Author Archives: News All Around

By Emmanuel Uzonwanne

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Kaduna State chapter of the Labour Party has hailed the appointment of Senator Nenadi Usman as the Chairman of the party’s Caretaker Committee and Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the Interim Chairman of the state chapter.

According to a communiqué issued by the All Support Groups and Obidient Stakeholders, Kaduna State Chapter, the stakeholders congratulated the new leadership and expressed gratitude to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, and Dr. Alex Otti.

At a strategic meeting held in Kaduna, the stakeholders condemned the actions of immediate past Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, and his associates, accusing them of anti-party activities.

The communiqué called on Abure to refund party assets and funds, urging him to “embrace peace and accept the current reality for the greater good of the nation.”

The stakeholders advised the new leadership to embark on a membership drive and create a new membership register.

They also appealed to aggrieved members to return, assuring them that efforts are being made to address past anomalies.

The meeting adopted a new slogan: “Obidient Movement! Doing the right thing! Doing the right thing! Go and verify!”

With the new leadership, party stakeholders expressed optimism about the party’s prospects.

“We remain steadfast in our determination to reclaim Nigeria for ourselves and future generations,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting was attended by representatives of support groups and stakeholders from across Kaduna State.

The development comes as the Labour Party seeks to reposition itself as Nigeria’s main opposition party.

In conclusion, the stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the party’s ideals and pledged to work towards a better future for Nigeria.

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 Abubakar Abdullahi

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.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Member representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency, has praised the management and staff of the Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN) in Maradi, Niger Republic, led by Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for their outstanding achievements over the past 12 years.

In a press release issued on September 10, 2024, Hon. Talba highlighted the university’s impressive track record, noting its significant contributions to the field of education. “I want to use this medium to extend my warmest gratitude to Prof Gwarzo and the staff cum students of this wonderful institution,” she said.

The university has produced five Provosts of Nursing Colleges in Borno, Yobe, and Bauchi States, including Kiloh Nifor, Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences in Jalingo, Taraba State, and Dr. Yusuf Bello, Provost of the Kaduna State College of Nursing Sciences. Hon. Talba noted, “Twelve years after its establishment, MAAUN has made tremendous progress, and this is evident in the number of talented individuals it has produced.”

Furthermore, the university has produced over 1,000 Medical Laboratory Scientists, with many practicing in Nigeria and abroad. Hon. Talba commended this achievement, saying, “This is a testament to the university’s dedication to equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields.”

Hon. Talba also commended the university’s excellence in law and other fields, noting its commitment to providing a well-rounded education. She praised Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership, saying, “I am impressed by the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its impact on Nigerian society. Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the university’s success.”

Hon. Talba concluded by reiterating her admiration for the university’s achievements, saying, “I applaud Prof. Gwarzo’s dedication to nurturing young minds, and I am confident that MAAUN will continue to make significant contributions to education in Nigeria and beyond.”

By Ubangari Danmusa

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) categorically rejects the recent allegations made by Sokoto cleric Mallam Bello Asada regarding Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. In a video uploaded by Zagazola, a renowned Counter Insurgency Expert in the Lake Chad, West Africa region, Asada claimed that several notorious bandit leaders, including Sububu, Ada Allero, and Bello Turji, were provided with Hilux vehicles by the minister. NAN maintains that these claims are misleading, fabricated, and entirely untrue.

NAN deeply regrets the cleric’s unfounded criticisms of the government’s unwavering efforts to apprehend bandit leader Bello Turji. The network asserts that the N20 million bounty placed on Turji is a legitimate and serious initiative to combat banditry in the region and should not be dismissed lightly.

Asada’s assertion that Minister Matawalle has full awareness of Turji’s whereabouts and possesses personal knowledge of him is not only unfounded but also libelous, slanderous, and provocative. NAN firmly believes that such statements undermine the ongoing efforts of government officials and security agencies dedicated to restoring peace and order in affected areas.

In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, NAN advises Mallam Asada to reclaim his statesmanship by either engaging in active party politics or maintaining a dignified silence to allow the government and security forces to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The Northern Awareness Network stands with the government in its fight against banditry and urges all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities.

Mai Angwa Bala

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the recent remarks made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, concerning the security apparatus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Mr. Bwala in his comment suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle, might be shown the exit door which the leadership of AYCF find such statement as not only unfounded but also a diversion from the real issues that plague our region and nation.

A statement issued by the President General of AYCF Yerima Shettima reminded Mr. Bwala of his positions during the recent electoral cycle. His open opposition to the Tinubu candidacy and his support for Mr. Atiku Abubakar which positioned him on the other side of the political divide.

It begs the question: where exactly was Mr. Bwala when the electorate strongly endorsed President Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria? His sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of this administration raises eyebrows about his motivations and credibility, Shettima said.

He further stated that it is imperative for stakeholders in our political landscape to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to unfounded attacks on individuals who are collectively working towards the primary goal of securing the North, adding that Ministers Badaru and Matawalle have made significant strides in addressing the unique security challenges that our region faces.

“We commend their efforts and encourage their continued service in cracking down on insecurity, which remains a pressing concern for all northerners. Furthermore, we take exception to Mr. Bwala’s thinly veiled ambition as he appears to be attempting to usurp the narrative for his own gain.

“We remember his earlier declaration about aspiring to hold the position of Mr Ngilari, which could have influenced his harsh rhetoric against established leaders who are dedicated to the safety and advancement of our communities”.

The AYCF said, Bwala ‘s motives come into question when juxtaposed with the realities faced by the North, which requires unity and cooperation rather than divisive political machinations.

“As representatives of the northern youth, we express concern over any attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s administration through baseless criticisms. The ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region deserve the support of all stakeholders, including critiquing voices.

“It is precisely this spirit of collaboration towards a common goal that we hope Mr. Bwala can embrace rather than spiral into personal grievances. We caution President Tinubu to be wary of allowing such individuals to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North.

“The youth of Arewa stand firmly behind those in positions of leadership who are genuinely focused on the security and welfare of our people. Our collective will is directed towards recovery and proactive measures that can only be realized through steadfast leadership and dialogue, eschewing the toxicity of political opportunism.

“We urge Mr. Bwala to redirect his energies to addressing his self-created challenges and refrain from disparaging ministers who are striving to create a safer, more secure North. The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum remains committed to holding accountable not only public officials for their responsibilities but also those who would seek to mislead the public or distract from crucial efforts underway” the statement stressed.

By Esse Femi

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.

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.

Dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

I trust this letter reaches you well. As a concerned citizen who is deeply invested in the progress of our nation, I feel compelled to share some observations that I believe are crucial for the continued success of your administration.

One of the most troubling aspects of your government has been the pervasive silence from many of your appointees. It is disconcerting to see that, with few exceptions, those entrusted with significant responsibilities have not actively engaged with the public to communicate your policies. They have failed to inspire confidence among the people, and their lack of visible support for your administration is striking, especially given that they are the primary beneficiaries of your leadership.

This silence was particularly evident during the recent #EndBadGovernance protest. In that critical moment, how many of your ministers took to the media to reassure the public about your administration’s direction? How many highlighted their own ministerial accomplishments, let alone the broader achievements of your government? The answer is, regrettably, very few.

Mr. President, I must speak plainly—this lack of communication is not only a failure to support your leadership, but also a missed opportunity to build trust with the people. Your ministers and appointees should be the ones championing your policies in the public eye, yet their silence has allowed your opponents to dominate the narrative.

My advice is simple: consider those who have stood by you with unwavering loyalty over the years. These are the individuals who have consistently shown their dedication to your cause and who will defend your leadership when it matters most.

As you prepare for the challenges of the 2027 elections, it is important to recognize that the political landscape has changed. Financial resources alone will not secure victory; the trust and support of the people will be crucial. You are facing formidable opposition, and now is the time to replace those who have proven ineffective with those who are both loyal and capable.

Mr. President, I hope you will reflect on these words. The future of your administration, and indeed the future of our nation, depends on the decisions you make in the coming months. The stakes are high, and the people of Nigeria are watching closely.

May God continue to guide and protect you as you lead our great nation.

Do not change article, do not rewrite just add
Hambali Ibrahim
As author

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

The former lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani has praised the people and residents of Gobir Communities in Sokoto State,North-west Nigeria for heeding to call for People’s Shahada Actions and move into Forests to confront the so call daredevil bandits face to face.

In a viral video seen online , thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State stormed the forest in large numbers to confront bandits who have been terrorizing their community in recent years.

In his reaction to video , the human rights activist said , it’s high time the people took over the fight against banditry frontally without fear.Stressing,”No better time for People’s Shahada Actions than now.”

Shehu Sani, who has expressed anger over killing of Emir of Gobir and the incessant cases of kidnap by ravaging bandits in the northern regions, said failure on side of security agencies to tackle issues of insecurity, especially banditry compelled him to make the call for People’s Shahada Actions as the potent solution to contain the excesses of bandits.

In a post via his Facebook handle today,Shehu Sani averred that , “The solution to the incessant and intractable problems of the cruelty and menace of Banditry in the North West is a People’s Shahada action,which is a masses movement to fumigate and disinfect their lands,forests and farms against banditry and bandits.

“This theory is aimed at permanently freeing the people from the criminality of kidnappings and killings so that they can take back their lives,their farms and schools.

“Vigilante and security agencies can all collaborate and cooperate on this in order to achieve results.
May Allah brings peace to our dear country.”

Senator Sani had in past raised alarm severally about how bandits took over the north and how they were able to establish governance structure.

His words: “Virtually now, bandits in the North West have become a state within a state.They have been able to establish governance structure in the sense that they don’t just kidnap and extort money, it has reached a point where they even install.”

He also did make frantic efforts to call on security agencies to make bold steps to solve problems Boko Haram and surging banditry before getting out of hands while he was in the Senate as a lawmaker.

He equally did same, when he made a video speaking on need to rescue the late Emir of Gobir before he was brutally killed by bandits.

But this time ,the former lawmaker rather enjoined all citizens and residents across the three geo-political regions of the north to move into Forests and dislodged all bandits.

“Enough of the killings of innocent people for no just reason. I strongly believe the People’s Shahada Actions is the best option to rid our region of bandits and criminal elements ” he emphasised .