Author Archives: News All Around

By Gwaske Gwadabe


The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned in strong terms the torture and unlawful incarceration of Seaman Haruna Abbas, who has been held captive for six years.


According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, the case is a “gross violation of human rights” and demands the immediate release of Mr. Abbas.


Recent revelations by Mr. Abbas’s wife, Hassana Abbas, exposed the cruelty and injustice suffered by her husband at the hands of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and other individuals complicit.


AYCF unequivocally condemned the actions of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and all those involved in the wrongful conviction, unjust incarceration, and subsequent torture.


The group demanded accountability for all individuals implicated in this egregious violation of justice.


AYCF also called for the establishment of transparent mechanisms for reviewing cases of alleged wrongful detention.


Especially those involving military personnel who continue to suffer in silence while their rights are trampled upon.


The plight of Seaman Abbas should serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians who value justice and human rights.


His story is emblematic of a broader systemic issue that affects many citizens who fall prey to arbitrary detention and abuse of power.


AYCF reiterated its unwavering support for Seaman Abbas and his family.


The group vowed to continue advocating for all those who have been wronged by systems intended to serve and protect them.


Until justice is served, and the perpetrators of such heinous crimes are brought to their rightful place before the law.


AYCF urged human rights organizations, legal advocates, and civil society to join them in this fight for justice.


The collective voices of concerned citizens can foster a culture of accountability and transparency in our institutions.


The time to act is now; justice for Seaman Haruna Abbas is not just a demand but a moral imperative that we must uphold for humanity, dignity, and the rule of law.

Samaila Rigo

Shortly after the September 4th All Important Stakeholders Meeting of the Labour Party at Government House Umahia, which gave birth to the Sen. Usman Nenadi led LP Interim National Caretaker Committee (LP-NCC), one character, Engr Mike Auta came out with outlandish claims and mudslinging against Sen. Nenadi Usman and topnotch leaders of the party in Kaduna state. His outburst was shared on many platforms until our attention was called to it.

His disrespectful posture to our most valued leaders and clear barefaced lies are unworthy of reproduction here, but it suffices to point out the following from his outing

He claimed that Sen. Nenadi Usman and Hon. Jonathan Asake worked against him when he contested for the Senate seat of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone in 2023.
That Sen. Nenadi Usman, Hon. Jonathan Asake, Dr. Datti Baba Ahmed and others worked against the victory of Mr Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential elections.
He also boasted as being the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state.
In a display of shocking guts that are only found among hardened crooks, he said that the Obi/Datti campaign organisation is still owing him.
In utter frustration and bitterness, he rejected the emergence of (LP-NCC) and denounced it as “illegal” among other vulgar invectives.

Though it beats our imagination how he came about the title “Engr”, because his last known honest vocation was carpentry after his apprenticeship, we want to guess that he assumed the title as an alias. In fact it is believed that he didn’t even complete his secondary school being a chronic truant as a school kid.

Now, back to the issues at stake:
His first claim is an absurd lie. Though Sen. Nenadi, Hon Asake et al may have earlier noticed the “Engr” as one of shady and dubious character filled with empty ego, Sen. Nenadi nonetheless in conjunction with Hon. Asake assisted him financially during his campaign and there is irrefutable evidence to show. In fact Hon. Asake took the campaign of this charlatan personally as he entered every nook and cranny of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone campaigning for Mike Auta and Peter Obi, as part of his own gubernatorial campaign. And we have everything in audio and video. Let Mike Auta come out with his own evidence and put a lie to this claim. From events that followed after the Kaduna South Senatorial Zone election, it is now evident that Kaduna South Senatorial Zone was spared the emergence of a conscienceless person who can take school children from here and dump them in Togo under a phoney scholarships scheme.
No one that is in his right mind will accuse Dr. Baba Ahmed of working against his own victory in his own state, when it was obvious that he was going to be vice president elect. What do Sen. Nenadi and Hon. Asake stand to gain if Mr Obi lost in Kaduna state. True observers of our 2023 Presidential campaigns in Kaduna state know that no presidential candidate got the support of our state like Mr Obi. And we still stand on our irrevocable belief that Mr Obi won in Kaduna state, no matter the result that was cooked by INEC. So it is abject madness for Mike Auta to level such accusations. But, bitterness and frustration are mind benders.
For Mike Auta to claim that he was the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state is the same insane and brazen claim he is making as being the owner of Nok University. Mike has unparalleled nerves for snatching what doesn’t belong to him and staking his life to it. Agreed, he rented and furnished his campaign office in Kafanchan, but unknown to most people, including his supporters, Mike made promises in scores of millions which he never fulfilled. During the campaigns he was and still is owing car rental companies; hotel accommodations, filling stations, POS operators and even “mama puts” restaurants. He is a known grabber of Abuja lands and is engaged in numerous shady sales of property in Abuja. His cases in court are in scores. He has to carry truck loads of police to evade arrest and attacks from those he highly owes debts, He was a big embarrassment to the party by the shame he brought upon it through such borrowing from even the struggling poor.The major life line of LP in the entire Kaduna State was Hon. Jonathan Asake. Payments made to Mike Auta can be produced, if he dared such.
A man without integrity have no qualms about making falsehoods. The truth is that Mike Auta was the beneficiary of 75% of the Obi/Datti campaign funds that came to Kaduna South Senatorial Zone. Every Kobo to the last million is well documented, unknown to him.
The tantrums of Mike Auta against the emergence of Sen. Nenadi and her LP-NCC is nothing a non-entity like the fake engineer can do about it. We understand that he has invested some of his ill-gotten wealth in lobbying to be part of the inner caucus of the LP both in Kaduna state and in Abuja. Unfortunately he has no pedigree. His only asset as a party member is that he contested for the Senatorial seat of the LP and lost. Therefore when serious stakeholders of the party are called over matters of national importance to the party, forget his little education, there’s no room for him. Sen. Nenadi and the other party leader he is insulting are light years ahead of him in political attainments, social clout and moral standing. And as he can see, Sen Nenadi has not only been totally accepted by serious LP and Obedient members home and abroad, INEC has duly affirmed her as the true interim leader of our party today, 13th September, 2024.

Finally, let our party members and the general public not be deceived or be misled by Mike Auta as a giant LP member. The truth is that after the presidential elections of 2023, he teamed up with the Lamidi Apapa led faction of the LP. After a kangaroo meeting in Bauchi, he was made vice Chairman of LP, Northwest. Their aim was to fight Peter Obi at the Election Tribunal.

The Labour Party in Kaduna state then called an emergency SEC meeting at the BBS hotel, Kaduna where he was given an indefinite suspension. It still stands till date.

Kindly disregard the frustration and rage of that imposter.

Sign: Campaign for Renewed Labour Party (CRLP).

13/09/2024.

By Usman Bala

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed satisfaction with the reported killing of Halilu Buzu Sububu, a notorious bandit leader, by the Nigerian Military under the leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. This development marks a significant turning point in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region.

NEF Spokesman Abdul-Azeez Suleiman highlighted the growing optimism regarding the military’s efforts, suggesting that the elimination of Sububu, a major arms supplier to bandits, may provide a strategic advantage in diminishing their operational capacity.

Suleiman called upon the Nigerian government to provide greater backing for the Junior Defence Minister, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort to dismantle the network of banditry that has engendered fear and disruption within communities.

He dispelled misconceptions regarding the Forum’s stance towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, articulating a nuanced position that emphasizes constructive criticism as a tool for national progress.

Suleiman emphasized that the fight against banditry is far from over, recognizing the determination of the Nigerian Army and allied security agencies. He called for unity in support of ongoing military operations and discouraged divisive critiques that could undermine progress.

The NEF’s spokesman articulated a vision for Nigeria’s future that balances support for military efforts with a culture of respectful engagement with leadership, promoting collaborative efforts that prioritize the well-being of all citizens.

“Championing military initiatives against banditry while promoting constructive dialogue is a commitment to enhancing societal well-being. This dual approach seeks not only to eradicate insecurity but also to lay the groundwork for a future marked by peace and progress. As we collectively aspire for a Nigeria free from the specter of violence, it is this spirit of cooperation and understanding that will prove pivotal on our path to recovery,” Suleiman said.

The NEF’s spokesman delineates a clear vision for the future of Nigeria amidst the ongoing challenges presented by insecurity. As Nigeria confronts the multifaceted challenges of national security and development, the insights and advocacy of the NEF will remain pivotal in shaping a future where peace and progress are attainable for all citizens.

The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) has raised the alarm over the activities of fraudulent individuals and groups posing as tax collectors, defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

Speaking at a Press Conference in Kaduna, the KADIRS Executive Chairman, Comrade Jerry Adams, warned that these impostors are operating a coordinated cartel to deceive the public, and are not authorized by the agency.

According to him, some of these impostors have already been apprehended, while efforts are ongoing to catch the remaining criminals and their sponsors. KADIRS assured the public of its commitment to ending the menace of fraudulent levy collectors and maintaining transparency, integrity, and accountability in all operations.

The agency also warned taxpayers to ensure that all tax clearance applications and payments are processed through official KADIRS channels, and not to make payments to private accounts or individuals. He also disclosed that some of its staff members have been implicated in issuing fake tax clearance certificates, and are taking stringent measures to identify and punish those involved.

Furthermore, Comrade Adams warned about the proliferation of fake drivers’ licenses and vehicle documents in the state, urging the public to be vigilant and ensure that all documents are obtained from authorized channels. “We have received reports of individuals and groups selling fake drivers’ licenses and vehicle documents, which is a serious security risk. We urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the authorities,” he said.

“The public is urged to report suspicious individuals or groups claiming to represent KADIRS without proper identification or authorization. With the public’s cooperation and vigilance, KADIRS aims to maintain a law-abiding and prosperous Kaduna State”, he told newsmen on the sidelines of the press conference.

By Emmanuel Chikezie

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the bravery and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the astute leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in military’s rigorous operations—spurred by the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—which has initiated a significant turning tide in the persistent battle against banditry, particularly in the North-Western region of Nigeria.

According to the northern group in a statement issued by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman, the Northern region has long been beleaguered by the terror and violence inflicted by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla, whose criminal enterprise, characterized by extortion, intimidation, and the tragic loss of lives, has wrought havoc upon our local communities.

NAN averred that the audacity with which Turji has operated, compelling citizens to pay exorbitant protection levies and perpetuating a culture of fear, is a matter of grave concern for all stakeholders in our beloved nation.

“In a decisive move to combat the incessant menace of banditry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed squarely at dismantling Turji’s illicit activities. This directive symbolizes a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against banditry, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security to vulnerable communities.

“The recent strategic realignment of military resources to Sokoto, where Minister Matawalle has relocated to ensure enhanced oversight, further underscores the government’s urgency to reclaim authority in the region. The commitment shown by both President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle serves as a beacon of hope for citizens weary of insecurity”.

NAN therefore applauded the swift action taken by Minister Matawalle and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Their recent operations have clearly demonstrated effectiveness in incapacitating bandit elements, leading to a marked decline in the organized criminal activities that once seemed unassailable.

Suleiman said reports indicate that bandit leaders, who were once emboldened by a perceived lack of concerted military presence, have been sent scampering into the shadows, with their criminal enterprises thrown into disarray. This newfound momentum in our security apparatus is both reassuring and promising, the group said.

“The neutralization of Halilu Buzu, a foreign national (from the Republic of Niger), a terrorist leader involved in cattle rustling and illegal gold mining in Jawayi Anka LGA of Zamfara State, and a notorious leader of the bandits, marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in Nigeria, reflecting the resolve of local authorities to confront and dismantle criminal networks.

“This development not only reassures residents of Zamfara State but also represents a broader commitment to securing the nation against the threats posed by both domestic and foreign criminals. The fight against banditry is ongoing, but with sustained efforts like those demonstrated by Minister Matawalle, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.

“In light of these recent successes, we call for deeper support and understanding from the public. The collaboration of citizens is paramount in the collective endeavor to restore peace and stability within our communities. The resilience of the Nigerian populace and their participation in intelligence-sharing efforts will serve to fortify the recent gains achieved by our military forces.

“We thank God Almighty for His divine guidance and protection over our nation. May His wisdom continue to direct our leaders as we strive for a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.”

by Ada Ukeredi

The North-West Solidarity Forum (NWSF) expresses its profound support for the recent directive issued by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, to mobilize the Chief of Defence Staff and senior military officials to Sokoto. This strategic move aims to enhance joint military operations against the dangerous bandits wreaking havoc in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

NWSF commended the minister’s commitment to allocate the necessary resources for the eradication of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his criminal gang. This decisive action follows the alarming dissemination of videos showing a Nigerian military armored vehicle immobilized in a waterlogged region of Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Such bold leadership is both encouraging and reassuring to our communities suffering from the scourge of banditry. According to a statement signed by the spokesperson of the group Tanimu Danlawal, the presence of Minister Matawalle and the Service Chiefs in the North-West signifies a determined effort to oversee military operations firsthand. This proactive engagement underscores the gravity with which the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is addressing the ongoing threat posed by these criminals.

“The time has come for the Federal Government to take concrete steps to combat the menace of banditry head-on. The commitment to deploy all necessary assets demonstrates a firm resolve to restore peace and security to our communities.”

As we collectively face this challenge, the NWSF stands in solidarity with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which have received unprecedented support from the current administration. The determination to eliminate the criminal elements threatening the fabric of our society is both commendable and imperative.

We remain hopeful that this initiative will weaken the bases of these bandits, allowing for a restoration of peace and normalcy in our regions. We call upon residents of the North-West to stay vigilant and cooperate closely with security personnel to prioritize their safety and the well-being of all Nigerians.

Together, we believe that the tides are turning, and the time for change is at hand. We pray for the success of our brave men and women in uniform as they confront and dismantle these criminal networks.

By Musa Kankara

The Federal Government’s directive for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto has sparked widespread jubilation among residents. The move aims to address the escalating security challenges in the North West region.

In interviews conducted by journalists in Sokoto on Sunday, residents praised the Federal Government for its commitment to finding a lasting solution to the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

Malam Garba Mailambu, a trader, said the directive demonstrates the government’s intensified effort to restore peace and security in the region.

Dr. Habibu Ahmed Mada, an academician at Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, described the move as a relief and a great service to humanity. He praised Minister Matawalle’s strategic approach, citing his successful track record in fighting insurgents during his tenure in the state.

Other residents, including Mr. Shehu Haruna and Mr. Ibrahim Dandare, commended the Federal Government’s efforts and urged the Minister to intensify supervision and ensure the flushing out of Bello Turji and his bandits gang.

The Coalition for Opposition Parties in Katsina also expressed support for the directive, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister Matawalle for their foresight in deploying military assets to tackle insecurity challenges in the region.

According to Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, the relocation is aimed at ridding the North West of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. He cited a recent incident in Zamfara where bandits celebrated the stuck Nigerian military Armoured vehicle, emphasizing that such incidents are unacceptable.

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent pronouncement by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity in the Northwest region. The directive for the Chief of Defence Staff and military leaders to converge upon Sokoto, the operational headquarters covering Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to dismantle the escalating threats posed by banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The lion roars, signifying a determination to assert control over regions plagued by criminal violence.
As the minister articulates the government’s strategy, it is essential to grasp the gravity of the current situation. The Northwest has seen an alarming rise in terrorist activities and banditry, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. Access to critical resources, regular economic activities, and general peace have been severely undermined. Communities that once thrived face an existential threat that displaces families, disrupts education, and stifles economic opportunities. Against this backdrop, Dr. Matawalle’s recent commitments symbolically signal a pivot towards rebuilding stability in the region.
This strategic move presents a clear demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and security. By relocating military leadership and resources to the affected areas, it is evident that the government aims to recalibrate its operational methodologies. Engaging directly with the local leadership on ground gives military commanders the opportunity to reassess the complexities of the security landscape they face, ensuring a tailored response that reflects the unique challenges of the Northwest.
Moreover, the focus on flushing out notorious bandit Bello Turji and his gang illustrates a specific operational target—an essential tactic for restoring confidence in state power. Criminal elements that propagate insecurity through violence must be met with an unyielding stance, and the government’s current approach suggests such a commitment.
The distressing incident which surfaced in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State—where bandits jeered at the operational failures of military personnel—further complicates the prevailing security issues. Videos showcasing the vulnerability of Nigerian armed forces can undermine public confidence in the military and the government’s ability to maintain order. Such occurrences are intolerable, as they wage psychological warfare not only against the security forces but also against the populace who rely on them for protection.
The proactive measures now being undertaken must, therefore, encompass strategies that address both the immediate needs of security personnel and the longer-term systematic issues that contribute to banditry. Efforts to bolster military capabilities, logistics, and intelligence-gathering operations have to be prioritized. In tandem, initiatives directed at social, economic, and educational development in affected regions must be considered. The efficacy of military operations is diminished if contextually, the root causes of insecurity remain unaddressed.
The ongoing support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Armed Forces of Nigeria plays an instrumental role in this crucial phase. It reflects a unified government stance that prioritizes security as an imperative national interest. The collaborative efforts between political leadership and military command signal a strategic alignment necessary for confronting multifaceted threats in the Northwest.
The lion’s roar from the Ministry of Defence should be heard as a clarion call for renewed engagement and investment in strategies against insecurity. The gravity of the situation in Northwest Nigeria demands unwavering commitment and cooperation across all levels of government, security agencies, and the communities themselves. With strategic military deployment, clear operational goals, and an integrated approach that addresses underlying socio-economic issues, the ultimate end of insecurity may very well be within sight. The collective resolve to restore peace in this beleaguered region of Nigeria must translate into tangible outcomes, ensuring that the lion remains vigilant and empowered in the face of challenges that threaten its dominion.

By Sandra Ukeredi

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has officially pledged its unwavering support for the strategic military deployment proposed by the Defence Minister of State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, aimed at relocating military assets to Sokoto. This initiative is viewed as a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat the escalating security challenges inherent in the northern region.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima said, as violence, criminality, and insurgency threatens the safety and socio-economic stability of northern Nigeria, the AYCF recognizes the urgent necessity for decisive action. He said, the call for an enhanced military presence in Sokoto State is rooted in a broader desire to restore peace and order which are critical components for fostering an environment ripe for development and prosperity.

“Recognizing the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security. The organization highlights its unwavering support for measures that prioritize the protection of citizens and the stability of communities. In the face of this seriousness, Shettima. said, AYCF leaders are aware that some collaborators may emerge, attempting to undermine this commendable initiative with various agendas that hamper progress toward a peaceful and secure environment.

“We call on the federal government to arrest immediately any such voices, whether in the guise of misinformation, dissent, or undue skepticism, and prosecute them appropriately,” they stated, emphasizing that any attempts to obstruct national security efforts cannot be tolerated.

Emphasizing the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, the AYCF leaders underscored that any attempts to obstruct these efforts will not be tolerated. They urged both governmental and non-governmental organizations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue to deter divisive narratives and protect initiatives aimed at societal growth and safety.

The AYCF is committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens. They believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development.

The AYCF called upon citizens to remain vigilant, stay informed, and support initiatives that promote peace, unity, and security. Together, we can build a resilient society that can withstand the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The AYCF reiterated its dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria. The organization encourages citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives that serve the greater good of the nation.

“The call for enhanced military engagement in the North must be accompanied by proactive measures to foster public trust,” the AYCF noted. The forum advocates for an inclusive approach where the government transparently communicates the objectives, coordinates dialogues with local stakeholders, and actively addresses community concerns.

Moreover, the AYCF encouraged vigilance against potential undermining forces, stressing that the fight for security transcends military deployment—it involves navigating a multifaceted landscape of both local and international actors that may seek to disrupt progress.

The Northern Youth Initiative for Peace and Good Governance (NYIPGG) has expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTRBN).

At a press conference in Kaduna, Amb. Hassan Sadau, Vice President of National Affairs, NYIPGG, commended the President’s commitment to the dental profession, citing the significant progress made by the DTRBN under the leadership of Mrs. Omowumi Mercy Ojo.

The group praised Mrs. Ojo’s exceptional leadership, which has brought tremendous achievements to the board, gaining the attention of President Tinubu. Her foresight and initiatives have translated to unprecedented progress in the dental therapy sector.

The NYIPGG acknowledged Mrs. Ojo’s extensive experience in regulation management, training, and policy development, which has set new standards for the Board’s operations. Her leadership has ensured that dental therapists attain the peak of Nigeria’s civil service career.

Mrs. Ojo has been instrumental in enhancing professional training standards for dental therapists across the nation. Through her initiatives, the Board has ensured that dental professional certificates are more secure, making it difficult for quacks and uncertified persons to prevail in the sector.

The group commended Mrs. Ojo’s successful establishment and management of the registration process for practicing and new dental therapists. She has also coordinated the activities of dental therapists across all 36 states and the FCT, ensuring the Board operates with efficiency and transparency.

The NYIPGG urged President Tinubu to consider Mrs. Ojo’s unmatched service in the health sector by appointing her to a strategic position within the sector for effective service delivery. They believe her dedication aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The group emphasized their commitment to recognizing initiatives contributing to societal betterment, particularly in good governance. They reiterated their appreciation for President Tinubu’s support for the DTRBN, leading to unprecedented progress in dental therapy in Nigeria.