The quest by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be recognized in the Guinness World Records over reforms initiated by him since assumption of office is a misplaced venture.

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, made this assertion in a statement in Abuja in reaction to the President’s comment in that regard while speaking in Germany recently.

Tinubu had while addressing an audience at the 10th German-Nigerian Business Forum, in Germany, said, “Nigeria voted for me for reforms and from day one of my inauguration, I started the reforms. To me, if you didn’t mention me in the Guinness Book of Records, I’d strive to find a way to insert myself because I did it without expectation.”

But Frank insisted that the only world record the President had set is to have inflicted severe economic pains and unbearable hardship on the people.

“You brandish your removal of fuel subsidy on Inauguration Day as an evidence that you ‘hit the ground running’ but you have failed to realise that that singular action has heated up average citizen with attendant pains, tears and sorrow.

“Your purported reforms have wrecked the nation’s currency with $1 now exchanging for over N1,000, up from N600 prior to your swearing-in as President. Yet you claimed to have broken a record capable of earning you a global recognition in the GWRs,” he said.

He insisted that even though the President claimed he was in Germany to woo investors, that none will be willing to invest in the country because of the negative world records he had already set as a personal.

“No investor will want to come to Nigeria when they know the President's character is questionable because investors will always do background checks before they go to anywhere.

“Such background checks would among others reveal the negative reputation of the man inviting them as a certificate forger with proven links to drugs trafficking.

“Foreign investors will definitely not go to a country with a flawed electoral process or where
the judiciary cannot be trusted to guarantee justice to protect their investments.

“So, while investors will not come to Nigeria under your government, your name, if at all, can only be written in Guinness World Records as a certificate forger in line with the ruling of a Chicago Court,” he said.

He also cited some false claims made by the President as additional reasons why his drive for investors would not yield any positive result.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, said: “He claimed that he had removed fuel subsidy, but fuel is still being subsidised by his administration even though the people now languish under the burden of astronomical increases in the pump price of fuel and other essential petroleum products.

“He claimed that he worked for Deloitte but Deloitte has since denied having his employment records.

“This is a President who often claim he is from the private sector but which genuine business has he done that qualifies him to be part of the private sector?

“He went to Saudi Arabia and India and upon return claimed he had convinced investors there to invest in Nigeria. But up till this moment no investor from Saudi or India has indicated interest to invest in Nigeria.

“If they didn’t corrupt the system, we're not supposed to look for investors. Investors are supposed to look for Nigeria with her abundant human and material resources that can attract investors.

“These obvious flaws are reasons why we are mobilising Nigerians, both locally and in diaspora, for a Tinubu must go mass protest to resist and stop all these illegalities and deception, targeted at the gradual annihilation of the people through high cost of food, medicare, goods and services, among others, in the country.”

ACO Nigeria, a solar energy company based in Nigeria, has announced its plan to provide energy solution to the Nigerian energy sector. T

his was disclosed by Mr. Ayman Azzam, the Nigeria country Manager, in an exclusive interview in Abuja.

According to him, ghe company which has been providing solar energy to millions of people around the world, said it is set to provide world standard energy solution to Nigeria.

According to him, ACO Nigeria has the exclusive partnership with Suntech Panels, one of the biggest brands in solar panels in the world and has been doing this for more than 10 years.

The company which is an expansion of ACO Egypt and ACO Sudan, is set to provide services and solution to various sectors in the country, especially to government sector, business sector as well as residential sector.

He said one of their major lines is to supply solar panels and developing the project.

The company he added has the capacity to provide solutions to engendering problems through their engineering department that can provide solution in small, medium and large scale projects.

Speaking on the dinner recently held by the company at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, the country manager revealed that the occasion was to formally announced the takeoff of the company in Nigeria and also announced their programs and activities as well.

He said the ACO Nigeria has been in existence for a long but was new in Nigeria and was now prepared and ready to operate in country. He said the company was in partnership with some Nigeria companies and also has some group of Nigerian partners as well as individuals in different business sectors.

The company he further announced was ready to work with everybody and is open for corporation.

Finally, he revealed that the company was also making partnership with JAIZ bank to provide financial solutions, according to him.

‘’As you know the initial capital for our kind of projects is high compare to other energy sectors like diesel generator and others .

The major obstacle to having our kind of energy solution is usually the initial capital. So we are making partnering with JAIZ bank to provide us with financial solutions to most of our projects.’ He said.’

The Genetically Modified (GM) Potato project ongoing in Nigeria has concluded its first-year multi-locational confined trial in three locations with the Biotech potatoes showing significant yield advantage over conventional varieties planted in the country.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Communication Officer (West and Central Africa) AATF, Alex Abutu, made available to newsnen in Kaduna on Wednesday November 22, 2023.



Preliminary results from the three locations namely Kuru and Bokkos in Plateau State and Kusuku in Taraba State show that the biotech potatoes had a uniform yield advantage of over 300 per cent when compared to the best performing variety in the country when no fungicide was applied.


The trials is under the Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership (GBPP), a five-year project, coordinated by Michigan State University, that focuses on the commercialization of late blight disease resistant potatoes in farmer-preferred varieties in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, and Nigeria.

The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and the International Centre for Potatoes are other strategic partners in the project which is implemented in Nigeria by the National Root Crop Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike.


Dr Charles Amadi, The GBPP Principal Investigator said that he was excited by the promising results which showed clearly that biotech potatoes can contribute significantly to the mitigation of devastation caused by recurrent outbreaks of late blight in the potato-growing areas of Nigeria.

He added that this will help increase yields and secure farmers’ investments and the livelihoods of stakeholders in the potato value chain.


Dr Shuaibu Kahya, the GBPP Trial Manager noted that “late blight is the most destructive of all potato diseases. It affects both potato foliage in the field and tuber in the storage which can destroy a crop, leading to a 100 percent loss. In Nigeria, Potato is grown predominantly in Jos, Plateau State, Obudu in Cross River State, and Mambila Plateau, Taraba State during the rainy season.

According to him, potato farmers in these areas suffered from late blight disease in their fields for more than 30 years. “In 2021/22, NRCRI scientists evaluated late blight resistance potato known as biotech potato (these biotech lines have 3R gene from potato wild relatives).

The modified potatoes were planted along with non-biotech potatoes as control, at the confined field trial at Kuru and Bokkos (Plateau State) and Kusuku, Mambila plateau (Taraba State).
In the first year multilocational confined field trial, 80-100 percent of the control potato (non-biotech potato died of late blight diseases.

But the biotech potato performed well, with 100 percent of the modified plants showing no late blight symptoms on the foliage.

The harvested biotech potato tubers did not show any difference in tuber size and shape compared to the non-biotech potato.

The Trial Manager listed the benefits of the GM potatoes to include a greater number of tubers than the non-biotech potato (which is responsible for the significant yield), reductions in production cost and environmental impact, as well as the potential to influence marketability.

Some of the farmers who participated in the trials were full of praise for the modified variety, saying that it out-performed their conventional varieties and called on the federal government of Nigeria to expedite action on the commercialization of the biotech potato to ensure farmers have unhindered access to its tuber seedlings.

Mrs. Rosemary Samson, the Chairlady of Kusuku Potatoes Farmers Association, Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba state said she and her fellow farmers have been planting potatoes for years but have never witnessed such high yielding and very productive varieties as the biotech potatoes.

“The past years we have been farming potato on this land, I have farmed potato for more than 20 years, the problem in the land is poor yield and insect destruction and rustiness of the potato. This variety is completely different from our past experience. This one yields very good and rustiness is not like in the past”.

Another farmer, Genesis Johnson, the Chairman of Potato farmers from Gembu said he came to witness the harvest of the Irish potato that is resistant to pest and disease, and he is very impressed with what he saw. “Previous years we have been planting Irish potato we have not witness a potato that is resistant to pest and disease. We spend so much on chemical spray to reduce diseases and insect attacks yet what we get at the end of the day is not proportional to the investment.

“With this biotech potato, we are encouraged that hope for bumper harvest is possible and that with little investment our efforts will yield good results. We are appealing to the federal government to avail us this variety of Irish potato, it will give us more income and more food on our table.”

According to Johnson, “this new variety can be planted twice, first because it is early maturing, so with the duration of rainfall we can cultivate twice, first cropping and second cropping because out of the cultivars they have brought most of them are disease resistant compared to the ones we have been using which is affected by late blight and rotting.

“If the government will provide us with this resistant variety we will be happy and go into production on larger scale. I have been farming Irish potatoes for more than 30 years but have never seen anything like this. It is one of the foods we eat, it provides us with income in a short period of 60 – 90 days. It is marketable compared to the rest,” Johnson added.

The Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership project is implemented in 4 countries – Kenya, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Nigeria.

It is coordinated by Michigan State University, and involves various partners including the National Root Crop Research Institute, Umudike, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and International Potato Center (CIP).


Founded in 2003 to address Africa’s food security prospects through agricultural technology, AATF believes that the agricultural sector is a key foundational pillar as Africa consolidates its economic growth and carves out its new position as a major global economic powerhouse and the next growth market in the world.

It was formed in response to the need for an effective mechanism that would facilitate and support negotiation for technology access and delivery and formation of appropriate partnerships to manage the development & deployment of innovative technologies for use by smallholder farmers in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA).

Alumni of the prestigious Federal Government College (FGC) Kwali Abuja have concluded arrangements to hold a never to be witnessed before, 30th anniversary of its class of 1993 reunion.

According to the Governor of the set, Mr. Nuhu Sani, the grand event is billed for the Kapital Club in the heart of the nation's capital thus weekend.

According to him, graduands of their set from all over the world are expected to converge on Abuja from November 24, which is arrival date.




"Friday November 24, 2023 is the actual arrival date for this epoch event, where we will treat ourselves to a live barbeque and live band at Kapital Club Asokoro.

"Interestingly, some are already arriving as I speak, looking forward to reuniting with their mates 30 years after graduation," he informed.

He explained that on Saturday November 25, members of the set, would be paying a condolence visit to their late Principal, Alhaji A.B . Yawa, who died days ago and was buried recently in Abuja, at his family residence.



"To unwind and catch up with lost moments, we would later same day, have a taste of nature at Jabi Lakeside, before unwinding with dinner at Kapital Club Asokoro," he informed.

He added that, "one of the fundamental purposes of FGC Kwali Abuja Class of 1993 set réunion anniversary, is for its members to bond, network and support one another.

"It is also aimed at sustaining the spirit of ProUnitate to Nigeria, which brought us together."

The K93 Governor called on the FG to improve the standards of all Federal Government Colleges in order to restore the confidence Nigerians have in the schools.

*Pass a vote of confidence on Minister, DG Cadastre Office

*Say both positively driving tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda on diversification

*Warn enemies bent on sabotaging efforts of Tinubu's govt in the mining sector to stay clear

*Say they will resist any campaign of calumny against Cadastre Office, they vowed



After a painstaking independence assessment of developments in the nation's mining industry,30 civil society organizations have applauded the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Director General of Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, on their achievements in the mining industry.

The groups said the various sterling leadership qualities of the duo in driving President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda in the mining sector have added to giving Nigerians hope of a new beginning in the country.

The 30 incorporated non-governmental, nonpartisan organizations headed by Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI), a leading peace and good governance advocacy organization in Africa, insisted that the diversification of the nation's revenue from the oil sector to non-oil by the Tinubu's government was what Nigeria was long waiting for, thanking both Alake and Nkom for effectively driving the vision.

The group's position was conveyed in a joint statement on Tuesday, signed by Amb. Melvin Ejeh, Executive Director, GOPRI; Dr Ibrahim Khalifa, National Co-ordinator, Center For Justice and Good Governance in Africa; Engr. Bashir Dan Zaria, Executive Director, Conference of North West Professionals Network (CONOWP); Dr. Mrs Remi Edun, National Co-ordinator, Community Action for Development (CAD) and Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Amechi, National Women Empowerment Network. (NAWOEN), respectively.

The coalition while noting that Nigeria, blessed with abundant mineral resources, has no reason to be dependent on dwindling oil revenue, commended the Minister for turning the tide with ongoing reforms of the mining sector, in line with his 7-point agenda.

The organizations said they were particularly elated that the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office has been fully digitalized and reformed under the Current Director General, noting that with the development, it can favorably compete anywhere in the world.

To this effect, they passed a vote of confidence on the minister and the Director General of NMCO even as they alerted of a clandestine plan by some group of persons displaced by the administration for engaging in illicit Mining activities in the sector.

They, therefore, advised the government and Nigerians to be on the lookout for any campaign of calumny against the agency and its leadership.

According to the groups, the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office recorded a cumulative 86 percent increase in revenue generation, raking in N9.3 billion between 2019 and 2021 under Nkom, as compared to N4.8 billion generated in the corresponding period between 2016 and 2018...

"Given our independent assessment of developments in the mining sector of our dear country, we have passed a vote of confidence on the Hon. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Director General of Nigeria Cadastre Office, Engr Obadiah Nkom for their sterling leadership qualities in driving Mr president’s Renewed Hope agenda on the mining sector and diversification of the nation's revenue from the oil sector to non-oil.

"Our position is premised on the elaborate and independent assessment carried out in the Ministry and the Mining Cadastre Office in Abuja in continuation with our civil society engagement and accountability programs for public office holders and agencies," the statement said

Continuing, the coalition said:" We make bold to say that we were shocked with the kind of transformation and massive reforms going on in the Ministry of Solid Minerals, particularly the Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office.

"From our finding, the Nigeria Mining Cadastre has been fully digitalized and reformed under the Current DG and can compete with anywhere in the world.

"Our findings also show that the revenue profile of the agency since his assumption in 2019 at the DG has skyrocketed to an extent where it is now one of the major contributors to the nation's non-oil revenue With this feat, we must commend him."

"We are, however, alerting the government and Nigerians to be on the lookout for any campaign of calumny against the agency and its leadership.

From the kind of reforms going on in the mining Cadastre Office, some big players who specialized in illegal and fraudulent mining activities that may have been displaced by the DG’s transparent posture may want to fight back using calumny.

"We have however vowed to legally defend the agency, the DG, and all its staff until Mr President's vision of non-oil revenue sufficiency is achieved under the Renewed Hope Agenda," it vowed.

A human rights activist and presidential campaign director of the Labour Party in 2023 election, Aisha Yesufu has knocked Governor Alex Otti of Abia state over huge amount his government claimed it spent within three months on refreshments, meals, settlement of honorarium, allowances, and welfare packages.



Yesufu warned that business as usual in governance could never be the way to go.



The admonition followed the Abia State budget performance report indicating that the government spent a whopping N927 million within three months on refreshments and meals, settlement of honorarium, allowances and welfare packages for the eggheads.



The report titled “Abia State Third Quarter (July – September) 2023 Budget Performance” was posted on the state government’s website



“This Q3 and Year to date performance is assessed against the revised 2023 Budget that covers the Original Budget plus an Amendment Virement sum of N22,263,269,900 as summarised below,” it read.



In the report, Otti-led government claimed it spent N223,389,889.84 on refreshments and meals while N305,400,000.00 was spent on honorarium and sitting allowances for government officials within July and September 2023.



The government also claimed it spent N397,520,734.00 on welfare packages.



Also in the report, the government claimed N252.4m was used to run the Deputy Governor’s office for 3 months.



However, in a post on her social media platform X on Monday, Aisha Yesufu asked why the government would spend almost a billion on food and welfare in 3 months.



She wrote: “Business as usual can never be the way to go. It must be business unusual. Expenditure must be reduced to the barest minimum.



"Almost a billion on food and welfare in 3 months? @alexottiofr get organizations like @TrackaNG to help keep you on your toes and monitor your spending and what to cut down on."

*Congratulates President-Elect, Bokai, lauds Weah





Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has called on African leaders and Nigeria especially, to learn from the outcome of Liberia’s Presidential poll won by an opposition candidate, Dr. Joseph Boakai, and the action of the incumbent President, George Weah.



Frank who made the call in a statement in Abuja, also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the nation’s security agencies to learn from the experience of Liberia as they prepare for the 2027 poll.



He congratulated Liberia’s President-Elect, Boakai, on his hard won victory and equally commended President Weah for gracefully conceding defeat.



He said: “We therefore like to congratulate President-Elect Dr. Joseph Boakai and urge him to use his victory at the Polls to unite the good people of Liberia.



“He must make deliberate efforts to deliver on his campaign promises to the people of Liberia and forgive those who may have worked against him all in a bid to build a more stronger, united and prosperous Liberia for the benefit of all citizens.



“We want him to be reminded that this victory is not for him alone, but for all Africans. This has also shown that if African leaders decide to do the right thing, it can be achieved.



“We would also like to commend President George Opong Weah for his magnanimity in conceding defeat and allowing for a free, fair and credible elections as an incumbent, and to applaud him as he joins the league of distinguished leaders in Africa who have also written their names in gold, such as former President John Mahama of Ghana, former President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria who all conceeded defeat as incumbent Presidents.



“Indeed history will remember you all for the love and courage displayed in the place of compromise for the betterment of your nations.”



Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, however lamented the dwindling fortunes of Nigeria due to poor leadership and called on state institutions to work for the country rather than powerful individuals.



According to him, “The recent election in the Republic of Liberia has put to rest the argument of Nigeria being the giant of Africa as all parameters to prove its superiority have gradually diminished to a near zero level.



“The current administration in Nigeria headed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no moral justification to congratulate President George Weah of Liberia on his acceptance of defeat in the just concluded election as it is an aberration, coming from one who would do anything to grab power, including compromising and corrupting state institutions at any cost whatsoever.



“The Nigerian President ought to hide his head in shame, as he's not fit to applaud a process he vehemently detests as witnessed in the February 2023 Presidential Poll which ushered in his administration fraught with manipulations and fraud.



“It is on record that no opposition Presidential candidate in the February 2023 Poll has called to congratulate President Tinubu, because of the severity of connivance with state institutions in manipulating the process, which was too glaring to go unnoticed.



“In Nigeria, the opposition candidates do not only contest against the incumbent party, but against INEC, the security agencies and the Judiciary which are supposed to be neutral to all parties and citizens at all times.



“The security agencies, the Judiciary and the Electoral Commission, who are supposed to be neutral, end up being compromised by the ruling party and these dubious politicians and that's why no opposition candidate congratulated anyone after the polls. The effect of this wicked compromise is gradually tilting Nigeria into a one party state as envisioned by these unpatriotic politicians.



“It is a shame also that the Nigerian Judiciary and the security agencies who are supposed to be neutral have allowed themselves to be used in defrauding the electorate, whom they're supposed to protect.



“Nigeria was meant to be the giant of Africa, but today it's sad because Nigeria is now known as the giant of fraud and corruption because of bad leaders.



“We therefore, hope and pray that our security agencies and the INEC will learn from the Liberia experience and do the right thing in the 2027 polls.”

The House of Representatives has thrown out a petition by a group against the Director of the Department of Development Control of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Town Planner Muktar Galadima.



The House dismissed the petition as the petitioner failed to show up to defend the petition.



The case listed among those to be treated by the house committee on Thursday 16th November 2023. The Director and his counsel , Alkali Adamu Askira Esq were at the venue, room 429 before the 1pm slated time. Sadly , the petitioner was nowhere to be found.



The chairman of the House of Representatives committee on public petition , Honourable Mike Etaba subsequently threw out the petition





Speaking to newsmen on the matter, counsel to the director, Alkali Adamu Askira Esq says , “We filed our defense and produced ten hard copies and 1 soft copy as demanded by the committee. Precisely by 2pm the clerk called the case but to our great dismay the petitioners failed to appear nor their counsel”





Speaking further he said , “ As lawyers we are minister in the temple of justice, we shouldn't appear to be in the side of injustice no matter what. when a matter is adjourned in your present it's means you have dully served with notice of the next sitting but failure to appear without any reasons is like you abandon the petitions”



He praised the chairman and members of the committee says they are absolutely right in striking out the petitions.

He disclosed that , “ if not the committee are quasi administrative body we could have asked for five million naira cost for wasting our precious time to respond to this malicious petitions that lack merits in all it's ramifications”



He thank the committee’s chairman and members for not allowing their “noble office to be used as a platform of dragging good name of public servants down to the mud”



For his part the Director of development control department , Town Planner Muktar Galadima says with this petition thrown out he can now focus on his job with no distraction

In his words “ Abuja is growing too fast and the challenges of ensuring proper development is very heavy. Petitions like this are very distracting. The time one would spend in vetting and approving building plans should not be spent in reading and responding to frivolous petitions such as this one”

“I can now spend me time with me team and colleagues in the department to monitor building construction, correct contraventions and remove illegalities where the need arises”



He praised the lawmakers for the decision while calling on the petitioner to devote or her energy on meaningful and fruitful ventures.

*Vow to occupy Gov’s office




Some opposition party chieftains and support groups of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday gave the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu a 72-hour ultimatum to transmit power to his deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa or face dare consequence.



The groups, under the aegis of PDP Forever Initiative, threatened to occupy the Governor’s office should he (Akeredolu) fails to heed the 72 hours ultimatum.



Addressing a press conference at the PDP national secretariat, the National Coordinator of the groups, Hon. Obande Gideon Obande, expressed worries that President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) failed to address the lingering constitutional issue.



Disturbed over what they called leadership vacuum created by the absence of Aketredolu in office, the groups asked that his (the Governor’s) deputy should be fully empowered to run the affairs of governance.



While the PDP groups said it will continue to pray for Akeredolu’s quick recovery because he is human, they added that his incapacitation should not affect governance, as there is a provision for a deputy who shall discharge his duties in an acting capacity as empowered by the law.



According to the PDP Forever Initiative, “We hereby call on Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to resume within 72hours or hand over power to his Deputy for effective management of Ondo State.



“We make bold to say that, if the Governor failsl to resume or handover power to his Deputy within 72hours, we will have no option than to occupy Ondo State Government House to press home our demand,” the PDP Forever Initiative said.



Continuing, the groups said, “The All Progressives Congress, APC, is yet to provide the kind of leadership expected of it by Nigerians.



“The worst of it is the political vacuum in Ondo State where the APC leadership used in showcasing its ineptitude towards governance in the country.



“During our (PDP’s) reign in power, former President Umar Musa Yar’Adua was sick and could not transmit power to the Vice President before leaving the country, our party invoked the powers of the constitution and empowered the Vice President as the Acting President.



“It also happened in Taraba State when the late Gov Danbaba Suntai had an air crash, we resolved the crisis but the ruling APC has failed woefully in managing the political crisis in Ondo State.



“This is a sign that the APC led Federal government is insensitive to the plights of Nigerians



“What is so difficult to call the State Assembly to order and ensure smooth working relationship between the Deputy Governor and the sick Governor’s family?



“We believe that because the crisis is in Yoruba land, the APC has abandoned the constitution to serve some personal interests, thereby abandoning Nigerians to their faith.



“Let it be known that, this country belongs to all of us, whether PDP or APC even Labour Party, as such, we can not fold our arms and watch the Nation being sank.



“Once upon a time, our party, the Peoples Democratic Party attempted to protest against the leadership vacuum in Ondo State but the security agencies prevented us. We are not giving up, we are resilience in propagating good governance at all time.



“It has become ridiculous and indeed a laughing stock the activities of non state actors who display their overbearing influence on the management of affairs of Ondo State in view of their relationship with the ailing Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.



“The same people who are close to the Governor, mostly his family members, who believe that the mandate given to Governor Akeredolu is a retirement benefit to the entire family are responsible for the ugly situation in the State.



“The Governor has been around in the country, but obviously not fit enough to manage the affairs of the State.



“The question is, since the Deputy Governor is not allowed to act, and the Governor has refused to resume, who is administering the State at the moment?



Hon Obande Gideon explained that it is not strange for a PDP group to make such demand because “the issue at hand is not a party affair, but people’s affair, since the governor was voted by the people.



“His absence is hindering the smooth running of state affairs. He should as the constitution demands, transmit power to the Deputy Governor until he is fit to continue in office.



“We are not doubting his performance, we are not saying he is not he is not fit to be in office, we are concern about his state of health, we are saying he is not constitutionally alright to continue in office”, he stated.

The Arewa Stakeholders Consultative Forum (ASCF) has said that it welcomes the news that the Appeal Court has declared the Zamfara State governorship election inconclusive, and asked for a rerun in the three local government areas disputed by the former governor of the state, Bello Mohammed Matawalle



."The Appeal Court's declaration of the Zamfara governorship election as inconclusive has undoubtedly vindicated the claims of Matawalle that elections were not held in the three local government areas of the state," the ASCF spokesperson Comrade Danjuma Paul said in a statement.



The group pointed out that Lawal, who was so quick to dismiss any claims of electoral irregularities during the election, now finds himself at the receiving end of a ruling that exposes the flaws in the electoral process.



"The tables have turned, and Governor Lawal is now experiencing firsthand the consequences of a flawed system they were so eager to defend.





"The fact that the Appeal Court has deemed the election inconclusive raises serious doubts about the credibility of the electoral process in Zamfara State. It is a testament to the flaws and loopholes that exist within the system, allowing for such a significant ruling to be made.





"Perhaps this turn of events will serve as a wake-up call for Lawal and his camp, forcing them to confront the reality that their hold on power may not be as unassailable as they once thought," ASCF noted.

*Insists all charges against him are dropped



*Describes arrest as abuse of office



*Tasks Nigerian Police to align with journalists as voice of voiceless




Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF), has described the arrest of a popular Kaduna based journalist, Gabriel Idibia as grave violation of human rights and a deliberate attempt to gag the press, hence all charges against him must be dropped



AMDF Founder, Iliya Kure expressed this in a statement he personally signed, on behalf of Press Freedom Surveillance Team.





"The arrest and harassment of Achadu Gabriel Idibia is grave violation of human rights and a deliberate attempt to gag the press.



"AMDF insists that all charges against Idibia be dropped. Authorities must desist from all forms of harassment and intimidation of journalists," the statement said.

Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) explained that it has followed closely the events leading to the arrest and detention of Achadu Gabriel Idibia, a staff of Daybreak Newspapers, stationed in Kaduna, Nigeria.



"Idibia was detained over a report published on September 24th titled “Kaduna Hajj camp, a national shame, men, women sleep together in overcrowded hall – investigation.”



"The report which has video evidence and quoted sources supporting it, exposed the deteriorated and poor state of the Camp and the plight of Muslim Pilgrims at the Mando Hajj Camp, Kaduna.



"Earlier, on September 26th, 2023, Mr. Idibia was arrested and detained at a facility run by Special Police Unit “Operation Yaki” over the news report – he was released on bail signed by a colleague bearing Amos Mathew of the New Nigerian Newspapers, reports revealed," the statement informed.



AMDF noted that the reason behind the arrest was alleged “intimidation of the Executive Secretary” of the Pilgrims Agency.



"The emir of Zazzau was recently heard clearly on Voice of America Hausa Service radio condemning the handling of the last Hajj exercise by Kaduna state officials. It is also on record that the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) has listed Kaduna among states sabotaging Hajj exercise. So, the Executive Secretary should not vent his anger on Idibia," AMDF added.





The group in the statement titled, "AMDF CONDEMNS ARREST AND DETENTION OF NIGERIAN JOURNALIST, IDIBIA" therefore, condemned every form of abuse of office and the obvious attempt to subjugate journalists by any group or individual.



"We believe that there can be no meaningful development without the watchful eye of the press that seeks to hold power to account and ensure that every sector and component of human development receives the needed attention by government and its agencies.



"We call on the Nigeria Police to align with journalists as the voice of the voiceless to ensure without compromise the safety of Nigerians, especially journalists without fear or favour," AMDF said.

It was yet another confusion in political history of Nigeria in the present dispensation as Appeal Court, Abuja ordered fresh conduct of elections in polling units located in Taraba in an appellate judgment on Igabi Federal Constituency of Kaduna State.



The lead judgement delivered by Ibrahim Wakili, Justice of Court of Appeal on Thursday 3 November 2023, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent granted the prayers of the appellant Zayyad Ibrahim, candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in February 25 House of Assembly election of Igabi federal constituency by voiding and upturning the electoral victory of flag bearer of People's Democratic Party (PDP), Jallo Hussaini Muhammad.



Other two Judges of court of Appeal, Justices Samuel Ademola Bola and Aseimo Abraham agreed and endorsed the verdict of the lead Judge of ordering rerun in areas outside jurisdiction of the appeal.



Igabi, the local government at the center of the controversial judgement is located in Kaduna state with a federal legislator.



General election was conducted on 25 February for the seat of a member representing the constituency in the House of Reps.



Candidate of PDP in the election Jallo Hussain was consequently announced winner of the exercise, an announcement that triggered legal tussle from tribunal up to appeal court.



Aggrieved candidate of APC Ibrahim Zayyad thereafter ran to election tribunal where his case suffered a set back.



Not satisfied with the verdict of the first and initial juries, Ibrahim of APC went up to Court of Appeal in Abuja where his grouses against the election were heard and prayers granted.



Among the issues he listed which, according to him went contrary to Electoral Acts 2023 were; over-voting, violence, miscalculation, misappropriation and manipulation of results, discrepancies between ballot papers issued and total votes cast, non-stamping, non-signing and not dating of INEC forms among other irregularities presented by the appellate before the learned judges of the tribunal led by Ibrahim Wakili.



The most strange and unsettling aspect of the Appeal Court judgment was the listing of polling units in far away Taraba State as areas where fresh elections are to be conducted in place of areas in Kaduna State.



The areas mentioned in the document read, signed and authenticated by the Appeal court were; Lawanti Kofar Jauro, Yelo Lima, Abba Kalu and Shilo which are all wards or poling units in Taraba states, an infraction legal experts said would affect and invalidate the verdict.



A kaduna based lawyer who preferred anonymity described the judgement as embarrassment to judiciary, adding that the error would affect validity and render enforcement of the rule impossible.



A judicial officer with court of Appeal, Kaduna expressed worries and disappoinment over the misappropriation of names of polling units in the documents pronouncing the verdict, saying the mistake was a very costly one, capable of derailing justice and casting doubts on Judicial arm of government.



"That mistake of mentioning polling units in Taraba instead of those in Kaduna by the appeal court judges was unforgivable, particularly in democratic system like ours which vests power of interpretations on shoulders of judges.



"This infraction is capable of throwing out political atmosphere into chaos and confusion," he added.



All eyes will now be if the judgement would stand the test of time.

*Says political jobbers exploiting vacuum for personal gains











A Coalition of Civil Society Organisation for Democracy (CCSOD) has expressed concern over the delay by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to resume office since his return from medical leave abroad.







The coalition, however, asked the Governor to resume or immediately transfer powers to his Deputy.







Addressing a press conference Thursday in Abuja, Chief Convener of the coalition, Dr Tunji John Asaolu, urged Governor Akeredolu to prioritize the needs of the people and to resume his responsibilities without further delay or transfer power to his Deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.







The rights group said Ondo state cannot afford to be without effective leadership, stressing the need for a swift action to rectify the situation.







They further condemned any attempts by political jobbers to sow discord between the governor and his deputy, as well as any endeavours to exploit the resulting power vacuum for personal gain.







Asaolu said: "We, however, think the Governor's protracted absence raises serious concerns about the functionality of governance, effective decision-making and administrative efficiency in our beloved state.







"The intent of the framers of our Constitution in sections 189,190 and 191 is to avoid any kind of vacuum. And these sections explicitly emphasise the necessity to avoid a vacuum in leadership. The prolonged absence of the governor creates a governance vacuum, thereby impeding the effective administration of Ondo State.







"Equally distressing is the apparent political interference by some persons not elected by the good people of Ondo state, preventing the Deputy Governor from fully discharging his constitutional duties in the absence of Governor Akeredolu. The people know their Governor and his Deputy, not a group of cabal or individuals constituting into "cabal."







"We remind all stakeholders that the constitution empowers the deputy governor to act in the governor's absence. The political maneuvering preventing this is a violation of the very principles that underpin our democratic system. Ondo State deserves strong and unwavering leadership, especially in challenging times.







"Therefore, we call on all relevant authorities to urgently address this matter and ensure the seamless transition of governance to the Ondo Deputy Governor, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.







"The people of Ondo state deserve transparent and accountable leadership, and we will not stand idly by while political machinations jeopardize the well-being of this noble and well respected state."







According to the coalition, despite the governor's return from overseas medical treatment, he has yet to resume his duties within the state for several weeks.







"Let it be on record that we, like many other good Nigerians, are praying fervently to God to fully restore Governor Akeredolu's good health and show him mercy.







"We, however, think the Governor's protracted absence raises serious concerns about the functionality of governance, effective decision-making and administrative efficiency in our beloved state."

The Arewa Stakeholders Consultative Forum (ASCF) has issued a warning to the losers of the off-circle governorship polls held in Kogi State on Saturday to avoid making unsubstantiated claims of irregularities against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).



A statement issued by ASCF's Spokesperson, Danjuma Paul expressed concern over the inflammatory remarks made by some of the bad losers, including Yakubu Ajaka and Dino Melaye, against INEC.



The group stated that the election results had been adjudged as the freest, fairest and most credible ever, and noted that any claims to the contrary must be backed up with solid evidence.



ASCF reminded the aggrieved losers that the acceptable course of action is to seek legal redress through the appropriate channels, rather than resorting to indecent behavior that can undermine the integrity of the electoral process.



The group urged all stakeholders to maintain peace and refrain from acts that could lead to violence.ASCF commended INEC for its transparency and professionalism in conducting the elections, and called on all candidates and political parties to accept the outcome of the polls in good faith.



The group also reiterated its commitment to promoting good governance and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.The ASCF further emphasized the need for all parties to respect the rule of law and abide by the decisions of the judiciary if eventually the matter goes to litigation.



The group warned against any attempts to incite violence or disrupt public peace, noting that such actions would be met with stiff resistance.In addition, ASCF urged INEC to continue to improve on its processes and procedures in order to ensure even greater transparency and fairness in future elections.



The group also called on political leaders across Nigeria to work together towards promoting national unity and development. Finally, ASCF expressed its gratitude to all those who participated in the Kogi governorship polls, including voters, election officials, security personnel and observers.



The group urged all stakeholders to continue to support efforts aimed at strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria and University of Nairobi, Kenya have agreed to collaborate for joint research activities, exchange of scholars, as well as students both undergraduate and postgraduate.



This was contained in a statement made available by the Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.

The agreement was contained in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) jointly signed by both parties at the University of Nairobi in Kenya. The MoU is for a period of five years, and it shall be governed by the Nigerian and Kenyan laws subject to national and international jurisdictions.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, signed the MoU on behalf of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, while the Vice-Chancellor of University of Nairobi, Prof. Stephen Kiama, stood in for the Kenyan university.

The main objective of the Memorandum of Understanding is basically to provide directly or in collaboration with other institutions’ facilities for university education, including technological, professional education, research, transmission of knowledge and the stimulation of intellectual life and cultural development.

Specifically, other areas of collaboration as captured in the MoU include joint proposals for solicitation of funding and exchange of information as well as documentation both written and electronic.

Both institutions also agreed on use of each other’s facilities subject to adequate prior notice, convenience and availability, as well as exchange of faculty of members in the field of mutual interests and on terms to be agreed.

Additionally, the MoU seeks for collaboration in joint research and publications, academic writing, alumni relations, partnerships and stakeholder engagements.

The two African universities will engage in capacity building through exchange programmes, research output, and short courses.

This is in addition to exchange of academic data and information, as well as joint organisation of scientific meetings such as seminars, conferences, colloquiums, and workshops.

Both parties further undertake to jointly solicit for funds, including donor funds, research grants, contributions, subscriptions and such related funds for the purpose of realizing any or all the objectives of the collaboration.

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies over the successful conduct of the off-season elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states.



The group who made the commendation in a statement by its National President, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike shortly after the conclusion and declaration of winners of the election said, contrary to predictions by bookmakers, security agencies were able to provide adequate security before and during the elections.



According to him, “the feeling all over the country was that it was going to be a theatre of blood in the three states. Many people believed that blood would flow freely during the elections.



“However, security agencies were up to their responsibilities, such that no life was lost but for the unfortunate incident during the collation of results in Brass, Bayelsa State. We sympathize with the family of the deceased and urge security agencies to fish out his killers.



“Having said this, we earnestly laud the various security operatives deployed during these elections; though a few of them compromised, a greater percentage of them demonstrated a high sense of neutrality and dedication to duty.



“We also congratulate Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Usman Ododo, the governor-elect of Kogi State.



"We, however, urge them to be magnanimous in victory, just as those who lost in the election should accept the hand of fellowship.”



The Ohanaeze youth president also hailed voters in Kogi State for conducting themselves properly contrary to the thinking that there would be bloodbath.



He said now that a winner had emerged, "we urge the political actors in Kogi State to respect the will of the masses and join hands with the governor-elect to move the state forward.



"We call on INEC to ignore the call by few persons to cancel the result of the already announced. Those aggrieved with the outcome should seek redress in court."



Okwu equally hailed the INEC for delivering what he called “a credible election in the two states.

*Says "if we don't stop Tinubu, APC, they will turn Nigeria into a one party state"







Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, called on Nigerians not to expect free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2027 under the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).







Frank made the call in his reaction to the just concluded off-cycle governorship elections in three states of Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa.







According to Frank in a statement in Abuja, the level of electoral fraud, manipulation and rigging witnessed in Kogi and Imo states especially, points to the fact that no credible result can come out from future exercises.







“The election has nothing to write home about and to imagine that it was the first set of elections conducted under the watch of President Tinubu. What happened in Imo and Kogi is a clear indication of the kind of elections Nigerians will witness 2027.







“Our electoral system is presently in dire straits under our highly compromised Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which has now graduated from rigging by manipulating the INEC Result View (IReV) portal and the Bi-Modal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) to writing results of polling units before the people cast their ballot.,” he said.







Frank who is the United Liberating Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, lamented that when INEC which is now a rigging department under APC has finished manipulating results, the judiciary which is unfortunately now the legal department of the ruling party, will simply legalise what the electoral body has done.







Besides, security agencies that were meant to protect voters and arrest riggers also take part in the rigging. The police, and other security agencies are now a security department in the APC.







He insisted that the brazen level of rigging in Imo and Kogi was not surprising because Tinubu himself was installed President through rigging and other acts of impunity which the judiciary validated.







Frank said: “It is sad that when our democracy in Nigeria is meant to be progressing, it is rather retrogressing. Nigeria is now the worst country in terms of compromised election results compared to other African countries.







“We don't make improvements, we don't make progress. Things are getting worse. So in 2027, if Nigerians do not take the bull by the horns to fight to restore credibility in our electoral system we'll continue to have elections where the will of the people will not count. This is even so when the APC has appointed 10 of their card carrying members as Resident Electoral Commissioners of the INEC.







“This anti-democratic and unfortunate development is a clear indication that the conduct of the 2027 elections will be a formality to endorse only APC candidates either as freshers or for second term in their various offices.







“So if Nigerians want change, they should wake up and do the right thing, like other nations have done to defend their democracy.”







According to him, now that all the institutions of government that are meant to defend democracy, have practically compromised, “if we are not careful, Nigeria will turn to a one party state.”







He added: “It's quite disappointing for a man, who under in the PDP regime was always crying, that the party wanted to turn Nigeria into a one party state, is unfortunately the one that is practically poised to officially turn Nigeria into a one party state like Uganda, Zimbabwe and Cameroon that have been under one party rule for decades.”







He lamented that opposition governors have compromised their parties and have failed to perform their role as opposition because of harassment and blackmail.







He added: “So the opposition governors, especially the PDP governors, have turned themselves into praise singers because they have been blackmailed them to jettison their role as leaders of opposition in the country.







“That's why some of us have decided to bear the pains by doing everything in our power to legally defend our democracy and our country from turning into a one party state.







“We have commenced mobilising Nigerians especially in diaspora to save the country from the hands of election riggers and make sure our democracy stands.







“If we don't stop Tinubu and APC, they will turn Nigeria into a one party state like Cameroon, Zimbabwe and Uganda.”

*Celebrates Transparent Off-cycle Elections In Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa


The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) in rrsponse to the recent governorship polls in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa acknowledged the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for efforts towards ensuring a flawless election, with INEC Chairman Mahmoud Yakubu's integrity remaining intact.

NEN in a statement signed by its Chairman, Suleiman Abbah, also noted the commendable neutrality displayed by the security personnel deployed to the respective states in ensuring secure environments for voters to exercise their civic rights freely during the recent elections.

"Their commendable neutrality and dedication to maintaining a secure environment allowed voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation," the statement said.

NEN believes that such professionalism and impartiality in the security forces is fundamental in upholding democratic values and fostering trust in electoral processes.

"NEN commends the Kogi State community as well for their orderly and peaceful conduct during the election, with the exception of a select few whose ambitions did not align with the general consensus.In Kogi, political leaders and voters came together, setting aside personal ambitions for the betterment of the state and its people.

"The jubilations that followed the announcement of the election results in Kogi exemplifies the joy and celebration of witnessing the freest, most fair, and most credible election ever conducted by the INEC in the state.

"This landmark achievement offers hope and the possibility of a brighter future for the people of Kogi, where the younger generation can receive quality education, acquire necessary skills, and secure employment opportunities.It is important to acknowledge the transparent and credible election process in Kogi, a result that could only be challenged by those individuals who were willing to undermine the state's progress and prosperity if they did not emerge as winners.

"The fact that this result was accepted by political leaders and voters across the spectrum is a testament to the growing maturity and commitment to democracy.As an organization committed to promoting free, fair, and transparent elections, the NEN urges all political stakeholders and citizens of Kogi State to work together in harnessing the potential brought about by this historic election," it said.

According to the group, "it is imperative that leaders prioritize the state's development, leaving aside personal ambitions that may hinder progress and growth.The NEN remains steadfast in its mission to observe and advocate for credible elections across the nation.

"We congratulate the people of Kogi State for their unwavering commitment to democracy and their active participation in this milestone election."

The Yoruba Youth Council has passed a vote of confidence on the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement on Saturday by its National President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the council, which is an umbrella body of the Yoruba youth, described the minister as an invaluable asset in the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in view of his commendable antecedents in public service.

Oluwole recalled the commendable role played by Matawalle as the immediate past governor of Zamfara State, in unison with other notable former Northern governors, in ensuring that Asiwaju Tinubu emerged as the flagbearer of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and eventually won the February 25 Presidential Election.

Besides, he recalled that Matawalle was among the former governors who sued the FG over its Naira redesign and cashless policy, and had forced it to cancel a policy that imposed an untold hardship on Nigerians close to the presidential election, which Tinubu eventually won.

His words: "We see former Governor Bello Matawalle as a good person in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we want the President to always work with him.

'We recall vividly how Matawalle stood firmly with Asiwaju and fought gallantly to ensure that he was nominated as the Presidential Candidate of his party, the APC, and he eventually won the Presidential Election.

"We also recall that this former governor was in the forefront of other governors who fought against the Naira redesign and cashless policy that caused so much hardship for Nigerians in an election year."

Oluwole advised Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to work with his predecessor who, with what he described as his giant achievements, had laid the foundation for him to build on in the state.

"The governor should know that we're fully aware that he has been sponsoring some PDP by sharing them money to blackmail the former Governor Alhaji Bello Metawaĺle and also working to undermine the administration of Mr President Bola Tinubu. Yoruba youths Caution him to desist from this move or face the other side of the youths," the group said.

He said, "Rather than engage in meaningless wranglings, rather than try to undermine the achievements of his predecessor and wage fruitless, bitter smear campaigns against a man who recorded tremendous achievements in office as Governor, we advise Governor Lawal to join hands with his predecessor and Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle and work together with him for the development of Zamfara State and our dear Country Nigeria."

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has brought to light a concerning issue regarding the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, saying it has observed that Lawal has been consistently using the name of his predecessor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who currently serves as the Minister of State Defense, to deflect blame and destabilize the state.

The group in a statement by its President, Yerima Shettima, argued that Governor Lawal's actions are not only detrimental to the progress of Zamfara State but also a disservice to its citizens."Governor Lawal's persistent reliance on Matawalle's name as a shield for his failures in providing security for the people of Zamfara is a clear indication of his inability to take responsibility for his own actions.


"We warn Dauda Lawal to note that we are in possession of solid evidence of the funds he spent on sponsoring the campaign of calumny against President Bola Tinubu regarding the thwarted Chicago certificate saga and we shall not hesitate to expose him if he persists in his drive to undermine the credibility of the federal government by targeting the widely acclaimed efforts of the Ministry of Defense.


"We caution President Tinubu to watch his back against the antics of the Judas in Zamfara government house who is involved in every sinister plot against the success of his administration," Shettima said.

He said, instead of addressing the pressing security concerns in the state, Lawal has resorted to using his predecessor's name to deflect blame and avoid accountability.


"This strategy not only undermines the trust of the citizens but also hampers any potential progress in resolving the security crisis," the Group said. According to the Group, the primary responsibility of any governor is to ensure the safety and security of their constituents.

"However, Lawal's tenure has been marred by a continuous rise in insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. Rather than implementing effective strategies to combat these issues, Lawal has chosen to exploit Matawalle's name, who is currently serving in a different capacity, to divert attention from his own shortcomings.

"By using Matawalle's name, Governor Lawal is not only misleading the public but also undermining the efforts of the Minister of State Defense in his current role. Matawalle's position as a minister demands his full attention and dedication to national security matters. Exploiting his name for personal gain not only distracts from his responsibilities but also attempts to undermine the trust placed in him by the federal government," Yerima said.

Furthermore, the group said, Governor Lawal's actions have far-reaching consequences for the people of Zamfara. By failing to address the security challenges head-on, Lawal perpetuates a cycle of violence and instability in the state.

"The citizens of Zamfara deserve a leader who is willing to take responsibility for their safety and work towards finding lasting solutions to the security crisis. Lawal's reliance on Matawalle's name only serves to exacerbate the situation and hinder any potential progress.

"We call on President Tinubu to note that the actions of Lawal are part of a wider agenda to cripple the growing popularity of his administration which is promoted and protected by his Defense Minister, Matawalle," they said.

*Hails dissolution of Aba Kawu led NWC

*Reveals list of acting state chairmen




Rising from a meeting held in Kaduna on November 7, 2023, the North West Executive of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP), has endorsed the expulsion of its presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Senator Rabilu Musa Kwankwaso from the party.

This was conveyed in a communique signed by NNPP National Vice Chairman
North Westl, Alh. Sani Yusuf Danmasani, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Friday November 10, 2023.

The communique informed that the decision was part of the resolutions taken.

""The executive committee reaffirms the expulsion of Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso from NNPP

"The executive committee reaffirmed the dissolution of Abba Kawu Ali led National Working Committee (NWC).

"The executive committee passed 2nd vote of confidence on the founder and life member of board of trustees Dr Boniface Aniebonan," it informed.

According to the communique, other resolutions reached, include, reaffirming the election of Dr Tope Aluko as Board of trustees chairman and Engr. Mohammed Baboyo Abdullahi as Board of Trustees Secretary

Also, the executive committee reaffirmed the appointment of new NWC under the leadership of Dr Agbo Major.



Similarly, the executive committee of the North West Zone released the names of acting state chairmen of the zone as follows, Alhaji Akilu Kabo, Kaduna State, Alhaji Sulaiman Ghana, Kano State,
Alhaji Bello Magaji, Katsina State,
Alhaji Ado Ibrahim (Magayaki), Jigawa State, Faruk Yusuf Ali, Sokoto State, Umar Abubakar Yauri, Kebbi State and Abubakar Sani, Zanfara State



"All the executive committee members of North West Zone attended the meeting and Engr. Mohammed Babayo Abdullahi, board of trustees secretary, was in attendance," it informed.

The Distance Learning Centre, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has engaged Dorayi Film and Distributing Company to promote the academic programmes run by the centre through film production and television series.

This followed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) jointly signed by the Distance Learning Centre, Ahmadu Bello University and Dorayi Film and Distributing Company at a brief ceremony held in Zaria on Monday, 6th November, 2023.

A statement from the Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, dated
Tuesday November 7, 2023, said that both parties, according to the Memorandum of Understanding, agreed to come together to deepen the mutual media corporation in the area of film production, film starring, and sponsoring.

Under the MoU, the Distance Learning Centre, having established itself as a leading institution in modern open distance and e-learning deliveries, shall sponsor the production of a movie titled ‘MISALI’, retain the television right of the production, and own the intellectual property right.

On its own part, Dorayi Film and Distributing Company, a Kano-based television production firm, shall be responsible for script writing, casting, production, editing, completion, marketing, and all other responsibilities in producing the television series.

Duration for the production of the TV series, according to the MoU, shall be for a period of four months effective from 13th November, 2023 to 13th March, 2024.
Equally, the parties shall for the purpose of understanding be responsible for encouraging mutual value in entertainment and advertising, as well as participating in any organised events.

Speaking at the brief event, the Director, Distance Learning Centre, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. M.I. Sule, who signed the MoU on behalf of the Centre, stressed that under the agreement the Centre would be “well protected and promoted”.

The Deputy Director, Administration, ABU Distance Learning Centre, Dr. Salim B. Magashi, who gave an overview of the MoU, described the production as all-encompassing and that the project would begin in earnest.
Malam Nazir Adam Salihi, signed the MoU on behalf of Dorayi Film and Distributing Company with Malam Aminu Shehu, a staff of the film production firm, in attendance.

Those present at the event from the Distance Learning Centre included Deputy Director, Learning Support Service and IT, Prof. Suleiman Aliyu Shika; Deputy Director, Academic, Dr. Maryam Dewu; Finance Officer, Malam Hussaini Yahaya; and Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Aishat I. Baballe.

*Ask UK, USA, others to place visa ban on judges

*Coalition to embark on "a reclaim Nigeria Diaspora protest" around world



About 30 different Nigerian diaspora organizations under the aegis of Coalition of New Nigeria Diaspora Movement (CNNDM) has said it will embark on "a reclaim Nigeria Diaspora protest" around the world to expose President Bola Tinubu and demand his immediate resignation.

The group also demanded the European Union, United Kingdom, United States of America and others, to as a matter of urgency, place visa bans on all the Justices and Judges of the Appeal and Supreme Courts who gave the judgements that legalized Bola Tinubu as President of Nigeria, adding that the Visa ban should also be extended to their families.

Addressing a press conference Monday, Secretary General of the coalition, Jackson Ude, said CNNDM has also agreed to help mobilize and support any group in Nigeria to join the movement and the 30 days mass protests of reclaiming Nigeria.

Ude said "In our determination to save Nigeria’s democracy, deepen democratic institutions and values, protect our shared common interests and protect the integrity of our country, the leadership of 30 different Nigerian diaspora organizations concluded a meeting that began one week ago to review the sham judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on October 26, 2023, and demand that Bola Tinubu must resign to save the integrity of the Nigeria’s presidency.

"It is our believe that Mr. Tinubu not only rigged the 2023 Presidential elections, but he does also not possess the academic credentials to run for the elections. Tinubu forged the Chicago State University degree certificate and as such, committed forgery for which he must be prosecuted. Tinubu is also a member of a drug cartel in the United States of America as per FBI documents recently released. He committed drug crimes.

"Not only did Tinubu compromised the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, which conducted the 2023 Presidential elections, Tinubu has also compromised the Judiciary in Nigeria, which was why the Supreme Court, regardless of all the overwhelming evidence of his election fraud, forgery and his criminality, went ahead to legitimize his Presidency.

"Against this backdrop, millions of Nigerians in diaspora under the aegis of Coalition of New Nigeria Diaspora Movement, CNNDM, have agreed and decided to save Nigeria and her democracy, demand immediate institutional reforms, demand the immediate resignation of Bola Tinubu so that Nigeria can begin the urgent process of cleansing herself, and rebuilding an integrity-based leadership selection process. T this end, here is what we agreed:

"CNNDM agreed that a Reclaim Nigeria Diaspora Protest would be held around the world to expose the criminality of Bola Tinubu and demand his immediate resignation.

"CNNDM agreed to help mobilize and support any group in Nigeria to join the movement and the 30 days mass protests of reclaiming Nigeria.

"CNNDM agreed that Nigerian Americans should begin reaching out their congressmen and pressure them to push the U.S Congress to begin an inquest on the 2023 Presidential elections in Nigeria, the Chicago State University and Bola Tinubu certificate scandal and why the FBI refused to prosecute Tinubu for all his crimes.

"CNNDM agreed to raise $10million for the 30days protests and litigations that is being planned against Bola Tinubu in the U.S for his crimes.

"CNNDM demand from the EU, UK, U.S to as a matter of urgency, place visa bans on all the Justices and Judges of the Appeal and Supreme Courts who gave the sham judgements that legalized Bola Tinubu as President of Nigeria. The Visa ban should also be extended to their families.

"CNNDM agreed to mandate the Contact and Mobilization Committee to announce a date for the protests soon."

The coalition vowed "to continue to pile pressure locally and internationally to force Bola Tinubu out of office. The group will mobilize Nigerians and protest in every country Tinubu intends to visit to show to the world that he is a certificate forger, a drug criminal and unfit to lead any nation.

"This action is aimed at reclaiming Nigeria from the hands of criminals who have taken over the country.

"CNNDM believe that Bola Tinubu remains an illegitimate President of Nigeria on account of his drug crimes and certificate forgery for which he refused to declare when he sought to run for the 2023 Presidential elections."

The visit of the President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Mr Isaiah Kemje Benjamin to Kano State has received commendation and applaud from Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Galadima, Managing Director of the Radio Kano, Hon. Hisham Habib and other sports stakeholders in the state.

In a statement issued by the President's SA Media, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, the SWAN President was in Kano to honour an invitation as a guest to the final football match competition in honour of Dr. Galadima, who has contributed immensely to sports development in Nigeria and Kano State.

Dr. Galadima was the former President of the defunct Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Immediate past Chairman of the Kano Sports Commission and also was Chairman Kano Pillars Football Club at some point.

The final which was between Kano Pillars Jnr and FC Azhuba, played at the Sani Abacha Stadium Kofa Mata, ended 1-0 in favour of the Pillars at the end of regulation time.

The winners and runners-up went home with medals and trophies, while some dignitaries were awarded certificates of recognition for their contributions to sports development.

The match was graced by other dignitaries, including the former Chairman of Gombe State Football Association, Alhaji Ahmed Shuabu Gara Gombe, former Chairman Kano Pillars, Alhaji Tukur Babangida, ex international, Dr. Mohammed Musa, Sports Director BUK, Rabiu Mohammed, Professor Musa A.A. among others.

Speaking at the end of the tensed match, Dr. Galadima in whose honour the competition was organized, commended the SWAN President for honouring the invitation and thanked the organizers for finding him worthy of organizing the football competition which is the second edition in his honour.

Earlier, the MD Radio Kano who received the SWAN President in his office, congratulated him on his emergence and expressed readiness to assist his administration in any way possible, adding that sports is a very important sector that must not be taken for granted.

The SWAN President who was accompanied by the Kaduna State SWAN Chairman, Shehu Abdullahi was received in Kano by the associaton's Vice President North West, Mansur Mohammed, former national officer, Alhaji Ado Salisu and later had interaction with the immediate past Vice.President North West, Alhaji Idris Malikawa Garu, Kano State SWAN Chairman, Zaharadeen and some other members on the way forward for the association.

*Gives gov 48 hours to rescind outbursts, apologize to Northern traders



An Igbo group, under the aegis of Coalition of Igbo Unions of Nigeria (CIUN) has cautioned the governor of Abia state against alleged persecution of Northerners in the state.

The Igbo group warned that move by governor Alex Otti to forcefully eject the Northern businesses at the Cattle market out of the state "will have a negative boomerang effect on Igbo traders in the North and across Nigeria."

In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, signed by some of the leaders of the group, asked governor Otti to "rescind his ethnically motivated outbursts and apologize to the Northern traders."

The said the vacate ultimatum issued by Governor Alex Otti to the Northern business owners have greatly increased the already tensed socio- political atmosphere in the country.

The statement signed by group's Chairman, Obinna John Okoroafor, the secretary, Udoka Onwuka and the Public Relations Officer, Maduabuchi Ibe Madu, also condemned "the indiscriminate demolition of shops and residential homes and demand that alternatives be provided for our Northern brothers without delay."

The statement reads: "Our attention has been drawn to the ongoing crisis at the Abia Cattle Market situated in Umunneochi LGA of Abia State.

"While we acknowledge the importance of Security of lives and property of all Nigerians living in every part of the Country, we STRONGLY CONDEMN AND DISSOCIATE OURSELVES FROM THE ETHNIC PROFILING being perpetrated by Mr Alex Otti against our brothers from Northern Nigeria doing business at the Umunneochi Cattle Market.

"This is because the thoughtless move by Alex Otti to forcefully eject the Northern businesses at the Cattle market will have a negative boomerang effect on Igbo traders in the North and across Nigeria.

"We have observed with grave displeasure that Mr Alex Otti is selectively persecuting Northerners in the Market instead of taking a holistic approach that confronts the criminality going on in the Area.

"We have carefully observed that the 'vacate the Cattle Market ' ultimatum issued by Governor Alex Otti have greatly increased the already tensed socio- political atmosphere in the Country.

"The plight of Northern Traders in the Cattle market if not handled satisfactorily will set a dangerous precedent which will ignite violence and clashes in various parts of Nigeria against Igbos.

"We, therefore, wish to distance ourselves from the reckless utterances and thoughtless actions of Mr Alex Otti whom we believe is playing to the gallery for political gains."

While urging the security agencies to redouble their efforts in curbing the menace of kidnapping and criminality in Umunneochi, Abia State and Nigeria in general, the statement added: "We remain Nigerians and are committed to the actualization of a peaceful and just environment for all Nigerians irrespective of ethnicity, religion or tribe.

"To ensure stability and peace, we are giving Mr Alex Otti, 48 hours to immediately rescind his ethnically motivated outbursts and apologize to the Northern Traders who have cohabitated peacefully with their host communities hitherto."

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has demanded the arrest and prosecution of the publisher of the online portal, Liberal News, as well as the banning of the platform.

The call comes after Liberal News allegedly published false and malicious information that Governor Yahaya Bello had procured thugs and police operatives to invade Ayingba, Kogi State, to assassinate the Director-General of the Muritala Yakubu Ajaka Gubernatorial Campaign Organization Sheikh Ibrahim Jibril and the Youth Leader, Alhaji Ahmed Attah.


The NEN in a statement by its Chairman, Suleiman Abbah, argued that it is a criminal offense for a newspaper, whether online or mainstream, to publish unverified reports that could incite unrest and undermine law and order.


The Group accused Liberal News and its publisher of serving the governorship ambition of Murtala Ajaka and intentionally causing discontent and heating up the political climate and called on the government to ban Liberal News and other news outlets that undermine Nigeria's peace and security through irresponsible publications and actions.


"Obviously commissioned to serve the governorship ambition of Murtala Ajaka, Dayo, the author of the dangerous article and publisher of the portal, recklessly accused the Nigeria police of being detailed to burn down the palatial mansion of Sheikh Jibril and torch the family house of Alh Attah.

"In a blind attempt to drag the judiciary to contempt Dayo wrote that he is in possession of evidence that Yahaya Bello had procured a dubious court order from a pliant judge in Lokoja to justify the legal backing to assassinate our campaign leadership in the guise they resisted arrest"

He went ahead to accuse Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Nigerian Police and the Anti- Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command of collaboration in the fictitious assassination plot which is downright unacceptable and must not be tolerated by the Nigerian security agencies," the NEN said.

The group said it especially observed that the Liberal News portal and its publisher have not been particularly careful in their reportage of circumstances surrounding the build-up to coming elections in Kogi State, and ended up fanning the embers of discontent and heating up the polity.

"We have all along being hoping that the media would change to being more restrained in reporting on matters that affect the wellbeing and security of the people without resorting to unnecessary overkill.



"Thus, we expected the proprietors of the various media outfits, along with their professional bodies like NUJ, Nigerian Guild of Editors and NPAN to regulate themselves and abide by their own rules and etiquette regarding the dissemination and reportage of news of the farmers/herders conflicts.

"Alas! The position remains unchanged that whenever matters affecting or arising from Kogi State such as this one are reported or commented upon, the intrinsic bias of these media houses keeps becoming apparent.

"We call on the Federal Government to proscribe the Liberal News portal and all news outlets that make the habit of undermining Nigeria's peace, security, and peaceful coexistence through unguarded publications and deliberate actions aimed at fomenting unrest and engendering conflicts. Individuals associated with such organizations that incite others to violations must be decisively dealt with.

"The Federal Government must, as a matter of urgency, use its powers to call media operators to order in their reporting of all security situations in the country, and to eschew the slanted reporting of events with greater bias against a particular political leader or party as witnessed in the report of the Liberal News portal.

"Editorial policies and restraints imposed by ordinary decency and sanity must not be abandoned by the media establishment for sensational and often biased reporting that only inflame tensions in the country," Abbah said.

*Says Diri can't escape judgement of Bayelsa masses, workers


Following the victory of candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship candidate in Bayelsa state, Timipre Sylva at the Appeal Court, Secretary, Media and Publicity committee of the Council, Hon. Yekini Nabena, has said that the era of using backdoor to emerge as governor is over.

Nabena was reacting to the Court judgement clearing the immediate-past Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipreye Sylva, to contest the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa state.

The court, in a unanimous decision by a three-member panel of Justices, vacated the judgement of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which disqualified Sylva from participating in the gubernatorial poll.

A High Court in Abuja, had in a judgement it delivered on October 9, declared that Sylva was not eligible to participate in the gubernatorial contest having already spent five years in office as governor of the state.

Reacting to the judgement, Nabena, a former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, said Governor Douye Diri can not escape the judgement of the masses in Bayelsa state, "who have been badly affected by his bad governance in the last four years."

According to the APC chieftain, the workers, pensioners and the traditional rulers Governor Diri refused to care about their welfare will also speak loudly with their votes on November 11.

Nabena said the saying that "once beaten, twice shy" cannot repeat itself in Bayelsa.

The Bayelsa born APC chieftain said "Diri is not known to have ever won any election but always come through the back door to occupy the exalted seat against the popular mandate of the electorates."

The statement said: "We are using this medium to tell Governor Diri and his cohort that there is no room for black market victory in this election. It is either you come clean or leave the race, but certainly no court will save Diri from heavy defeat this time around.

"History is not about to repeat itself because Governor Diri is not known for ever winning any clear electoral contest and the people of Bayelsa are tired of an accidental Governor.

"Our people are yearning for development, and our candidate's six-points agenda is not ambiguous. Experiences of our amiable candidate will surely be an added advantage, coupled with his link with the APC at the center and the Renewed Hope Agenda. So, we promise to give the people of Bayelsa a new lease of life once we are able to chase away this government of inefficiency and wastefulness."

*Demands facts, figures


An anti-corruption group on the aegis of of Advocate for Social Justice (ASJ) has has challenged the Zamfara state governor, Dauda Lawal, to avail the people of Zamfara and Nigeria with facts and figures behind his financial deposit declarations with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

The group also asked the CCB to explain to Nigerians how it verified the submissions by the governor, including his sources of income where applicable.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, Executive Director of the group, Gamji Guana Joseph, said documents in possession of the organisation show that documents show that the incumbent governor of Zamfara state should be listed on Forbes as one of the richest men in Africa, "with cash deposit in one account alone, out of several others, showing a balance of $5 billion."

The group lamented that Zamfara state is one of the most affected states (if not the most affected) on issues of insecurity, terrorism and syndicated illegal mining, adding that the state is among the most disadvantaged states in northern Nigeria.

According to Joseph, a brief biography of Governor Dauda Lawal's career path shows that the former governor spent the larger chunk of his career as a banker with First Bank of Nigeria.

"After he left the banking industry in 2014, Lawal alongside his friend Munir Umaru Baba started Credent Capital and Advisory Limited which they launched with an initial Capital base of $500 million. They claim to have invested & managed over $2 billion for 175+ clients across the world since then. Outside these 2 known career involvements, there is no other known venture he has participated in except politics."

The group said: "In total, Governor Dauda Lawal declared a total cash deposit in banks of 1. $5,013,357,125.13, 2. N1,522,865,024.00, 3. £841,704.77

"These monies are deposited in numerous personal accounts in GT Bank, First Bank & Taj Bank while his Credent Advisory Limited corporate account has a fixed income of N200 million

"We therefore wish to use this press conference to call on His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal, to please without further delay avail the people of Zamfara State and Nigeria with facts and figures behind these financial deposit declarations so as to allay their fears that their governor is not a fraudster or sponsor of terrorism.

"It is also important to note that this plea is not open ended, and if the sources of these figures declared are not made public within 1 week, it is our intent to mobilise Nigerians and people of Zamfara state to march to the nNational Assembly and ensure a state of emergency is declared in the state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to enable the authorities and international agencies conduct proper probe on the governor's sources of wealth to be sure he is not a sponsor of terrorism & illegal mining in Zamfara and Northern Nigeria.

"We will not only be challenging the authenticity of the figures he declared while exposing sources of earnings, but also we want to put the CCB, an agency of the federal government, on notice that they have to explain to Nigerians how they verified the submissions including the sources of income where applicable.

"The governor might have immunity from prosecution, but he cannot be immune from revolt from his people and Nigerians!"

The group wondered the sources of the inflow of $5 billion cash balance in one of governor's First Bank personal account, termed as fixed deposit.

"These financial inflows, are they through legitimate transactions or dubious engagements bothering on money laundry, fraud, illegal mining or sponsorship of terrorism?

"If the claim of having more than $5 billion in his personal accounts are proceeds from his joint investment venture, it implies their gross earnings over the period would have been in excess of $12 billion when you consider his partners due earning and taxes to be paid. Can this be proven and verified in details?"

The President of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Benjamin on Monday, inaugurated a seven-man Peace and Reconciliation Committee to look into issues regarding sporting media professionals in the Federal Capital Territory.

Members of the committee include, Mr. Ahaziah Suleiman, Mr. Lucky Osawode, Mr. Ben Ogbemudia, Mr. Gani Oloyede, Mr. Victor Iroele, Mr. Asueliemen Osasuyi and Mr. Paul Atte.


A statement signed by the Secretary-General, SWAN, Ikenna Okonkwo, said that the committee chaired by Mr. Suleiman is made up of members who are veterans in the media profession. They had served the association in various capacities in both state and national levels.

Inaugurating the committee in the presence of some members of the National Executive Committee including Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo and National Financial Secretary, Mrs Ijeoma Peter-Nwante at SWAN corporate headquarters in Abuja, the President enjoined its members to passionately look into issues which led to certain disagreements within the chapter with a view to profer lasting solution.

While underscoring the importance of unity and high ethical standards in the day-to-day professional conduct said, "As a leadership, we are committed to ensuring harmonious co-existence of SWAN members in various states vis-a-vis partnering with stakeholders to promote sporting activities in all parts of the country.

"And we can only achieve peace and foster better understanding among ourselves when we work together. It's my desire for the committee after reaching out to relevant SWAN stakeholders to come up with possible recommendations that will lead to the resolution of all issues so that everyone will unite as one family just as it used to be.

"Let me make it very clear that as Sports Writers, we don't have any issue whatsoever with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). I'm personally a committed member of the NUJ and will continue to be, the same way interested SWAN members are too.

"So I also want to use this opportunity to call on our colleagues in FCT to give the committee maximum support within the shortest time possible to actualise this mandate. I'm so optimistic that together we will take our association to higher heights."

Thereafter, members of the committee, one after the other took time out to share ideas amidst previous progressive experiences that had propelled SWAN upwards since its inception in 1964.

Specifically, the Committee Chairman, Mr. Suleiman, immediate past Executive Director Voice of Nigeria (VON), assured of their readiness to work effectively in a bid to achieve the needed result adding, "We as SWAN members are the only ones to fix our issues, it's a family affair and we will resolve all our differences."

*Urges Rivers people to stand firm against Wike’s dictatorial tendency


Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to urgently sack the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for masterminding a plot to impeach the Governor of Rivers State, Siminilaye Fubara.

Frank in a statement in Abuja, condemned the action of the police in tear-gassing and pouring water on Governor Fubara who is supposed to be the Chief Security of the state.

He also called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to urgently remove the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, over the partisan action of his men against the elected governor of the state.

He insisted that Wike’s sack has become necessary to stop him from bringing Tinubu’s government into disrepute and destroying the APC.

Frank said: “Already Wike has started demolishing houses and revoking ownership of landed property in Abuja to anger Nigerians, cause Tinubu to be hated and portray the APC’s administration as wicked and anti-people.

“By the time Tinubu will realize it, it will be too late because Wike would have destroyed his government to make way for him to contest the post of President in 2027.

“All Wike is after good governance, he has started preparation for 2027 presidency. So he's very desperate and he will do everything to please Tinubu but at the same time he is going to destroy the government if they do not call him to order.

“If Wike loves Tinubu and believes in his administration, let him officially join the APC and become a card-carrying member of the party. But he has refused to do so because he wants to destroy the APC to enable him contest for presidency in 2027 using the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He has refuse to defect to APC because of his evil agenda.

“Tinubu and APC should not only be wary but should urgently call on Wike to stop this madness in River State, otherwise, it will backfire.

“Wike campaigned for Fubara and claimed he was the best among all the other candidates for the governorship election. But suddenly, Fubara is now his enemy because Fubara is no longer taking directives from him being a dictator who is after Rivers’ money.”

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also called on governors across party lines to rally support for their Rivers State counterpart in his bid to end Wike’s dictatorship and God-fatherism in Rivers State.

“If they allow Wike to succeed, to use federal might to illegally remove Fubara as governor, at the end of the day, sitting governors will become vegetables like local government chairmen in states because former governors who worked for their emergence as governors, will borrow a leaf of illegality from Wike to hound them out of office whenever they fail to do their bidding. So, it's not all about the Rivers’ governor.”

He called on Fubara to remain resolute and dogged in pushing back the evil machinations of Wike. He said he believed that at the end of the day light would triumph over darkness.

He called on him to reach out to the people of Rivers state across party lines to bring about genuine reconciliation and support in order to engender peace in the state.

He equally called on Nigerians especially the people of Rivers State not to allow Wike to cause crisis in the state.

He urged them to stand firm against Wike’s dictatorial tendency in Rivers.

*Says President should immediately sack him


*Advises Rivers Assembly against being misled by an "Emperor"



Frontline group in Northern Nigeria, Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) has described former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike as an emerging threat to Nigeria's democracy, who needs to be tamed before he sets the entire country on fire.

AYF expressed this in a statement dated Monday October 30, 2023, signed by its National President, Ahmad Mohammed Zagi, made available to newsmen in Kaduna.

"We are deeply worried over the impunity with which the former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike is acting. It is a sad development which needs to be urgently tackled.

*When Nigerians were yet to get over how he is running the activities of the FCT administration like a private enterprise with dictatorial tendencies, we woke up to the political crisis engulfing his home state Rivers, leading to the torching of the state assembly complex.

"We are worried that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain took his hatred for the North, exhibited in his eight-year tenure in Rivers, to the nation's capital, a sad development for the unity of our country, " the group said.

They therefore, demanded his immediate sack by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to ensure sanity in the polity.

AYF commended Rivers State Governor, Similayi Fubara fir the maturity with which he has handled the political crisis in his state so far.

"We are perplexed that someone that supported then Lagos State Governor, Akinwumi Ambode to do away with godfatherism in 2018 is now trying to lord it over his successor. Does he want to be FCT Minister and behind the scenes Rivers governor at the sane time?" They queried.

The group advised the Rivers Assembly to avoid being misled by an "Emperor" to create instability in their state, urging them to drop the purported impeachment against Governor Fubara.