Author Archives: News All Around

Akubo Israel

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a stark warning regarding a troubling and increasingly apparent close relationship between the Zamfara State government, led by Dauda Lawal Dare, and notorious bandits and criminal gangs that have devastated the state and neighboring areas in the North-West region.

In a press statement, NAN hinted at the recent invitation of Musa Kamarawa to the government house in Gusau, suggesting this visit furthers Governor Lawal’s conspiracy with some disgruntled northern politicians against President Tinubu, targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

Musa Kamarawa, arrested during Matawalle’s tenure and subsequently released by the current administration, is purportedly working as the link between Dauda Lawal and Bello Turji. Kamarawa, last seen at the Zamfara Government House, is also to be the architect behind a video featuring Bello Turji, a prominent bandit leader.

In the video, Turji openly criticizes eminent political leaders such as Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to NAN, such bold statements could not have been made without governmental support, pointing to a potentially deeper and more sinister collaboration with these criminal elements.

In a statement signed by NAN Chairman Sahabi Lawali, the forum highlighted a prior video showing hooded armed bandits confessing to having ties with the current government. “These disturbing revelations, coupled with Turji’s audacious declarations, suggest a worrying trend of collusion between the current administration and criminal groups,” Lawali stated.

The bandits in the videos expressed their loyalty to Dauda Lawal and vowed to execute any orders he may give, raising significant questions about the administration’s motives. “There appears to be a deliberate strategy employed by Dauda Lawal to use these bandits as instruments to discredit his predecessor,” added Lawali.

“This tactic undermines the rule of law, erodes the ethical foundations of our political process, and jeopardizes the safety and well-being of our citizens.”
NAN noted the significant deterioration in the security situation in Zamfara State under the current administration compared to the previous leadership of Bello Matawalle.

The group pointed out that local government headquarters were never infiltrated by bandits during Matawalle’s tenure, whereas such areas are now under constant attack. “The lack of action from Governor Lawal in addressing these frequent invasions is disappointing,” Lawali stated.

“Instead of consoling the victims or condemning the attacks, Governor Lawal seems more focused on criticizing his predecessor.”

The Network warned the Governor to shift focus from political squabbles to the pressing issue of security in the state, advocating for cooperation with federal efforts to address the root causes of the attacks and implement effective preventive measures.

NAN also highlighted the role of former IGP MD Abubakar, who now serves as chairman of the state Security Trust Fund after leading Lawal’s transition team. “We recall that MD Abubakar led the reconciliation committee under the previous administration of Bello Matawalle and engaged with various stakeholders, including leaders of the bandits,” they said.

Despite Governor Lawal’s propagated stance against negotiating with bandits, the fact that bandits still exist in the government house suggests ongoing negotiations behind the scenes. NAN calls for a comprehensive and transparent investigation into these alarming developments to ensure justice prevails and the integrity of Zamfara’s political system remains intact.

“The administration must address these allegations head-on,” Lawali stated. “It is imperative that swift, decisive action is taken to dismantle any existing alliances between the government and the bandits.”

“The video evidence depicting bandits pledging allegiance to Dauda Lawal and the appearance of Kamarawa at the government house are clear indicators of the alarming collusion that threatens the state’s peace, security, and democratic ethos. Immediate and thorough measures are critical to safeguard the interests of the citizens and uphold the sanctity of the political process in Zamfara State,” Lawali concluded.

Jonathan Itodo

Zamfara Conscience Movement Denounces Government’s Alliance with Criminals, Urges Focus on Security

The Zamfara Conscience Movement strongly condemns the recent actions of the government of Zamfara State in inviting known criminal, Musa Kamarawa, to the government house in Gusau and engaging him in a sinister partnership with infamous bandit leader, Bello Turji. This collaboration is allegedly aimed at perpetuating false propaganda against the former governor of Zamfara State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who currently serves as the Minister of State for Defence.

According to a statement issued by the Chairman of the movement, Tanko Illo Salihu, the unethical, dangerous, and irresponsible tactic will lead to misinformation, confusion, and public backlash. Such actions are unacceptable and must be resisted.

The effort to associate with individuals like Musa Kamarawa and Bello Turji, whose credibility and trustworthiness are severely compromised due to their criminal histories, is ultimately counterproductive. The Zamfara State government risks further tarnishing its own reputation and eroding the trust of the electorate by engaging with these notorious figures as mouthpieces for false propaganda.

It is deeply concerning that Governor Dauda Lawal is prioritizing political attacks on Matawalle while neglecting the pressing security needs of Zamfara State. The state remains vulnerable to the actions of dangerous bandits, kidnappers, rapists, and other criminal elements who exploit the apparent lack of political will to challenge them.

This continuous focus on attacking Matawalle is not only misguided but also detrimental to the safety and well-being of the citizens of Zamfara State.

The Zamfara Conscience Movement will vigilantly monitor, resist, and challenge any attempts by the Zamfara government to deploy notorious criminals for spreading false propaganda. We urge Governor Dauda Lawal to shift his focus to tackling the real issues affecting his state, primarily the security crisis, rather than engaging in unethical and ineffective tactics that compromise the democratic process.

We call on the people of Zamfara State to remain vigilant and hold their leaders accountable and warn Governor Dauda Lawal to prioritize the interests of the people and work towards creating a safer, more prosperous future for all residents of Zamfara State.

The Zamfara Conscience Movement stands firm in its commitment to upholding the principles of honesty, integrity, transparency, and overall security of lives and properties in Zamfara and the North-West. We will not stand idly by while the citizens of Zamfara State are left vulnerable to criminal elements and political manipulation.

By Ojo Jimoh

Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) an umbrella body of the young people in the 19 Northern States has urged Nigerian youths to resist the temptation of participating in the proposed nationwide wide protest.

The group urged youths in the north to do everything possible to protect their land and nation from every form of violence.

In a statement signed by the Speaker, AYAGL, ambassador Abdul Danbature on Monday called on well meaning Nigerians to consider other form of protest apart from street protest so as not to play into the hand of the enemies of the nation.

“We have therefore come to conclusion to explore other avenues to express our displeasure and this we have done by writing detailed position paper to Mr President and this is enjoying adequate attention of the Government as we speak and we at this point officially and collectively withdraw from the National street protest”.

“As you all know that recently we have be in the fore front of the struggle mobilizing for the fort coming National protest tagged ‘End Bad Governance in Nigeria’ and this is as a result of our conviction that there are genuine grands to protest, ranging from insecurity to harsh economy situation in the Nation as a result of some economy policies of this Government.

“Meanwhile, as we were mobilizing for the protest, we were also consulting Our Stakeholders in the Northern Nigeria; the Royal Fathers, the Entrepreneurs and some political and social actors across the lengths and breaths of our region and all these consultations have enriched and deepen our knowledge about the various government policies and programs”.

“We have also understood that while we have genuine intentions to express our displeasure on the current economic situation in our Nation there are other several and more effective way to communicate the same message bearing in mind that there are different enemies of our Nation both within and outside Nigeria waiting for every available opportunity to perpetrate evil in Nigeria.

ENDS

By Omoke Ogbonna

The National Unity Forum For Peace has denounced the videos circulating online, featuring bandit leader Bello Turji making allegations against Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, as politically motivated.

The group’s chairman stated that the videos are a deliberate attempt to tarnish Matawalle’s image and are sponsored by enemies of Zamfara and other North-West states affected by banditry.

The group urged those behind the videos to desist from playing politics with security issues, emphasizing the need for northerners to put politics aside and condemn such acts.

The chairman expressed concern that certain individuals are behind the release of the video clip, warning those sharing it that they are ignorant of Zamfara politics and God’s protection is supreme.

The group accused some officials of the Zamfara State government, including a media aide to Governor Dauda Lawal, of sharing the video on social media.

The National Unity Forum For Peace warned those promoting Turji’s videos at the expense of Zamfara citizens who are being killed, maimed, and kidnapped daily to cease their actions.

Turji’s mischief videos against Matawalle politically motivated — Says Group

Group, National Unity Forum For Peace on Monday described the videos in circulation credited to the Bandit leader Bello Turji against the Minister of State Defense, Bello Matawalle as politically motivated.

The chairman of the group in a statement argued that the sponsors and promoters of the malicious videos against the former Governor of Zamfara State were cooked to tarnish his image.

The group believed that the drama was being scripted and acted by enemies of Zamfara and other banditry-invested states in the North-West, urging the scriptwriters and actors to desist from playing politics on the issue of security.

”We should be careful in all we do. We shouldn’t become tools for the destruction of lives and property all in Destroying the name of politicking.

“It is a matter of principle and patriotic tendencies for all of us northerners to put politics aside and condemn such irresponsible acts sponsored to malign the personality of Hon Bello Matawalle.

”It is a serious concern to us that certain characters are behind the release of the trending video clip of Bello Turji on social media.

“We warn that those hired or misguided to be abusing and sharing that video of characters like bandit Bello Turji against Matawalle are ignorant of Zamfara politics,

The chairman stressed that the reality about what he referred to as a comedy show was intended to destroy and bring him down politically against 2027 political activities without knowing God’s time and protection are supreme.

”The video clip was shared on all the social media platforms and funny enough, some officials of Zamfara State government are allegedly involved in sharing it on their timeline – including a media aide to Governor Dauda Lawal”, the group said.

The group, however, warned anyone involved in promoting Turji Bello at the expense of Zamfara citizens who were being killed, maimed, and kidnapped for ransom daily, to desist from such acts.

The National Unity Forum For Peace emphasized that the people of Zamfara State are suffering and need genuine support and assistance, not politically motivated mischief.

They called on all well-meaning individuals and groups to join hands in condemning such acts and promoting peace and unity in the region.

The group reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts towards achieving lasting peace and security in Zamfara State and the North-West region.

They urged the government to take decisive action against those promoting insecurity and to protect the lives and properties of citizens.

In conclusion, the National Unity Forum For Peace stressed that the time for political games is over, and it is high time for collective action to address the security challenges facing the region.

By Musa Maye

NSCF Reveals Targeted Attacks on Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle

The desperate attempts by forces of corruption now fighting back the system including sponsoring tailored interviews to shamefully twist the narratives using terror leaders like Bello Turji and other crime lords to fabricate unsubstantiated lies against Matawalle has been uncovered.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has come forward with allegations that a sinister and coordinated cabal is targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

This revelation was made in a statement by Comrade Danjuma Paul, highlighting Matawalle’s crucial role in challenging and successfully nullifying the controversial currency swap policy instituted by the Buhari administration.

At the height of public suffering due to the Buhari government’s unpopular Naira redesign policy, three former governors—Bello Matawalle of Zamfara, Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna, and Yahaya Bello of Kogi—took decisive action to challenge the policy in court.

Their bold intervention played a key role in relieving the nation of its economic duress.

“An unforgiving cabal, in collaboration with certain individuals within the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and supported by a financially bankrupt section of a disgruntled northern elite, is orchestrating attacks against these former governors,” explained Comrade Paul.

“El-Rufai has already been marginalised, while Yahaya Bello is being relentlessly pursued, leaving Matawalle as the last man standing.”

Comrade Paul recounted the immense hardship endured by Nigerians during the implementation of the currency swap policy, which saw the redesign of the Naira lead to significant economic disruptions and mass suffering.

It was during this period that the trio of former governors intervened legally, a move that turned public sentiment against them among certain powerful factions.

The NSCF’s statement emphasizes that the current targeting of Matawalle is not a random act but a calculated vendetta aimed at settling scores for their judicial triumph over the now-defunct currency swap policy.

Comrade Paul called for vigilance and support for Matawalle, stressing the importance of ensuring that those who stand up for the people’s welfare are not penalized for their actions.

“The scheming against Matawalle, fueled by those who wish to exact a ‘pound of flesh’ for the loss inflicted upon them by the court’s decision, is not just an attack on one man but an affront to justice and the collective good of Nigeria,” Comrade Paul asserted.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum urges the Nigerian public and international observers to pay close attention to this unfolding situation and to stand in solidarity with those who have shown courage in the face of adversity.

By Aduba Aaron,

The current unrest plaguing Nigeria has instilled a sense of unease among the populace, with reports indicating a significant number of Nigerian politicians fleeing the country for shelter overseas. The abrupt exodus of top government officials, political elites, and prominent business figures has triggered widespread apprehension, particularly among the Igbo residents in the North and Southwest states.

In response to these concerning developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, is proud to extend its appreciation to the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their unwavering dedication in curbing the politically motivated nationwide protests set to commence from August 1st to 10th, 2024.

Ohanaeze had previously called upon Igbo residents in the Northern and Southwestern states to abstain from participating in the forthcoming protests, aligning with our core principles of peace and advocating for calm amidst turbulent times.

A statement issued by Secretary-General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro assured, both Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora, that stringent security measures will be enforced by the Ministry of State for Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to safeguard against any form of molestation, intimidation, or harm to Igbo lives and properties in the North and Southwest regions.

He reiterated the resolute decision of Igbo traders and residents to boycott the planned nationwide protests is a testament to our unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity.

“We implore the proponents of the August 1st to 10th, 2024 protests to explore avenues for dialogue with President Tinubu to address their grievances peacefully and amicably, without resorting to violence or causing casualties.”

“We are cognizant of the presence of foreign mercenaries in league with unpatriotic elements, scheming to incite chaos in Nigeria and using the Igbo people as pawns in their destructive pursuits. However, the collective decision of Igbo residents to distance themselves from the protests has left the instigators perturbed, prompting concerns that they may resort to inciting violence against the Igbo populace in a bid to provoke their involvement.”

The Igbo leader underscored that the withdrawal of Igbo residents from the protests disrupts the sinister plans of the sponsors, rendering their malevolent intentions unattainable and therefore urged the Presidency, through the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, to intensify efforts in protecting Igbo residents in the North and Southwest from any form of harassment or intimidation.

“Importantly, we affirm that there will be no protests in the Southeast, as we entrust Igbo youths with directives to thwart any attempts to incite unrest within the region and in solidarity, we uphold the values of peace, unity, and non-violence, demonstrating our unwavering resolve to foster a harmonious and prosperous nation.”

Obute Donald

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed concern and worries over recent revelations concerning a fabricated video that implicates Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, in collusion with bandit kingpin Bello Turji. According to the group, evidence suggests that the video was orchestrated by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Dare Lawal, representing a desperate effort to smear the All Progressives Congress (APC) federal administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

A statement issued by the Chairman Salifu Suleiman said, such despicable actions are clear indicators of the rampant corruption and collusion between politicians and criminal elements that plague Zamfara State, stressing that the links between Governor Lawal and Turji, a notorious criminal, have raised substantial concerns about the quality of governance and mounting security issues in the region.

“It is deeply troubling that a sitting governor is linked to known criminal elements,” said [Name], spokesperson for NAN. “This form of corruption is not just a disservice to the people of Zamfara; it undermines the safety and governance of the entire state and sets a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country.”

NAN also deplored the situation where personal gain and power appear to motivate actions over the welfare of the citizens. The collusion between Governor Lawal and criminal entities exemplifies a blatant disregard for the rule of law and tarnishes the foundational principles of democracy and good governance. The implications have dire consequences not only for Zamfara State but for the nation at large.

NAN insist on the statement that an urgent federal intervention to investigate these troubling relationships and hold all parties involved accountable. Swift and decisive action is essential to eliminate corruption and dismantle criminal influences within Zamfara State, ensuring leaders are devoted to public service with transparency and accountability.

The safety and security of all Nigerians, particularly those in regions afflicted by banditry and violent extremism, must be a top government priority. “Federal authorities must act immediately to disarm bandits, dismantle these criminal networks, and restore law and order,” added [Name]. “Zamfara State’s residents deserve leaders dedicated to their safety and future prosperity.”

NAN averred that residents of Zamfara has continued to face attacks on their villages, rampant kidnappings, and senseless killings, making it imperative for security agencies, local authorities, and community leaders to work cooperatively to restore peace.

“To effectively combat rising violence, the government must address banditry and violent extremism’s root causes with urgency and decisiveness. NAN therefore calls on the federal government to prioritize the security and well-being of all Nigerians and deliver a safe environment conducive to growth and prosperity.

NAN said it remained committed to these values, advocating for peace, security, and socio-economic development across Northern Nigeria. Together, through united and concerted efforts, we can achieve a future free from violence and fear, enabling every Nigerian to live in peace and security.

NAN is a dedicated organization committed to promoting peace, security, and socio-economic development in Northern Nigeria. Our mission is to advocate for transparency, good governance, and justice while striving to create a secure and prosperous environment for all residents of the region.

The Kaduna State Non-Indigenes Forum (KSNIF) has withdrawn from the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship, citing concerns that hoodlums may hijack the protest to loot their shops and market stalls.

In a statement, KSNIF Chairman Chief Emeke Emmanuel Okafor and Secretary Mr Adewale Peter Adelanwa urged citizens to shun the protest, given the police ban on unlawful protests and past experiences of violence and looting in Kaduna.

The forum expressed concerns about the potential for violence and looting, citing past instances where protests in the state had degenerated into crisis.

KSNIF called on security agencies to tighten security around business premises and appealed to citizens not to join the protest, citing the risk of hijacking by groups with ulterior motives.

The forum stated that while they are affected by economic hardship, they cannot afford to lose their investments and properties, especially during Nigeria’s current economic crisis.

KSNIF also called on the state government to deploy security operatives to potential flashpoints should the protest take place.

Obadiah Angulu

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has alleged that recent attacks on Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle and National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu are targeted at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to AYCF, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s criticism of President Tinubu’s administration and his calls for the removal of Matawalle and Ribadu are a subtle attempt to undermine the President.

In a statement, AYCF President General Alhaji Yerima Shettima said Governor Lawal has failed to address his own ineffectiveness and absence during critical security crises in Zamfara, including a recent trip to the United States during a kidnapping incident.

Shettima accused Governor Lawal of refusing to collaborate with federal initiatives to combat insecurity, citing a viral video where bandits pledged allegiance to him.

AYCF praised Matawalle’s proactive measures in addressing security challenges and called on President Tinubu to ignore distractors and maintain trust in his allies, Matawalle and Ribadu.

“The expansive role of the Ministers of Defence and the NSA, which involves harmonizing efforts between the military, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies to combat nationwide security threats, has been pivotal in enhancing their effectiveness against terrorism, insurgency, and other critical threats,” Shettima said.

AYCF therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to give attention to distractors because Matawalle and Ribadu are trusted allies who remain committed to his renewed agenda.

By Evelyn Dole

The Grand Alliance of Coalition of Northern Youths Movement (GANOM) has accused Bello Turji, a bandits kingpin, of making baseless allegations against Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle, in order to destroy President Bola Tinubu’s legacy fight against insecurity in the North-West.

The group’s chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf, described Turji’s allegations as a “poorly scripted job by enemies of progress” and emphasized that those targeting Matawalle are more interested in destroying Tinubu’s legacy on the fight against insecurity in the North-West.

Yusuf questioned the credibility of Turji’s allegations, asking why a bandit like him would be given prominence to talk about insecurity when he is making life difficult for his own people.

He concluded by calling on President Tinubu to intensify military operations against bandits in the North-West and to address economic hardship in the country.

The group also clarified that Matawalle is not hiding bandits in Zamfara Government House, as alleged by Turji.

“Our attention has been drawn to a viral video on social media where one of the notorious bandits’ kingpins known as Bello Turji was making an allegation against some notable political leaders in the North-West including the former Governor of Zamfara State and the current Minister of State Defense Bello Matawalle and current Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu.

“Ordinarily, it is not in our character to respond to such baseless and poorly-scripted nothingwood movie being acted by element like Bello Turji and his co-crime merchants within and outside Zamfara State, but a need to set the record straight on the person of criminal Turji and the political rationale behind the viral video.

“It is on record that Bello Turji is fond of making baseless accusations against perceived political enemies of his sponsors who are teleguiding him to poison the minds of northerners against the possible re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu come 2027.

“And let us clearly state here that the majority of those calling on President Tinubu to replace Matawalle over the comedy video clip shared allegedly by agents of Zamfara state government are dangerous and worse unpatriotic Nigerians who are ready to go to any length to sow a seed of discord among Nigerians against a southern president just like they did to Goodluck Jonathan in 2014.

“So, those targeting Minister Bello Matawalle are more interested in destroying Tinubu’s legacy on the fight against insecurity in the North-West so they can use it against him and his political party which should not be allowed.

“Or, how can a bandit like Bello Turji being given prominence to be talking about insecurity when he is making life difficult for his own people?

“The truth is that, the ongoing military operations in the North-West is breaking Turji’s enclaves and his promoters unhappy which is why the military needs to intensify their onslaught against these criminal elements in their enclaves in Shinkafi, Sabon Birni, Isa, Zurmi, Jibia and many other areas surrounding Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Niger States.

“Again, his allegations have not been only against Matawalle. He has accused a former governor of Zamfara State, Ahmed Sani Yerima that he was sponsoring bandits. He also accused the late Emir of Zurmi, Atiku Abubakar of the same allegations.

“Can we now say the security agencies especially the Department of State Security Service have not done their work which could have led to disqualification of Matawalle while he was being screened by the National Assembly better than Turji and his hidden sponsors?

“For those who watched the clip, Turji is just playing a script, using politics to destroy good names of many innocent people after his terror reigns in Shinkafi and environs.

“So it’s those who wants to destroy Tinubu’s led federal government that are using him because there was never a time the federal government is committed to securing Nigeria and deployment of military to trouble zones like what we have now.

“One can imagine a heartless bandit like Bello Turji who set vehicle on fire with several persons including a pregnant woman talking about sympathy. Those he killed their loved ones, those he destroyed their livelihood are still alive today to judge him.

“It’s pertinent for the Security agencies to invites the social media user who is very closed and ally to Zamfara state government that have recorded and shared the interview with Bello Turji for clarification of sponsorship.

“To this end, we are calling on President Tinubu not to take the development lightly and we urge him to put on his political thinking cap to address some of the issues like economic hardship in the country fast so