Arewa Times

He was born some 53 years ago precisely the 17th day of March, 1972. Like most great leaders in this clime he shares a common Zodiac space with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with Prof Yemi Osinbajo, with yours sincerely, and with several other leaders and molders of thought whose Zodiac call is Pieces.

Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is a Lawyer with great interest in the Maritime sector, he is a Financial Analyst, and was the Chief Executive Officer of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited which is one of the most successful players in the Oil and Gas sector. He got to the pinnacle in his private business, BUT understanding however that one of the greatest vehicles of positive impact is political power geared at the common good. He chose to impact Enugu State like no one before him. Yes, he ran for political office and was elected Governor of Enugu in 2023.

Since he was sworn in as the Governor of Enugu State on the 29th day of May 2023, Enugu State has become a huge construction site. Peter Mbah has lived true to the promises he made Ndi’Enugu. He has redefined governance with his ‘can-do’ disposition. To him the FUTURE IS HERE, and indeed Peter Mbah is a leader like no other.

One State has become the lead example of how the support for good Governance and profound leadership can be bi-partisan. The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is the Leader of the All Progressive Congress APC whilst commissioning some of the wonderful projects of Governor Peter Mbah was emphatic about the commitment of Governor Peter Mbah to Making A Difference and revolutionising leadership. The Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima was at a forum in Enugu State not too long ago, and praised the Action Governor of Enugu State for showing how good leadership can transform a State. Take note Folks that Governor Peter Mbah belongs to a rival Party the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, but his strides in leadership defines a people’s predilection to Bi-partisan applaud for remarkable leadership. Yes, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is a shining light, and he is unarguably the Star-Boy of the Fourth Republic.

The young man who is 53 years today maintains that his calling in leadership is to MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN ENUGU STATE (MAD IN ENUGU STATE), and he is remarkably MAD (Making A Difference) in just about everything that defines good governance. Yes, in the league of performing Governors, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is a homo sequentum.

Peter Mbah is MAD about Infrastructural Development with the spread of Good Roads, ultra-modern infrastructure and Pipe-borne Water across the State. He is MAD about Healthcare with modern medical facilities springing up in the Wards and Local Government Areas of the State. His unalterable commitment is to make life better for Ndi’Enugu, and his creed is THE FUTURE IS HERE.

Peter Mbah is MAD about Education with Smart Schools and Improved learning infrastructure becoming the new norm in Enugu State. He is MAD about Urban and Rural Development. He is MAD about Wealth Creation, Skill Development, Agriculture, and Foreign Direct Investment for which an International Conference Centre, A complimenting Five Star Hotel, the Cargo Section of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, the repositioning of the Nike Lake Resort and many other world-class touristic and business enabling facilities are feats of the Enugu State government under the watch of Governor Peter Mbah.

Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is MAD about the Security of Lives and Property, for which he set up the ultra-modern and sophisticated Enugu State Crime Control Centre from where premium time intervention in Crime Control is prime. From the Control Centre all the flashpoints of crime and violence are monitored, and within 5 minutes of any untoward action the Law Enforcement Agencies in the State are triggered to attend and put any untoward situation under control.

The Peter Mbah Government in pursuing a better secured State has supported the Security Agencies with Vehicles and several crime prevention facilities. The Government has also set up a Security Fund to augment State funding for improved security and expertise. To Governor Peter Mbah the task of securing and protecting Ndi’Enugu is the chief responsibility of his government.

I was opportuned to share a moment with Governor Peter Mbah 3 days after he was sworn in as the Governor of Enugu State, and when I enjoined him to make sure that he leaves his footprint on the sands of time, he retorted ‘Prof I am not just going to do that, I’m here to MAKE A DIFFERENCE’. And the difference is lucid as Enugu State is scoring remarkable firsts in several aspects of leadership in the Country.

Peter Mbah has done great in so many ways, and there are several mind-blowing and eye popping infrastructure in today’s Enugu State thanks to the enterprising commitment of the Governor and his Team.

The media is awash with the verifiable feats of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. Partisans and non-partisans alike are awe-struck by the awe-inspiring strides of Enugu State under the watch of Governor Peter Mbah. Just a few weeks ago he was named the Governor of the Year 2024 by the Thisday and Arise TV Group. To the ebullient Governor of Enugu State the reward for good work, is more work, and such is the spirit and the commitment of the Peter Mbah led government.

Need I inform naysayers that no State in today’s Nigeria has the level of Pipe Borne Water Projects ongoing in today’s Enugu State. No State in Nigeria has the type of Smart Schools that Governor Peter Mbah is building across the State. And no State in Nigeria has the kind of Medical Centres and Facilities that Governor Peter Mbah is building across Enugu State. Indeed under the watch of Governor Peter Mbah the FUTURE IS HERE.

I celebrate Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as he turns 53 years today, and urge him to continue to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in Enugu State. I commend his commitment to servant leadership. And challenge him to continue to redefine governance in Enugu State, for clearly Enugu State is unarguably one of the best governed States in today’s Nigeria, if not the very best.

Finally, I must challenge other State Governors to deeper commitment to the common good, for leadership is only true and right where the greatest number are catered to.

Happy Birthday to The People’s Governor. Happy 53rd Birthday to the Servant Leader whose resolve is THE FUTURE IS HERE. Enjoy Your Day, My Dear Brother.

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr
Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT. A Good Governance Advocacy Group.

…Says Looted funds must be recovered

Kaduna Good Governance and Monitoring Forum has commended the security operatives in the State for the recent arrest of Malam Jafaru Ibrahim Sani, a commissioner who served under the administration of former Governor of Kaduna State, Mal. Nasir El-Rufai.

According to the group, there is nothing wrong with the arrest and subsequent arraignment of a public office holder on allegations of corruption and money laundering.

The Kaduna Good Governance and Monitoring Forum in a statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Ibn Mohammed, urged the State government to intensify efforts to ensure that all those linked to the funds Looted under the previous administration must be arrested and prosecuted without delay.

Though the charges have not been made public, information gathered by group after preliminary investigation revealed that Jafaru Sani is now facing money laundering charges .

The statement reads: “Recalled the Kaduna House of Assembly Committee probed alleged corruption and financial irregularities during the tenure of ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai and did submit its report, revealed that a total ₦423 billion was allegedly siphoned under his administration leaving the state with huge liabilities.

“We also recalled that some commissioners and aides of Elrufai that were invited and interrogated such as Former Finance Commissioner, Bashir Saidu, was arrested and arraigned for embezzling state funds.

“But instead of Elrufai to allow the law to take it course,he took to his Facebook page on Thursday to accuse the government of day of setting up the arrested, even when evidences have been provided in court.

“As concerned citizens and residents of the State,we are happy and have hope that our looted funds would be recovered and use for development. We are also elated that the two other arms of government are doing their job.However, the judiciary should under no circumstance, succumb to any propaganda within this period of prosecution of anyone found wanting.

“There is no where any country can develop without instruments of checks and balances ,the Kaduna State House Assembly has done great job and now the judiciary is working in line with our desire to recover funds stacked in the hands of corruption politicians.

“Let the people of Kaduna Join hands together with Governor Uba Sani led administration to recover our looted funds”.

By Mike Odeh James

The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has lauded Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro on his first anniversary as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), commending his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives.

In a statement, UYAN extolled Dr. Otuaro’s exceptional dedication and the profound impact of his reforms over the past year. “Your ability to navigate the challenges associated with your office is truly commendable,” the statement read. “We appreciate your hard work, strategic insight, and unwavering support to those in need.”

Dr. Otuaro, a distinguished Niger Delta activist and scholar, was appointed as PAP Administrator in March 2024. His tenure has been marked by significant reforms aimed at enhancing the programme and fostering development in the Niger Delta region. Prior to his appointment, he earned a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin in November 2023, underscoring his commitment to the region’s advancement.

Under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, PAP has experienced growth, innovation, and positive change. His grassroots approach and deep understanding of the Niger Delta’s challenges have been pivotal in steering the programme toward meaningful impact. He has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the Niger Delta, focusing on economic empowerment and human capital development in the region.

In like manner, UYAN has been proactive in supporting vulnerable individuals. As most recently in December 2024, the association distributed palliatives worth millions of naira to less privileged persons in Warri, demonstrating their commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

As Dr. Otuaro marks this significant milestone, UYAN joins all well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating his achievements and anticipates further advancements in PAP under his visionary leadership.

BY Segun Sama

The Arewa Youth Assembly For Good Leadership (AYAGL) has averred that putting into perspectives former and recent actions of the Senate President Godswill Akpabio against Northern Senators, it is crystal clear that the Senate President has something against the northern region hence fighting the North directly and indirectly.

AYAGL who also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call him to order
in the interest of justice, harmony and peace, posited that “For us as Northern Youths, we feel Akpabio is fighting the entire Northern region and would want to silence all the notable voices from the region who are critical of his high handedness and sectional politics”.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Speaker of the AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul Danbature reiterated that, “going by what has happened under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio, we believe Akpabio is fighting the North directly or indirectly. Our reasons for this belief is not farfetched. The perfunctory suspension of distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti recently has reinforced our beliefs that Akpabio is fighting the North”.

The youth group queried’ “What has Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduanghan done to warrant her suspension from legislative duties for 6 months, what has She done to warrant her change of seat? What has She done to warrant her removal as Senate Committee Chairman on Local Content and above all, what has Northern women done for continue harassment?

“What has Northern Nigeria done against Senator Akpabio to stop a motion moved by senator Natasha on NLNG gas pipeline project to Northern Nigeria? Alot of questions are begging for answers and we hope Senator Akpabio will provide answers.

“Northern Nigeria deserves more than what its getting from Akpabio as Senate President. Without the overwhelming support of our Senators from the North, Akpabio wouldn’t be sitting as Senate President today. He must stop the victimisation of Senators from the North. He must stop his selective justice. He should realise that power, position and influence are ephemeral.

Since the emergence of Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, it has been one drama to another and as discerning Northern Nigeria Youth, we are gradually jumping to the conclusions that Akpabio has a axe to grind with some section of the country especially, the North.

As Youth who constitute the bulk of the population of Northern Nigeria, we have unanimously resolved to lend our voice in condemnation of the mistreatment and maltreatment Northern Nigeria Senators have been subjected to under the leadership of Akpabio.

We have endured and tolerated Akpabio beyond limit and now it is time to speak out. We have realised our Senators from the North are afraid to call a spade a spade because of fear of witch hunting and suspension from the Senate.

Danbature further said, Senator Akpabio must stop relegating the North, stressing that “He must stop his anti North policy. Let Akpabio quickly recall Senator Natasha Akpoti in the interest of justice otherwise, posterity will remember him harshly.

“Let our Northern leaders call Senator Akpabio to order and let the Southern leaders too do same in the interest of peace and unity. This is not just a Senate issue but a national disgrace. Senator Akpabio has ridiculed and denigrated the parliament in Nigeria. We are now a laughing stock among the comity of Nations.

“Akpabio must heed to our call to recall Senator Natasha within 48 hours else we will occupy National Assembly Complex, block lokoja -Kaduna express road and all the 19 Northern States and FCT. We are very much ready and prepared to engage in civil protest until our demands are met.

“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to wade into this matter because some section of the North believes Akpabio could not have done this without his imprimatur”.

“As Youth, we are using this medium to tell Akpabio that Nothing last forever, no position is permanent and no power is eternal. Therefore, we will like to advise him to be circumspect and treat his colleagues equally and fairly”.

ENDS

The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has appealed to the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to intervene in the lingering leadership crisis over the chairmanship of the 19 northern states.

The CMF made this appeal in a statement signed by its Secretary, Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, in Kaduna, made available to journalists on Monday March 10, 2025.

“We urge the warring factions to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance. It is our firm belief that the Christian community should be a beacon of hope, love, and unity, rather than a symbol of division and strife.

“This appeal is made with a deep sense of concern and responsibility to promote peace and unity within the Christian community.

“As a body of Christian media practitioners, we are deeply troubled by the unnecessary leadership tussle that has generated embarrassment not only to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) but also to the Christian faith in general. We believe that this crisis has lingered for far too long and has caused significant damage to the reputation of the Church,” it said.

The group recalled that there has been a lingering leadership crisis in the 19 northern states, with Rev. Pam and Rev. Joseph Hayab both laying claims to the legitimate leadership of the Christian body.

” This crisis has caused confusion, division, and embarrassment to the Christian community, and it is our sincere hope that Archbishop Okoh’s intervention will bring an end to this crisis.

“As Christians, we are called to live in peace and harmony with one another. The Bible teaches us to “live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble” (1 Peter 3:8). We urge the warring factions to embrace this biblical principle and work towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

“The CMF is committed to promoting peace, unity, and understanding within the Christian community. We believe that a united and peaceful Christian community is essential for the spread of the Gospel and the advancement of God’s kingdom.

“We appeal to Archbishop Okoh to use his good offices to bring the warring factions together and facilitate a peaceful resolution of the crisis. We are confident that his intervention will bring an end to this crisis and restore peace and unity to the Christian community,” the statement said.

The group also urged the warring factions to be open-minded and willing to compromise.

“We believe that a peaceful resolution of the crisis is possible if all parties are willing to work together in the interest of peace and unity.

“As we await the intervention of Archbishop Okoh, we pray that God will grant us the wisdom, courage, and strength to work towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis. We are confident that with God’s guidance and direction, we will overcome this crisis and emerge stronger and more united than ever before,” CMF added.

In conclusion, the CMF reiterated its appeal to Archbishop Okoh to intervene in the leadership crisis in the 19 northern states.

“We are confident that his intervention will bring an end to this crisis and restore peace and unity to the Christian community,” the statement said.

Nigerians in Diaspora Forum (MDF) appeared divided about the planned protest against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the recent face-off with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

According to information gathered in the communique issued after a meeting held in London on Friday, some members insisted the protests scheduled for Monday 10,2025 in London and New York must be done and others disagreed.

The communique signed by Dr. Timothy Gabriel and made available via electronic mail to some journalists, revealed that some members of the Forum, backing Senator Natasha are of the view that the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio is using his office to silence and malign an innocent woman,thus he should resign immediately.

The members, who are angry about the suspension of Senator Natasha , described the action of the Akpabio led Senate as an assault on democracy and a deliberate attempt to silence women in leadership.

They insisted on the planned protests and vowed to mobilise members thinking along same line in United States of America and United Kingdom to come out for the protests and tell the world about the injustice meted out on Natasha.

However ,those supporting Akpabio described the planned protests against Akpabio as nothing, but mischief-makers who are exploiting the process to embark on the protests to cast aspersions on the Senate President’s image.

The communique captured that they appeal to the Nigerians in Diaspora to avoid any action that cast aspersions on the image of our country and leadership of the Senate over an issue that been resolved with the floor of the Senate.

We are not in support of any protest after the Senate has taken action to suspend Senator Natasha.And therefore urge members of the Forum to avoid being used for sponsored protests aimed at personal political mischief.

The Senate had taken a decision to suspend after referring the matter to the Ethics Committee for fair hearing and transparency and the ends the stirred up tension.

By Mike Odeh James

The Chairman of Zangon Kataf Local Government Council, Engr. Joseph Bege Gaiya, has commissioned a state-of-the-art media complex in Kaduna.

The facility, Dezilan Multi-Media Studio, boasts, radio broadcast suites, podcast production rooms, digital content creation hubs, and high-tech post-production facilities.

Owned by Hon. Jonathan Asake, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in Kaduna’s 2023 election and former President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), is sited in Barnawa, Kaduna.

Speaking before cutting the tape to unveil the studio, Engr. Joseph Bege praised Hon. Asake for his foresight and dedication to youth empowerment and the creative industry.

“This media center is more than just a studio; it’s a one-stop shop for media-related activities. With its diverse facilities catering to different creative needs, it will undoubtedly inspire young people. It is a hub for talent development and knowledge sharing,” Bege remarked.

He further urged leaders and wealthy individuals to emulate Asake’s vision by investing in human capacity development.

“My call to leaders is to give back to the community they serve. They should invest in human capacity building, empowering people to improve their lives. This media center is a perfect example of that vision, and I hope it will inspire others to follow suit.”

Bege encouraged young people to take full advantage of Dezilan Multi-Media Studio, emphasizing that having world-class facilities in Kaduna eliminates barriers that once forced aspiring creatives to migrate to cities like Lagos for opportunities.

Similarly, Hon. Jonathan Asake, who also served as the House of Representatives member for Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency (1999–2003), reaffirmed that the studio is positioned to transform Kaduna’s creative landscape.

“The idea behind this studio is to nurture local talent and reverse the trend of young creatives leaving Kaduna for Lagos in search of opportunities. Artists no longer need to travel far to pursue their dreams—Dezilan Multi-Media Studio provides everything they need right here in Kaduna to compete globally.

The facility includes: Fully equipped newsrooms with editing suites for video and audio post-production; a Live Performance Studio; Green screen studios for visual effects work; State-of-the-art live-streaming infrastructure to support digital content across web and social media platforms.

According to Asake, the mission behind Dezilan Studio goes beyond business—it is a movement to empower creatives and position Kaduna as a key player in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

At the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Sabasine Abu, a consultant for Dezilan Media and faculty member at the Faculty of Media and Communications, Bingham University, Abuja, highlighted the importance of the facility in modern media production.

“This space is designed to provide talented individuals, especially in Kaduna, with the opportunity to develop their skills using cutting-edge digital technology for music, video, and media production.”

He noted that the industry has evolved significantly, and facilities like Dezilan will ensure Kaduna-based talents remain competitive.

“This is more than just a business; it’s about service and empowerment. With the right tools, our creatives can thrive,” Abu added.

“With Dezilan Multi-Media Studio now fully operational, Kaduna’s creative industry is set to enter a new phase of growth, offering opportunities for aspiring artists, content creators, and media professionals to make their mark,” he said

Benin City, Nigeria – The Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ezelekhae Ewuare II, has been showered with warm wishes and commendations as he marks another year of life. Among the many well-wishers celebrating this significant occasion is Goodnews Ibhade Ehiabhi, who lauded the Crown Prince’s unwavering commitment to leadership, peace, and progress.

In a heartfelt message, Ehiabhi described the Crown Prince as an inspiring leader, mentor, and father figure, whose vision and dedication continue to elevate the Benin Kingdom. The message emphasized his relentless drive to push boundaries and achieve what many deem impossible, not just within the kingdom but across the country.

“Your Highness, you are truly a transformative leader ensuring peaceful coexistence. Your strategic brilliance lights our path to success, and your impact on our lives cannot be overemphasized,” Ehiabhi wrote.

Recognizing the Crown Prince’s role in fostering unity and progress, the message called for continued divine guidance and protection from the gods of the ancestors, wishing him wisdom, courage, and strength in the years ahead.

The message concluded with traditional salutations, invoking blessings upon the Crown Prince and the Benin Kingdom:

“Long live the Omo N’Oba! Long live the Benin Kingdom! Ugiagbe, agbon! Edaiken Gha tor kpere… Iseee!”

As the Benin Kingdom continues to uphold its rich cultural heritage, the Crown Prince remains a beacon of hope and transformation. His leadership is widely celebrated, not just within the ancient kingdom but across Nigeria and beyond.

Ahead of 2027 general elections, the national leadership of all the support groups of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party’s National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to urgently wade in to the ongoing judiciary crisis in Benue State to avoid pending danger and threat to democracy.

The APC support groups also raised alarm that opposition political parties may hijack the crisis to frustrate performance of APC government in Benue state and target President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027 general elections.

Addressing a press conference, Thursday at the national secretariat of APC in Abuja, the support groups, led by its Director General, Dr. Ak Peters, insisted that the decision of the National Working Committee and National Executive Committee must be respected by all party faithful.

Recalled that the NWC had acted on the powers of National Executive Committee (NEC) desolved its Benue State Executives led by Hon. Austin Agada, and constituted a unity caretaker committee in February 2024, bringing to an end, the waring factions within the party in Benue state.

However, the former state chairman went to court to challenge the decision of the NEC over the desolation of Benue State chapter and the inauguration of the unity caretaker committee.

While reacting to the development, the support groups leader said: “As the forum of support groups leaders, we are disappointed that the former chairman went to court to challenge the party against the party’s constitution which states that members must exhaust all internal mechanism to resolve an issue before going to the court, yet, the National leadership is just watching.

“We understand that the ongoing crisis in Benue is as a result of the decision of the NWC acting on the powers of NEC which changed the leadership of the party in Benue State and the party must wade in to defend its decision by maintaining party supremacy as enshrined in our constitution.

“We strongly call on the national leadership of the party, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dr Abdullahi Umar Gandje to immediately wade in to the pending danger and threat to democracy in Benue State.

“We strongly observe that the Benue State Chief Judge is being used by the opposition not only to frustrate our performing government in Benue state but also a direct attack on our amiable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027 general elections. Therefore, our party leadership and the presidency must take a stand now before some anti-democratic forces and enemies of our party hijack the ongoing evil plot.

“We stand by the decision of the party and the confidence reposed on Mr. President and our National Chairman at the just concluded NEC of our party.

“We insist that Mr. President must save democracy as the decision of the National Working Committee and National Executive Committee must be respected by all party faithful.”

While condemning the actions of the Benue State Chief Judge, the APC support groups said: “We have it in good authority that the Chief Judge of Benue State has relocated the Benue State Local Government Elections Petition Tribunal from Makurdi to Abuja after granting a waver to the petitioners not to pay security deposit as required by the law, citing hardship in the land.

There is no section of the constitution or laws of Benue State that empowers the Chief Judge to grant waver to the petitioners or move a local government tribunal from the state of jurisdiction to Abuja.

“Lawyers have started arguing that any decision taken by the tribunal in Abuja is null and void as an election conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission can only be entertained in the state.

“The Chief Judge in his circular cited security reason, meanwhile he has been going to his office amidst his purported removal by the Benue State House of Assembly without any security threat.

“The Benue State government which is the funder of the tribunal also issued statement insisting that the government of the State is not aware of the relocation and assured the public that it could provide adequate security for the tribunal.

“The Chief Judge, who acted altra vires when he favoured the petitioners whose petition were to be dismissed also emphasised on hardship in the land in a bid to blackmail President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration while protecting the petitioners. The same Chief Judge has relocated the whole tribunal from Benue State to Abuja even though he has no powers to do so.

“The question is between the relocation of the tribunal which means transporting and accommodating lawyers and witnesses to Abuja and the security posit to be paid in to the court, which is more a burden to the people?

“It is now clear that there is an attempt to truly undermine the party’s national leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Benue State Chief Judge who has abandoned justice for trivial sentiment.”

Coalition of six northern based Civil Society Organisations have passed a vote of confidence Senate President Godswill Akpabio despite what it termed, “unfortunate and baseless” allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti.

According to the CSOs , the sexual allegation coming from a lawmaker is diversionary at this critical period when Nigerians are yearning for laws to help cushion effects of the harsh economy.

The group which stated this in a press statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Jibrin Musawa, described the allegation by Senator Natasha as nothing but, a calculated attempt to damage the hard earned political image and career of the Senate President .

While condemning Natasha for making such allegation against someone who is family friend and benefactor, the Coalition comprising Arewa Good Governance Forum; Peace and Unity Forum in North, Progressives Movement for Development, Development Initiative for Better Arewa and Forum for Advancement of Youths and Women explained ,”We are beginning to see the drama of Pull-him-down actions unveils in the manner sponsored protests have been deployed across Nigeria with a view to remove him for selfish political gains”.

The statement reads: ” When we are beginning to enjoy dividends of democracy under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led government as a result of the cordial relationship with National Assembly, suddenly comes this unnecessary distractions.

“From information gathered from the senators and members of House of Representatives, the detractors under guise of the sexual allegations are plotting to plant their own stooge as the Senate President ,who help them execute their plans to frustrate the good works of President Tinubu.

“The 10th Senate under Akpabio’s leadership has demonstrated high sense of maturity and even the critics today,are beginning to have rethink about the abinitio underated tarnished image of the National Assembly.”

The statement however, noted that Senator Akpabio who is widely known for his jovial gestures and nature since during his days as Governor of Akwa Ibom state could have been misread and interpreted. And for anyone to accuse him of sexual harassment is an aberration.

It further stater : “Akpabio has a track records of good relationship with people; performance and selfless service to his motherland, and we can watch Natasha damage these good side of him .

“It is against this background that as members of Civil Society Organizations from the north, we have come out strongly to support Akpabio and Pass a Vote of Confidence on his leadership as the Senate President.

“It therefore called for a full-scale investigation into the allegations made by Senator Natasha and reject the sponsored propaganda of character assassination.”