Arewa Times

Abdul Bako Safana

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has strongly condemned the kidnapping of two Kaduna-based journalists, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe of The Nation newspaper and Alhaji Abdulraheem Aodu of Blueprint newspaper, along with some of their family members.

In a statement issued on Monday, AYCF President General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, described the incident as “totally unacceptable” and called on relevant government authorities and security agencies to take immediate action to ensure their safe release.

Shettima expressed concern over the targeting of journalists, who he described as a “key sector of society” providing essential information for growth and development. He appealed for intensified efforts to end the “barbaric incidence” and ensure the journalists’ safe return to their families.

The AYCF leader also called on individuals to intensify prayers for the journalists’ safe release, especially for the wife of Abdulraheem, who was initially kidnapped and dumped in the bush due to her health condition.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the journalism community, with many calling for the immediate release of their colleagues. The AYCF’s condemnation and call to action add to the growing pressure on authorities to address the situation.

Musa Musawa

The Stakeholders and Prominent Members of the  New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) are billed to meet in Abuja in July to discuss issues affecting the party ending July 2024 to discuss critical internal issues affecting the party.

The NNPP National Secretary, Mr Oginni Olaposi Sunday, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, stated that all Party Leaders and Elders across the country are expected to attend.

“Critical issues affecting the 23 years old Political Party are to be discussed and strong decisions taken to further reinforce the expulsion of  Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso , Elder Buba Galadima and the entire national working committee led by Dr Ahmed Ajuji

He said that this must attend assemblage remained very important to the Leadership of NNPP for  advancement of  democracy and development of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The personal commitment of all stakeholders and elders in terms of capacity and participation shall be of great advantage to the success of the meeting.

“All members, most especially those holding very sensitive positions of great responsibilities are compulsorily mandated to attend this coming meeting.

“All  elected members on the platform of nnpp should equally understand the consequences of anti party activities ahead of 2027 general election if they boycott the meeting.

“And for the records Kwankwaso,  Galadima and the entire members of the Former National Working Committee led by Dr Ahmed Ajuji remain expelled from the NNPP.

“Also the executive governor of Kano State,  Gov.  Abbah Yusuf remains suspended till December.”

According to the national  secretary,  the NNPP  constitution  is supreme for all members without prejudices to the grand norm of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“It is our hope that INEC  under the leadership of Prof. Mahmud Yakubu  would  take responsibility to respect the essence of internal democracy and inherent objectives for growth and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

We regret to note that a person like senator Rabiu musa KWANKWASO who was  one time a  minister of the federal Republic of Nigeria, a two times governor of kano state. a senator of the federal Republic of Nigeria , an honourable member of the federal House of representative and a presidential candidate of the new Nigeria people’s party 2023 can bring this kind of avoidable shame to Nigeria and in-particular kano state

This is because betrayal of trust in the name or guise of doing politics is evil. Whatever it is our belief that the earlier discovery of the persons of senator Rabiu musa KWANKWASO and Elder Buba Galadima character is an act of God.

This is because these  two gentlemen would have betrayed the trust of Nigerians if senator KWANKWASO had won presidential seat of the federal Republic of Nigeria 2023 . We thank God Almighty for His intervention.

Ameh Agbo

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has firmly endorsed Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle’s bold assertion that the Northern support for President Bola Tinubu remains resilient and steadfast, with expectations for this support to grow even stronger.
The NAN also pledged to solidify its backing for President Tinubu’s ongoing administration and his bid for re-election, vehemently condemning the political maneuverings by certain discredited Northern politicians.
In a statement issued by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN underscored President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the development and security of the Northern region and emphasized the widespread recognition among Northerners of the importance of consistent leadership for sustained growth and progress.
“The NAN has recognized President Tinubu as a leader who prioritizes the well-being of the Northern region and has pledged its unwavering support for his administration’s success and subsequent reelection,” said Suleiman.
NAN highlighted concerns over an orchestrated political gang-up led by Nasir El-Rufai and Rabiu Kwankwaso, with hangers-on such as Kabiru Marafa, Danbilki Kwamanda, and Professor Dikwa. The network condemned these actions as self-serving attempts by opportunistic politicians aimed at undermining President Tinubu’s administration.
“The Northern youth are no longer swayed by the deceitful tactics of such opportunistic leaders. Unity and solidarity within the Northern region remain paramount, and our people must stand together in support of President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous and secure future,” Suleiman added.
NAN praised President Tinubu’s proactive measures in addressing the various challenges facing the Northern region. His engagement with the region, responsiveness to its needs, and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering growth and stability have earned him the trust and support of the Northern populace.
NAN clarified that their endorsement and denouncement of political detractors reflect a firm commitment to the welfare and interests of the Northern populace. This endorsement underscores their belief in President Tinubu’s capabilities and his dedication to advancing the Northern region’s development agenda.
“The NAN’s endorsement of President Tinubu is grounded in the belief that his commitment to the development and security of the Northern region is evident and unwavering. We laud the president for his dedicated efforts in ensuring the region’s progress and prosperity.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the NAN stands as a steadfast advocate for President Tinubu and his vision for a better future for the Northern region. Our pledge to consolidate support for the president’s success in government and subsequent re-election shall lay the foundation for a unified front in the face of political challenges, ensuring that President Tinubu’s transformative agenda continues to shape the Northern region’s trajectory,” NAN concluded.

Mannir Haifa

The Zamfara Political Monitoring Coalition (ZPMC) has issued a scathing critique of Senator Kabiru Marafa’s leadership claims, labeling him a discredited politician lacking credibility and significance in the state’s political landscape. The coalition accused Marafa of falsely claiming to lead a faction of the party in Zamfara, stating that his claims are unfounded and misleading.

The group pointed out that Marafa lacks influence and support among the party’s heavyweights, contributing to the party’s failure in the 2019 elections. They urged Marafa to accept his political irrelevance and step aside, allowing more capable leaders to take the reins and salvage the party’s reputation.

The coalition’s statement is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of politics, where credibility and influence are paramount. Marafa’s lack of both has left him isolated and ineffective, according to the group.

“Our statement is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of politics. In a landscape where credibility and influence are paramount, Marafa’s lack of both has left him isolated and ineffective,” the group pointed out.

The ZPMC, led by Chairman Comrade Lawal Tanimu, made it clear that Marafa’s claims of leadership within the party are baseless and misleading, and that his divisive tactics and lack of leadership contributed to the party’s downfall in the 2019 elections.

The coalition called on Marafa to come to terms with his political irrelevance and accept the reality that his career as a politician was over. They urged him to step aside and allow more capable leaders to take the reins, in order to salvage the party’s reputation and chances of success in future elections.

Nigerians have been called upon to rise in unison and free the nation through the 2027 ballots, from the privileged few that have been frustrating the dream of a truly prosperous nation.

President of the National Youth Alliance (NYA), Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas made the call in a statement signed by his SA Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday July 2, 2024.

“The time is now for Nigerians to reject the status quo and work towards a nation that serves the interests of all its people, not just a privileged few. Only by doing so can Nigeria fulfill the promise of independence and emerge as a truly democratic and prosperous nation,” Ambassador Abbas was quoted.

According to the statement titled, “Nigeria or Nigeria Ltd: A Nation’s Struggle for True Independence” NYA said that since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960, Nigeria’s journey has been a turbulent one.

“The initial euphoria of self-governance was quickly overshadowed by a series of military coups that plunged the nation into political instability.

“The subsequent military regimes and the devastating Biafra War left indelible marks on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. As we examine Nigeria’s trajectory from its independence to the present, we must confront the unsettling theory that foreign interests have covertly manipulated Nigeria’s leadership, fostering corruption and undermining the country’s sovereignty,” it said.

It explained that Nigeria’s path to independence was characterized by the gradual involvement of indigenous people in the political process.

“The 1950s saw the emergence of nationalist movements and political parties, such as the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo. These movements galvanized the Nigerian populace, advocating for self-rule and greater participation in governance.

“By October 1, 1960, Nigeria achieved independence, with Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the Prime Minister. However, the optimism of the early 1960s was short-lived. Ethnic tensions and regional rivalries began to surface, leading to a series of political crises. The first coup d’état in 1966, led by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, marked the beginning of a dark era in Nigeria’s history.

“The 1966 coup was followed by a counter-coup, bringing General Yakubu Gowon to power. The subsequent years were marked by military rule, which saw the suspension of democratic processes and the centralization of power. The most tragic event of this period was the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafra War, which lasted from 1967 to 1970. The war, fought between the Nigerian government and the secessionist state of Biafra, resulted in significant loss of life and economic devastation.

“The war’s end did not bring peace but rather a succession of military governments, each promising reforms but often entrenching corruption and authoritarianism. The military’s grip on power was solidified by foreign interests, who saw in Nigeria’s instability an opportunity to exert influence and control over the country’s vast natural resources,” it recalled.

The frontline youth movement said that the theory that Nigeria’s coups and even the Biafra War were covertly influenced by foreign interests is not without merit.

“Historical evidence suggests that various foreign governments and multinational corporations have, at different times, supported and protected corrupt Nigerian leaders to advance their economic and geopolitical interests. These external forces provided financial and military support to factions within Nigeria, ensuring that compliant leaders remained in power.

“This manipulation extended beyond mere support. Foreign interests actively encouraged corruption by offering safe havens for illicit wealth and facilitating the laundering of stolen assets. The protection of corrupt leaders by foreign governments allowed these leaders to act with impunity, perpetuating a cycle of corruption and mismanagement that has hindered Nigeria’s development,” it lamented.

The group frowned that the concept of “Nigeria Ltd” posits that Nigeria operates more like a profit-driven company than a sovereign nation.

“This analogy aligns with the economic theories of Milton Friedman, who argued that the primary responsibility of a business is to maximize profits for its shareholders. In the context of Nigeria, the “shareholders” are the political elites and their foreign backers, who benefit immensely from the country’s resources, while the “stakeholders” – the Nigerian people – suffer the consequences.

“This profit-driven model explains the persistent exploitation of Nigeria’s wealth, the mismanagement of public funds, and the lack of meaningful development. The elites prioritize their financial gains over the well-being of the populace, resulting in widespread poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and poor public services. The manipulation of ethnic and religious divisions serves as a distraction, preventing the people from uniting against their common oppressors,” the statement stressed.

NYA expressed worries that compounding this issue is the role of religious institutions in Nigeria.

“Religion, which should ideally serve as a source of hope and moral guidance, has often become the “opium of the people.” As famously quoted by Bishop Desmond Tutu, “They gave us their religion and we closed our eyes. When we opened our eyes, we had their bibles and they had our land.” This poignant statement underscores the way religion has been used to pacify the masses while elites continue to exploit the country’s resources.

“Religious leaders often promise divine intervention and miracles, providing a false sense of hope that keeps people distracted from the harsh realities of their socio-economic conditions. In return, these institutions receive substantial financial contributions from their followers, further enriching the religious elite. This dynamic indirectly supports the “Nigeria Ltd” model, as the populace remains oblivious to the looting of their land and property by the political elites. The intoxication of religious fervor blinds many to the systemic corruption and mismanagement that pervades the nation,” it pointed out.

NYA said that in recent years, Africa has experienced a wave of political activism and upheaval reminiscent of the Arab Spring.

” This “African Spring” has seen citizens across the continent rising up against corruption, economic mismanagement, and authoritarianism. One of the most notable examples is Kenya, where widespread protests and rioting led to the overturning of the contentious Finance Bill. The citizens’ collective action demonstrated their power to hold the government accountable and demand economic justice.

“Similarly, countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal have witnessed significant political changes, including military coups and the emergence of young, vibrant leaders with a fresh mindset compared to their predecessors. These leaders are often characterized by their commitment to addressing corruption, improving governance, and prioritizing the needs of their people. This new wave of leadership offers hope for a brighter future and serves as a stark contrast to the entrenched, self-serving political elites that have long dominated African politics,” it assured.

The group therefore, called on Nigerians to wake up to these Machiavellian games that have pitched them against each other under the guise of tribe and religion.

“The true division lies not in ethnic or religious differences but in the chasm between the ruling elite and the ordinary citizens. The elites do not operate under the same rules; they share wealth and power across ethnic and religious lines, united in their exploitation of the masses.

“Figures like Aisha Buhari and other mavericks have called out the old guard for their continued cabalism of Nigerian polity and their proverbial knees on the necks of the Nigerian masses. It is time for Nigerians to recognize that the current system will only change if they stand up and demand accountability. The youth, in particular, must harness their energy and technological savvy to mobilize for a better future,” NYA advised.

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 (CAMA).

The Zazzau School of Health Technology held its 1st unveiling and induction ceremony on June 29, 2024, with a call to youth to become the engine of society.

The event featured a keynote address by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, who emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and leadership. Suleiman praised the school’s efforts in mentoring and educating young people, stressing that the North needs leaders who can drive progress and bring about positive change.

He encouraged the youth to learn from the past, embrace their heritage, and work together to address challenges facing their communities. The speech highlighted the need for quality education, moral values, and proactive leadership to address issues like poverty, insecurity, and social injustice.

Suleiman urged the youth to demand more from their leaders and work towards building a better future for the North. The event was attended by notable figures, including General Hassan Mamman Lai and Kuliyan Zazzau Justice Ishaq Usman Bello, who were recognized for their leadership and commitment to the community.

The ceremony aimed to inspire and motivate young people to become agents of change and shape the future of their nation.

*Urges President Ruto to apologise over anti-people law

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Friday, called on the International Criminal Court (ICC), to investigate and prosecute heads of security agencies responsible for the killing of innocent protesters in Kenya which constitutes crime against humanity.

He also called on President William Ruto to urgently apologize to the people of Kenyan for attempting to make a legislation that was manifestly anti-people before he was forced to beat a retreat by the angered youths.

Frank who disclosed this in a statement in Abuja, said he is standing solidly behind the youths of Kenyan for rising up to oppose dictatorial tendencies on the part of the government of Kenya in a democratic setting even though President Ruto is his personal friend.

He further called on the international community especially the United States, United Kingdom, European Union to place a visa ban on the heads of the security agencies that would be indicted by the ICC after wholistic investigations.

“Those who issued orders to security agencies to shoot at and kill innocent and peaceful protesters must be urgently fished out and prosecuted according to international law,” Frank said.

According to him, the right to protest is enshrined in several international treaties and declarations, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

He insisted that recognising this right inevitably imposes an obligation on the state including the government and armed forces of Kenya to facilitate protest, including by ensuring protesters are safe and not to kill them.

Frank said: “Protest is a public demonstration of disapproval and it not a criminal action, therefore to kill lawful citizens for protesting is a crime against humanity which must be condemned by all with attendant sanction on perpetrators to serve as a deterrent.

“We stand with the Kenyan protesters and we mourn those who have paid the supreme price. However, we urgently demand the International Criminal Court to go after those that killed protesters.”

He lamented that “majority of Kenyans including the youths now being massacred voted massively to elect Ruto to office because of the trust and confidence that they had in him and people believed he was going to be a people’s president and that is what we expect him to be.

“So apologising to the youths and by extension Kenyans is not a sign of weakness but an action that will further endear him to the people and bring the much needed stability and peace in Kenya.

He called on Ruto to listen to and prioritise the wishes of Kenyans because they were the ones that voted him into power.

In a similar manner, he called on the youths of Nigeria to wake up the spirit of Occupy Nigeria in 2012 and the #ENDSARS Protests to curb the excesses of the present administration through legitimate protests.

“Let Nigerians wake up and pay the sacrifice that Kenyans have paid because that is the only way we can have a better country,” he said

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.

*Expresses support for generational shift in leadership

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo received the National Chairman and Youth President of National Youth Alliance (NYA) Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, at his Abeokuta residence on Monday.

This was contained in a statement signed by the SA Media and Publicity to the. NYA President, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday June 25, 2024.

It said that Obasanjo, who expressed support for a generational shift in leadership, praised the NYA’s efforts in mobilizing youth participation in politics and governance.

“The future belongs to you, and it’s heartening to see young people taking charge of their destiny,” Obasanjo said, committing to support the generational shift and ensure Nigeria’s leadership reflects the vibrant energy and innovative spirit of its youth.

Ambassador Abbas, joined by NYA National Organizing Secretary, Comrade Darlington Onyebuichi Agoha, National Director of Fundraising and Resource Mobilisation, Mrs. Doris Philip, and National Vice Chairman for Southwest, Hon. Oludare Olatunde, lamented the dire state of the nation and briefed the former president on the National Youth Alliance’s mission and vision to revitalize the country’s fortunes.

He expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for his unwavering support towards a prosperous Nigeria, acknowledging his invaluable guidance and wisdom in shaping a brighter future for the youth.

“This meeting marks a significant step forward in our quest for a more inclusive and youth-driven political landscape. We appreciate Chief Obasanjo’s wisdom and support in our quest to reshape Nigeria’s future,” Abbas said while briefing newsmen after the meeting.