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Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed, the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.
The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector.

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

By Mike Musa

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria has written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to address the recent calls for the resignation of Alhaji Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. The coalition considers these calls unjustified and potentially harmful to Nigeria’s economy and democracy.

Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones, including facilitating independent power projects, road maintenance, and significant blockage of revenue leakages, resulting in increased revenue for Nigeria. These accomplishments demonstrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership, signed the letter on behalf of the coalition, stressing that the APC Solidarity Forum’s actions appear driven by political motivations rather than genuine concerns for the nation’s well-being.

The coalition demanded that Akpabio condemn the unwarranted attacks on Alhaji Mele Kyari and the NNPC, investigate the motivations behind these calls for resignation, and prevent interference in NNPC’s operations. They also requested Akpabio ensure the APC Solidarity Forum is held accountable for their actions and that the nation’s interests are protected.

*Urges him to reverse “bad” economic policies

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, described President Tinubu’s directive on the release of minors arrested and detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests as a step in the right direction.

Frank who made this assertion in a statement in Abuja, however, urged the President to equally order the release of all detainees being held for exercising their constitutional right to protest against bad policies of government because the “President is known to have embarked and led series of protests during the pro-democracy struggle and in 2012 when the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan removed fuel subsidy.”

He urged the President to equally reverse some of his bad economic policies like the floating of the naira and outright removal of fuel subsidy which have brought untold hardship in the country and worsened the condition of living of majority of Nigerians.

He expressed commitment to commend the President when he takes a positive step in governance and criticize him when his action is against the wellbeing of the generality of Nigerians.

He called on the Federal Government to compensate the minors, after release, for violating their fundamental human rights and cruelty meted on them by the police who detained them for over three months under dehumanizing conditions without trial.

Frank said: “We warmly welcome President Bola Tinubu’s decision to order the immediate release of minors arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests from detention.

“The President’s action acknowledges the concerns of Nigerians and the international community regarding the treatment of protesters, especially minors.

“However, we also call for accountability and reform within the intelligence community.

“The fact that minors were detained for over 90 days without prompt attention from the President’s office raises concerns about the effectiveness of our intelligence agencies.

“We urge the President to investigate this lapse and consider replacing intelligence chiefs who failed to bring this matter to his attention.”

He demanded that the probe ordered by the President should start from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Commissioners of Police in-charge of Kano and Kaduna states who arrested the minors.

“This probe must not be swept under the rug, we shall monitor to ensure that the findings are made public and appropriate sanctions meted out to officers found to be complicit,” he said.

Besides, to ensure adequate justice for the victimised and oppressed minors, he urged the Federal Government to provide financial assistance to their families, offer the minors scholarships and enroll them in reputable boarding schools to help them overcome their traumatic experiences.

“The minors should also be availed the services of professional counsellors to address any emotional or psychological distress.

“By taking these steps, we can begin to heal the wounds of the past and build a more just and compassionate society for all Nigerians,” he said.

By Emmanuel Okorie

The President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has strongly condemned the arrest, detention, and trial of minors under 18 for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests. Shettima described the government’s actions as unacceptable and a clear violation of children’s rights.

Shettima emphasized that these malnourished and frail children, who are advocating for an end to hunger and suffering, should not be used as scapegoats by the government. Instead, he urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of hunger and hardship in the country. “The government should focus on arresting hunger and hardship, not children who are legitimately asking for a better future,” Shettima stressed [1).

The AYCF President’s statement comes after reports of minors being detained for over 90 days and facing trial for alleged treason. He called on the government to stop further trials of these minors, emphasizing that such treatment of harmless, impoverished, and malnourished children is unacceptable.

Shettima also highlighted the international embarrassment caused by Nigeria’s actions, pointing out that these children should be in school, building a future for their country, rather than facing trial. This incident has sparked concerns about the protection of children’s rights and the government’s response to peaceful protests in Nigeria.

The #EndBadGovernance protests began on July 29, 2024, with demonstrators demanding an end to economic hardship and bad governance in Nigeria ¹. The protests escalated on August 1, 2024, when Nigerian security agencies attempted to quell them, resulting in casualties and arrests.

Key Concerns:

• Protection of Children’s Rights: The arrest and trial of minors under 18 for participating in peaceful protests.
• Government Response: The use of force to quell protests and the detention of harmless, impoverished, and malnourished children.
• International Embarrassment: Nigeria’s actions have sparked international concern and criticism.

The AYCF President’s statement has added to the growing calls for the government to address the root causes of hunger and hardship in Nigeria and to protect the rights of all citizens, including children.

By Muhammad Ibrahim

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and support groups, has criticized Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote Refinery, over non-disclosure of premium motor spirit (PMS) prices.

In contrast, AYAGL commended Mele Kolo Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), for efforts to make PMS available despite challenges.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, AYAGL Speaker, praised Kyari’s holistic approach to addressing the fuel shortage but urged Dangote to reveal the cost of a liter of petrol from his refinery. DanBature questioned Dangote’s sincerity, citing waivers granted to his refinery and the need for transparency.

The group warned that if Dangote fails to disclose the information, they will seek means to compel him to do so. AYAGL emphasized its commitment to good governance and transparency, calling on the Federal government and organizations to alleviate citizens’ suffering.

“We are committed to good governance and will support any organization providing good governance and transparency. Enough of the blame game, it’s time to know who is not being truthful to Nigerians,” the group stated.

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other support groups has taken a swipe on Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote refinery, over non-disclosure of premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, accusing him of playing “hanky panky.”

Meanwhile, the group has commended the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, over concerted efforts in making the product available against all odds.

Speaker of the AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature, said, painful as the present increase in the price of petrol might be, a critical assessment of the NNPCL under the leadership of Kyari needed to be commended for his efforts towards addressing the situation holistically and ensuring the availability of the product with market forces determining its price.

Danbature, however, stressed that Dangote should come out and tell the public how much is a liter of petrol from his refinery if truly he meant well for this country, stressing that his non-disclosure shows lack of sincerity.

The group averred that with waivers granted to the Dangote refinery, who gets the crude oil from Nigeria, there should be no reason why petrol should sell the much it is selling now except if he (Dangote) has what he is hiding from Nigerians.

The group said if this gentle call for Dangote to come out and explain to Nigerians the cost of a liter of petrol from his refinery is not yielded to, the youths will have no option but to seek means of compelling him to do so.

“For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization, be it government or individual, that is providing good governance and transparent in their dealings.

“We are not unaware of the hardship the citizens of this country are going through presently and we call on the Federal government and organizations to do everything possible to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

“Enough of the blame game, it’s time to know who is not being truthful to Nigerians,” the group said.

A recent publication by Metro Daily online has sparked outrage with its spurious allegations against Senator Danjuma Laah, the immediate past Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District at the 8th Assembly. The article, titled “Former Sen. Laah in Murky Waters over N390M Kaduna South Senatorial District ZIP, Capital Project Funds,” is a blatant attempt to tarnish Senator Laah’s reputation and undermine his years of dedicated service to the people of Kaduna South.

The Allegations: A Web of Deceit

The article claims that Senator Laah is accused of impropriety and unwarranted collection of N390 million meant for Zonal Intervention Projects and Capital Projects in his zone. It further alleges that he made these collections via Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) 14 months after losing his seat. These baseless accusations have left many wondering about the motivations behind such a malicious attack on Senator Laah’s character.

The Truth: A Record of Transparency and Accountability

Senator Danjuma Laah has never carried out any contract or been directly or indirectly linked to any companies that executed constituency and capital projects during his tenure. His role, as Senator, was to ensure projects were executed in good quality, based on contract specifications. Throughout his time in office, Senator Laah maintained transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds allocated for projects benefited his constituents.

Exposing the Fabrications: A Pattern of Dishonesty

A closer examination of the article reveals a pattern of dishonesty and fabrication. For instance:

1. Non-existent Project Location: There is no location as “Zangon Kataf – Kwali road” in Kaduna South Senatorial Zone, contrary to the article’s claims.
2. Fabricated Project: The National Livestock Training Center, Kachia project was never included in Senator Laah’s constituency projects.
3. Misrepresentation of Facts: The Rehabilitation/Reconstruction of Kwoi – Kafanchan Road was executed by MOFTREH CONSTRUCTION Nigeria Ltd, with no links to Senator Laah. The project was a maintenance project, not reconstruction, and its cost was N200 million, not N2.5 billion.

ICPC, Not EFCC: A Display of Ignorance

The article’s call for the EFCC to investigate Senator Laah demonstrates a lack of understanding of the agencies’ roles. The ICPC has a dedicated desk for investigating National Assembly members’ constituency and capital projects, not the EFCC.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The article’s writer and publisher aim to harm Senator Laah’s integrity without consequences. Senator Danjuma Laah is a grassroots philanthropist committed to his people’s progress and well-being. He will take necessary legal actions to address these malicious allegations.

As the people of Kaduna South and beyond look up to Senator Laah for leadership, it is essential to recognize the sinister intentions behind these baseless accusations. The public deserves truth and accuracy, not fabricated stories designed to destroy reputations.

Signed:
Alh. Yahaya Suleiman
Former Aide, Sen. Danjuma on Laah Project Monitoring
24/10/2024

By Abubakar Sadiq

Kaduna Peaceful Frontiers (KPF) has commended the successful conduct of the local government elections by the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KAD-SIECOM) in Kaduna State. The peaceful and transparent nature of the elections is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders involved in the electoral process and the impressive turn out of voters enmass and orderly conduct is as quit commendable.

A statement issued by its Chairman, Abubakar Alhasaan, said, “We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the elected officials who emerged victorious in the elections. We also urge them to serve the people of Kaduna State with integrity and dedication, and to work towards the development and progress of the state.”

The group averred that it is imperative that the elected leaders prioritize the needs of the people and work tirelessly to improve the lives of all residents of Kaduna State.

“We also commend the professionalism displayed by the security agencies during the electoral process. Their efforts in ensuring the safety and security of all participants are highly appreciated. We also applaud the mass of the people for their orderly conduct throughout the elections.”

“We call on all candidates who were not successful in the elections to accept defeat in good faith. It is important for the losers to demonstrate sportsmanship and respect the will of the people.”

“We urge them to continue to contribute positively to the development of Kaduna State and work towards a better future for all residents.”

The KPF reiterated their commitment to promoting peace, unity, and progress in Kaduna State and further urged all elected officials to prioritize the needs of the people and work towards the common goal of building a better Kaduna State for all.

“Together, we can achieve great things and create a brighter future for our beloved state” it stressed.

To the winners of the election, Alhasaan urged them to be magnanimous in victory while those not successful to accept it in good faith and in the spirit of sportsmanship and hope for a better outing in subsequent elections.

…Call for his final Expulsion

Northern based group under aegis of Arewa Progressives Forum for Good Governance (APFGG) has accused the former Senate Whip, Senator Ali Ndume of stirring up unnecessary crisis and undermining the National Assembly.

The group with members across the nineteen States of North also expressed displeasure over failure on side of Senator Ndume to reach out to President Bola Tinubu privately for talks rather than criticising the government’s policies to gain cheap popularity.

But in a reaction to his attack on the President in a statement signed by Mal Ibrahim Musa Bichi, the Chairman of Arewa Progressives Forum for Good Governance, the group posited that it is ironical for Senator Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District and a member of the ruling party to use the media to call on President to tackle the hardship suffered by citizens,when he’s part of same government.

According to the group,Ndume’s blanket allegation that members of the National Assembly are thieves is not only disparaging,but also unacceptable for a ranking Senator.

The statement further reads:” From information gathered from Some of our members from Borno, his inability to attract meaningful development and projects to his Constituency and State because of antagonist position it not encouraging.

“It is true that politics is a game of number,but also about dialogue and lobbying government to ensure development are drawn to state and people.We have not seen anything tangible he has done for his people ,even as one of longest serving lawmaker in the National Assembly.

“The big question is,Why should the public take someone such as Ndume serious, when he has not done anything serious for his Constituency?

“It is on record that for this same antagonistic posture,during the era of Saraki as the Senate President,he was suspended. It clearly demonstrates that he wont change,thus he should be expelled and his seat declared vacant .

“Recalled that his party, the All Progressives Congress did ask the Senate to relieve him of his position as the Senate Chief Whip over his relentless public criticisms of President Tinubu and the ruling APC, a party to which he belongs.

“The work of a Lawmaker is not about “Seeking Attention” but making laws that would better lots of the citizens.”

By Musa Bello

The Northern Elders Progressive Group has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold approach to tackling insecurity in the northern region. Chairman Alhaji Mustafa Aliyu Dutsin Ma expressed admiration for Tinubu’s “Fansan Yamma” strategy, which has yielded significant positive results ¹. The group lauded Tinubu’s aggressive stance, particularly his decision to use military force to crush bandits in their hideouts without mercy.

Tinubu’s Defense Minister, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, recently visited Sokoto State, a hotspot for banditry, demonstrating the president’s commitment to addressing the issue. The Northern Elders described this visit as a “major achievement” in sustaining the fight against insecurity.

The group expressed confidence in Tinubu’s ability to tackle insecurity head-on, urging northern governors to collaborate with the federal government. They specifically praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto for leveraging federal resources to combat banditry.

However, the group has also cautioned President Tinubu against reconciling with bandits, particularly Bello Turji, who has been responsible for numerous attacks and killings in the region ¹ ² ³. Instead, they advocate for justice and accountability for Turji’s gang.

The Northern Elders assured President Tinubu of their support and guidance to achieve peace, unity, and cohesion for all Nigerians. They commended Minister Matawalle, the Chief of Defense Staff, and soldiers for their sacrifices in restoring security to previously uninhabitable areas.

The group advised President Tinubu to extend his on-the-spot visits to other neglected states in the region to boost military morale. This development significantly bolsters President Tinubu’s efforts to address the longstanding issue of insecurity in the region.

The All Progressive Congress (APC) in Southern Ijaw and Ekeremor LGAs of Bayelsa state has suspended the current Minister of State, Petroleum resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, the 2019 governorship candidate of the party, Chief David Lyon, and other party members for alleged anti-party activities.

The party leaderships of the two LGAs who read out the suspensions seperately on Friday said the decision came having considered the report of the disciplinary committee that was set up in accordance with Article 21.3 (i) of the party’s constitution, 2022, as amended.

Those suspended from the party in Southern Ijaw LGA alongside Chief David Lyon include Mr. Jothan Amos (Former State Chairman of the APC, Bayelsa State), Hon. Godbless Diriwari (Ex-Officio member, National Executive of the party), Hon. Omiebi Fuoebi (Party stakeholder), Sabi Morgan ​(LGA APC Youth Leader) and Barr. Peres Biewari (Current Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Bayelsa State).

Others are Mr. Timiondi Fabofieghe (APC Chairman, Ward 3, Southern Ijaw LGA), all the ward 3 Executive members of the party, Mr. Claudius Odobu (APC Chairman, ward 4, Southern Ijaw LGA) and all ward 4 Executive members of the party.

In Ekeremor LGA, those suspended along the Minister for State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, include the current Commissioner for Power, Bayelsa State, Engr. Karin Kumoko and other loyalists to the Petroleum Minister.

Reading out the notice of suspension, the chairman of the APC, Southern Ijaw LGA, Mr. Ebikazi Gbefa, noted that the suspended stakeholders has played anti-party activities since 2020 till date.

“Recall that the said stakeholders and members of the party have been involved in anti-party activities since the Senatorial bye-election in 2020 when they conspired with the People’s Democratic Party candidate and worked against our party’s candidate then, Mr. Ebifemowei Abel. For the sake of a united party, their actions were overlooked and the party refrained from taking disciplinary actions against them.

“In the 2023 National Assembly elections, the same set of stakeholders and their supporters openly worked against our National Assembly candidates.

“In the 2023 gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State, all the aforementioned members openly worked for Gov. Douye Diri of the People’s Democratic Party and some of them were compensated with contracts and appointments. For example, Barr. Perepuighe Biewari who was Chief David Lyon’s Personal Assistant, was nominated by Chief David Lyon and appointed as the current Commissioner for Lands and Survey in the Gov. Douye Diri administration in Bayelsa State.

“As we strive to rebuild the party ahead of 2027, it is our resolve to strengthen the party and build confidence in party grassroots members who believe in and have sacrificed remarkably to the party in the state. It is a common saying that ‘it is better to go to war with fewer loyal and committed soldiers than a numerous and uncommitted number of soldiers.’ It is on this premise that we, the under-signed executives of the Southern Ijaw APC hereby suspend them indefinitely from the party.

“Cases of other members who were involved in anti-party activities are being investigated and consequential actions shall be taken against them in due course,” the suspension notice read.

For the Ekeremor LGA, the Party Chairman, Senator Mitin Eniekenimi, while reading the suspension notice said “the Minister for State Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri and his followers have been involved in anti-party activities since the 2019 gubernatorial election when he sought to be the standard bearer of the party’s flag but the party members did not support his ambition, hence he lost out and started working against the party, using his supporters to institute cases in court against the party and also establishing a factional State Secretariat of the party at the Isaac Boro Expressway, Biogbolo, Yenagoa.

The suspension notice further read in part;
“In the 2023 gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State, he led a group of disgruntled party members to openly support and work for Gov. Douye Diri of the People’s Democratic Party and was compensated by the PDP-led government of Bayelsa State. His personal Aide, Engr. Kharin Kumoko, was nominated by the Minister for State, Petroleum Resources, (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri and appointed as the current Commissioner for Power in Bayelsa State.

“It is on record that from the day he was appointed as Minister, he has been fighting the party in Bayelsa state and has refused to make peace despite all entreaties. It is on this note that we, the under-signed executives of the Ekeremor local government area APC hereby suspend Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri and Engr. Kharin Kumoko indefinitely from the party.

“The Executive of the party in Ekeremor local government is still reviewing other cases of anti-party activities done by other party faithful and appropriate actions would be taken against anyone found guilty in the coming days.”

The both Ekeremor and Southern ljaw LGA executives conclusively noted that the suspensions of the above stakeholders are transmitted to the State Executive Committee of the APC for ratification.

The Southern Ijaw LGA executives who signed the suspension notice include; Ebikazi Gbefa,
LGA APC Chairman, October Woyinkeditonmene, LGA APC Deputy Chairman, Amakiri Ayebanoah, LGA APC Secretary, Mr. Living Jackson,
LGA Ass. Secretary, Christian Dise,
LGA Treasurer, Abraham Fulman,
LGA Financial Secretary, David Sese, LGA Organizing Secretary, Dorua Oyeintunumubofa, LGA Ass. Organizing Secretary, Dauzi Agbe Oyinmiebi, LGA Publicity Secretary and Ayibatonye Izeikumo​, LGA Ass. Publicity Secretary.

Others are Eric Ebiumono, LGA Welfare Secretary, Oyinki Whitex, LGA Auditor, Princewill Matthew​, LGA Ass. Auditor, Joy Steven Asimena, LGA Woman Leader​, Josephine Simeon Tondeghe, LGA Ass. Woman Leader, Ossy Isaiah Ekpete, LGA Ass. Youth Leader, Sophy Timidiseghe​,
LGA (Special PWD Leader), Tonweriyai Waripamo, LGA Ex-Officio I, Douye Akienkpo, LGA Ex-Officio II, Silas Koko, LGA Ex-Officio IIl and Delta Waminiye Dede,
LGA Ex-Officio IV.

In Ekeremor LGA, the suspension notice was signed by Mitin Eniekenimi Senator​​​​​, LGA APC Chairman and Loki Ebikeniye Misoro, LGA​​​​ APC Secretary.