response to economic hardship.

Sani, however, maintained that any objective assessment of the First Lady should consider her overall record of philanthropy and social interventions rather than focusing solely on one controversial statement.

A civil society group, under the umbrella of Forum for Good Governance and Accountability (FGGA), has dismissed the bribery allegations levelled against the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, describing the claims as frivolous, baseless and unsupported by evidence.

The group’s reaction comes amid growing public debate over allegations recently made against the former Speaker of the House of Representatives by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claimed that Gbajabiamila demanded and received bribes in connection with the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

The allegations have also attracted calls from opposition figures for an independent investigation.

In a statement signed by Dr. Mohammed Musa Kaura, the group maintained that Gbajabiamila’s long record in public service speaks for itself, insisting that the allegations do not reflect his reputation or career in government.

According to the group, Gbajabiamila served as Leader of the House of Representatives for eight years before becoming Speaker for another four years, and currently serves as Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

“Throughout these years of public service, he has never been found guilty of wrongdoing or corruption. The allegations being circulated against him are not only frivolous but completely unfounded,” the group stated.

It argued that public office holders should not be subjected to trial by media, stressing that accusations must be supported by credible evidence and investigated through lawful institutions rather than the court of public opinion.

The group warned against what it described as politically motivated attempts to tarnish the image of senior government officials through unverified allegations, saying such actions could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.

It further urged Nigerians to allow due process to take its course and refrain from reaching conclusions before competent authorities establish the facts.

The group noted that Gbajabiamila has built a reputation over more than two decades in public service and legislative leadership, adding that his record as a lawmaker, Speaker of the House of Representatives and now Chief of Staff should not be overshadowed by what it described as “unsubstantiated accusations.”

The group however insisted that claims remain unproven and should be subjected to due legal process before any conclusions are drawn.

…Players Laud Governor Uba Sani’s Support, Increased Funding for Sports Development

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Defending champions Kaduna State hockey teams, Kada Stars and Kada Queens, have expressed confidence ahead of the 2026 National Hockey Championship, vowing to retain their titles when the competition begins in Abuja on Friday.

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The championship, scheduled to run from June 26 to July 4, is expected to attract some of Nigeria’s finest hockey talents, with 12 teams competing in the men’s category and eight teams battling for honours in the women’s event.

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Kada Stars and Kada Queens head into the tournament as reigning national champions and among the favourites to emerge victorious once again, having established themselves as dominant forces in Nigerian hockey over the years.

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Team officials and players said preparations for the championship had been completed, adding that both teams were determined to defend the titles they won at the previous edition of the competition.

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Several players who spoke ahead of the tournament commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for his administration’s support for sports development, particularly hockey, noting that increased funding and encouragement from the government had contributed significantly to their achievements on the national stage.

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According to the players, the Kaduna State Government was recently honoured with the title of Grand Patron in recognition of its commitment to the growth and development of hockey as well as its consistent support for the state’s teams.

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Sports stakeholders said Governor Sani’s administration has prioritised sports development as part of its broader youth empowerment agenda, with investments in sporting infrastructure, talent development, grassroots sports programmes and athlete welfare.

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The players also acknowledged the contributions of Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, describing him as a committed supporter whose interventions and encouragement have helped sustain the teams’ championship-winning culture.

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“The teams are highly motivated and in excellent condition. We have prepared very well, and the support from the state government has boosted our morale. We are optimistic about retaining our titles,” one of the players said.

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During a visit to the teams’ training camp, former federal lawmaker and social commentator, Shehu Sani, urged the players to bring home more trophies and assured them that outstanding performances would attract recognition and rewards from the state government.

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He charged the athletes to remain disciplined, focused and determined throughout the competition, describing them as worthy ambassadors of Kaduna State.

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Sports analysts have consistently ranked Kaduna among Nigeria’s leading hockey centres,

By Aduba Faruna

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into a series of allegations against former Zamfara State governor and serving senator, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari, warning that it will initiate legal action if authorities fail to act within the stipulated period.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Deputy Secretary General, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant anti-corruption and security agencies to urgently investigate claims relating to alleged illegal mining activities, financial impropriety and suspected links between illicit mineral trade and insecurity in the North-West.

Ohanaeze said the allegations were of significant national importance and required immediate scrutiny by agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Department of State Services (DSS), and relevant parliamentary committees.

The organisation expressed concern over allegations that proceeds from illegal mining operations were allegedly used to facilitate the acquisition of a controlling stake in Gereru Power Plc through Ma’am Energy Limited.

According to the statement, questions have been raised regarding the ownership structure of the company involved in the transaction, the source of funds used for the acquisition and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Ohanaeze further urged authorities to investigate alleged illegal mining networks operating across Zamfara, Kaduna and Kebbi states, claiming that such activities, if established, could be contributing to revenue losses for the Federal Government and fuelling criminal enterprises in the region.

The group also called for an independent forensic audit of companies and financial transactions allegedly linked to the senator, including a review of beneficial ownership structures, anti-money laundering compliance and banking activities.

“There exists urgent public concern that proceeds from illegal mining activities in the North-West may be indirectly sustaining or enabling violent non-state actors operating in affected regions,” the statement said.

Ohanaeze, however, stressed that only a thorough and impartial investigation by competent authorities could determine the veracity or otherwise of the allegations.

The organisation warned that continued inaction by relevant institutions could undermine public confidence, weaken national security efforts and negatively affect investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

It consequently demanded the immediate commencement of federal investigations, public disclosure of investigative actions by relevant agencies, a forensic audit of all entities allegedly linked to the senator and a parliamentary review of solid minerals governance in affected states.

The group stated that should the Federal Government fail to take action within 14 days, it would institute legal proceedings aimed at compelling enforcement action and ensuring accountability through lawful judicial processes.

Ohanaeze maintained that its intervention was motivated by concerns for transparency, constitutional governance and national stability rather than political considerations.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Yari had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the statement, and efforts to reach him was unsuccessful.

By Sandra Adah

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into a series of allegations against former Zamfara State governor and serving senator, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari, warning that it will initiate legal action if authorities fail to act within the stipulated period.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Deputy Secretary General, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant anti-corruption and security agencies to urgently investigate claims relating to alleged illegal mining activities, financial impropriety and suspected links between illicit mineral trade and insecurity in the North-West.

Ohanaeze said the allegations were of significant national importance and required immediate scrutiny by agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Department of State Services (DSS), and relevant parliamentary committees.

The organisation expressed concern over allegations that proceeds from illegal mining operations were allegedly used to facilitate the acquisition of a controlling stake in Gereru Power Plc through Ma’am Energy Limited.

According to the statement, questions have been raised regarding the ownership structure of the company involved in the transaction, the source of funds used for the acquisition and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Ohanaeze further urged authorities to investigate alleged illegal mining networks operating across Zamfara, Kaduna and Kebbi states, claiming that such activities, if established, could be contributing to revenue losses for the Federal Government and fuelling criminal enterprises in the region.

The group also called for an independent forensic audit of companies and financial transactions allegedly linked to the senator, including a review of beneficial ownership structures, anti-money laundering compliance and banking activities.

“There exists urgent public concern that proceeds from illegal mining activities in the North-West may be indirectly sustaining or enabling violent non-state actors operating in affected regions,” the statement said.

Ohanaeze, however, stressed that only a thorough and impartial investigation by competent authorities could determine the veracity or otherwise of the allegations.

The organisation warned that continued inaction by relevant institutions could undermine public confidence, weaken national security efforts and negatively affect investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

It consequently demanded the immediate commencement of federal investigations, public disclosure of investigative actions by relevant agencies, a forensic audit of all entities allegedly linked to the senator and a parliamentary review of solid minerals governance in affected states.

The group stated that should the Federal Government fail to take action within 14 days, it would institute legal proceedings aimed at compelling enforcement action and ensuring accountability through lawful judicial processes.

Ohanaeze maintained that its intervention was motivated by concerns for transparency, constitutional governance and national stability rather than political considerations.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Yari had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the statement, and efforts to reach him was unsuccessful.

KANO The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intercepted 15 suitcases containing gold bars valued at approximately ₦4 billion at the Aminu Kano International Airport. The consignment was being loaded onto an Ethiopian Airlines flight bound for Saudi Arabia when it was seized.

Three suspects were arrested during the operation, including Aliyu Baffa, a serving airport security officer, and two accomplices. According to EFCC sources and airport security officials who spoke on condition of anonymity, the suspects voluntarily confessed that the gold was being smuggled out of the country on the instruction of Senator Abdul Aziz Yari Abubakar, former Governor of Zamfara State.

The suspects further alleged that they are part of a cartel involved in illegal mining operations across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kebbi States, which they claim is controlled by Senator Yari.

A senior airport security official recounted: “Our personnel observed suspicious items concealed in 15 suitcases during cargo loading. We immediately alerted the EFCC, leading to the interception of the physical gold bars.

Following the arrests, a political associate of Senator Yari identified as a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reportedly contacted EFCC officials seeking the release of the seized gold. The request was declined. The associate was also denied access to officials of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Immigration Service, and airport authorities. He was advised to inform Senator Yari to report to the EFCC for questioning, after the detained suspects named the former governor as the alleged principal actor

In a related development, a serving Member of the House of Representatives, described as a known confidant of Senator Yari, was sighted at the EFCC Kano Zonal Office in company of two other individuals.

Senator Yari has previously faced allegations of involvement in illegal mining and the diversion of stamp duty revenues, with claims that proceeds were channeled into funding the ADC. He has not been charged in connection with those allegations.

As of press time, Senator Yari had not responded to multiple telephone calls and 21 text messages seeking his comment on the current allegations.

The EFCC confirmed that the seized gold remains in its custody and that investigations are ongoing.

A civil society organisation, the Coalition for Accountability and National Development (CAND), has accused former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari, of allegedly undermining the Federal Government’s efforts to maximise revenue from Nigeria’s solid minerals sector through illegal mining activities.

The group made the allegation while reacting to the reported interception of an aircraft allegedly conveying gold valued at about N4 billion by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, CAND described the seizure, linked to Senator Yari, as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining and economic sabotage.

According to the organisation, the illicit exploitation and smuggling of gold and other mineral resources have continued to deprive Nigeria of substantial revenue that could otherwise be channelled into critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education and security.

“We commend the EFCC and other security agencies for their vigilance and commitment in tackling illegal mining activities across the country. We are happy that the reported interception of gold worth about N4 billion allegedly linked to Yari demonstrates the scale of revenue loss the nation has been suffering due to illicit operations in the mining sector,” the statement said.

The coalition further alleged that some politically exposed persons and influential individuals had continued to benefit from illegal mining activities in mineral-rich states, thereby frustrating ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to reform and regulate the sector.

While specifically mentioning Yari in its allegations, the group called on security and anti-corruption agencies to conduct thorough investigations into all individuals and networks linked to illegal mining and gold smuggling, irrespective of their political status or affiliations.

“We urge the authorities to carry out comprehensive investigations and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law. The fight against illegal mining must not be selective if Nigeria is to derive maximum benefits from its vast mineral resources,” the statement added.

CAND also argued that illegal mining has contributed to environmental degradation, insecurity and the proliferation of armed groups in several mining communities, particularly across Nigeria’s North-West region.

The organisation called on the Federal Government to strengthen monitoring mechanisms within the mining industry, improve collaboration among security agencies and deploy modern technology to track mineral extraction and exports.

It also urged mining regulators to intensify efforts to formalise artisanal mining operations and ensure strict compliance with existing mining laws and regulations.

The EFCC has in recent months intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities, warning that the illicit exploitation of mineral resources poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic growth, environmental sustainability and national security.

The group however vowed to support the ongoing investigation with a view to ensure that the truth is unravelled as the developing story unveils.

The leadership crisis within the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) has taken a fresh dimension as a faction of the party has petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), challenging the emergence of Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as National Chairman and seeking recognition as the authentic leadership of the party.

The faction, which traces its lineage to the leadership structure established by the late PRP founder, Balarabe Musa, also threatened legal action against INEC if the electoral body fails to recognize its claims.

Speaking with journalists, the faction’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Bashir Bello, alleged that the convention that produced Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as National Chairman was unconstitutional and contrary to the provisions of the party’s constitution.

According to Bello, the late Balarabe Musa had handed over the affairs of the party to former National Chairman, Malam Falalu Bello, who completed his tenure in office in accordance with the party’s constitution. He argued that Falalu Bello lacked the authority to unilaterally transfer leadership of the party to Baba-Ahmed.

“The late Balarabe Musa handed over the affairs of the party to Malam Falalu Bello, who served as National Chairman and completed his tenure. Upon the expiration of his tenure, he ceased to be the leader of the party. However, he single-handedly handed over leadership to Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, creating unnecessary crisis in the party,” Bello said.

He stated that the faction had formally petitioned INEC over the convention that produced Baba-Ahmed, insisting that the process was flawed and violated both the spirit and letter of the PRP constitution.

Bello disclosed that the group had conducted a parallel national convention, compiled its reports and submitted them to INEC, urging the commission to recognize its faction as the legitimate leadership of the party.

“We have petitioned INEC on the conduct of the convention by Falalu Bello that ushered in Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as the party’s National Chairman, which appears flawed and against the spirit and letter of our party’s constitution.
“We have also conducted our parallel convention, compiled and submitted our report to INEC, urging the commission to recognize our faction as the authentic party,” he stated.

The factional spokesman further revealed that his group had successfully conducted primary elections and submitted the names of its candidates to INEC, including its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, Dr. Sani Salih Mustapha.

“Likewise, we have conducted our primaries and submitted the names of our candidates, including our presidential candidate, Dr. Sani Salih Mustapha, to the commission,” Bello said.

He, however, clarified that no court case had yet been filed against INEC, explaining that the faction was awaiting the commission’s response to its petition before taking further legal steps.
“We have not yet filed a court case. We are awaiting INEC’s response to our petition, which we may use as evidence in court if the commission’s decision does not favour us.

“Failure of the commission to recognize our faction will leave us with no other option than to seek judicial redress,” he added.

The latest development marks another chapter in the protracted leadership tussle that has continued to divide the PRP, a party founded on the principles of social justice and popular democracy by the late Balarabe Musa.

An Arewa socio-cultural group has praised the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, for what it described as his commitment to the protection of Northerners residing in the state.

The group, under the aegis of the Arewa Unity and Development Forum, said Governor Uzodimma’s administration has continued to demonstrate inclusiveness and tolerance by ensuring that residents, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds, enjoy equal rights and protection under the law.

In a press statement signed by Comrade Musa Bawa Mohammed, the group’s spokesperson noted that the governor had consistently promoted peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups living in Imo State, creating an atmosphere conducive for business and social interaction.

According to the group, thousands of Northerners living and conducting legitimate businesses in the state have benefited from the government’s efforts to maintain security and foster unity among residents.

“We commend Governor Hope Uzodimma for his leadership and commitment to the safety of all Nigerians living in Imo State. His administration has shown that every citizen, irrespective of tribe or religion, deserves protection and equal opportunities,” the spokesperson said.

The forum further stated that the governor’s approach to governance has helped strengthen national integration and reduce ethnic tensions, particularly at a time when the country faces various security and socio-political challenges.

The group urged other state governors across the federation to emulate Uzodimma’s example by implementing policies that promote inclusiveness, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at fostering national unity and encouraging harmonious relationships among Nigerians regardless of their place of origin.

The Arewa group expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government authorities and community leaders would further enhance peace, security, and economic development in Imo State and across the country.