Arewa Times

The Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group (KGGMG) has launched a scathing attack on Senator Lawal Adamu, representing Kaduna Central, for his alleged non-performance and lack of representation in the National Assembly. According to the group, Senator Adamu’s failure to speak on critical issues affecting the state, such as insecurity and economic hardship, has left his constituents feeling neglected and unrepresented.

The KGGMG expressed disappointment that despite being in office for almost two years, Senator Adamu has not adequately represented the interests of his constituents or advocated for policies that benefit the state. The group’s coordinator, Bagudu Ibn Mohammed, noted that several other groups in the state have also expressed similar concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance.

In fact, the Kaduna Elders Forum had previously demanded Senator Adamu’s recall due to his non-performance, while the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum threatened to mobilize for his recall from the National Assembly. The KGGMG described Senator Adamu as the “worst senator ever” elected in Kaduna’s history, citing his lack of tangible achievements and infrequent visits to his constituents.

As the 2027 elections approach, the KGGMG is questioning how Senator Adamu expects to be re-elected when he has failed to deliver on his promises and has not provided adequate representation for his constituents. The group’s criticism highlights the growing concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance and the need for more effective representation in the National Assembly.

Senator Lawal Adamu, also known as “Mr. LA,” is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and has been serving as a senator since May 2023. Despite his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for

The Former Senator representing Kaduna Central District and President of Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN), Senator Shehu Sani has been honoured with an award of excellence as the “Activist of the Year” alongside notable Nigerians during seventh anniversary of The Reporter’s Magazine in Abuja .

According to the organizers of the event, part of reasons for recognition is to celebrate Outstanding Nigerians ,who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavour and are changing the narratives in their own way.

Information gathered revealed that the awards presented to 18 distinguished Nigerians was centered on reward for exemplary performance;hard work and integrity .

Notable amongst the awardees are the Group Chief Executive Officer NNPC Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, who bagged the Award as Trailblazer in Energy Leadership; Dr. Dikko Umar Radda,the Governor of
Katsina State was honoured as (Governor of the Year – Security), Malam Umar Namadi Danmodi, Governor of Jigawa State as (Governor of the Year (EDUCATION) and Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa ,Chief of Defence Staff Defence as the (Outstanding General of the Year).

Others are Major Hamza Al-Mustapha Rtd.
Intelligence and Security Expert as (Advocate for Stability).Mr. Olanipekun Olukayode,the Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,as Best (Impactful ANTI-CORRUPTION CRUSADER),Senator Abubakar Kyari, Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security as (Agricultural Sector Reformer of the Year).

The Magazine also honoured some businessmen such as:DR. ABUBAKAR DANTSOHO MD/CEO, (Man of the Year Award),Muazzam Mairawani, Chairman, MSM Group of Companies Abuja, Nigeria(YOUNG INVESTOR OF THE YEAR),Mr. Sadiq Mele Kyari,Chief Executive Officer Syari Bespoke Apparels Abuja (FASHIONPRENEUR OF THE YEAR).

Other awardees are: Mrs. Murjanatu Ringim,Founder Voice of Bazawara Initiative Kaduna State (PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR), Barrister Sa’adat Yunusa Muhammad; Special Adviser on Poverty Reduction Office of the Governor,Sokoto State,as (Empowerment Trailblazer), Mr. James Umeh, Chairman,The Whistler Newspaper, Abuja, as (PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR).

While Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited bagged the award as the AFRICAN ENERGY COMPANY OF THE YEAR and the spoke of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye
Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Limited (CORPORATE COMMUNICATION ICON).

Former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, has launched a scathing attack on the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government, describing it as rudderless and lacking direction to lead successfully.

He also accused members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) who defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of doing so because of “stomach infrastructure” and in the interest of Nigerians.

Tambuwal, who spoke during an interview on the sideline of the PDP National Executive Council meeting, Northwest Zone in Kaduna on Saturday, described the APC as a party that lacks focus, direction, and compassion and has driven Nigeria into economic hardship.

He questioned the integrity of politicians who defect to the APC, saying that they are not driven by a desire to serve the people but rather by hunger and lack of self-control.

According to him, “People leave the party for different reasons. What I have been observing in the past is that defections are not in the interest of the people but based on stomach infrastructure.

“I said that because if we are talking of defection in the interest of the people, I believe you will not go to APC.

“If you are a politician with conscience, with the current policies being driven by APC and current economic conundrum that APC has driven Nigeria into, hardship across the country and abysmal performance of Tinubu administration, there is nothing attractive outside stomach infrastructure.

“So those who defected based on stomach infrastructure are not worrisome”, he said.

He emphasized the need for politicians who genuinely care about the country to come together and work towards a common goal of easing out the current administration, which he described as lacking focus, direction, and compassion.

“It is for those of us who believe in this country. Who believe in service to people, to continue to come together and work out something that will help us to ease out this administration that lacks focus, that lacks direction and compassion and that is rudderless come 2027”, he added.

Earlier, the Chairman of the PDP Northern Zone, Senator Bello Hayatu, called on party members and supporters to take the lead in providing quality leadership in the country.

He emphasized the need to swiftly resolve conflicts at the national level and highlighted the party’s strong grassroots support despite the outcome of the 2023 election.

Hayatu stressed the importance of unity among party members to address internal issues and achieve success in the 2027 election.

He rallied the Northwest region to work together to take over leadership in their states and in Nigeria.

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed profound grief over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the influential leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere. In a press statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the National Publicity Secretary on 15 February 2025, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the MBF, paid tribute to Adebanjo’s unwavering principles.

“Pa Adebanjo was an exceptional statesman and an unwavering leader whose public service and personal philosophy were rooted in justice, fairness, and the rule of law,” Dr. Pogu stated. “Furthermore, I recall how, in 2023, he firmly advocated that the Igbo deserved the presidency, even when a Yoruba candidate was in the race.” He noted that Adebanjo’s commitment to justice and fairness was unwavering. “In every meeting of the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMLF), Pa Adebanjo brought his wisdom and decades of experience to bear,” Dr. Pogu added. “His absence will be deeply felt.”

Adebanjo’s remarkable consistency in championing justice and fairness earned him widespread respect. Additionally, his demise at the age of 96 comes after a lifetime of contributions to the Nigerian state, spanning from the pre-independence era to the 21st century. Dr. Pogu highlighted Adebanjo’s crucial role in Nigeria’s development, taking great personal risks for the country’s progress.

“Unlike many of his contemporaries who shifted allegiances or compromised their ideals over time, Adebanjo remained steadfast in his principles, even in the face of adversity and intimidation,” Dr. Pogu emphasized. “He noted that the story of Nigeria’s journey cannot be told without mentioning Chief Ayo Adebanjo.” Furthermore, Dr. Pogu stated that Adebanjo’s legacy would continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.

The MBF extended condolences to Adebanjo’s family, the Yoruba nation, and Nigerians at large, urging citizens to uphold his legacy. “On behalf of the Middle Belt Forum, I extend my deepest condolences to all who cherished his ideals,” Dr. Pogu said. “I pray for the repose of his soul and ask the Almighty to comfort his family, the Yoruba nation, and Nigeria as a whole,” the statement concluded.

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Association of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his steadfast commitment to environmental protection and sustainability in Delta State. He also urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to intensify efforts in developing rural communities.

Fajoye praised the Governor’s proactive stance in holding oil companies accountable for environmental degradation and ensuring host communities are protected from exploitation. “Governor Oborevwori has shown exceptional leadership by prioritizing the preservation of our ecosystems. His ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability serves as a model for other Niger Delta governors,” Fajoye stated.

He cited the Governor’s recent partnership with UTM LNG to harness natural gas reserves—an initiative aimed at reducing gas flaring and promoting cleaner energy solutions. His commendation follows Governor Oborevwori’s reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to fostering cooperation between oil companies and host communities during a recent courtesy visit by Chevron Nigeria Limited’s management.

“While we welcome investments, we will not tolerate actions that endanger the health of our people or our environment,” the Governor declared, emphasizing the need for oil firms to adopt global best practices in environmental stewardship.

Beyond environmental initiatives, Fajoye acknowledged the Governor’s broader developmental strides, particularly in infrastructure. He highlighted key projects such as the Trans-Warri Road and the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriageway, which have significantly improved connectivity and economic opportunities.

Additionally, he commended the administration’s social impact initiatives, including the N40 billion facility to clear local government pension arrears and the recruitment of over 3,000 primary school teachers—moves that reinforce the government’s grassroots-focused approach.

Fajoye further called on the Governor to advocate for increased NDDC investments in underserved areas, particularly riverine communities. “Delta’s rural communities need the same level of attention as urban centers. We urge the NDDC to prioritize roads, healthcare facilities, and youth empowerment programs in these areas,” he said.

He emphasized that Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to social equity is evident in his policies and projects. “We trust he will champion this cause at the NDDC to ensure rural development keeps pace with urban progress,” Fajoye concluded.

With Delta State advancing its N630 billion capital projects budget for 2025—including N2 billion earmarked per local government area for roads—Fajoye expressed optimism about the state’s developmental trajectory. “Governor Oborevwori’s refusal to borrow, coupled with his strategic management of state resources, sets a commendable precedent,” he added.
[13/02, 08:35] Meta AI: Governor Oborevwori’s Environmental Leadership Earns Praise from Delta Youth Leader

By Amaka Okoye

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Association of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his steadfast commitment to environmental protection and sustainability in Delta State. He also urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to intensify efforts in developing rural communities.

Fajoye praised the Governor’s proactive stance in holding oil companies accountable for environmental degradation and ensuring host communities are protected from exploitation. “Governor Oborevwori has shown exceptional leadership by prioritizing the preservation of our ecosystems. His ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability serves as a model for other Niger Delta governors,” Fajoye stated.

He cited the Governor’s recent partnership with UTM LNG to harness natural gas reserves—an initiative aimed at reducing gas flaring and promoting cleaner energy solutions. His commendation follows Governor Oborevwori’s reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to fostering cooperation between oil companies and host communities during a recent courtesy visit by Chevron Nigeria Limited’s management.

“While we welcome investments, we will not tolerate actions that endanger the health of our people or our environment,” the Governor declared, emphasizing the need for oil firms to adopt global best practices in environmental stewardship.

Beyond environmental initiatives, Fajoye acknowledged the Governor’s broader developmental strides, particularly in infrastructure. He highlighted key projects such as the Trans-Warri Road and the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriageway, which

By Musa David Zuru

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their firm stance on accountability in the dismissal of three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.

AYCF in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, said he believed that such decision is a bold step towards restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process and promoting ethical conduct among election officials.

The forum also applauded President Tinubu’s request to the Senate to terminate the appointments of the suspended RECs, as it aligns with constitutional oversight provisions and demonstrates a commitment to upholding electoral integrity.

Furthermore, the AYCF said it acknowledged INEC’s efforts in upholding electoral integrity, citing the recent conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud during the 2019 elections as a significant victory against election malpractice.

Shettima said the successful prosecution sets an important precedent and sends a strong message to those who seek to compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, adding that by holding individuals accountable for their actions, the confidence in the electoral system will be restored, and citizens can have faith in the fairness and transparency of future elections.

AYCF also urged other stakeholders, such as the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Police, other security agencies, and political parties, to follow suit by enforcing internal disciplinary measures against individuals who engage in misconduct during elections.

“This call for accountability extends beyond electoral officials and emphasizes the importance of all parties involved in the electoral process upholding ethical standards and conducting themselves with integrity. By working together to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a stronger democracy for the nation as a whole.

“The AYCF also acknowledges the complexity of disciplinary processes within INEC and expresses appreciation for the time it took for the suspended RECs to be dismissed. We recognize that adherence to due process is essential in maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and ensuring that decisions are made fairly and transparently.

“By taking time to investigate and follow proper procedures, INEC demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is crucial for building public trust in the electoral process”. Shettima said.

The AYCF stands in solidarity with INEC and President Tinubu in their efforts to promote accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process while calling on all Nigerians to support such initiatives and work towards building a stronger democracy for the nation.

“By holding individuals accountable for their actions, enforcing ethical standards, and upholding the principles of transparency and integrity, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a fair and inclusive electoral system that serves the interests of all citizens” Shettima stressed.

Kano women group Blast Naja’atu

Enraged by her recent Tiktok Video comments, Kano based women group, Kanawa Womenu Forum for Development (KWFD) has said Hajiya Naja’atu Mohammad, the Police Service Commission member has no moral right and honour to attack the National Security Adviser ,Mal. Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the women group, Naja’atu Muhammad should not be speaking against the National Security Adviser who has been able to use his office to relatively secure the north and its people from daredevil bandits and insurgents .

Najaatu in the video, claimed that during Ribadu’s tenure as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senators George Akume and Orji Uzor Kalu, of being among the most corrupt Governors in Nigeria.

The Kanawa Women Forum for Development in statement made available to journalists in Kaduna which claimed,Naja’atu is working for Atikui said, “Though the National Security Adviser did demand for a public apology and retraction from Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad over the allegations she made in the viral TikTok video, we are giving her 7-day ultimatum to go back on same tiktok to apologize”.

The statement signed by the Leader of the group,Hajiya Amina Musa Lawan posited that he who must talk about equity must be ready to come with clean hands, thus part of reasons we are revealing her this her dark titled: “The ABC of Naja’atu the Saint” .

The statement further reads: ” Naja’atu’s first husband Dr. Bala Muhammad,was the political adviser of late Kano Governor Rimi in the 80s.Dr Bala was killed in kano by members of the faction of his party.Naja’atu went ahead to marry one of the foes of her late Husband.She had married and divorced over 7 times and now she is single.

“During the reign of General Sani Abacha,Naja’atu distanced herself of progressive politicians and befriended the wife of the late dictator.She defended that regime in the face of the looting and the rights violations.She benefited financially and bought a lot of properties.At the time of the Abacha transitions,She contested the Senate seat for Kano central,As results were tricking in favour of Senator Kura Muhammad of blessed memory,Soldiers were ordered to invade collation center and Naja’atu was illegally declared the Winner,and it never lasted. That is why you will never hear her say anything about Abacha’s family or his looting.

“Naja’atu has a track record of blackmailing successive Kano state Governors in the last 25 years.During the Government of Shekarau,She brought in a Chinese Company to the Governor and demanded that billions of Naira contract should be awarded to her,when shekarau declined,she started campaign against him and ran away from kano.

“Naja’atu was praising Buhari and wanted Buhari to appoint her minister,when he refused and appointed her the cv of Federal University Dutse Jigawa state,she declined and started attacking him. “

By: Paul Audi

A Kaduna based Youth group, Eagle Brain Youth
Transformative yesterday berated Board and Management of Kaduna Electric Distribution Company (KEDCO) over the ongoing protracted strike by its workers that has seen power outage in Kaduna state and three others, saying it was going to sue the company over damages incurred by its members over the development.
In a Press Statement issued in Kaduna yesterday obtained by our correspondent signed by its Chairman, Daniel Ejembi, the group accused KEDCO of being insensitive to its workers welfare and that of its customers.
Reads the statement:

“As the industrial action embarked by workers of Kaduna Electric Company (KEDCO) entered its fourth day Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative wished to make an intervention at this point.

“It is very disturbing that four days after workers of the company down tools over what is their legitimate rights to protest unfair, inhuman and illegal actions of the management of KEDCO, all we get from the management are sore Press Statements that portend even darker days ahead.
“As capitalists who see huge profit and business expansion above the dignity of the human person and service to society, we are not surprised at the leisurely pace of their negotiations with critical stakeholders in the fray as Nigerians keep suffering in darkness.

“Today, over 2 millions homes in Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states and hundreds of thousands of businesses that largely depend on KEDCO are experiencing severe losses in hundreds of Millions of Naira daily.
“For KEDCO to heartlessly say that it sacked 450 workers, not 900 as claimed by the workers union, is to emphasize how it cares very little for the financial, economic and social security of its workers that endanger their lives daily to deliver power to its customers.
“You don’t sack rightfully engaged workers in hundreds and at a go like chasing away a horde of flies and try to downplay numbers.
“KEDCO cannot also owe workers all kinds of areas including Five years pension while netting billions in profit every quarter, outside the billions of Naira in subsidies it enjoys from the Federal Government and not expect the workers it has enslaved to react when backstabbed without any warning.
“The management of the company ought to know that it is running an essential, critical service to Nigerians and ought to have behaved in a manner that would not plunge its customers into undue suffering by selfishly provoking its staff into this industrial action.

“Apart from that, protracted darkness in some parts of the affected states is also of grave security concerns at a time that kidnapping and banditry is reigning supreme in these affected states.

“The Chairman of KEDCO, Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, his Board and management have alternative power sources and as such may not give a hoot to their suffering customers no matter how long this strike continues.

“The Board and Management of KEDCO should bear all responsibility for the huge losses incurred by customers of KEDCO.

“We are hereby calling on all customers of KEDCO to come together, form a group and take legal steps to redeem all their losses for these dark days based on their rights as enshrined in the 2005 Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Act.
“As for Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative, we shall exercise our rights in court to remediate all the calculated damages that our members have suffered as a result of the callous actions of the Board and management of KEDCO for the days that this industrial action lasts. This therefore serves as an advanced notice to KEDCO.

“Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative is an association of young and dynamic youths with passion for free, safe and progressive Nigeria where social justice, rule-of-law and development reign,” the statement concluded.

The Lioness of Delta State All Progressives Party (APC) and former House of Representatives Candidate for Aniocha/ Oshimili Federal Constituency, Hon. Isioma Ndah (Ada Ahaba) has applauded the defection of Delta North Senator, Ned Munir Nwoko from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Party (APC).

Ndah in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, while welcoming Ned Nwoko to the APC said the movement was long overdue.

She said the APC is the only party in Delta State and Nigeria to contend with adding that the poise and style of Ned Nwoko is best suited for the leadership of the APC.

Ndah, who is Founder and Convener of Odinma Anioma Grassroots Political Group, said the APC believes in national integration and equal opportunity and national unity.

According to her, “Our party believes in progress and providing prosperity to the people of Nigeria. I believe we have the political prowess to win Delta State in the next election.”

“As a party we are ready to give all the support we can give even as we hope that Ned Nwoko’s years of political experience will come into play in our push to actualise the victory for our party in Delta State.” She added.

The fearless Ada Ahaba called on Deltans and Nigerians to continue to support the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Government, adding that the policies of the government although tough, were yielding positive results for the country and would further strengthen the economic fortunes of Nigeria.

By Musa Abdullahi

A group known as Concerned Kaduna Citizens has publicly disavowed former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of improperly using their name without permission. This development is the latest in the ongoing feud between El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani.

In a disclaimer issued to journalists in Kaduna, the group stated that El-Rufai’s use of their name as a hashtag in a recent publication, in which he attacked his successor Governor Uba Sani, did not imply endorsement or authorization. The group emphasized that they did not grant El-Rufai permission to use their name, and his actions were unauthorized.

The group’s chairman emphasized that any views expressed by El-Rufai in relation to their name were solely his own and did not represent the position of the group or its members. The chairman reiterated that the Concerned Kaduna Citizens group is an independent entity that does not align itself with any individual or group that seeks to undermine the progress of Kaduna State.

The disclaimer further stated that the group disclaims any association, responsibility, or liability for El-Rufai’s misuse of their name. This move is seen as a clear indication that the group will not tolerate any actions that may bring their name into disrepute.

El-Rufai’s actions have been widely criticized, with many accusing him of attempting to use the group’s name to legitimize his personal vendetta against Governor Sani. The Concerned Kaduna Citizens group has made it clear that they will not be party to such antics.

The development is a significant blow to El-Rufai’s credibility, as it highlights his willingness to misuse the names and reputations of others to further his own interests. The people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how El-Rufai responds to this public rebuke.