Author Archives: News All Around

By Douglas Ekhenghen

It is truly mind-boggling to witness the audacity of Abdulsamad Dasuki, a member of the family of a failed and discredited former National Security Adviser, attempting to downplay the successes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security team in the fight against insecurity. Dasuki, a Peoples Democratic Party member of the House of Representatives, has the nerve to call for the sacking of all security-related appointees from the northern region of the country, despite his own family’s involvement in a financial scandal related to the purchase of arms.
The recent comments made by Dasuki, the brother of former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, regarding the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria have raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. Dasuki, whose brother was implicated in a scandal involving funds meant for addressing the country’s security challenges, has been vocal in his criticism of the Tinubu government’s approach to addressing the issue. However, his criticism is nothing short of hypocritical, as it is clear that his motives are driven by personal biases and a desire to undermine the current administration, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country.
It is important to note that Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser, was at the center of a scandal involving the misappropriation of funds meant for addressing the country’s security challenges. The scandal, which came to light during the previous administration, raised serious questions about the integrity and accountability of those in power. Given this background, it is ironic that Dasuki, the brother of the implicated official, would have the audacity to criticize the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity.
Dasuki’s motives for criticizing the current administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity are questionable. It is apparent that his comments are driven by personal biases and a desire to discredit the Tinubu government, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country. By using his family’s connection to the previous administration’s scandal as a platform to criticize the current government, Dasuki is engaging in a political game that serves his own interests rather than the interests of the Nigerian people.
The insecurity that plagues our nation today is a direct result of the mismanagement and corruption that characterized the previous administrations, including the one in which Dasuki’s brother served. The looting of the treasury and the theft of defense resources during the 16 years of PDP rule have left a legacy of insecurity that the current administration is working tirelessly to address.
Instead of acknowledging the progress that has been made in combating insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership, Dasuki and his cohorts are intent on sowing discord and discrediting the government for their own political gain. Their actions are not only irresponsible but also dangerous, as they risk destabilizing the country and undermining the efforts of those who are working to restore peace and security.
Dasuki’s criticism of the Tinubu government’s approach to addressing insecurity in Nigeria is not only hypocritical but also misguided. It is evident that the current administration has made significant strides in addressing the security challenges facing the country, including the fight against Boko Haram and other insurgent groups. The government has implemented various strategies and initiatives to enhance security and protect the lives and property of Nigerians. While there is still much work to be done, it is unfair to dismiss these efforts and undermine the progress that has been made.
It is imperative that we see through the political games being played by individuals like Dasuki and hold them accountable for their actions. The security and well-being of our nation should not be used as a pawn in a political power struggle. It is time for us to stand united against those who seek to exploit our vulnerabilities for their own selfish interests. President Tinubu and his security team deserve our support and recognition for their unwavering commitment to keeping our country safe.
In conclusion, Dasuki’s criticism of the Tinubu government’s efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria is hypocritical and misguided. His comments are driven by personal biases and a desire to undermine the current administration, rather than a genuine concern for the well-being of the country. It is important to recognize the progress that has been made in addressing security challenges in Nigeria and to support the government’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.

Abi Marley

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Alliance has vehemently refuted Senator Kabiru Marafa’s recent assertion of leading a faction within the party in the state.

In a statement issued by the group’s chairman, Tijjani Kaula Shinkafi, Marafa was vehemently discredited as a politically insignificant figure with no relevance in Zamfara politics. Shinkafi emphasized Marafa’s lack of credibility, labeling him as a non-entity without any substantial political influence.

The statement further dismissed Marafa’s delusional claims of coexisting with prominent political figures such as Yari and Matawalle, portraying such assertions as symptoms of political delirium. The chairman urged Marafa to acknowledge his futile political endeavors and accept his waning significance in the political landscape of Zamfara State.

Additionally, the statement clarified that Marafa’s alleged leadership of a faction within the APC lacked substance, asserting that he stood isolated and bereft of any considerable support within the party.

The APC Youth Alliance’s resolute repudiation underscores a stark rejection of Marafa’s purported involvement in Zamfara politics, portraying him as a lone figure detached from the party’s core leadership and membership.

“For a featherweight like Marafa who has since stripped himself of every credibility and been swimming in the sea of irrelevance and inconsequence to claim to rub shoulders with eminent heavyweights like Yari and Matawalle is the peak of political insanity.

“The earlier Marafa comes out of his dementia and accepts the stark reality that he is a deadbeat politician who fate had been permanently sealed, the better for him,” Shinkafi said.

The statement went on to assert that Marafa’s claim of leading a faction of the APC in Zamfara State was baseless and unfounded, as he had no support or following within the party.

“Marafa is a lone ranger who has been abandoned by his own people and has no political relevance or influence in Zamfara State. His delusions of grandeur are laughable and pathetic,” Shinkafi added.

The Nineteen-Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment, and Development Initiative (NSNCM) has condemned calls for the sack of Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of NNPCL, labeling them as “enemies of progress” and “blackmailers.” The group believes the attacks on Kyari are baseless, biased, and retrogressive, driven by those opposed to Nigeria’s economic transformation and development.

According to the group, the call for his sack is not only baseless; biased, but also very retrogressive, citing proactive measures taken to block all their possible ways and means to continue the cannibalization of the Nigeria oil sector as only reason for the attacks. “Apparently the handiwork of so-called 401 ethnic Nationalities Leaders sponsored by enemies of Nigerians Economic transformation and general development who also are suspected boys of Bunkers and their agents.” It added.

The National Chairman of the group, Comrade Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, who disclosed this during a Press conference held at Abuja said ,” It is clear that Mele Kyari is one of the best things that have ever happened to NNPC Ltd and therefore, it would be suicidal to nurse any negative attempt to unseat him at this crucial time that he is already transforming the corporation, unless if the nation is not truly after the economic transformation and revitalization of NNPC Ltd and Nigeria. He further said, “We don’t want to believe someone somewhere is nursing an Anti-North agenda which we strongly believe is not President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, having known how much the North rally around him with the massive vote and looking towards 2027 for his re-election,considering the President, Economic, Security and Infrastructural developmental drive a word is enough for a wize.

“The transformational and developmental drive of the oil sector by Mal. Mele Kyari, through robust revenue generation, redirection and scientific upliftment of the Nigeria oil sector, is making this enemies of Nigeria Economic boom to have sleepless night.”

Speaking on how deliberate efforts were made to strengthened Nigeria’s energy security and improved the profitability and efficiency of its oil and gas sector, the Chairman of group of Amalgamation of 596 registered affiliated grassroots Northern Association from Nineteen Northern States and associations of Northerners Resident in the Seventeen Southern States and FCT, further stated: “President Buhari appointed Mele Kyari as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of NNPC in July 2019, succeeding Maikanti Baru upon his retirement. Since assuming the role, Kyari has implemented numerous reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the corporation.

“One of Kyari’s major initiatives is the TAPE agenda, which focuses on transparency, accountability, performance, and excellence. This agenda seeks to eradicate corruption, bribery, and racketeering within NNPC, transforming it into a reputable oil giant.

“Kyari has also set ambitious goals for the corporation, including raising crude oil production to 3 million barrels per day and increasing reserves to 40 billion barrels by 2023. His efforts have already led to significant achievements, such as resolving a longstanding dispute in the Akuku Toru community of Rivers State, which restored 35,000 barrels of oil production per day.

“Under his leadership, the NNPC successfully reached the Final Investment Decision (FID) on Train 7 of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) in November 2019, a project expected to generate over $20 billion in revenue and create over 50,000 jobs. Additionally, Kyari oversaw the commencement of the Ajaokuta-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project, with funding secured from a Chinese bank.

“Kyari has also driven the digitization of NNPC’s operations, reducing human-related operational risks. For instance, the corporation launched software that enables marketers to view inventories across 22 depots in real-time, improving decision-making and efficiency.

“In terms of recruitment, Kyari organized a transparent and fair exercise, leading to the employment of 1,050 candidates out of 600,000 applicants. This marked the first publicly advertised recruitment exercise by NNPC since 2012.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kyari mobilized stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to raise N21 billion for the Petroleum Industry Intervention Fund, supporting medical interventions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

“The creation of the National Assembly has significantly empowered NNPC Limited to ensure Nigeria’s energy security, a critical aspect of national security. This responsibility is particularly crucial during the year-end festivities and beyond, with the NNPC Limited making robust plans to avoid any shortages in petroleum product supplies.

“The enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 by the National Assembly has transformed the NNPC into a commercially-oriented National Oil Company governed by the Company & Allied Matters Act

By

By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, North West Nigeria.

The recently concluded Capacity Building Training for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Service Providers in Kaduna State, organized by Save The Children International, has instilled hope in survivors, signaling a brighter future ahead.

The comprehensive training, which centered on the provision of services to survivors and the effective management of GBV data, included sessions on data collection, registration, reporting, and analysis.

 The event saw participation from service providers across the public sector, non-governmental organizations, and civil society organizations, including members of the Technical Working Group of the Open Government Partnership.

Tanko Mohammed, the State Team Lead for Save The Children International in Kaduna

Tanko Mohammed, the State Team Lead for Save The Children International in Kaduna, welcomed the participants, emphasizing the critical importance of protecting victims and survivors from stigmatization and victimization. 

Mohammed highlighted the essential role of accurate data management in equipping service providers and government entities to address GBV issues effectively and develop robust policies for implementation. He expressed gratitude to the attendees for their dedication and participation in the training.

Juliana Umaru, the Gender and Inclusion Coordinator for Save the Children International Nigeria

During the training, participants received in-depth instruction on GBV Data Management and Referral mechanisms, as well as coordination strategies among service providers. Juliana Umaru, the Gender and Inclusion Coordinator for Save the Children International Nigeria, under the Expanding Social Protection for Inclusive Development (ESPID) project, provided a comprehensive overview of GBV. She defined gender-based violence as “an umbrella term for any harmful act perpetrated against a person’s will, based on socially ascribed (gender) differences between males and females.”

The training concluded on a positive note, with participants committing to apply their newly acquired knowledge to enhance the welfare of GBV victims and survivors. They also pledged to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in the fight against GBV in Kaduna State, fostering a supportive environment for survivors and reinforcing the commitment of service providers to address this pressing issue effectively.

Iye Otalike

The Kano State chapter of the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed solidarity with the recent ruling of the Federal High Court in Kano, which set aside the Kano State Emirate Law 2024.

This law had dissolved the five Emirates in Kano State, causing significant controversy and upheaval within the region. In a statement released by NAN chairman for Kano State Sani Abubakar, the organization expressed its satisfaction with the court’s decision to dismiss all actions taken by the Kano State Government to repeal the Kano Emirates Council Law.

This law was relied upon by the state to dethrone the 15th Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, and four others. NAN described the ruling as a significant step in restoring honor and integrity to the traditional institution.

The organization has highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism in order to prevent political manipulation of traditional institutions. It recalled that traditionally, the traditional institution has held a revered and respected position in Nigerian society.

However, in recent years, there have been instances of political interference and manipulation of traditional rulers for political gain. This has not only tarnished the reputation of traditional rulers but has also undermined their ability to serve as unbiased and impartial leaders within their communities.

“The court’s ruling is a pivotal moment in addressing these challenges and restoring the honor and dignity of the traditional institution. By upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism, the court has sent a clear message that traditional rulers should be free from political manipulation and interference.

This decision will help to ensure that traditional rulers can continue to fulfill their roles as custodians of tradition, culture, and community leadership without outside influence. Moving forward, it is important for all stakeholders to respect the independence and integrity of the traditional institution.

By upholding the rule of law and constitutionalism, we can safeguard the honor and reputation of traditional rulers and ensure that they continue to play a vital role in promoting peace, unity, and development within Nigerian society,” the NAN statement said.

NAN issued a call to the Kano State government and Sunusi Lamido to abide by the court’s decision, urging them to respect the sanctity of the legal system. “This court decision should serve as a reminder to politicians that traditional institutions are to be revered, not tarnished,” stated Suleiman.

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a stern warning against any attempt to tamper with the bail granted to Abba Kyari, emphasizing that such actions would be deemed unacceptable and vigorously challenged.

In a statement released by NAN Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, it was highlighted that the right to bail serves as a fundamental principle of the legal system in Nigeria. It is intended to protect individuals like Abba Kyari from arbitrary detention and ensure that justice is carried out in a fair and impartial manner.

Suleiman emphasized that in cases where offenses are bailable, it is presumed that the accused should be allowed to await trial outside of custody unless there are substantial reasons to believe that they may pose a flight risk, endanger public safety, or interfere with the judicial process.

Regarding Abba Kyari, a prominent figure in Nigerian law enforcement, NAN expressed concerns over the attempts to restrict his full freedom despite no evidence of posing a flight risk, threat to public safety, or history of violations.

The NAN warned that any decision to tamper with an accused’s bail must be made based on objective evidence and legal principles, rather than personal bias or prejudice. The court responsible for trying Abba Kyari must carefully consider all relevant factors before taking such a serious step.

Tampering with an accused’s bail should be a measure of last resort, reserved for exceptional circumstances where the interests of justice and the protection of the community outweigh the presumption of innocence and the right to liberty.

NAN stands firm in its commitment to upholding the rights of individuals, including Abba Kyari, to fair and just legal processes without unwarranted interference.”

Omale Adakole

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed deep concern over recent attempts to tamper with the freedom of Abba Kyari, a prominent Nigerian police officer currently facing legal proceedings. The AYCF condemns any actions that undermine the concept of bail, which plays a crucial role in upholding justice and fairness in the legal system.

In a statement released by the President General Yerima Shettima, the AYCF underscored the significance of bail as a fundamental right that allows individuals accused of crimes to maintain their liberty while awaiting trial. Bail, when granted in cases of bailable offenses, enables the accused to resume their daily activities under specified court-imposed conditions.

Yerima Shettima emphasized that Abba Kyari was granted bail within the bounds of the law, and there was no evidence of him violating the terms of his release or obstructing the course of justice. Despite this, AYCF has observed alarming reports suggesting attempts to intimidate and harass individuals on bail, raising serious concerns about the protection of legal rights.

The AYCF calls for the preservation of the rule of law and the safeguarding of individuals’ rights to fair treatment within the legal system. In light of recent events regarding the bail of Abba Kyari, it is crucial to emphasize that tampering with an accused’s bail should only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

The interests of justice and the protection of the community must be key considerations when contemplating the restriction of an individual’s liberty. Courts must act in accordance with principles of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law to ensure that the rights of all individuals, including the presumption of innocence and the right to liberty, are respected.

Any decision to deny Abba Kyari the full freedom to enjoy his bail should be met with resistance and challenge if it is believed to infringe upon his fundamental rights. The principles of justice and the rule of law are fundamental pillars of a democratic society. It is imperative that these principles are upheld and protected at all times.

The right to bail is not a privilege to be granted or revoked at the whim of those in power, but a fundamental right that must be respected and safeguarded.

Usman Audu

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed deep concern over recent attempts to tamper with the freedom of Abba Kyari, a prominent Nigerian police officer currently facing legal proceedings. The AYCF condemns any actions that undermine the concept of bail, which plays a crucial role in upholding justice and fairness in the legal system.

In a statement released by the President General Yerima Shettima, the AYCF underscored the significance of bail as a fundamental right that allows individuals accused of crimes to maintain their liberty while awaiting trial. Bail, when granted in cases of bailable offenses, enables the accused to resume their daily activities under specified court-imposed conditions.

Yerima Shettima emphasized that Abba Kyari was granted bail within the bounds of the law, and there was no evidence of him violating the terms of his release or obstructing the course of justice. Despite this, AYCF has observed alarming reports suggesting attempts to intimidate and harass individuals on bail, raising serious concerns about the protection of legal rights.

The AYCF calls for the preservation of the rule of law and the safeguarding of individuals’ rights to fair treatment within the legal system. In light of recent events regarding the bail of Abba Kyari, it is crucial to emphasize that tampering with an accused’s bail should only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

The interests of justice and the protection of the community must be key considerations when contemplating the restriction of an individual’s liberty. Courts must act in accordance with principles of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law to ensure that the rights of all individuals, including the presumption of innocence and the right to liberty, are respected.

Any decision to deny Abba Kyari the full freedom to enjoy his bail should be met with resistance and challenge if it is believed to infringe upon his fundamental rights. The principles of justice and the rule of law are fundamental pillars of a democratic society. It is imperative that these principles are upheld and protected at all times.

The right to bail is not a privilege to be granted or revoked at the whim of those in power, but a fundamental right that must be respected and safeguarded.

Mike Aburi

As Muslim Ummah and other Nigerians resumed work today after this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the Administrator of Jaba Local Government area of Kaduna State, Hon. Mrs. Nita Byack George, has canvased renewed strength towards the realisation of Governor Uba Sani’s SUSTAIN Agenda.

Nita, who is the only female local council boss in the state and second in the whole of the Northwest, while pledging Jaba LG’s continuous support and solidarity to the success of both the state and federal government APC-led administrations, rallied collective support for the actualisation of the current administration’s lofty objectives.

To her, this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, which coincidentally fell on Sunday when Christians are observing their faith rites, was an indication that God’s love abounds for all, urging everyone to use the occasion to promote peaceful coexistence and religious understanding.

She urged Muslim Ummah and Nigerians in general to use the period to reflect and promote the values of peace, security, and compassion to move Kaduna State and the country forward.

According to her, “The time and season in Nigeria’s democratic process call for genuine patriotism, commitment, and team spirit to overcome our collective socioeconomic challenges.

“As Muslim Ummah and Nigerian citizens, we must not allow this festivities to overshadow its significance and lessons for us as individuals and as a country.

“It is another opportunity for us to support our leaders, especially our Governor, Senator Uba Sani, who has been working round the clock to ensure we have a peaceful and progressive Kaduna State.

“As we all know, Kaduna State has been experiencing a peaceful political atmosphere in which even the members of the opposition parties have no option but to quietly join the fast-moving train so they are not left behind.

“It is but too true that in the past one year of this administration, Mr. Governor has touched every group in Kaduna positively – the children, the youth, the aged, persons with disability, the pensioners, the farmers, and the list goes on”.

Buttressing her point on the capacity and capability of Governor Uba Sani, she said, “Just recently, with strict directives of His Excellency, we distributed maize, millet, and sorghum received from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) through the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) State Distribution Committee to various groups.

“Orphanage homes, boarding school houses, Persons With Disability, Internally Displaced Persons, widows, pensioners, the elderly, CAN, and JNI among others in Jaba LG benefited from the distribution carried out by a 15-man Local government Committee made up of critical community stakeholders and opinion leaders.

“With the guidance of the Almighty God and your support, Governor Uba Sani’s administration will continue to make decisions that will give us more dividends of democracy in the weeks, months, and years to come”, she added.

By Musa Markus

As Muslim Ummah and other Nigerians resumed work today after this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the Administrator of Jaba Local Government area of Kaduna State, Hon. Mrs. Nita Byack George, has canvased renewed strength towards the realisation of Governor Uba Sani’s SUSTAIN Agenda.

Nita, who is the only female local council boss in the state and second in the whole of the Northwest, while pledging Jaba LG’s continuous support and solidarity to the success of both the state and federal government APC-led administrations, rallied collective support for the actualisation of the current administration’s lofty objectives.

To her, this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, which coincidentally fell on Sunday when Christians are observing their faith rites, was an indication that God’s love abounds for all, urging everyone to use the occasion to promote peaceful coexistence and religious understanding.

She urged Muslim Ummah and Nigerians in general to use the period to reflect and promote the values of peace, security, and compassion to move Kaduna State and the country forward.

According to her, “The time and season in Nigeria’s democratic process call for genuine patriotism, commitment, and team spirit to overcome our collective socioeconomic challenges.

“As Muslim Ummah and Nigerian citizens, we must not allow this festivities to overshadow its significance and lessons for us as individuals and as a country.

“It is another opportunity for us to support our leaders, especially our Governor, Senator Uba Sani, who has been working round the clock to ensure we have a peaceful and progressive Kaduna State.

“As we all know, Kaduna State has been experiencing a peaceful political atmosphere in which even the members of the opposition parties have no option but to quietly join the fast-moving train so they are not left behind.

“It is but too true that in the past one year of this administration, Mr. Governor has touched every group in Kaduna positively – the children, the youth, the aged, persons with disability, the pensioners, the farmers, and the list goes on”.

Buttressing her point on the capacity and capability of Governor Uba Sani, she said, “Just recently, with strict directives of His Excellency, we distributed maize, millet, and sorghum received from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) through the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) State Distribution Committee to various groups.

“Orphanage homes, boarding school houses, Persons With Disability, Internally Displaced Persons, widows, pensioners, the elderly, CAN, and JNI among others in Jaba LG benefited from the distribution carried out by a 15-man Local government Committee made up of critical community stakeholders and opinion leaders.

“With the guidance of the Almighty God and your support, Governor Uba Sani’s administration will continue to make decisions that will give us more dividends of democracy in the weeks, months, and years to come”, she added.