Group raises alarm over cartel behind current 'artificial' fuel scarcity

A group under the aegis of PMB Oil & Gas Progress said it has uncovered the cartel behind the current fuel scarcity, describing it as "deliberate act of sabotage by politicians working closely with major oil marketers" in the country.

A t media statement signed by the National Coordinator of the group, Malam Tirmizi Imam, said it has found out how major marketers take delivery of the product and move same to the rural areas late at night, for onward transmission to "their black market agents".

The group said the efforts of the NNPCL to ensure adequate and prompt supply at the depots "is now being deliberately undermined" by the activities of major marketers in collaboration with politicians looking for the opportunity to decampaign the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

"We are deeply disturbed by this subtle attempt of some major oil marketers and their partners to create artificial scarcity of fuel in Nigeria and jerk up prices at the black market run by their agents.

"We are not surprised that this is being systematically made to coincide with preparations for this year's general elections in Nigeria.", Tirmizi noted in the Statement.

TSN Blasts Naja'atu Over Fallacious Statements on Tinubu Health, Says She's 'Political Prostitute' with no Shame

... Insists Tinubu/Shettima is Best Option For Nigeria

National Coordinator of the Tinubu/Shettima Network (TSN) ,Engineer (Dr.) Kailani Muhammad has described Hajiya Naja'atu Muhammad as a 'Political Prostitute',who was sponsored by the People's Democratic Party's Presidential Candidate to blackmail the All Progressives Congress Presidential flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Hajia Naja'atu Muhammad resigned last Saturday from the APC's Presidential Campaign Council, saying her conscience would not allow her to continue as member.

She had also said the party’s standard bearer, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was too sick and possibly suffering from Alzheimer's disease as he could not hold a teacup when she visited him in London some time ago.

But Kailani in a reaction to Naja'atu's ,said her statements are not only contradictory,but absolutely fallacious.

The TSN National Coordinator, who briefed supporters on the journey so far about the group's mobilisation drive for Tinubu/Shettima as President and running mate , said Hajiya Naja'atu is a complete disappointment , failure and should not be taken seriously.

He explained: "This was a woman, who was with us in ANPP; CPC and later APC.She ran away to PDP and returned to APC ,today she has ran away again .what she said in the social media yesterday is contradictory and fallacious.

"It was blunt lies to say she went to London to meet Tinubu and discovered he was sick .

"We know she has been sponsored by PDP and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar,because she has been working for them."

While urging electorate to disregard her statements, he however described Naja'atu as a political prostitute,who moved from one place to another. adding "No serious and principled politician will do that.

"We have been in one party for over 20 years and never shifted post .When you believe in something ,you stand by it and that's what we have done."

On issue of the forthcoming general elections, Kailani disclosed that the Tinubu/Shettima Network as a group has been able to register over 15 thousand members and still working to recruiting more to prosecute the February 25 ,2023 presidential election.

"We are the option B for APC, we did that for President Muhammadu Buhari with the National Votes Guard and Awareness of President Muhammadu Buhari group and we are going to do it again for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

" We have enemies of progress in Nigeria , those propagandists that have been saying all sorts of things against Tinubu. Unfortunately they do so with no facts ,just the normal Nigerian factor.

"Some said he's sick but we saw him dancing yesterday in Kano .How can someone who is unhealthy be dancing life on stage during campaigns for almost two hours while he addressed mammoth crowd of clerics and leaders .

"Governance is about intelligence and those that know how to turn around the economy just like he did in Lagos over years .

"It is on record that Tinubu turned the economy of Lagos with a record of high sustainable IGR generation . Today the economy of Lagos is bigger than that of the entire West Africa.

"That is what we want him to come and do for Nigeria .We need a leader that can coordinate resources for greater Nigeria.

"As contained in the renewed Hope Manifesto which places emphasis on health,education, infrastructure and several sectors of the economy. We believe by the time Nigerians vote for Tinubu/ Shettima most of our problems would be solved."

On issues of allegations of narcotics and source of wealth,Kailani said,people have questioned it and IMF and several international bodies have investigated him and found nothing indicting .

"Tinubu is a businessman, who has capacity to turn one Kobo to one naira and to millions and he said it categorically that people are enving him .

He therefore, urged Nigerians to shun the the cock-and-bull stories about Tinubu.

"Just yesterday we saw some vehicles with banners of APC at PDP secretariat ,is about propaganda by enemies of progress and they want to cause confusion."

CSOs Form New Group to Resist Sale of NNPC , Other Public Assets

... Threatens to Go to Courts over any attempt to Sell

Coalition of Civil Society members have formed a group under umbrella of the Movement Against Privatization(MAP) to resist the sale of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other National assets by any government .

According to group, since the idea of selling national assets ,such as: NITEL , National Fertilizer,NEPA , Steel companies and several others didn't favoured the ordinary Nigerians and masses in past, there should be no reason to consider selling for now .

The group, which threatened to mobilise Nigerians if any government decides to consider selling NNPC, said it's not only prepared to mobilise Nigerians should there be any attempt to sell public assets ,but also vowed to go to court and stop it.

In a press statement signed by the Secretary General, Usman Dabo,the group said part of the reasons for coming together to form the group is to ensure that it protects innocent Nigerians from being deceived or hoodwinked to believe that Privatization of public assets is the only solution to effective production and adequate supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) otherwise known as Petrol.

The statement further reads : "We formed the Movement Against Privatization because cannot afford to adopt a "Siddon-Look' approach and watch our sensitive companies that touch live of Nigerians in almost all ramifications to be out sold under any guise by selfish politicians and their cronies.

"No sensitive leader and government will consider selling a critical national oil company ,such as NNPC limited especially, considering the monopoly of price involved in such companies .

"We have watched and listened to all the presidential candidates and observed that most of the Presidential candidates appeared to be talking in favour of privatisation and this we would vehemently resist."

It however described as unfortunate , that the situation ,where the crop of Presidential candidates are not talking about creating policies that will encourage both local and international investors to invest in building new refineries.

Stressing ,"This is why we crying out loud now to anyone that will succeed President Muhammadu Buhari to know early enough that this movement is out to resist any attempt to auction NNPC and other public assets.

"We have put up structures across the 36 States of Nigeria , including the Federal Capital Territory,Abuja to mobilise Civil Society Organizations, Traders , Students and other Nigerians to return the street for mother of all protest,if there is any government that mutes the idea sale of public assets ."

Meanwhile, the Group which threw its weight behind complete removal of subsidy disclosed, "We have set up a special unit to begin a process of Sensitisation with a clear message of "Don't Sell NNPC" in particular ,but open Windows for individuals to invest in private refineries, so doing, there would be opportunities to tackle the problem of perennial scarcity ; Create employment , transfer technology , expand scope of industrial growth and development .

"This group insist that whoever wins the elections should leave the existing refineries to operate as a government entity and create policies that will be friendly to investors" .

It's end of discussion, Wamakko reacts to Umarun Kwabo's return to APC

Excited SenatorAliyu Magatakarda Wamakko has described the return of Alhaji Umarun Kwobo (Jarman Sokoto) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and hundreds of thousands of his supporters as "the end of discussion".

Umarun Kwabo, who is also the Jarman Sokoto defected to the APC along with his long-term political godson, Alhaji Murtala Abdulkadir Dan'iya, who was a serving Treasurer of the PDP and strong pillar of Sokoto politics. Some serving commissioners and 164 Special Advisers to the government of Sokoto State have also joined Umarun Kwabo in the APC. Others include APC party chairmen and Local Government Chairmen and Councillors in their hundreds.

Receiving the Jarman Sokoto and thousands of followers into the APC, Senator Wamakko said the days of the misrule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto are numbered.

"On behalf of the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Adamu, the NWC leadership, our Presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running-mate Alhaji Kashim Shettima, I welcome the Jarman Sokoto into the APC family and I wish to assure them that we shall together work for the victory of our great party in the forthcoming general elections", said Wamakko.

He described the Jarman Sokoto as a great statesman, a mentor, a guardian, the lord of Sokoto politics and one of the ultimate deciding factors in any election in the State.

"Umarun Kwabo's return to the APC is a return home for a formidable gladiator of Northern politics who has been commanding political loyalty massively for decades", Senator Wamakko explained to the mammoth crowd that was at hand to rejoice with the Sarkin Yamma.

APC chieftains in the State expressed joy at what they variously described as Wamakko's brand of game-changer politics that has remained the dominant political culture in the history of the Caliphate for many years.

A cross-section of respondents in Sokoto expressed joy that a new dawn of progressive politics has set in. One of the respondents, Abubakar Musa said: " We can now have a clean break from the culture of appointing a horde of Special Assistants in their droves, as if governance in Sokoto is political madness".

2023: Tinubu meets N’East Muslim leaders, promises progressive leadership, fairness

Presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday, promised to be fair and just to all, if elected, while reassuring his commitment to progressive leadership.

Mr Tinubu gave the promise during a town hall meeting with Northeast Muslim leaders in Bauchi.

The presidential candidate, in soliciting their support, asked the Islamic scholars to vote wisely. If given the mandate, Tinubu assures that he will remain consistent with the tenets of his Islamic faith.

This latest town hall meeting is among the series of engagements the APC standard bearer is having with religious, business, professional, and community leaders as well as all other stakeholders across the country in his bid for the Presidency.

On occasions like this, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has always echoed his pledge to purposeful and honest leadership. “A leader in a plural society like ours is enjoined to be a leader of all. If elected, I shall govern honestly and democratically, in harmony with our nation’s constitution", Tinubu maintains.

He also promised to revive the economy and fight corruption and insecurity through the provision of modern equipment for security agencies to tackle peculiar and emerging security challenges in the country. Top on the list of his priorities for the Northeast, are resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, creating better opportunities for economic prosperity through continues exploitation of the available mineral resources deposited in the region and paying great attention to job creation for teeming youths in a bid to harness potential for greater national development.

Earlier in their remarks, the Vice Presidential candidate of the APC and former Governor of Borno State, Sen. Kashim Shettima and Northern Coordinator, APC Presidential Campaign Council, and Jigawa Governor, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, dismissed fears of Yoruba-dominated government, if Asiwaju Tinubu is elected President. Shettima is optimistic of rapid development and welfare of citizens under Asiwaju's presidency, alluding to his principal's track record and antecedents as Governor of Lagos State.

Governor Badaru stated that there was no caucus meeting of the APC Presidential Campaign that did not include his counterparts, northern governors, and the likes of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, mni, who heads APC Campaign's Directorate of Stakeholder Relations. Badaru Abubakar said that they would not betray the North.

Governor Badaru also added that Tinubu is healthy and mentally alert and would not let Nigerians down by the grace of Almighty Allah.

Some Muslim leaders who spoke at the occasion, including Sheikh Dr. Gambo Kyari, Sheikh Salihu Suleiman Ningi, and Sheikh Dr. Bashir Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, among others, declared support for Asiwaju's ambition as a clarion call.

Distinguished personalities present at the occasion include former governors of Bauchi State, Mal. Isa Yuguda and M.A Abubakar, SAN, former governor of Borno State, Senator Ali Modu sheriff, Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, former Speaker Oladimeji Sabur Bankole, APC Deputy National Chairman, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Bauchi State APC Governorship candidate, Air Marshal (Ambassador) Sadique Baba Abubakar, CFR (rtd) former Minister of the FCT, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo, former federal permanent secretary in charge of State House, Alhaji Jalalu Arabi, former Executive Secretary, Tetfund Dr. Musa Babayo among many others.

Oil Discovery in North: Group Commends NNPC Boss,Kyari for Breaking Jinx of Over Five Decades

...Says Nigeria will now Enjoy More Revenues , Create Job opportunities


Group under umbrella of Energy Consumers Rights Association (ECORA) has commended the Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPCL) ,Eng. Mele Kyari for breaking the jinx of more than five decades of exploration of oil in the north without success .

According to the group,the discovery of oil in commercial quantity and subsequent exploration of the oil in Bauchi, Gombe and Nasarawa states respectively will no doubt lead to increased job opportunities; industrial growth and emergence of new refineries.

The group, which made this known in a press statement jointly signed by
Dr.Mustapha Ahmed Bala
President and Mrs Mary John Awe
Secretary General, the Energy Consumers Rights group said,"We happy to be associated with NNPC limited because, of the short and long term economic implications, which suffices to say, "The country can now generate more revenues from oil for sustainable growth and development."

Stressing, "For us , what appears impossible has finally been made possible ."

While commending the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC limited ,Eng. Mele Kyari for feat,the group however raised alarm over attempts in some quarters to undermine him. Stating that, "Since the information about discovery of oil in northern parts of the country, some persons have allegedly started undermining Kyari for no just reasons .

"We expect these people to know that rather than making attempts to undermine Kyari's proactive efforts to rescue our oil sector, such should acknowledge him for two things that distinct him from past Chief Executives of NNPC: First frantic efforts to clamp down on oil thieves and secondly, the discovery of oil in northern Nigeria .

"It's for these reasons that we are asking Kyari to remain focused and concentrate on the reforms to ensure that the masses feel the positive impact of Nigeria's oil wealth".

On issue of current fuel Scarcity , the Energy Consumers Rights group, described the current fuel scarcity in some parts of the country as clearly an act of sabotage, apparently aimed at frustrating efforts of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to ensure adequate supply .

According to the group, information gathered revealed that the problem of fuel scarcity, until recently considered a thing of the past, reared its ugly head again barely few months to the country's general elections.

"Some of our members sent to some states for on-the-spot assessment of the fuel supply situation at selected filling stations , discovered that most filling stations in rural areas have fuel ,while in state capitals, there are some places without queues and others with queues, an evidence that , it's a case of clear sabotage.It stated .

We have come out strongly to commend Kyari for not bowing to antics of petroleum products marketers, who have wittingly adjusted upward the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit(PMS) also called petrol.

We also praise the national oil company for maintaining the pump price, it reiterated, "Those who have increased Pump Price are all scrupulous profiteers,who don't care about the economic implications on consumers ".

Breaking: Police Trust Fund boss inspects multimillion naira giant projects

The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Abdullahi Bala Sokoto and his management team on Monday began inspection-tour of some of its projects executed under the Fund's 2021 intervention programme.
The tour kicked-off with Projects within the FCT which include; the renovation of fourteen blocks of flats at the Rank and File Quarters in the Brick City Police Barracks, the upgrade of the Nigeria Police Radio station and the Nigeria Police Force ultra-modern Warehouse in Dei-Dei.
While responding to questions from newsmen, the Executive Secretary pointed out that the projects are among over one 100 ongoing and completed projects embarked upon by the Trust Fund under his leadership.
He, however, expressed dissatisfaction over the standard of work done at the blocks of flats for Rank and File Quarters in Kubwa, calling on the contractor to revisit the project and keep to agreed standards .
Meanwhile, the Head of Station, Nigeria Police Radio, Andrew Anaimaka, said that courtesy of the intervention of the Trust Fund, the radio station can now compete favourably with others in the FCT in quality of programmes
While inspecting equipment installed at the Police Radio Station, the ES directed the contractor to liaise with the office of the fire service Department in ensuring that all fire safety equipment are put in place and in accordance with all safety standards.
The Executive Secretary, however, commended the other contractors who handled the upgrade of the Nigeria Police Radio and the NPF Warehouse for a job well done, especially prompt delivery of the projects.
He also revealed that the warehouse rehabilitation project was executed with a little over N270 million, while the radio upgrade gulped over N190 million.

Breaking: Appeal Court dismisses NNPP case against Uba Sani, INEC, APC in Kaduna

By Nasir Dambatta

The Court of Appeal sitting in Kaduna on Wednesday has dismissed an appeal brought against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the All Progressive Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Uba Sani by New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP).

The lawyer to the Kaduna State APC who is the former NBA Chairman in the State, Sule Shu'aibu in a statement informed that, "It is my pleasure to report once again that the appeal No. CA/K/293/2022 by NNPP Vs. INEC & APC before the Court of Appeal kaduna Division seeking to disqualify our Gubernatorial Candidate and all 34 Candidates for the State House of Assembly in the forthcoming General Elections has just been dismissed.

"Details in course of time.
While congratulating all of us, I wish to place on record our gratitude to you all for your continued prayers and support to the Legal Team".

It would be recalled that following the judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna who ruled that the case filed by the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and its Governorship candidate, Sen Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for listing Sen Uba Sani as Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and 34 candidates for state Kaduna State constituencies is status bar, the party and it’s gubernatorial candidate had challenged the ruling at the Court of Appeal.

NNPP and its Governorship candidate averred in their suit that the APC as a party did not conduct a valid ward congresses that produced delegates that participated in the primaries that produced the gubernatorial candidate and State House of Assembly candidates and should not have been listed as such for the 2023 general elections.


END.

Tambuwal and his Tantrums

By Sharafadeen Muhammad

There is an urgent need for the handlers of the Governor of Sokoto State, to check his psychological fitness, as he appears to exhibit a confused state of mind in his recent comments and actions.

Just last week, Tambuwal heaped all the blames for his poor performance as governor on the opposition All Progressives Congress, (APC,) and threatened to deal with its members who he alleged are threatening the peace he worked for.

Few days later,he has again accused the opposition party of unsubstantiated plans to rig elections through the purchase of voters cards.

From all indications, these utterances, portray the governor as someone seriously disturbed mentally, and may be in need of urgent medical attention
While leading the campaign train of his "imagined successor" in Binji and Tangaza local governments of Sokoto state, Tambuwal, again launched attacks on the opposition for planning to purchase voters cards as part of their rigging formula in the upcoming elections in the state.

The Governor, may probably be reminding us of the electoral heist that he committed in 2019, which gave him "victory", with the meanest of all margins ever in any gubernatorial election in this country ( 342) which is still a mystery to many political analysts. What those who took part in that 2019 gubernatorial rigging failed to tell him is that, he is running a government on "stolen mandate" and that is why his second term in office has turned out to be his worst political years.

In that charade called re.run election, Tambuwal spent all available resources at his disposal and compromised election officials, security agents and later the courts to retain power in order to be able to pursue his selfish ambition of becoming Nigeria's president. There was massive vote buying and rigging in Kebbe, Illela and his own town Tambuwal, yet was only able to come out with a difference of 342 votes.

Though, the Courts pronounced him winner, but, that election has remained as the worst rigged election ever in the history of Sokoto and Nigeria.

Still being hunted by his sordid electoral malfeasance, and rather than campaign on his records as a two-term governor, Tambuwal spent the better part of the time in Binji town making wild allegations against imaginary foes, claiming that the spate of insecurity was brought by them whereas he is still the chief security officer in whose hands the power to safeguard lives and property lies but because he has failed in that regard, he now looks for scapegoats.
The Governor, appears to forget that, as chief security officer of his state, he owes the people explanation on what he has done with the security votes, which he collects every month.

In fact, Tambuwal appears to be hunted by the fear of an impending defeat for his party that was why he spent the greater part of the campaign time in Binji and Tangaza blaming the opposition for his failure. In both Binji and Tangaza, he failed to show evidences of what he has achieved for the people, as to warrant them voting for his party in the elections.
However, in a rather bizarre twist, the Governor, completely disconnected from the mission of his visit, chose to regale his audience with the story of Uthman Danfodiyyo and his legacies as an Islamic reformer of international repute
This left the audience wondering what must have happened to their governor for such distraction and disjointed thoughts.

The PDP Governorship candidate, Malam Saidu Umar(Mallam Ubandoman Sokoto), also affected by the bug of his Principal's state of mental imbalance, simply promised to build on the legacies of his boss, without naming any. If one may ask, what are the legacies Tambuwal would be leaving behind after May 29 this year?

These, certainly, are not the best of times for Tambuwal, and his team, who, obviously need all the impossible magic to stave off the looming election defeat starring them in the face.

Just as he wasted public resources for seven years in order to become president and never did, his recent outbursts at campaign rallies would also remain as illusions because the people of Sokoto state have already decided on who to give their votes to come March 2023 and that would be when the ghost of the 342 charade would hunt him till eternity.

The APC which made it possible for Tambuwal to become governor in Sokoto before he betrayed those who made him what he is today, has another date with history and neither Tambuwal nor the PDP can stop that hurricane from sweeping them away.

Governor Àminu Waziri Tambuwal is a drowning man and as a drowning man, he is scrambling to lay his hands on other political victims to sink together. The Sokoto state ship like the Titanic cannot escape sinking but the only determining factor, is time.

Supply of Rice : Contractor Writes Open Letter to Zamfara Governor over Non-payment of Money

...Says His Life in Danger over Loan Collected for the Supply

The Managing Director of SOA Alkawari Nigeria Limited,Mr Samuel Olugbenga Asegun has sent an "Save Our Soul" open letter to the Governor of Zamfara State, Alhaji Bello Muhammad Matawalle urging him to order Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Local Government and Development to pay the protracted rice subsidy payment .


According to him ,the long overdue rice subsidy payment receivable from
the State Government’s Civil Servants Welfare Scheme executed in June,
2020 has put his life in danger .

His words:"Currently, the life of our Managing Director is seriously in danger as a result of constant hard pressures and foreclosure threats by our lenders simply because your Government has refused to pay us per the agreed terms. We have been treated very unfairly and made to Suffer huge losses unjustly".

"It is almost 3 years now after the completion of the said supply during
which time we have waited painfully, lobbied extensively and pushed hard
for the payment of the promised subsidy without getting our payment. "


In the open letter with title: OPEN LETTER /SOS TO ZAMFARA STATE GOVERNOR HIS EXCELLENCY BELLO MUHAMMAD MATAWALLE – Samuel Olugbenga Asegun ,he said, "Under the approval of your Excellency, in June 2020, we were awarded a
supply contract by the Directorate of Labour Matters. Irrevocable Payment
Guarantees were issued to us by Zamfara State's Head of Civil Service,
Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Local Government and Community
Development.

"The payment terms of the referenced contract provided that Zamfara State
Government will pay N5,000 per bag on behalf of all benefitting Civil
Servants while the benefitting Civil Servants would pay N14,000 per bag
via salary deduction. We were assured by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters that the agreed subsidy shall be paid to us immediately after our delivery of the rice contracted to us since, according to him, the State Government had provided funds for the payment of the
subsidy.

"Trusting on the integrity of your Government, we proceeded to take a 120-days loan from Capitalfield Financial Management Limited to enable us
execute the said rice supply."

"We therefore appeal to your Excellency to order an immediate release of
our overdue subsidy payments while we hope you will kindly redress this
injustice by your necessary action.

"It is our hope that we won’t need to seek for a legal redress to demand our due payments and the huge losses we have suffered as a result of the delay cum refusal to fulfill your Government’s contractual obligation to us.







...Read details of the full letter

OPEN LETTER /SOS TO ZAMFARA STATE GOVERNOR HIS EXCELLENCY BELLO MUHAMMAD MATAWALLE – Samuel Olugbenga Asegun



We, SOA ALKAWARI NIG LTD, hereby write this open letter to you, Sir,
the Zamfafa State Governor, His Excellency Bello Muhammad Matawalle,
pleading that you should kindly order both the Ministry of Finance and the
Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, to
immediately release our long overdue rice subsidy payment receivable from
the State Government’s Civil Servants Welfare Scheme executed in June,
2020.

Under the approval of your Excellency, in June 2020, we were awarded a
supply contract by the Directorate of Labour Matters. Irrevocable Payment
Guarantees were issued to us by Zamfara State's Head of Civil Service,
Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Local Government and Community
Development.

The payment terms of the referenced contract provided that Zamfara State
Government will pay N5,000 per bag on behalf of all benefitting Civil
Servants while the benefitting Civil Servants would pay N14,000 per bag
via salary deduction. We were assured by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters that the agreed subsidy shall be paid to us immediately after our delivery of the rice contracted to us since, according to him, the State Government had provided funds for the payment of the
subsidy.


Trusting on the integrity of your Government, we proceeded to take a 120-days loan from Capitalfield Financial Management Limited to enable us
execute the said rice supply.

Furthermore, we had decided to support your new administration in executing this Staff Welfare Scheme while risking our own lives by defying the then ravaging Covid 19 and the rampancy of banditry in and around Zamfara State.

Sir, it is almost 3 years now after the completion of the said supply during
which time we have waited painfully, lobbied extensively and pushed hard
for the payment of the promised subsidy without getting our payment.

Your Excellency, the refusal of your Government to pay the subsidy per the
term of the said contract has totally crashed the business of our small
company while our loan balance with the lenders has grown more than thrice the amount of the original loan we actually took due to accumulated monthly interest and daily default penalty. Sadly, our lenders are now in the process of foreclosure on the collateral pledged for the loan while our company promoters currently live under untold pressure and debilitating stress.

2023 Presidency: We're Using OPERATION 30:30 to Mobilize Artisans,Technicians to Vote Tinubu/Shettima - Hon.Sanusi Rikiji

The former Speaker of Zamfara State House of Assembly, Hon. Sanusi Rikiji said arrangements have been concluded to use operation 30:30 to mobilize over seven million artisans across Nigeria to vote the All Progressives Congress(APC) flag bearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate , Senator Kashim Shettima during the forthcoming coming Presidential election .

Hon . Sanusi Rikiji, who lead members of the Directorate of Artisans and Technicians to join the mammoth crowd of supporters at Wednesday rally at Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano State for the Tinubu/Shettima ticket, was overtly elated at the turn out of persons at the venue of the rally.

The group of Artisans at event carried banners and placards with inscriptions such as :"On your mandate ,we shall stand";"Vote wisely. Tinubu /shettima 2023", "Vote The nation Builder,"Vote Tinubu /Shettima for better Nigeria","The Artisans are with you Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu," and several others."


The Lady President of ASNAT (association of Nigeria artisans and Technicians) and Deputy Director of the Directorate of Artisans, North west zone- Mrs Jaiyeola Onipede Olatunji interviewed during the rally said they are convinced that Tinubu would deliver his campaign promises after seeing how he transformed Lagos and created conducive working environment for artisans and technicians during his days as Governor .

"We are also sure that artisans will have opportunities to grow their businesses and create job opportunities with the proactive manifesto put forward ahead of the election ."She added .

In a chat with some journalists after the event , Hon.Sanusi Garba Rikiji, who is the Chief of Staff to the Speaker ,House of Representatives said Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has built bridges across Nigeria,hence deserved the support of Nigerians across the six geo-political zones.

He however said , " For the first time in the history of Nigeria, artisans that constitute the highest number of members across the country are singled out and recognized by a political party and body."

While noting that Asiwaju has left no stone unturned in reaching out to those that matters at all grassroots levels, Rikiji disclosed,"We registered members about 7.5 million across Nigeria, those we have their contacts and we are doing everything humanly possible to bring them together to vote Tinubu/Shettima.

"We have not only adopted all the necessary strategies, but also have mobilized the over seven million members to vote in bulk for Asiwaju of the APC for President come February 25,2023." He emphasised.

Abuja Stands Still for Tinubu/Shettima, as TSN Inaugurates Officers

...Group optimistic of Tinubu/Shettima's emergence

By Femi Adi


Ahead of the forthcoming 2023 Presidential Elections, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja stood still for the All Progressives Congress Presidential Flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate Senator Kashim Shettima, as Group under aegis of TINUBU/SHETTIMA NETWORK (TSN) its members today inaugurated National Officers and State Coordinators


In his speech delivered by the National Chairman of Tinubu/Shettima Network, Engineer (Dr.) Kailani Muhammad during the inauguration ceremony held at Barcelona Hotel, Wuse, Abuja, the chairman disclosed that the event was a milestone in the Tinubu/Shettima ticket.
He said that the event had jumpstarted the implementation of the organization's strategies and synergies toward achieving significant paradigm shift from the clutches of political stagnation in the country to the dynamics of political re-invention in tandem with the 21st century global trend.

According to him, TSN is a rebirth of the Voters Guard and Awareness, which through the years 2003, 2007, 2011 and eventually, in 2015 and 2019 ensured success for President Muhammadu Buhari with about 12 million votes.

He further said, even though the journey was rough and tough the landscape loaded with landmines, the group was able to weather the storm and the minimal effort and inputs yielded positive results at the end of it all.

While explaining that "TSN structure presently is deeply grass rooted in all the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, Senatorial Districts, Local Government Councils and Wards across the country, Dr. Kailani Muhammad assured the gathering and Nigerians in general that the group is strategically positioned for a vibrant result – oriented outcome, more than we recorded in 2015 and 2019. Stressing,"By the special grace of God Almighty, our efforts will not be in vain.

"We shall put in every effort and ensure that all hands are on deck to register election success and ensure that Senator Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima are sworn in as President and Commander Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Vice President respectively come 2023, Insha Allah."

The National Chairman however, reminded Nigerians that the Abiola/ Tofa episode has manifested once again in the TINUBU/SHETTIMA ticket as an alternative for sustainable leadership and government .

He therefore posited that Nigeria and the citizens cannot afford to miss it this time around because, time is not on our side.

"Nigerians should understand that, the manifestation of this ticket has given us hope, such that very soon, in the near future, there is going to be a Christian –Christian ticket. Once we arrive at that stage, we can be assured that the time of religious distrust in Nigeria is gone forever and that those political jobseekers that feed on religious politics will become jobless.

"Unfortunately, it is becoming obvious that the same negative mindsets that jeopardized the Abiola Tofa election are out again, with clandestine purposes and waving religious sentiment jargons in our faces, with devious intent to dissuade and discourage us from acknowledging the positive aspects that come with the TINUBU/SHETTIMA ticket."


Speaking on leadership qualities , he described Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s aspiration as appealing and a well grounded to leader ,who has built a network of friends across the country, with a name recognition and his antecedents as politician is synonymous with success.

He equally averred that" Over time Tinubu has supported men and women to stardom and knows very well how to identify talents, people that are result-driven who can work with him and achieve his policies for the good of the nation.

"Asiwaju Tinubu has the capacity to lead the country. His manifesto is a bumper package, rich in deliverables; with short term, medium term and long-term plans,thus he urged electorate to vote Tinubu/Shettima of the APC to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari who has done well.

ALL FORMER GOVERNORS OF ZAMFARA RALLY BEHIND MATAWALLE FOR 2ND TERM


The campaign train of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2023 Gubernatorial election in Zamfara kickstarted today in Kaura Namoda LGA of the state with all former governors of the state in attendance.

The Campaign Chaired by the former Governor of Zamfara State His Excellency Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar has in attendace former Governor Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura, former Governor Mamuda Aliyu Shinkafi and all former Deputy Governors.

Zamfara is the only state in Nigeria with all former Governors and Deputy Governors in the same party.

The campaign train in Zamfara State will move around the three (3) senatorial districts of the state first before going across all Local Government Areas of the stats.
It can be recalled that, the state Governor is also the Coordinator of the Northwest for Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign.

Dr. Bello Matawalle was commended by the APC PCC for championing the unification of the party members across the northwest.

2023 WILL BE A TURNING POINT, UBA SANI SAYS IN CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

By Femi Adi

Senator Uba Sani, Kaduna Central Senatorial District and All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in the State has expressed hope in a Christmas message that 2023 will be a turning point for Kaduna State and Nigeria.

He urged all Christians across the country, and all Nigerians to use the solemn occasion of the Christmas to reflect on the life of Jesus and emulate his virtues.

"In his earthly ministry, he stood against injustice, oppression, trampling on the weak and poor, and all vices that make life unbearable. He preached forgiveness and love.

"He was for a society where no man or woman will feel oppressed. If we imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ, peace will return to our troubled communities and development would pick up once more," the Senator said.
Saluting Nigerians for their resilience, perseverance and patience, Uba Sani noted that the last one year has been very challenging.

He said strenuous efforts are being made by Federal and sub-national authorities to address key challenges around the economy and security.
"With the support of the people, we shall definitely turn the corner in 2023 and put our country once more on the path of sustainable growth and development.

He implored every Nigerian to play parts to make 2023 election year a watershed in the annals of elections in Nigeria.
"We must resist forces that are bent on scuttling the elections and reversing our democratic gains. The democratic way is the right way. Any other way will lead us to a crisis," he warned.

Disclosing that he has ramped up his campaigns for the governorship of Kaduna State, and that the prospects were looking very bright, the Senator sought public support and encouragement to get to the finishing line.
"We are committed to moving Kaduna State to higher heights. In the spirit of Christmas, I will visit many Christian homes to rejoice with them. I will also, with my field officers, visit the poor and orphans to share the joy of this memorable occasion. We must all endeavour to use this occasion to put smiles on the faces of the poor, orphans, the underserved and the unreached," pledged.
Wishing a Merry Christmas to all Christian brothers and sisters, the Senator prayed the Christmas Season brings joy and peace to all families.
"I rejoice with you on this memorable occasion that is set aside to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ who lived an exemplary life and bequeathed to mankind a legacy of justice, love, forgiveness, peace, compassion and care for the downtrodden."

ATTACK ON EXPATRIATES : POLICE NEUTRALIZES 11 BANDITS TERRORIST, RECOVERS TWO (2) AK 47 RIFLES, CUTLASSES, REPELS ANOTHER ATTACK ALONG TSAFE - KUCHERI AXIS

DISCREET INVESTIGATION COMMENCES

As Manhunt of the fleeing terrorists intensifies

On 21st December, 2022, about Eleven (11) Bandits terrorist were neutralized, others fled with possible gunshot wounds and two(2) AK 47 Rifles, cutlasses belonging to the terrorists were recovered by the Police Tactical Operatives who responded to distress call regarding the ambush by large number of Bandits on the Hillux Vehicle conveying two (2) Chinese Nationale and their Police escort, while on their way to Ruga Project Assessment in Maradun Local Government of the state.

As a result of the unfortunate ambush, the victims sustained various degree of gunshot wounds and were rushed to Federal Medical Center, Gusau for treatment. One of the victims named FAN YU, Male, a Chinese Nationale was later confirmed dead by the Doctor, while others are responding to treatment.

The Command has deployed additional Operatives to the area to complement the ongoing operations by the joint operatives to restore normalcy and apprehend the fleeing assailants.

On a related development, on the same 21st December, 2022, Police Tactical Operatives deployed along Gusau - Tsafe - Yankara road received a distress call about Bandits Plan to block highway and kidnap innocent commuters near Kucheri village. The operatives swung into action and mobilised to the location where a serious gun battle between the Police and the terrorists ensued. Luckily enough, the attack was repelled while the terrorists fled back to the forest with possible gunshot injuries. Confidence building patrol is being intensified to avert regrouping of the bandits back to the highway.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Kolo Yusuf psc, appeals for continuous support and collaboration by giving timely and credible information on activities of bandits and other criminal elements terrorizing the good people of Zamfara state.

SP Mohammed Shehu, Anipr,
PPRO,
For: Commissioner of Police,
Zamfara state Command
Gusau.

*Gombe 2023 governorship race and shocking the insecurity*

*By Adamu Isa Gombe*

One would have overlooked the brazen act of thugs setting the Campaign office of the PDP governorship candidate ablaze but for the silence of the State governor Inuwa Yahaya, who is constitutionally its Chief Security Officer.

Public opinion has been oscillating between how dangerous the thuggery was, and questions about who or what emboldened the thugs to go that far.

One is particularly worried that long after that shameful arson in Gombe, neither the State government nor the All Progressives Congress(APC) leadership had come out to openly condemn the act or direct security agents to fish out the perpetrators and their sponsors.

Some observers of today's politics in Gombe State expressed shock, even outrage at the way and manner the government in the State seemed to have looked the other way, in the face of this brazen act of political violence and assault on the campaign structure of an opposition party. No such example of intolerance could be found in any of the 18 Northern States where opposition politicians have been doing normal campaigns, while the ruling party in those States issued stern warning to their supporters to let opposition be. That is quite exemplary, when placed against the latest Gombe brigandage. Emboldened by influential politicians in this broad daylight assault, the financiers had no scruples about hiring the most criminally-minded, unemployable pawns to destabilize the opposition. For this to have happened in the 21st century, means there are political forces who would stop at nothing to reach their political goal of destabilizing one of the most peaceful States in the North today. Some would argue, that political thuggery is not new to Gombe but setting campaign buildings ablaze is definitely a new low for the State.

The widely-publicised newspaper report of a civil society group calling on the Inspector-General of Police ( IGP) and the National Security Adviser (NSA) is not only timely but calls to question the competence of the Chief Security Officer of the State. On the other hand, it was actually a subtle indictment of the state government, which should have done the needful promptly enough.

Significantly, the Gombe State Government could be said to have shirked in its responsibility for failing to even make official condemnation of the arson on the PDP Campaign Office. It is not yet clear if, after failing to do so, it has made any public declaration of intent to go after both the thugs and their sponsors. This atmosphere of uannceptable silence on the part of the State Government has given the room of suspicion about whether the leadership of the State was 'too cool' to care about the assault or merely grossly incompetent.

For now, the action of the Inspector-General of Police and the National Security Adviser should save the people of Gombe from a repeat of this primitive assault on democracy and freedom of political participation, as we brace for another civilian-to-civilan transition for 2023.

It is also strange that some vocal civil rights activists are yet to openly react to this, as if millions of naira worth of assets had not been lost. Assuming some people were caught in the inferno, would they have remained silent as well? That would have been outrightly insensitive. And who is behind the current blackout of public outrage and media coverage of this brazen assault? Anyway, this is a topic for another day.

Meanwhile, it could only be hoped that the General Abdussalami Abubakar-led Peace Committee will also intercede by calling out the Gombe State Government. This should save the North from the negative image that the Gombe incident is gradually creating for the region. May we, in North, never experience the cowardly and shameful experience that befell the Gombe State governorship candidates Campaign Office, for which the savages are yet to be fished out and punished, at least for deterrence.

Isa wrote from Gombe State, Northern Nigeria

ZAMFARA STATE GOVERNOR HOSTS 37th ANNUAL QUR'ANIC RECITATION COMPETITION

The 37th annual Quranic recitation competition organised by Center for Islamic Studies of the Usman Dan Fodio University has been declared open by the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zullum.

Governor Zullum, who served as the Chairman of the occasion, described the efforts of Zamfara State Governor in hosting this year's competition in spite of biting economic reality, as a very commendable one.

He extolled the good virtues of the Governor whom he said deserved the title he bears, "Khadimul Quran". "The sheer drive towards enduring efforts done to promote the Quran among the youth is an indication that the state Governor's committment to the Government and people of Zamfara State to the wellbeing of the society is not in doubt".

Governor Zullum believes that the meriad of challenges facing the Country today can be eased if we embrace the power of the Quran. He then, donated the sum of N10 million for the successful conduct of the one week long event.

In his remark as the Chief Host of the event, Governor Bello Mohammed outlined the importance of the competition which he said include the translation of the words of Allah into practice.

He said that the importance of the Quran in our lives and the guidance it serves are the major take-aways we should expect from the conduct of the event and thereafter.

He commended the Local Organising Committee for a well organised event. He also called on participants not to see the competition as an affront to one another but as a service to humanity.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committeee, the Deputy Governor of Zamfara state, Senator Hassan Mohammed Gusau said the competition is made possible with the total support from the state Governor, Dr Bello Mohemmed.

He commended the co-operation of the people of the state and the hard-work of his team to realise a hitch-free event. He assured of a free and fair event and a memorable one.

The Vice Chancellor of Usman Dan Fodio University, Professor Bilbis commended the Government of Zamfara state for hosting this year's competition which he said is an indication of the readiness of the state to continue uplifting the status of the book of Allah.

He called on competitors to consider their participation as a contribution to the promotion of the virtue of the Quran.

In a short remark, royal father of the day, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi described the annual compettion as a unifying factor among Nigerian Muslims. He called on Muslims, beyond recitation, to apply the teachings of the Quran in their daily lives.

The Guest Speaker, Sheikh Ibrahim Ahmad Makari extols Governor Bello Mohammed, describing him as a Governor who came to power in the state at a very difficult time.

He spoke on the need to protect the centers of Quranic studies across the Islamic communities in the Country. He advocated for compulsory contribution to an endowment for the upkeep of such Islamic centers and also for the vulnerable by all State Governors.

Professor Maqari also advocated for certification and the drawing and adoption of a modern curricular for the informal and semi-formal Quranic centers spread across the Islamic Communities in the Country.

2023 Elections: Deregistered Political Parties Express Worry Over Threats to Create Disharmony

...Call on Relevant Authority to Contain Trend


Worried by the unguarded statements overheating the polity ahead of the 2023 general elections , the Amalgamation of Deregistered Political Parties of Nigeria(ADPPN) has expressed disappointment over some unpatriotic Nigerians, who have constantly made some unguided utterances, threat and impunity, which creates disharmony and doubt in the polity.

The deregistered Political Parties also reject and condemn the inordinate ambition of anyone or any group with self-serving interest, towards the general elections.

Addressing journalists during a Press Conference held at its Kaduna Secretariat, the Secretary of the group of deregistered political parties, Amb. Matoh Yakubu therefore called on the relevant authorities to checkmate the rising trend of the impropriety.

According to the group, the electorate should be allowed to freely choose there preferred candidates in a conducive environment.

Speaking further ,he explained " Our desire is to see our dear country Nigeria, come 2023 and beyond being led by a visionary, disciplined, broadminded and totally Committed Nigerian who has the capacity and determination to take the Country to the next political dispensation."

"ADPPN is to critically analyze the performance of Government
periodically at all levels through seminars and workshops. It engages
political office holders and those aspiring to be in elective offices in
intellectual discuss and healthy debates, so as to let the general public know their representatives in government and what they have in stock
for the people.

"The basic objective of the ADPPN amongst others is: to promote and entrench democratic ideals, promote and sustain the gains of democracy in
Nigeria, to partner with other relevant democratic Institutions in order to
deliver dividend of democracy to Nigerians and ensure the success of any
candidate with People oriented manifestos and policy that is for the
benefit of all Nigerians.

"To sensitize and encourage members of the public to fulfil their Civic
responsibilities, such as paying Taxes, participating in the electoral
process, to be law abiding and assisting the law enforcement agencies in
fighting crime and criminality.

"We pledged our unalloyed support to INEC, the Nigeria Police, Kaduna
State peace commission and all other relevant security Agencies so that
they can remain independent in other to carry out their duties diligently,
responsibly, with the fear of God and without fear or favour to conduct
an election that the results will reflect the collective will of the people.

"Therefore, we as chairmen of deregistered political parties, wish to
reiterate Our competence, capacity and credibility to create a people
driven political platforms, to deepen democracy, promote social justice
and mobilize the masses for political participation and to ensure best
practices, for a free fair and credible electoral process, capable of
electing good leaders.

"This we intend to achieve through our massive followership and structural formations across the length and breath of the entire state whose yearnings has been for us to lead them in the
direction to go come 2023".

*Wamakko hits Emefiele, says Naira redesign, withdrawal limit thoughtless*

Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko of Sokoto State has joined Nigerians in criticizing the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), Godwin Emefiele over the redesign of the Naira notes and the new controversial cash withdrawal limit set by the CBN.

Wamakko, a former Governor of Sokoto state described the twin policies as unnecessarily diversionary, controversial, unthoughtful, and designed to plunge Northerners into deeper misery.

Noting that the policies were the sole creation of the Central Bank Governor, Senator Wamakko warned that Emefiele would be called to account in the fullness of time for all the sufferings resulting from his inconsiderate monetary policies.

"We note with concern the imminent hardship on innocent Nigerians that would arise from the Central Bank of Nigeria's imposition of harsh policies on cash withdrawal limit, noting especially, that the livelihood of many individuals particularly in the North and their enterprises would be impacted," Wamakko said.

He regretted that this is another not-well-thought-out among several other policies initiated by Emefiele and the CBN that have plunged the country and especially Northern Nigeria into economic crisis involving high inflation, poor exchange rate, and dwindling foreign reserve.

"It is equally absurd that the CBN Governor would so insist on the enforcement of this policy despite an order of the National Assembly to the contrary, in addition to mounting anger in the land," he said.
The Senator also noted that the timing of the policy without adequate preparation and sensitization of the critical drivers of the economy, (the SMEs and MSMEs) could prove counter-productive and further drive many below the poverty line.

"We are bothered too that the banking infrastructure and mobile/digital facility to drive the cashless policy in Nigeria and in the North in particular, are not sufficiently developed," Wamakko said.
He noted specifically that the policy introduced by the CBN is totally against Nortern Nigerian interest which has the lowest financial Inclusion rate.

This policy, he said, potentially aims to cripple the Northern entrepreneurs who are generally micro and medium industry investors that normally transact and deal with cash payments looking at unavailability of banks in their localities.

"Inadequate banking system, presence, and acceptance in the North compared to number of banks in southern Nigeria and the large population of the North living in the rural areas with few microfinance banks, this policy will make it difficult for them.

"Non-functioning internet connectivity in many communities across the North," he said.

Gbagyi Carnival ,kavulu'nya holds January 7,2023 ...As CEO Gives Reasons for Organizing Event



Nathaniel Alkali popularly known as Nath Kali is the Chief Executive Officer of a Kaduna based Cultural organization, Gbagyiza Breed Carnival . In this interview with our Correspondent , he explain reasons he decided to organize a Peace and Unity Concert holding January 7, 2023 to promote Gbagyi cultural heritage and Language.

Excerpts:

Can you give us background information about your organization ?

The organization was established basically to preach peace and unity, which is gradually becoming elusive amongst our Gbagyi people . We are also using the Gbagyi Carnival to raise awareness about the cultural diversity of the Gbagyi tribe and bring the Gbagyi people together to understand the language better. We realized that the upcoming generation now are left behind when it comes to speaking the language. This amongst many reasons is why we decided to come up with an event of this nature to galvanize our people, especially the youths. It is our desire, that the event will serve as a repository for growth and development of Gbagyi cultural heritage .

These are the major reasons for organizing the cultural show titled: (Akavuluyha) with hope that Gbagyi people from all over the country will come together to showcase our traditional heritage. It will equally help the Gbagyi people get together to know one another other and understand cultural values .

The show consists of visual representation; speeches, dramas, dance, short plays and presentation of Awards.This festival can be a great opportunity to enhance talents as well.


Where are the Gbagyi People domiciled in Kaduna State?

We are mainly based in Chikun local government area of Kaduna State .

What is your expected figure of invited guests at the event ?

We are expecting nothing less than two thousand guests to grace the event.We have gone round to most of the village heads and title holders to inform them about the event and what we intend to achieve with it.

Who are your target Audience?

Our target is to bring the old and young Gbagyi people together under one umbrella, because if you're talking about culture ,the young generation needs to learn from the old ones ,hence our resolve to invite our fathers , traditional leaders and custodians of our culture. For instance, I don't know how to speak the language very well and I believe there are several youths with same problem. And the possible avenue to engender passion and interest in our youth for speaking the language . For me , creating a platform for social interaction with the older ones is the best possible way to understand and speak the language fluently .

Is this your first edition of the event ?

No, we have done it before something in 2018 .

Why didn't you organize the event in the subsequent years ?

The first time I did ,the turn out was low and I had some issues with some persons, who saw me as too young to organize event of this magnitude .But even at that, we had close to two hundred persons that attended the maiden edition .It was fun and people liked it . Thereafter, there has been pressure from people on me to continue , despite initial challenges .This is why I have relaunched my passion to continue regardless of any challenge. But this time , I had to visit the Sir Gbagyi to inform him officially and sought his blessings . During the visit I explained the mission and goal behind the event and he agreed that we should go ahead .As I speak ,His Royal Highness has agreed to be Patron of the organization .


Do you have a team or is a one man show?

No .I have a solid team with six members working with me on the project and event.

How do you intend to sustain the event, considering issues of harsh economy and other basic challenges that usually frustrate good intentions such as this?

We have established a structure for the event to hold annually, every December without any hitch. There are plans to put in place a board , a secretariat and group sponsors to make the event an annual feature every December .


How do you source funds to pay your bills ?

We have written letters to potential sponsors and we are reaching to them to ensure we get the required funds to organize the historical, cultural and epoch making event. We are optimistic that it will be a good outing , because we have put serious efforts to plan it. After the event , we are going to work on a document on the appraisal and future strategies to adopt for Sustaining it .We also planned to visit the Internally Displaced Persons Camps within Chikun local government area to show them love and listen to their needs and see areas we can mobilise support .

Any plan to Collaborate with the local or state government in future , especially in the areas of security and funding ?

Definitely, we love to do that because the main reason for the event is promote peace and unity .I strongly believe that Peace is a veritable panacea for development . We are looking forward to scale up our reach to extend our tentacles even to the international communities in the nearest future . We want the world to know that the Gbagyi people are peaceful, receptive and industrious .The traits you can't take away from the Gbagyi people .

Kaduna has suffered several crises, banditry and communal clashes that created acrimony, do you have plans to create a platform for bridge building ?

We have it covertly behind our minds to use the event to also broker peace amongst persons that have suffered attacked within the communities around Chikun ; victims of banditry and communal clashes. But in doing so, there is need to trace the remote causes of these issues and address them without any sentiment, so that doing we can create the platform to unite and appease all aggrieved and affected persons .

Petroleum, Gas consumers form association to Protect Petroleum Industry Act , NNPCL


As part of effort to strengthen petroleum and gas consumption in Nigeria, consumers have birthed an umbrella body to operate under the aegis of National Association of Petroleum Products and Gas Consumers (NAPGCO).


The association said, it has become necessary for the interest of Nigerians consuming Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and gas to be protected, noting that activities in the upstream and downstream industry must be operated within the confines of laws governing the industry.


In a statement which was made available to journalists in Abuja on Thursday by the pioneer General Secretary, Dr Usman Dabo, added that Nigerian government has done its best to have enacted a Petroleum Industry Act, hence, it required all stakeholders to ensure that the industry runs full blown.


It added that the association will protect the Petroleum Industry Act from political manipulation of any administration in the interest of the growth of the oil and gas industry.


The statement further averred that the association would work with government, Industry players and mother relevant sectors to ensure protection of rights of consumers and support the reform in the oil industry that guard against fuel scarcity in Nigeria.


He disclosed that the Association will open offices in the six geopolitical zones of the country with a view to monitor and carry out their activities smoothly.


According to Dr Dabo, fuel consumption stand at 68 million litres per day, and to this much, Nigerians have right to daily fuel for the smooth operation of business activity across the country.


The statement said: "The Association wil educate and enlighten the citizenry on the rights of the consumers of petroleum products and gas.


"Will cooperate with the NNPCL and other trade unions and marketers in protecting the rights of the consumers", it noted .


The Association called for cooperation across all oil and gas sectors in a view to tackle sabotage of all forms in the oil and gas industry.

Petrol: NAPGCO Commends NNPCL Boss for Slashing Price To Tackle Brewing Scarcity


Group under aegis of National Association of Petroleum products and Gas Consumers, (NAPGCO) has commended the Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL ,Mele Kyari for adopting measures to guarantee adequate fuel supply by fixing N148 per litre as the price for lifting petrol at depots.


According to the group, for agreeing to supply outstanding stock to independent oil marketers, to end product shortage is no doubt part of the swift administrative response to tackle the brewing fuel scarcity problem across the country has helped to make fuel available at filling stations .

"We can all see that making the products available really helped to during this period did really doused tension over usual perennial panic that characterized the ember months , especially Christmas and New Year festive periods."

"We are glad to announce that Saboteurs who profit from this have not only been frustrated ,but also have been thought a bitter lesson that with a proactive leadership and right administrative approach , it is no longer business as usual." It added .

National Association of Petroleum products and Gas Consumers, which stated this in a Press Statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Mohammad Ibrahim Kazaure said, the decision to commend the NNPC boss, who in few years in office has transformed NNPC into a profit making organization, reiterated that frantic efforts to tackle the problem of scarcity head-on is reasons Nigerians will queues are already disappearing at filling stations today.

"For us , the greatest feat beyond making products available is the slashing of pump price ,which was the "magic wand" .that help to reduce long queues at filling stations as today.

"There is no doubt that the increase in the national crude oil reserves to achieve the 40,000 billion barrel target through focus and commitment; efforts to revive refineries and decision to collaborate with relevant security agencies to clamp saboteurs are enough reasons to ensure and sustain steady supply of fuel across the country .

It further stated , " We are particularly impressed that for the first time in the history of NNPC, the company declared profit,which Kyari achieved through the area of financial transparency via the audited financial statements of the NNPC LTD.

While urging the NNPCL Boss to shun those it described as "saboteurs and enemies of Nigerians" in the bid to make fuel available always , it pointed out that the decision to make public the Corporation’s Monthly Financial & Operations Reports (MFOR) in line with his Transparency Accountability and Performance Excellence(TAPE) vision placed NNPC as the only national oil company that publishes its financial and operations reports monthly globally.

It further said , Kyari's efforts to fight oil theft has yielded results as disclosed during the Senate’s joint committees on Petroleum (Upstream and Downstream) and Gas, that "within six weeks, 395 illegal refineries have been deactivated, 274 reservoirs destroyed, 1,561 metal tanks destroyed, 49 trucks seized and a 4-kilometres illegal oil connection line from Forcados Terminal into the sea – which had been in operation undetected for nine years – detected."

" As a group ,we appreciated that against all odds ,he was able to champion reforms in the upstream sector, sustaining oil output, boosting its subsidiary, implementing the National Gas Expansion project, AKK pipeline project, NLNG Train 7 FID, facilitating power projects, efficient crude oil lifting contract and ultimately instilling transparency in the corporation .

BREAKING : Court strikes out Sha'aban's Appeal against Uba Sani

By Femi Adi

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has thrown out the appeal by defeated governorship aspirant, Sani Sha'aban against the victory of Senator Uba Sani at the All Progressives Congress, APC primaries.

Striking out the appeal, the Court held that the appeal having been argued on an incomplete record of appeal is incompetent.

Sha'aban had appealed against the judgement of the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division delivered on the 4th November, 2022 which earlier struck out the suit for lack of jurisdiction.

Dissatisfied with the judgment, Sha'aban appealed to the Court of Appeal.

Barrister Sule Shuaibu who was the Counsel to APC confirmed the Abuja court's verdict in favor of Senator Uba Sani, the governorship flagbearer of the party, by all 3 Justices of the Court of Appeal on Wednesday at Abuja.

Bursted! Mahdi Shehu in Alleged Multimillion Anti-Izala Campaign


By Umar Danlami

Fresh facts have emerged that a Kaduna-based activist, Dr. Mahdi Shehu has been commissioned by "powerful political forces" to allegedly pull down the Izala Muslim Sect Movement, a public commentator Musa Ali Kano has said

Making the revelation while answering questions from newsmen, Ali noted that the Mahdi Shehu "sustained media attack on Sheihks Kabiru Gombe and Bala Lau were part of a grand campaign of calumny designed to drag down the topmost officials of the Izala Sect, ahead of the 2023 Presidential and other elections".

He explained that the "initial plan was to pull down the entire Izala movement, not until the schemers discovered that pulling down the two pillars of the organization would suffice".

He went on to say that the plot was designed by seven people, each of which would be taking on "special assignment, spread across mainstream media, social media, radio and television and civil society groups".

"Radio, social media and Television, being the most effective means of propaganda and mind-control will be dominated by the interviews of Mahdi Shehu and his partners in the drag-down-Izala project for approximately three consecutive months beginning from December and depending on the approved budget", the commentator further stated.

He also alleged that "a certain 2023 presidential flagbearer is discretely funding Arewa Rescue Movement, led by Dr. Mahdi Shehu" saying " it's all a tactical fight against anyone opposed to his 2023 presidential ambition".

Energy Expert Wants Govt Agencies to Collaborate to Tackle Oil Theft
...Lauds Navy for Exonerating NNPCL


An Energy Expert ,Dr. Muhammad Kailani has called on government agencies to Collaborate and work in harmony agencies to work in harmony to tackle the problem of oil theft and avoid creating unnecessary and and confusion in running government affairs.

Dr . Kailani who , commended the Nigerian Navy for putting the record straight which inter alia exonerated the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) from blame.

According to him, the Nigerian Navy taking a decisive step to clear the air of the much publicized oil theft saga and subsequently exonerating NNPCL of involvement as well as blame is not only worthy of commendation ,but a great feat.

Speaking during a Press briefing held at 20C, Blantyre Street, Abuja, Dr. Muhammad Kailani, who made this know emphasised the need for agencies to avoid unnecessary friction ,noting,"when government collaborate to fight or work for a common course the results are undoubtedly reflected in the progress and development of our country .


Dr. Kailani, a Chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Chairman of Network for Election Education And Awareness, stressed ,"That's why Government Agencies must come together and work in harmony".

He however said, in view of the on going campaign of calumny by some unpatriotic elements against the National oil company he explained, " It has become necessary to explain the position of things, particularly with regard to the effort being provided by the NNPCL in addressing the challenges of insecurity and oil theft, which has become a serious area of concern to the government and people of this country."

While stating that the Navy/NNPCL working relationship has remained cordial as attested by the Naval Headquarters, he revealed that for a long period of time the Nigerian Navy have had good working relationship with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and the Director, Information of the Naval Headquarters, Commodore A.O Ayo Vaughan has cleared the air and confirmed.

Speaking on the press release issued, by the Naval Commander, Dr. Kailani said the news report was popurtedly sponsored to malign the NNPCL as presenting incorrect figures about oil theft was not true.

He further said , "The Navy and the NNPCL have cordial relationships and are working in harmony to ensure the protection of oil facilities across the country.

"The monitoring system,which has been operational in the past has been reintroduced to further protect the oil facilities and monitor the process using the latest technology.

"That's why the report was disregarded by the Nigerian Navy Headquarters as untrue, false and malicious and a misrepresentation of facts on what transpires at the public hearing of the Senate.

"A National Daily which reportedly said NNPCL has been presenting figures about oil theft that do not reflect the reality of the situation should be disregarded, the Naval officer was quoted to have said as he was quick to exonerate the NNPCL over the false allegations.

"What was reported was just an attempt to malign a very credible organisation that has been working to stabilize fuel supply and ensure the protection of national facilities in collaboration with the security agencies in the country

2023: Mass defection hits PDP as over 2000 members decamp to APC in Maiburji Ward Kaduna North.


By Comrade Musa Mohammed


No fewer than Two Thousand four hundred members of the People Democratic party (PDP) in Maiburji Ward in kaduna north local government area of Kaduna State, on Sunday defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the forthcoming 2023 general election.

The defectors were led by Hon. Abba Usmanl Dankoli Councillor Maiburji Ward.


The defection of the PDP members into APC was consequent upon what they described as the unending deceit and deception within the party which they said, has not only continued to cause more harm to their personal development as politicians than good but also dangerous for the entrenchment of internal democracy within a political party.

Receiving the defectors into the APC fold, the Administrator, Kaduna Capital Territory, KCTA, Muhammad Hafiz Bayero who represent Senator Uba Sani governatorial candidate, the Senatorial candidate Muhammad Sani Dattijo and Hon. Bello El-Rufai who is the house of representative candidate, said “I'm welcoming you and i must say you have made the right decision by joining the Progressives.”

Hafiz Bayero drummed support for the candidature of APC candidates in Kaduna North.

Earlier in his address, Alhaji Ashiru Sani the APC vice chairman in Kaduna North local government who is the Chief host, maintained that the mass decampment show that APC is progressing, and party was like a moving train whose time has come.

He added that the momentum which is consistently gathering in favour of APC and it's candidates within the political landscape must be sustained.

Hon. Sani Rabiu Bako who is among the special guest, said on his speech that the momentum was evident in the defection of over two thousand card carrying PDP members in the state into the APC with the primary aim of lending their support All Progressive Congress (APC) ahead of 2023.

Also, Receiving the new members, the executive chairman of Kaduna North local government area,Hon. Mukhtar Baloni said it’s a thing of pleasure to welcome the defectors to the kaduna APC.

“I am very happy not because I am welcoming you back into the party but because there is no society that is good without good leaders and people of good intentions.

“This is the time for us to have the right leadership"

Earlier in his remark, Hon. Awwalu Bakori campaign Director General for Hon. Bello El-Rufai, described the defection as a step in the right direction.

He said: “They have realised it is time to take the right decision and join the winning team. Thank you for finding it necessary to return to the progressive family and be part of the process of developing kaduna state.

The APC state secretary in Kaduna, Hon. Yahaya Baba Pate the defectors have taken the right decision.
"Because this is your party and the right party that has contributed in no small measure to the development of the state".

The leader of the PDP defectors, Hon. Abba Usman Dankoli said: “We are from PDP and we decided to join APC because PDP has failed us because they care only about themselves and not the citizens.”

2023: Again, hundreds get Uba Sani scholarship as Tiv community endorse him

The Kaduna 2023 APC governorship flagbearer, Senator Uba Sani has stormed Kaduna for the third time in one month to dole out scholarship for 270 indigent students, studying in four different institutions of the State.

"I had the privilege and honour of handing over scholarship grants to hundreds of indigent yet brilliant students in the following tertiary institutions; Kaduna State University (KASU), College of Education, Kafanchan, Federal College of Education (FCE) Zaria and Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria", an elated Senator Uba Sani revealed on his social media handles Saturday.

He also revealed that he went a notch further to explore funding avenues for students who were confronted by current financial difficulties associated with school fees.

"I facilitated the financial intervention to create opportunity for the teeming students of Kaduna State who cannot afford to pay their school fees."

The APC governorship flagbearer who reiterated the importance of education at the scholarship grant award event described it as "the only thing we can give the children of the underprivileged to compete with that of the rich." He also described education as "the greatest leveler."

Meanwhile, the Tiv Community in Kaduna has endorse him.as candidate for Kaduna State governorship on the platform of the APC, saying his milestones as lawmaker and a philanthropist stands him out as the best among equals. The Tiv community also said they foresee a greater Kaduna in 2023 with Senator Uba Sani on the saddle as its Executive Governor.

The lawmaker then said: "The gale of endorsements for my governorship bid continued today as the Tiv Community, Mdzough U Tiv (MUT), Kaduna State Chapter became the latest socio-cultural organization to key into our 2023 project. They also pledged to mobilize extensively to ensure it comes to fruition.

"I sincerely thank the Tiv Community in Kaduna State for finding me worthy of this recognition. The TIVs are hardworking and resourceful. The way they usually showcase their culture and tradition is a source of joy and inspiration to me and numerous Nigerians. I assured them that I will run an inclusive and people-centred government where every citizen irrespective of ethnic and religious affiliation is given equal rights and carried along in the developmental journey of our dear state."

The Tiv community's endorsement came not long after Igbo community, Lagos Citizens in Kaduna, Arewa Traders, Muslim and Christian religious adherents, lawyers as well as women groups and student unions took turns to throw their weight behind his governorship bid.

MATAWALLE RECEIVES NORTHERN ELDER HAMISU GAMBO (DANLAWAN KATSINA) TO APC AHEAD OF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS


The APC is set to win at the upcoming Presidential poll as efforts of the Northwest region coordinator is bringing in more Northern elders to the party fold.

The latest decampee recieved by Governor Matawalle was Alh. Hamisu Gambo Danlawan Katsina, an elderstatesman, a paliamentarian and kinsman of Late Preseident Umaru Musa Yar'adua.

Reports from Kaduna also indicated that massive support for Asiwaju is pouring from the Northwest through the region's coodinator His Excellency Hon. Bello Muhammad Matawallen Maradun.

In one the strategic moves of Matawalle, he relocated to Kaduna city, the centre of Northern Nigeria where he established various offices to galvanize support from Northern elders and various political and religious groups towards the election of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023.

Killing of Labour Party Women Leader Cruel , Unhealthy for Politics -Hassan Samdi

The Director of Inter-Party Affairs of the People Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council ,Kaduna State ,Hon. Hassan Samdi has condemned the killing of Labour Party Women in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Victoria Chintex by gunmen who invaded her residence in Kaura.

Hon.Samdi who described the incident that occurred on Monday, when the gunmen invaded her residence as Cruel said it unfortunate and unhealthy for politics

In a statement personally signed ,Hassan Samdi urged the security agencies to comb the entire Southern Kaduna area and fish the perpetrators of the dastardly act .

Though we are members of the main opposition party PDP , we consider the life of any citizen of the State and Nigeria as important , thus part of our reasons for joining all members of Kaura Local Government area of the State to comiserate with the family of the deceased and Labour Party members .

"The pain and loss of a critical party stakeholder and grassroots politician , especially a female is better imagined."He Stated .

It is necessary for security agencies , especially the Police and Department of State Security (DSS) to remain vigilant and embark on intelligence gathering during the electioneering periods and beyond.

MUSLIM INDIVIDUALS COUNCIL (MIC) CALLS FOR DISQUALIFICATION, ARREST OF ZAMFARA PDP ASPIRANT FOR USING RELIGION AS PROPAGANDA TOOL


A rising platform of young muslims known as Muslim Individuals Council (MIC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to as a matter of urgent importance publish the disqualification of the aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mr. Dauda Dare and order for his immediate arrest for abysmal violation of the electoral act.

Mr. Dauda Dare who recently lost appeal at Sokoto Division of the Court of Appeal has resorted to creating a platform to stir peoples anger religiously by recruiting one Abdulmalik Gajam to quote and misinterprete the meanings of the Holy Quran in political gatherings.

Muslims Individuals Council (MIC) was shocked that Mr. Dauda Dare whose election was nullified by tbe court is parading himself in a manner innimical to the peace of populace.

MIC therefore calls on INEC to end the use of religion on political platforms.


Signed:

Abidullah Bn Abdullahi
Spokesperson for MIC

PEOPLE OF KATSINA RALLY BEHIND MATAWALLE FOR TINUBU,AS 10,000 PDP YOUTHS DECAMPED TO APC IN THE STATE


The women train of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign made a stop in Katsina State where hundreds of thousands of supporter trooped out to welcome Her Excellency Sen. Remi Tinubu and H.E. Haj. Aisha Bello Matawalle, the wife of Zamfara State Governor and Northwest chairlady of the Tinubu campaign.


During the event, more than 10,000 youths decamped from PDP to the APC citing the good leadership qualities of the Northwest coordinator as the reason behind their decision.

The decampees led by Alh. Masaudu Danguruf were all present at the event.


According to eye witnesses of the event that took place in Township stadium in Katsina city, thousands of young people were seeing matching in support of tinubu with placards, posters and billboards adorned with the pictures of Governor Bello Matawalle and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

2023: Vote for Asiwaju, Dr. Kailani Urges Nigerian women

National Chairman, Tinubu-Shettima Votes Guard And Awareness, Dr. Kailani Muhammad has enjoined women to come out en masse and vote for the presidential candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate in the forthcoming presidential election in February, 2023.

Dr. Kailani who led a large contingent of women to the APC women campaign rally, that was held in Katsina, on Wednesday, said women have a lot of role to play in the forthcoming election, hence the need to mobilize and actively engage them in the election process by electing candidates of the All Progressive Congress at all levels.

The Zonal campaign, which was led by Her Excellency, Hajiya Aisha Buhari has equally attracted so many women from the North West zone as well as other stakeholders.

Dr. Kailani, who is also the National Chairman, Network for Election Education, Sensitization and Awareness said women interest would be well protected under the APC governance, with Bola Tinubu and his running mate, Kashim Shettima as tested and trusted persons that performed creditably well while they were governors of their respective states.

Dr. Kailani, said in his capacity as the National Secretary Media and Publicity, Presidential Support Committee PSC, would mobilize electorates to vote for the APC candidates as he further extolled the leadership qualities of the North West Director General of the campaign council, His Excellency Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, for steering the affairs of the APC.

He said that, Governor Matawalle has been a great pillar of the All Progressive Congress in the North West zone, adding that he has been up and doing in ensuring the success of APC in the forthcoming election, stressing that his leadership has been very robust and credible.

While addressing the women at the campaign rally, the First Lady, Her Excellency, Hajiya Aisha Buhari required them to always support APC and vote for all its candidates at all levels.

She urged the women to contribute their quota in the emergence of Asiwaju as the next president, assuring that their interests would be adequately protected.