*Says Senate fear God, conclude screening devoid of regional, religious sentiment


The frontline youth forum in Northern Nigeria, Arewa Youth Forum has alleged that those against the progress of the North are those behind the scene, working against the successful ministerial screening of immediate past Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir el-Rufai.

Arewa Youth Forum expressed this in a statement signed by its President, Ahmed Mohammed Zagi, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday August 10, 2023.

"We are aware of sinister moves of some individuals who do not want the progress of the North, hence working from the background to frustrate Malam Nasir el-Rufai from becoming a minister under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu," the group said.

According to the statement, the group wondered why a bright mind like el-Rufai could not scale through the screening, whereas those nominated after him have been cleared and their names submitted to the Presidency.

They tasked the Senate to have the fear of God and conclude the screening devoid of regional or religious sentiment.

Arewa Youth Forum also appealed to President Tinubu to call those that may be behind the ministerial hurdle to order.

"This is because el-Rufai is one of Nigeria's best brains that can help in contributing positively to the growth of the country, especially in these trying times when the country is seeking answers to several issues plaguing it.

" Hence, we task all those delaying his clearance for a well deserved ministerial position to without waste of further time, do the needful so that Nigeria can get the best of his knowledge.

"el-Rufai is a critical thinker and problem solver. We have seen him do it in Kaduna within the past eight years and at the national level in the past," the group submitted.

*Challenges lawmakers to publish account statement

A political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Thursday, called on Senators and House of Representatives members to urgently return the money they have illegally collected from the National Assembly as “enjoyment” and “vacation” allowances.

Frank who made this call in a statement in Abuja, insisted that the primary role of the Legislature is to make laws for the order, security and good governance of the country and not to plunder it.

He wondered why the lawmakers have not deem it necessary to review the nation’s minimum wage which will benefit the masses in the face of skyrocketing inflation but rather have resorted to helping themselves with funds from taxpayers’ money to catch vacation cruise.

He described the attitude of members of the 10th National Assembly as the worst ever to happen to the country saying they appear to be far removed from the harsh economic realities inflicting excruciating pains on the average Nigerian who elected them into office.

Akpabio had on Monday night told Senators that the Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Magaji Tambawal, had sent a “token” (money) into their individual bank accounts to “enjoy” their annual “vacation.”

Frank said: “I have been reliably informed that what Akpabio termed token is actually in millions of Naira which belongs to taxpayers.

“According to a Senator from the Northwest geopolitical zone who confided in me, ‘each Senator received N35million while principal officers got N50million each.’

“He equally told me that each House of Representatives member got N30million while their principal officers received N45million each.

“The Senator said he has rejected his own largesse saying: ‘Allah will not forgive me if I collect such an amount for vacation enjoyment while my constituents are suffering hardships. I will spend my vacation with my constituents in the village. I am not traveling to any other place so I don’t need the money.’

“I know Akpabio and his cohorts will rush to deny this but let them do so with evidence by publishing their bank statements for Nigerians to verify for the sake of transparency. I also dare the Clerk to the National Assembly, Magaji Tambawal, to publish the vouchers with which he paid these slush funds into the accounts of legislators.”

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, however flayed Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South) for claiming he only received N2million for vacation enjoyment even as he challenged him to publish his bank statement for Nigerians to confirm whether he told the truth or not.

He reiterated his call on President Bola Tinubu to prevail on the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio to resign his position for illegally and boldly distributing the nation’s commonwealth to legislators on national television and for painting the legislature as the most corrupt arm of government in the country.

He equally called on Nigerians to rise up and demand Akpabio’s resignation should the President or Akpabio’s colleagues fail to rise up to the occasion.

He lamented that while the Federal Government has been complaining of lean financial resources and begging Nigerians to be “patient” and “wait” for things to improve, Akpabio could afford to dole out money for enjoyment without any thought about workers who have been crying that their minimum wage should be increased.

“They cannot pay common living wage to Nigerian workers but Akpabio’s Freudian slip is a wake up call for Nigerians to urgently mobilize and take back their country, if the Nigeria Labour Congress fails to take action to protect and defend now impoverished Nigerian workers.

He called on the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and other affiliate unions to rise up and genuinely fight for a living wage for Nigerian workers.

“If Akpabio can fight for senators and Members of the House of Representatives to get so much for enjoyment, we expect the organized labour leadership to fight for improved salaries, wages and welfare packages for Nigerian workers devoid of the types of compromise associated with past workers agitations,” he said.

The National Financial Secretary of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), who was also the candidate of the party for House of Representatives, Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency of Kogi State in the February 25, 2023 election; Reverend Emmanuel Olorunmagba has described the so called endorsement of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Usman Ododo as a big scam.

Olorunmagba, the NRM National Officer who is a bonafide Kogi State indigene, in a statement in Kaduna on Tuesday August 8, 2023, stressed that both the National Secretariat and Kogi State Secretariat of the party know nothing about the so called endorsement.

"Therefore, if any individual has claimed to be endorsing a candidate for an election that the party structure knows nothing about not to talk of being in support, then the candidate so claimed to have gained the endorsement has been scammed big time.

"In fact, as the National officer of the party, NRM who is from Kogi State, I was shocked when I read the fake news on Facebook; because that was the first place I saw the fake news two days after the jamboree called endorsement. As I read it on Facebook, I copied it and sent it to eight ( of our national officers (members of the NWC of NRM) to find out if there was anything like that, or if there was any meeting either of the NWC or the NMC, the highest ruling body of the party that I was not part of where such a thing was discussed and agreed.

"They were also all shocked to have read such a sham as none of them had any prior information until they read it from the link I sent to them. And it was never discussed nor agreed in any meeting in any way. And even the state officials too were not part of the so called endorsement," he said.

He added that if there must be an endorsement of any candidate, the party structure has to be in the know because any kind of endorsement by any individual without the party structure giving it a nod, to vote and work for such candidate is a big scam.

"No individual or two persons can claim to be endorsing a person on behalf of a party without others working in the same direction. Such can only be for media hype and nothing more," he pointed out.

According to the Kogi State born NRM candidate for House of Representatives in the last election, neither the national body of NRM, nor the Kogi State chapter is part of such endorsement of APC gubernatorial candidate for Kogi State,

" If the party will later endorse any candidate, all hands will be on deck. All national and state officers will be adequately carried along, so that those of us in Kogi State can all work as a team, mobilising our entire circle of influence.

"The most annoying is the caption that APC swallows five political parties in Kogi State and listing NRM as part of the parties so purportedly swallowed. Let's get this straight, NO PARTY SWALLOWED NRM THAT I AM A NATIONAL OFFICER and NRM is not for swallowing.

"In conclusion, anyone or group of persons dealing with anybody in APC claiming to be coming for any kind of alliance or endorsement on behalf of the party, National Rescue Movement (NRM) is doing that at his own risk.

"As a National officer of the party, NRM from Kogi State and a candidate of the party in the last election, I have the responsibility to clear the air on the misinformation and put the record straight to the public. Those who want to play politics are advised to avoid certain propaganda that can be easily exposed". he concluded.

The Counsel representing the interest of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar in his quest to unravel the controversy around the educational qualifications of President Bola Tinubu has said that they are puzzled by Tinubu’s “vigorous opposition” to a request asking the Chicago State University to make open disclosure about the matter.

Atiku’s lawyer, Liu Angela, on Wednesday, said she had sent an email to Tinubu's lawyers asking for their cooperation in asking the Chicago State University about documents that are already in the public domain, which have been submitted in proceeding in the Nigerian court.

According to her, the email, which was sent on August 3, 2023 is requesting, “to learn CSU’s position on whether, how, and when they were provided to other Nigerian litigants, and CSU’s position on the authenticity of the documents.”

According to Ms Angela, “Mr. Tinubu should have been keen to clear up any inconsistencies in his academic achievements and set the records straight by allowing the expedition of the legal process.

“If there is an explanation for the discrepancies we have identified, we would think that Mr Tinubu would be eager to provide it. If you would like to provide an explanation to us, we are happy to consider it. That might preclude the need for, or at least expedite the deposition,” the lawyer said.

Atiku has thus, through his lawyer, expressed a willingness to cooperate with Mr Tinubu’s legal team to shut down controversies surrounding the president’s credentials.

But rather than extend the same cooperation to Atiku’s lawyer, the team representing Tinubu has vehemently opposed all initiatives aimed to setting the records straight about Tinubu education claims at the Chicago State University.

Ms. Angela thus stressed that Mr Tinubu’s adamant refusal to grant them access to his school records has only fuelled suspicions and suggested that he has something to conceal.

“In candour, the vehemence of Mr Tinubu’s opposition to this discovery is increasing rather than mitigating our suspicions,” Mr Angela asserted.

The lawyer representing Atiku further noted disappointment about how Tinubu is frustrating and stalling the entire judicial process.

She explained that Tinubu had been advised to join the case earlier since the applicant would not oppose the request, but that he chose to remain silent and waited until Atiku’s team had submitted an ‘Order Directing Discovery’ of his academic records in court before expressing an interest in joining the suit.

Then, “Mr Tinubu turned around a week later and headed straight to the States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois to apply to join as previously advised without consulting with Mr Abubakar, perceived as a devious delay gimmick.

“At the outset, Applicant emphasizes that he does not oppose the Motion, but questions why Mr Tinubu filed it, instead of contacting and coordinating with Applicant’s counsel to submit a joint submission,” Ms Angela wrote in her response to Mr Tinubu’s motion to join on August 4.

“Thus, on July 27, 2023, almost a week prior to filing the application, counsel for applicant advised counsel for Mr Tinubu and CSU that applicant intended to file the application and that he was “willing to stipulate to Mr. Tinubu’s intervention in the Section 1782 federal action,” Mr Abubakar’s lawyer told the court.

The discretion by the Tinubu’s team is further fueling optimism in the Atiku’s team that the academic records would support his case against Mr Tinubu at the presidential elections petitions tribunal to prove that President Tinubu may have falsified his credentials and should be disqualified.

*Challenges America to treat Nigeria as equal partner


Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Wednesday, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to allow the Chicago State University to release his academic records to a court in Nigeria if he has nothing to hide.

He also challenged the American government and its institutions to cause Tinubu’s certificates in Chicago State university to be released to a court in Nigeria in the spirit of reciprocity and freedom of information obtainable in that country.

Frank who made this call in a statement in Abuja, also insisted that Tinubu, as a public servant ought not to seek to stop his academic records from being made public in a law Court.

Recall that Tinubu had filed a motion seeking to prevent a United States Federal Court from releasing his university academic records to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as requested by the latter.

He lamented that the United States is playing double standards where actions and requests that are taken seriously in their country becomes the reverse when it concerns an African country like Nigeria.

He said: “Barely two days after former Vice President ans Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) approached the State District Court for the Northern District of Illinois subpoenaed the Chicago State University to release the records of Tinubu, it is rather shocking that the President has countered the request by filling a counter motion to restrain the Court from releasing his academic records to the petitioner.

“What seems to be more worrisome is the idea that a sitting President who had sworn to uphold the integrity and sanctity of the Presidential office, would attempt to muzzle an independent judiciary of the United States through acts of coercion or frivolous motions unknown to the Justice department.

“However, it is noteworthy to reiterate that the Justice system of the United States isn't one that is amenable to coercion, intimidation, subjugation or any other form of compromise as demonstrated clearly from recent events concerning the former President of the US (Donald Trump) who is being made to answer various charges concerning his conduct while in office.

“What are you hiding in the Chicago University? If you are proud of your credentials, tell the University you claimed to have attended to release your academic information to Nigeria as requested by Atiku.

“This is simply the right thing to do because when a subpoena has been issued, it's meant to be honoured anywhere.

“For anybody who wants to lead Nigeria, you should be able to surrender yourself to Nigerians for scrutiny as that is the minimum standard expected and I'm aware Alh.Atiku is not doing anything extraordinary against the law.

“This is the very reason we believe the US court must throw out your (Tinubu’s) appeal and give your academic information to Nigeria.”

He added: “The US must not be seen to protect any high profile Nigerian or any Nigerian that is holding public office. That is their duty, to do the right thing the same way they are doing the right thing in America.

“Today, the world and everybody is watching how Trump is being treated and investigated from one court to another.

“Trump's information is being released by the CIA and the FBI in America for people to see what he has done.

“So if they can do that in America to Trump who is a former president, then why is the United States today aiding and abetting criminality in Nigeria by refusing to release unclassified documents petmitted by its freedom of information law? Whatever is good for America must also good for Nigeria.”

According to him, “it is because of acts of complacency and deliberate connivance with individuals who have run fowl of the system and taken advantage of compromised individuals that Nigeria and indeed majority Africa countries are turning to China and Russia who are believed to be strict and non-compromising.

“The United States is playing politics with the destiny of Nigeria because of their interest, but if they are not careful they will
do untold damage to their image in Africa.

“The United States is losing its credibility in Nigeria and in Africa because of issues like this because when it has to do with Africans, they will know something is wrong, but because of their personal interests, they will underplay it the way it cannot be done in their own country,

“Is it not too much for Nigeria to demand from the authorities of the United States that we
need the academic credentials of our president that they know is illegally occupying the office? This is the same man that has been fingered in several criminal cases in America.

In America, can you do this to your taxpayers? When taxpayers in America demand for any information, including that of a sitting president, it will be provided because they know that a public officer in America, is answerable to the citizens.

“But why are they promoting and supporting public office holders in Nigeria like the incumbent president who's unwilling to be answerable to the Nigerian people as if the interest of Tinubu is greater than the interest of Nigerian people?”

"Therefore, the argument in his motion that the records should not be released because they fall under a 1974 privacy law for American students has shown clearly that there's more to the identity of the individual who's currently the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all must be done by the US in ensuring that the real identity of the President is revealed with the demand for his academic credentials whilst in Illinois.

"We hold the US in good faith and will expect that everything concerning this matter is finally put to rest when the University is finally subpoenaed. We're glad that a Federal judge has been assigned to the case, and we expect a full dispensation of justice under the US Justice system in this regard."

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has cautioned that the patience of the youth must not be tested further with the refusal to confirm the nomination of immediate past Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmed el-Rufai for appointment as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

A statement by the AYCF National President, Alhaji Yerima Shettima yesterday, said, the youth and indeed Northern Nigeria feel humiliated by the news that out of the 48 names submitted to the Senate by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, el-Rufai is among the only three whose confirmations were deferred.

"We regret to note that the targeting of Nasir el-Rufai for such irreverent treatment is part of a wider agenda being pursued by certain dubious political interests to deny the North and the younger generation of Nigerians fair representation in the Tinubu's cabinet.

"It is suspicious that el-Rufai, who is among the best, if not the best of all the names submitted by the President should be among the only three that could not be confirmed without justifiable reasons.

"We consider it as deceptive for the Senate to give security checks as reason for not confirming el-Rufai because it is common knowledge that the ministerial nomination list passed through security scrutiny before getting to the Senate.

"At the risk of overstating the case, we can boldly say that el-Rufai, Hannatu Musawa, Bello Matawalle and Festus Keyamo are by far the best representation of the young generation of Nigerians included in the list.

"It will therefore, amount to unwarranted provocation to Kaduna State, to the North and to the Nigerian youth for el-Rufai not to be confirmed for flimsy considerations," Shettima said.

By; FADURI O. JOSEPH

The recent overthrowing of government by Niger Republic Military is no doubt a slap on Africa's evolving democracy and the need to allow it to grow, to have missteps but allow to grow so that Africa as a continent can learn to be democratic and the military forces in Africa can know their role as arm of the government to protect and defend their country against external attacks, not as rulers.



So, a military takeover in Niger and other six African nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and the rest, are counterproductive to Africa development.



Military men are not trained to rule, but trained to fight and defend their nation. The hunger and greed with African leaders and the citizens is also the reason why military seizes power in African nations in this 21st century.



The world has moved past the era of military dictatorship and to see African nations now trending in military take over of power across the length and breath of Africa, is nothing but a condemnable act.



So I will advise Niger military heads to peacefully handover power back to civilians, allow them to make mistakes and the people of Africa and Niger mostly should spend their energy to strengthen democracy and elect leaders who would make their nation great and vote out leaders who would do otherwise and destroy the people and starve them of economic progress.



The good thing is that it takes only four years to send a bad leader packing or even impeachment by its parliament if need be, with people protesting against such bad governance.



Democracy comes with freedom of speech, of association and rights of citizens to speak and be heard, but life under military rule is the opposite of freedom. It's a setback and total setback at that.



Having said this, it is also very important to turn to the politicians in Africa on the need for them to do the right thing by the people who voted them into power. Africa is bedeviled with corruption, greed, and lack of human sympathy. Our politicians steal so much in a continent where its citizens are worth less than a dollar a day.



Democracy, they say is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. And it is the responsibility of those in power to deliver to the people of their nations dividends of democracy, good economy, good and quality education.

Provide enabling environment for private companies to strive and succeed, security of life and property, good education for the youths, good health care system for the adults.

For the elderly and the children welfare must not be left out. Above all ensure a robust plan for the citizens of the country. These are basic things people want and if politicians can provide them, then there won't be the urge for military takeover anywhere in Africa. However, the lack of these things too does not excuse military to seize power.



The democratic system in the world we follow like America and Europe; all have gone through so much test of time. We must allow ours to do same. Let us make mistakes and correct them. Get involve mostly, which is what we lack in Africa; especially among Youths since time immemorial.



Democracy in Niger Republic and all across African nations is no privilege, but a right for all Africans and that we must support and protect it and condemn any act of coup on Africa soil.



May God Bless Africa and give African leaders foresight to do the right thing for their people



Faduri O. Joseph is the Leader, Rescue the Vulnerable Initiative aka Rescue Movement for New Nigeria

In a daring move and barring any last minute change of plan, the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki is reportedly set to disobey the pronouncement of the Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, which ruled last Friday, that all parties maintain “Status Quo Ante Bellum”, pending the hearing slated for Thursday August 10, 2023.



Hon. Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court Abuja issued a temporary order stopping the move by the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, to impeach his Deputy, Phillip Shaibu.



Impeccable Insider information revealed that in disregard for the temporary order, an impeachment ambush has been set for the early hours of Monday, 7th August as an affront on the judiciary.



It is said that the haste by the governor comes on the heels of his fear that the hearing adjourned till 10th August by the court, may not favour his purported intention, hence the plan to hatch his impeachment process before the hearing date.



Recall that the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shuaibu, approached a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja to stop the commencement of an impeachment process against him.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1027/2023, the Inspector General of Police; State Security Service; the Governor of Edo State; the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, and the Chief Judge of Edo State are the first, second, third, fourth and fifth defendants respectively.



Shaibu is seeking an interlocutory injunction restraining the 3rd, 4th and 5th Defendants/Respondents or their agents from commencing an impeachment process against him.



He also prayed the court to restrain the governor of the state or other person acting on his order from harassing and preventing him from effectively discharging his duties as the deputy governor of the state.



In addition to the temporary order to maintain status quo ante bellum, in another ruling of the court made on July 27, 2023, the defendants were directed to show cause.

Without adherence to the pronouncements of the court, any impeachment process is deemed a fruitless adventure in the eyes of the law.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Saturday, raised the alarm over alleged plot by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to go to war over coup in Niger to enable him declare a state of emergency in Nigeria and suspend the ongoing Presidential Election tribunal.

Frank who gave this warning in a statement in Abuja, accused the President of capitalising
on his position as ECOWAS chairman to legitimize his stolen election mandate in Nigeria.

He insisted that Tinubu’s warmongering over Niger is selfishly motivated as he seeks to through it gain political capital by legitimizing his administration and securing the recognition of international bodies that hitherto have not recognized him as duly elected president.

He warned the President not to lead Nigeria into war with Niger as the consequence of such an action would result in long term economic, political and social devastation of the country.

He said: “It is clear to discerning minds that Tinubu wants to find an alibi to declare war in Niger and under that declare a state of emergency in Nigeria which will invariably lead to suspension of the ongoing sitting of the Presidential Election tribunal.

“He is not out to restore democracy in Niger Republic. He is out to legitimize and gain recognition for his government from western allies. Let Nigeriens solve their problems, Nigeria has enough challenges of its own,” he declared.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also accused ECOWAS Heads of States and Governments of not working to deepen democracy in the subregion by ensuring good governance.

He said they often remain silent when Presidents illegally steal the people’s mandate through electoral fraud and manipulate constitutional provisions to elongate their tenure in office.

“It is a shame that ECOWAS’ Presidents always jerks back to life when a fellow president has been dethroned like the present scenario in Niger Republic,” he said.

He added: “I condemn the coup in Niger and I will support all altruistic efforts to restore democratic governance in that country. But I reject moves by Tinubu to use the Niger coup as a ruse to overturn the ongoing court process meant to determine the actual winner of the February 25th, 2023 Presidential election.

“I call on well meaning Nigerians to dissuade Tinubu from leading the country into an unnecessary war which among others will inflict heavy casualty on our armed forces and breed more widows in addition to what Boko Haram, bandits and other criminal elements have done already,” he said.

He insisted that former President Muhammadu Buhari, a retired army general, never went to war when there was coup in Guinea, Burkina Faso and Mail during his tenure “because he knew the implications. Why is Tinubu hellbent on going to war if not for self preservation in office as President?”

31st July 2023
President of the Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
National Assembly Complex, Three Arms zone,
PMB 141, FCT Abuja.

Sir,

A PETITION AGAINST THE NOMINATION OF H.E MAL. NASIRU EL- RUFAI BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU FOR SENATE CONFIRMATION AS A MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.

Mr. President sir, following your unveiling of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's ministerial nominee's to the Senate on Thursday July 27 2023.

We write on behalf of the Southern Kaduna Youth and Students Forum (SKYSFOM) to draw the attention of the 10th Senate on why one of the ministerial nominee, Mal. Nasiru El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State should not be confirmed by the Senate to serve as a minister in the Federal Republic of Nigeria or the President Tinubu government.

Mr. President sir, being aware of the nomination list of persons before the Senate for confirmation as ministers, concerned for the fragile nature of the nation with regards to our stability as a nation, and concerned about the uprising among citizens we find it highly necessary to make this petition against the nomination of Mallam Nasiru El'rufai, the immidiate former Governor of Kaduna State who we understand is a nominee among others.

We are a group of people whose interest is in promoting peace, unity and progress of Nigeria, our interest is bordering on the fact that at this moment, the nation need to be very deliberate and careful in selecting her leaders.

Mallam Nasiru El'rufai has over the years conducted himself as a divisive leader who does not have the interest of the stability of Nigeria at heart, his disposition to building a peaceful and united Nigeria is zero. He remains a very controversial character in the Nigerian polity whose utterances and actions have stared alot of negative energy in time past and even recently.

It is no longer news again, that H.E Mal. Nasiru El-Rufai is a Ethno-Religious bigot, particularly against the people of Southern Kaduna. Such a character should not be given another opportunity to serve Nigeria in any capacity, particularly our Nigeria of today.

Characters like El-Rufai are capable of dividing, disuniting and setting Nigeria on fire like he did in Kaduna State, where religious intolerance, distrust among citizens is now the order of the day. At this particularly point in our history as a nation.

Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who will demonstrate and promote Compassion, empathy, inclusiveness, justice, fairness and unity not the reverse.

The immediate past governor of Kaduna State should not be given consideration because he will do more harm to Nigeria than good.

You could recalled that few months ago, El-Rufai become a national discus, following his inflammatory and inciteful comments in a viral video against the Christian population in Kaduna State, while justifying his same faith ticket legacy. Southern Kaduna is populated by Christians, so therefore El-Rufai’s inciteful comments on that video are directed to the Southern Kaduna people.

During his eight years of rulership and tyranny, many lives and properties where lost in southern Kaduna to persistent attacks without remorse from the El-Rufai's government rather inciteful, hateful and disrespectful statements against our elders and the Southern Kaduna people entirely.
His inflammatory statements captured on that viral video alone should propel the Senate not to confirm his nomination because like in Kaduna State, he will surely repeat same at National level which will not be healthy to us as a Nation.

The Nigeria youths may not be patient with, or tolerate El-Rufai’s religious intolerance, extrimism, incitement and inflammatory statements like the Southern Kaduna Youth and her people did. Kaduna state is yet to recover from El-Rufai’s religious bigotry, extremism and intolerance legacies, Nigeria should not be his next victim.

The Senate should assess the performance of Mallam Nasiru El'rufai as Governor of our dear Kaduna State, his administration was characterized by sectionalism and all divisive tendencies. He was that one governor who was interested in talking how in his ironic perception which religion has higher population than which, a governor who will tell a higher percentage of citizens of his state that their votes don't matter, a governor who was antagonistic to any individual, association, group, community or organization that is critical about his administration, a governor who was reckless with words and careless about the feeling or opinion of his citizens of all social and political Status.

In most recent times, the same El'rufai in a viral video released a rather unnecessary controversial issue published around where-in, he tried to justify his promotion of same faith ticket in Kaduna State and Nigeria, forgetting that there are people who worked and voted for such ticket but doesn't practices the same religion with the candidates on the said ticket. . A key thing of concern there is not the fact that El’rufai is tuning Nigeria to get divided along religious lines but that he it is deliberate and willfully intended and finds pleasure and justification in that. This is unhealthy for Nigeria.

Senate should note that Nasiru Ahmed El'rufai has proven to be unable to sustain loyalty and faithfulness to anyone or the nation in all the leadership roles that he has been trusted with, he clearly has no respect for the rule of law, any institution (including the National Assembly), anybody (including the President) as he respects only his ego and prioritise his interest above all.

Distinguish members of this great 10th Assembly, Nigerians holds you in great esteem, alot is expected of you to put right all that is wrong with our political system, Nigerians see you as the agents of a new positive beginning. For this we call on you to be critical in your screening of all nominees. But more particularly, we strongly advise against the endorsement of Nasiru El'rufai as a Minister of the Federal Republic.

Against these background we make the following prayers:

1. The 10th Senate must distinct herself as a senate that is concerned about the stability of these nation by ensuring that only leaders that are true patriots and has concern for the good of Nigeria get endorsed.

2. The National Assembly should ensure all Nominees before her are critically screened, paying keen interest to there past positions, track record as leaders and the activities that characterized their political history.

3. Keep to mind that Nigerians whose voice you are, are watching closely.

4. Ensure that divisive persons like Mallam Nasiru Ahmed El'rufai are never given a place in the next cabinet for the sake of the nation's stability.

5. Prioritise the good of Nigeria over everything else in this screening process.

We are calling on the Senate to disqualify Mal. Nasiru El-Rufai nomination and should not be confirmed as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria because he is unfit to serve Nigeria at this material time due to his track record of religious intolerance, extremism and disrespect for the rule of law.

Ignoring our call and that of other patriotic Nigerians who are after the unity, progress and development of our dear Nation Nigeria, will speak ill of the 10th Senate.
We most sincerely appreciate this opportunity to attend to our petition and reiterate our high hope in the 10th Assembly to be the agent of the New Nigeria that we so long looked to have.

Mr. President sir, thank you in anticipation of your swift actions.

God bless the 10th Assembly
God bless Nigeria.

Kind regards.

Shedrack Danladi
National president
Southern kaduna Youth and Students Forum. (SKYSFOM)

Cc:
Senator Representing Kaduna South
Senator Representing Kaduna Central
Senator Representing Kaduna North

The Zonal Coordinator, North West, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Abbani Imam Garki has stressed the need and importance of education in the society as a disaster risk reduction measure as it keeps children busy and off the streets, since educating a child helps prevent social vices and these vices lead to disasters in the society.

He made the remarks during a one-day Intervention programme on "Child Education In Northern Nigeria" organized by Save A Child Initiative in collaboration with International Resource Foundation Academy (IRFA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigerian Red Cross (NRC), Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation, ULK Foundation and Clarion Voice for the Youths.

He also said that education improves the quality of living as the children are taught hygiene, environmental issues like flood and erosion, which makes them understand early warning signals, saying the agency is ready to partner schools in the establishment of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) clubs.

The programme which was organized to address the issues of child education in Northern Nigeria, particularly for the orphans and less privileged, was also aimed at exploring the possibilities of partnership between NGOs, Private and public organizations in channelling and creating opportunities for the orphans and less privilege in Northern Nigeria.

The Zonal Coordinator in his presentation, further appreciated all the partners for coming together and identifying the menace of school drop outs in Northern Nigeria and its negative impact in the society.

On his part, the founder "Save A Child Initiative", Awwal Muhammad Musa, welcomed all partners to the event and encouraged public and private sponsorship of the cause.

The programme also showcased the graduation ceremony of the students of IRFA International School and was witnessed by royal father's of Gbagyi and Zazzau Emirate, top state government officials, parents of the graduating students and philanthropist / sponsors of the orphans.

By; MIKE ODEH JAMES, Kaduna

House of Justice, a multi-door justice house in Kaduna- Nigeria, has protested the nomination of the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai, as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stating as basis for the protest, his abysmal human rights violations and mass atrocities record especially during his eight-year tenure as governor of Kaduna State.


The Petition which was signed by Gloria Mabeiam Ballason Esq, the Chief Executive Officer and Advocacy Lead of the organization, cited among other reasons for objection, el-Rufai's admission of being an accessory to murder by paying killers, arbitrary demolition of property of citizens and political opponents, sacking teachers and withholding their salaries, imprisonment and sacking of traditional rulers, journalists and activists as well as the persecution of the Southern Kaduna people.


The petition further noted that there was a pending verdict of Nigeria's parliament that declared el-Rufai as not fit and proper to occupy public office and that international reports such as the 2020 and 2023 British All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) and Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) reports, dishonourably indicted the former governor.


The petition which had attached evidence of the allegations against the embattled former governor, also noted that el-Rufai has no respect for the constitution, rule of law or the code of conduct for public officers and could only fit into a dictatorship and not a democracy.


The petition was signed as received by the office of the Senate President.

By; AISHA USMAN

In pedigree as in political trajectory, in politics as in personal and family life, Malam Nasir Ahmad el-Rufa'i is truly a man of all season.

In retrospect, those who were opportune to know Malam Nasir el-Rufa'i are also well equipped and aware of his temerity, audacity and sagacity of delivery of the right power punch where ever they are necessary in order to achieve the policy mandate of his document or manifesto.

Historically, best on analysis the likes of Malam Nasir el-Rufa'i because of their rareness are only seen or discovered once in political century.

As it were, in Northern Nigeria today, progressive politicians, strategic thinkers, youth associations and the fourth estate of the realm are filled with righteous jubilations for the nomination of Malam Nasir el-Rufa'i as Minister.

Malam has come, he has seen and he has conquered, and by all indication he is going to leave his foot prints on the sand of time and his name will be mentioned in the books of history yet to be written.

Respectfully, the people of Nigeria knowing the words of Malam Nasir Ahmad el-Rufa'i salute the courage, wisdom and foresight of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu for convincing Malam to come to serve in his government in order to rescue the masses from the existential socio- economic and political threats to our nation.

This piece was written and contributed by Aisha Usman

A group under the auspices of democracy and Good Governance (DGG) has cried out the undue exclusion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Christian politicians in Adamawa State.

The group issued a statement condemning the unfairness of the stakeholders who are bent on bringing a Muslim to be part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's cabinet as a minister.

The statement which was jointly signed by Mr. Abraham Pwamadda as the Chairman and Aminu Idris as the secretary, said it is glaring that the APC stakeholders have decided to exclude Christians in Tinubu's line of administration

In their statement, DGG revealed how Christians in APC were used to go on massive propaganda against the Muslim Muslim ticket and were called blackmailers, anti-Christ, and enemies of the church by their fellow Christians.

"But now that party is sitting at its sharing table they are not seeing the need to include a Christian among those that will support Tinubu to work for Nigeria," they said.

They used Taraba as a case study of the party's decision to balance up appointments on religious grounds despite Emmanuel Bwacha, David Sabo Kante, and the rest of the party were not picked but went for a Muslim APC man, Sani Danladi (Contact) in the name balancing the political imbalance.

They urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to apply the same method in balancing the ministerial appointment with any Christian politician in APC, or else the party will be regarded as a political party with Islamic agenda.

DGG said it became a point of call and duty to all critical stakeholders to make APC a party for all Nigeria irrespective of religion, ethnic group and region one belongs.

They opined that if a Christian is not appointed by Tinubu to fill in the Adamawa Ministerial slot, the party should forget about taking over the state from PDP.

"They used Christians in the party to suppress Alhaji Atiku Abubakar's votes even as a strong opponent of Tinubu in the state of his origin.

"But glaring plans to exclude Christians in the party is a call for a clarion call to the president to be wise and handle with care who becomes the next minister from Adamawa State because the exclusion of Christians in the party may cause for national crisis that may not go well With all party members

"All we are saying is fair treatment, inclusion, and carrying everyone in the party along as the broom we are all bounded together as the unity and strength we are preaching all the time.

"The NSA is a Fulani Muslim from the Central zone, it is ideal to look elsewhere to include all segments of the party formation in the interest of unity, peace, and progress, " fhe statement read.

*Condemns ‘bow, go’ ministerial screening exercise by Senate


Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, said the President Bola Tinubu’s administration lacks capacity to fight corruption and criminality in the country.

Frank who made this assertion in a statement in Abuja, also condemned in the strong terms the ongoing “charade” termed ministerial screening by the Godswill Akpabio-led 10th Senate.

He described the appointment of Mr Jim Obazee as a Special Investigator to probe the activities as another waste of time as it only signals the impending serial witch-hunt of opposition party members.

Frank said: “The recent appointment of Jim Obazee as a Special Investigator to probe the activities is another waste of time as it only beckons serial witch-hunting of opposition members.

“It is clear that there is no credibility, zeal or reputation from the ruling party to fight corruption but rather an opportunity for looters and criminals to have a field day again.

“Mr President must be aware that since he is only holding the Commonwealth of the nation albeit temporarily, every decision concerning the Nigerian state must be done with utmost decorum and sincerity to the Nigerian People. The world is watching diligently and history will hold us accountable for our actions and inaction.

“We would like to urge the Judiciary to expedite their verdict on the PEPT and save the country the embarrassment of foisting an illegitimacy as this will only bring about nothing but misery and pain to the nation at large. Their decision must be sacrosanct and decisive in this regard.”

Frank, who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also called for urgent halt to the ongoing ministerial screening exercise by the Senate.

Frank said: “The ongoing ministerial screening in the National Assembly has been nothing short of a national shame and disgrace orchestrated and supervised by a Senate President bent on reinforcing the old order of this sham of an exercise to the bewilderment of Nigerians.

“It is clear from the foregoing in the Red chamber as to the direction of the country under the APC led government.

“The ongoing screening of ministerial nominees is a joke taken too far and an insult to the sensibilities of reasonable Nigerians who are aghast as to the shambolic routine of ‘take a bow and go’ without any cross examination as to the pedigree and competence of these individuals nominated to serve the country.

“What is more amusing is the fact that this charade of an exercise is being supervised by a Senate President who is currently being investigated for various corrupt practices, and therefore is of no obligation in ensuring that the right processes of due diligence is carried out on these individuals to the benefit of the country at large.

“Perhaps it will be safe to opine that even if a known kidnapper or criminal is sent to the NASS for clearance, he will most likely be cleared as the Senate President seems to be highly complacent and compromised in this regard.

“It is highly regrettable that nominees who have pending criminal cases and those who have appeared with questionable certificates and discrepancies in their resume are being told to bow and go without any probing questions as to their sincerity of purpose, notwithstanding the magnitude of the exercise.

“Therefore, I urge the Senate President to discontinue the screening on live television and stop the wastage of tax payers monies to continue with this show of shame on national television.

“Unfortunately this may only be possible because perhaps most of the legislators are aware they didn't come to the Senate legitimately and hence the constant acts of undermining the Nigerian people consistently whilst making a mockery and caricature of the citizens.

“This singular act by the Senate is a pointer to one of the very reasons why several West African countries have recently suffered military take over to the admiration and cheer of the populace having taken the people for a fool for a long time.

“Therefore, Mr President, must invoke his veto power by appointing persons of merit, rather than sending them to the Senate which is of no use in the long run.”

*Says, we are ready to die for our people, nation.


The Arewa Citizens Watch for Good Governance has confirmed that they are not backing down from their planned protest scheduled to take place at the NNPC towers calling for the removal of Mele Kolo Kyari as Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Aminu Abbas, they said this is in light of the ongoing threats and concerted efforts to frustrate the protest.

The group revealed that, "we have uncovered an evil plan by Kyari and his errant boys to infiltrate our protest with hired thugs and goons to cause chaos and turn the exercise of our civil rights from peaceful to a very violent one.

"No matter the intensity of their threats and evil plot, we will go ahead with the protest, we are ready to sacrifice our lives for our people and nation. We are at a point of no return, its now or never. We will not fold our hands and let our people die a merciless and agonising death.

"With the present status quo in Nigeria; hike in price of PMS, catapulting of food prices, hunger, tension and insecurity cannot be averted in our land.

Thus, no reasonable Nigerian will say he is happy with Mele Kolo Kyari, because nothing has improved, we have moved from bad to worst, lingering and damning fuel scarcity, importation of adulterated products, hike in price, facility vandalism and oil theft are the only achievements under Kyari, he has brought nothing but suffering to Nigerian masses while he keeps enriching himself and his circle".

They therefore, called on hungry Nigerians who are the direct receivers of this suffering brought on board by Kyari to come out and protest for their future and that of their children.

"We will occupy the NNPC towers and protest continuously, we will not leave, because ours is not protest of going and coming. We will protest untill Kyari is sacked, it's not his birth right, he has failed, let a more credible and capable hands take over.

"We are finally using this opportunity to notify the relevant security agencies to be more vigilant of the hoodlums that have been hired to disrupt this process, they are not part of us, we urge you to take measure of dealing with them, to aid us in exercising our civil rights," they stressed.

Following a development that saw the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hyacinth Dajoh on Thursday, refuse to make the commissioners designate submitted by Governor Hyacinth Alia known to the public, a pressure group, Congress of Idoma Media Practitioners has warned that Zone C part of the state must not be short changed.

They expressed this in a statement signed by the Secretary General of the Group, Okpani Mike Akatu Odeh and made available to newsmen on Sunday July 30, 2023.

According to the group, keeping the list secret is suspicious.

"We are worried by the decision of the Speaker of Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Hyacinth Dajoh to keep the commissioners designate list to himself. If there is nothing fishy about the list, why is he not making it public?" They queried.

The group warned lawmakers from the Zone C part of the state against supporting any policies of the House of Assembly or the state government that will not favour their people.

" We are issuing this subtle warning to them that if they chose to be rubber stamp lawmakers, we will mobilise heavily in their respective constituencies, demanding for their recall, based on provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria," the Idoma journalists threatened.

It would be recalled that on Thursday, Speaker of Benue Assembly confirmed receipt of 14 out of 16 commissioned designate, but said the nominees would be revealed on screening day.



.

By; Amb ALIYU BIN ABBAS

Introduction:

In the wake of Niger's recent military coup, neighboring Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture, where the butterfly effect of such an event could cast a dark shadow on its own democracy.

As President Bola Tinubu's leadership remains unstable amid the awaited outcome of the tribunal, the nation faces a moment of truth, grappling with the resurgence of military coups that seem to be coming back into fashion.

The potential consequences are profound, and if care is not taken, Nigeria could once again become a pariah state. It is a time of reflection, where the irony of a previously oppressed leader now perceived as an oppressor, raises concerns about the future of democracy and the need for leadership to prioritize peace over personal interests.

The Haunting Shadow of a Military Coup:

The military coup in Niger, which took place few two days ago, has left Nigeria's democracy on edge. The proximity of these two African nations and their interconnected histories make the events in Niger impossible to ignore in Nigeria. The specter of military intervention, raises questions about the fragility of democracy in the region and its susceptibility to external influences.

President Tinubu's Unstable Leadership:

As President Tinubu's leadership hangs in the balance, while awaiting the outcome of the tribunal, the nation faces uncertainty. The lack of stability at the top, further compounds the anxieties of Nigerians, who yearn for a strong and resolute leader. With military coups making a resurgence in the region, the need for steadfast and transparent governance becomes more critical than ever before.

The Irony of the Previously Oppressed:

President Tinubu's past as a political exile, fleeing from an authoritarian government, now comes full circle as he faces criticism for his handling of dissidents and opposition figures. The irony of a once-oppressed leader becoming an oppressor raises concerns about the state of Nigeria's democracy and the erosion of its core principles.

A Chance for a Respected Elder Statesman:

For posterity and the future of Nigeria, President Tinubu must carefully consider his next steps. Accepting the outcome of the electoral tribunal and gracefully stepping down if it doesn't favour him, would afford him the opportunity to become a respected elder statesman. By putting peace and the nation's interests above personal ambitions, he can end his political career on a high note, leaving a positive legacy for generations to come.
Avoiding the Collapse of Nigeria:

The looming threat of a military coup and the potential erosion of democracy should serve as a wake-up call for all Nigerians. It is time for unity and collective action, where citizens must rise above political divisions and prioritize the preservation of their democratic rights.

Conclusion:

As the events in Niger cast a dark shadow on Nigeria's democracy, it is a moment of reckoning for the nation. President Tinubu's leadership remains uncertain, and the resurgence of military coups raises alarm bells for the future. It is imperative for President Tinubu to prioritize peace over personal interests and become a respected elder statesman, safeguarding Nigeria's democracy for generations to come. Only through unity and collective action, can Nigeria avert collapse and reclaim its rightful place as a beacon of democracy in Africa. The time for action is now, and the future of the nation lies in the hands of its people.

The recent events in Niger serve as haunting reminder of the fragility of democracy and the potential consequences that could befall our beloved nation. The butterfly effect of this neighboring coup could send shockwaves through our democratic foundations, threatening to unravel the progress made over the years.

In the midst of this turmoil, President Tinubu's leadership hangs by a thread, caught in the crossfire of the electoral tribunal. The nation holds its breath, hoping for a resolution that will bring stability and clarity. Yet, the resurgence of military coups in the region sends shivers down our spines, conjuring memories of a dark past, when democracy was suffocated under the heavy boot of authoritarian rule.

The irony of it all is heart-wrenching. President Tinubu, once a victim of oppression, now stands accused of turning his back on the very principles he once fought for. The betrayal of trust and the abuse of power leave a bitter taste in the mouths of those who once looked up to him as a symbol of hope and change.
Now, more than ever, Nigeria needs a leader who will rise above personal interests and prioritize the welfare of the nation. It is a chance for President Tinubu to show true statesmanship, to put the people's needs before his own ambitions, and to lead with integrity and compassion.

As we stand at this critical juncture, the fate of Nigeria hangs in the balance. The echoes of history warn us of the perils that lie ahead if we do not take heed. The resurgence of military coups is a grim reminder that our democracy is fragile, and we must defend it with all our might.
For the sake of our children, and their children after them, we must stand united and resolute. We cannot let Nigeria become a pariah state once again, isolated and scorned by the international community. Our ancestors fought for our freedom, and we must honour their sacrifice by preserving and protecting the democratic ideals they held dear.

President Tinubu, this is your moment to write your legacy in the annals of Nigerian history. Embrace the path of peace and reconciliation, and let your actions speak louder than words. Step down gracefully if the tribunal's outcome demands it, and become a beacon of hope and wisdom for the nation.

Together, we can rise above the dark shadows that threaten to engulf us. Let us reject the path of violence and embrace the path of dialogue and understanding. Only by working together, hand in hand, can we build a Nigeria that is resilient, united, and free from the chains of oppression.

The time for action is now, and our future is in our hands. Let us stand firm against any threat to our democracy, for together, as one, we are invincible. Let the world see that Nigeria is a nation of strength, love, and courage, where the voices of the people will always prevail.

May we emerge from this tumultuous period stronger, wiser, and more united than ever before. Let our collective resolve be a shining light, guiding us towards a future of prosperity, justice, and freedom for all.
Amb ALIYU BIN ABBAS is the President National Youth Alliance

*Vow to challenge last minute proscription of ACDA




A group, Lap Abin Atyap has come hard on the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, over what they described as his continuous obsession over their affairs, which they say, must come to an end.

The group expressed this in a statement jointly signed by its
Chairman, Tabakwot Shimkyang and Secretary, Kajang Gona, respectively, made available to newsmen in Kadunà on Sunday July 30, 2023.

"His obsession against the Atyap must stop. “MAI DUKKAH YA SAKA MANA.” the group said.

They were reacting to comments the ex governor allegedly made, while delivering an address at the Launch/retirement event in honour of Professor Ishaq Akintola, the founder of MURIC, HELD ON Saturday July 9, 2023 in Lagos.

Read the full statement below:



EL-RUFAI’S MISCHIEVOUS AND DELIBERATE INCONSISTENCY: THE ATYAP RESPONSE TO EL-RUFAI’S THOUGHTS AT A BOOK LAUNCH/RETIREMENT EVENT IN HONOUR OF PROFESSOR ISHAQ AKINTOLA, THE FOUNDER OF MURIC HELD ON SATURDAY 9TH JULY, 2023 IN THE CONFERENCE HALL, LTV8, IKEJA.


We congratulate Prof. Ishaq Akintola, the founder of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), on his retirement from the academia and wish him good health and a happy retirement.

The Keynote Address delivered by Mr. Nasir El-Rufai at the Book Launch/Retirement Event of Prof. Ishaq Akintola was a deliberate and mischievous manipulation of the facts to deceive his audience. His disparaging remarks on Southern Kaduna people and the Atyap in particular was an attempt to get undeserved sympathy and understanding over his bartered public image which his discriminatory and unpopular governance in Kaduna State brought out. His ungodly comments and his shocking realization and frustration that political power he so much loved and enjoyed has slipped out of his hands forever accounted for his outburst.

It is mischievous, ungodly and blatant falsehood for Mr. El-Rufai to alleged that ‘it was in the decade of military rule after the 1983 Buhari-Idiagbon junta that religion and ethnic identity took on a new resonance.’ It is on record that no government in Nigeria has prominently projected religion and nepotism like the Mr. El-Rufai so call democratic governance. Crucial political appointments and citing of major developmental projects were solely based on who holds their religious belief and belongs to their ethnic group.

His inability to manage Nigeria’s diversity was unmatched. His favoritism and nepotism was not only illegal but raised to the status of a religion.

During Mr. El-Rufai’s 8 years as Governor of Kaduna State, his religion took central stage in the consideration for crucial political appointments and the citing of developmental projects.

For the first time in Kaduna State, Mr. El-Rufai completely abandoned the traditional fair practice of a government of inclusiveness for Christians and Muslims and adopted the notorious Muslim-Muslim ticket and ensured that all crucial political positions like Senior Counsellor ( his de facto Deputy Governor), Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief of Staff, Head of Service, Principal Private Secretary (PPS) and other top government positions were occupied by Muslims and his Hausa/Fulani kinsmen only.

These positions were usually shared between Christians and Muslims to ensure balance and inclusiveness in government.

His claims that such appointments were made on merit was an insult to Christians and other ethnic groups who are as qualified and merited for such appointments as his Hausa/Fulani kinsmen.

To Mr. El-Rufai, only Muslims and his Hausa/Fulani kinsmen can do justice to non Muslims and non Hausa/Fulani ethnic groups.

Certainly, it was El-Rufai that took religion and nepotism ‘on a new resonance’ in Kaduna State and Nigeria in general, and not the military who appreciated and respected Nigeria’s diversity.

Furthermore, all major projects executed by the El-Rufai administration were exclusively cited in Muslim dominated areas in the State. His Urban Renewal Program Projects in Kaduna town were concentrated in Kaduna North Local Government Area while the roads he completed in Kaduna South Local Government Area were only in areas where his Muslim Hausa/Fulani kinsmen reside leaving the few linking Christians areas uncompleted and abandoned.

The same scenario is tenable in Kachia, Kafanchan and other places in Southern Kaduna Local Government Areas.

To show his total disdain for the Atyap who are predominantly Christians, Mr. El-Rufai did not execute a single project in Atyap land throughout his tenure despite repeated promises and the fact that the Atyap are among the three largest ethnic groups in the State. What more is religious and ethnic bigotry than this?

To further demonstrate his incredible prejudice, antipathy and hatred for other ethnic nationalities he mischievously alleged that ‘Zamani Lekwot led ‘indigenous’ Katafs to attack and slaughter thousands of ‘Hausa settlers in Zangon Kataf …’, that His Excellency James Bawa Magaji, an amiable Bajju gentleman, was Kataf.

He had boasted on 11th May, 2023 in a meeting that if he were Governor in 1992 he would have signed the warrant for the execution of the Atyap that were unjustly convicted under Decree 55 by the kangaroo late Benedict Okadigbo’s Tribunal and showed the Atyap ‘pepper’ for daring to defend themselves during the 1992 Zangon Kataf Crises and the several attacks, killings, burning and maiming of Atyap and their villages during his 8 years’ misrule in Kaduna State.

Mr. El-Rufai know that Decree 55 strangely placed the burden of proof of innocence on anybody charged before the Tribunal contrary to the constitutional presumption of innocence of all defendants and the open bias and antagonism shown to the Atyap by late Benedict Okadigbo, the Chairman of the Tribunal turned Chief Persecutor of the Atyap, which led to the withdrawal of Graham Douglas, Esq of blessed memories, from membership of the Tribunal and the defence legal team.

Gen. Zamani Lekwot’s driver, Mohammed Musa, a Muslim, made it clear in court and publicly that Gen. Lekwot and himself were in Kaduna and therefore, no where near Zangon Kataf during the crises despite threats and inducements by the likes of Mr. El-Rufai.

Furthermore, the prosecution witnesses couldn’t even identify Gen. Lekwot in open court under cross-examination. This is the person Mr. El-Rufai want to execute.

Funny enough, Mr. El-Rufai did not sign a single execution warrant for those on death roll in Correctional facilities in the State throughout his tenure as Governor because they are not Atyap.

Mr. El-Rufai’s total lack of empathy over the mass killings of Atyap and burning of their villages during his eight years’ maladministration of Kaduna State is evidence of his disdain and hatred for Atyap and Atyap land.

He rather threatened the Atyap on 11th May, 2023 that the weapons in the hands of Hausa/Fulani in Zangon Kataf town can finish the Atyap within a matter of hours.

We thank God that the attacks, killings, burning and maiming in our land abated with the exit of Mr. El-Rufai from the governance of Kaduna State.

The general public should know that the Atyap Community Development Association (ACDA), a duly registered Incorporated Trustees with the Corporate Affairs Commission, was purportedly proscribed by Mr. El-Rufai on Sunday 28th May, 2023 with retrospective effect to 24th May, 2023 for telling him, (Mr. El-Rufai), the truth on the killings in Atyap land, resisting his bias merger of our Districts from 16 to only 2, sacking of some District Heads for no reason whatsoever and resisting his attempted take-over our land by executive fiat and hand same over to his cronies.

The ACDA being law abiding has never engaged in, been involved in or accused of engaging in any unlawful activities throughout its existence, including during the 8 years’ reign of Mr. El-Rufai as Governor of Kaduna State.

In fact Mr. El-Rufai had a meeting with the ACDA on 11th May, 2023 together with Security Agencies, Fulani and Hausa Representatives, some Non-Governmental Organizations and Peace Advocates in Sir Kashim Ibrahim House (Government House), Kaduna which discussed various issues in the State successfully.

Since that meeting ACDA never had any activity till date. The purported proscription therefore, came to us as a great shock but certainly not surprising. Our lawyers are however handling the issue.

In conclusion we leave Mr. El-Rufai to his conscience and God’s judgment.

His obsession against the Atyap must stop. “MAI DUKKAH YA SAKA MANA.”


Tabakwot Shimkyang,
Chairman, Lap Abin Atyap
Kajang Gona, Secretary

*Suggests dredging Benue River, evacuating flood affected communities

*Says FG should establish Benue Development Commission





Following the alerts issued by the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), that twenty one out of the twenty three local government areas of the state would be affected by flooding coupled with statements from the United Nations Residents and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria that the level of human disaster in Benue State surpassesl the situation in the North East, the Congress of Idoma Journalists Worldwide has called on the Federal Government to take urgent and concreted steps to ameliorate the impeding disaster which may rise from the flood and establish a commission in order to avoid a looming disaster.


The call by the body was contained in statement signed by the Secretary General of the group, Okpani Mike Odeh Akatu on Saturday and made available to the press in Abuja.

According Okpani Akatu, the Federal Government should as a matter of urgency, consider relocating residents of flood affected communities to safer grounds while it embarks on the immediate dredging of River Benue and removing embankments along the the Benue valley

"We know that every year, the Benue valley becomes submerged by the waters from River Benue, it does not have to be so again.

"We call on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, commence the process of relocating residents of flood affected communities to higher abd safer grounds before September.

"Furthermore, the government should commence the immediate dredging of the Benue River starting from the mouth of the river to the lower section.In addition to that, FG should see to it that debris and other embankments impeding the free flow of the river should be removed.

Okpani Akatu also called on the Bola Tinubu administration to start the construction of flood control dam at the upper section of Benue River around the Yola axis.

"At this time of the year, the Cameroonian authority would normally empty the waters from Lagbo Dam into the Benue and that is the major cause of the flood .It is therefore necessary for the Government to construct a dam that would hold up the waters release from the Ladgo in Cameroun.


The Secretary General of the apex Idoma group further urged the Federal Government to create a Benue Development Commission in order to rehabilitate the over two million farmers and others, who were rendered homeless due to incessant attacks by bandits abd foreign herdsmen

In his view, "to rejuvenate agriculture in Benue State which is the breadbasket of the nation, we must have a commission called the Benue State Development Commission

"It is only when farmers in Benue are fully rehabilitated,returned to their farmlands and empowered, then food production in the country would take an upswing, it is in this regard that we deemed it fit to call for a commission established by the Federal Government to do the needful," the statement said.

By; ISAIAH BENJAMIN

When the news of Ministerial nominees filtered into the space with Hon. Barrister Bello Muhammed Goronyo conspicuously captured as nominee from Sokoto State, it was greeted with spontaneous jubilation by not only his political associates, even those who have had their parts crossed with him applauded his nomination, describing it as a well deserved nomination of a man who has paid his dues politically and has contributed in no small measure to the bringing on board of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his role as director of youth mobilization North West in the Presidential campaign Council (PCC), a position he used to galvanized the youths across the northwest states that produced an overwhelming votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate's victory.
Hon. Bello Muhammad born in Sabon Garin Dole of Sokoto State started and completed his first school leaving education at Kofar Marke primary School, Sokoto State in 1981 from were he proceeded to Government College Sokoto and had his Secondary certificate in 1986 after which he bagged a diploma in law from college of Arts and sciences, Sokoto in 1990.
Determined to acquire more academic knowledge and qualifications, he proceeded to bag an LLB from Uthman Danfodio University, Sokoto State in 1997 and for age reasons he was exempted from the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) with an exemption certificate in 1998, thereafter he proceeded to the Nigeria Law School Bwari Abuja and called to Bar in 2001. In 2019, he bagged Masters in Energy security management from the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) Kaduna and another Masters in business management and leadership from London Graduate School , London UK, and thereafter bagged another Masters of Philosophy in Leadership and strategic studies from NDA in 2021 and presently pursuing his Ph.D in Leadership and strategic studies from the same NDA, Kaduna.

Barrister Bello Muhammed had a very meritorious working experience, he worked as Vital Registration Assistant (VRA) with National Population Commission (NPC) from 1991-1992, Legal translator with the Sokoto State House of Assembly from 1992-1993, Principal Orientation Officer (POO) with National Orientation Agency (NOA) from 1993-2001 and took up a lecturing appointment with the State College of Legal and Islamic studies, Sokoto from 2001-2006, practiced with the Adamu Umar and Co (law chambers from 2001-2006 and also with Rafi Law chambers, Sokoto from 2006-2007. The Barrister cum politician ventured into politics in 2003 as member of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) as Legal Committee for the Gubernatorial, National and State Assembly election petition, he became a caretaker Secretary Democractic Peoples Party (DPP) Goronyo local government in 2006 and in 2007, he served as Secretary DPP Congress planning committee, Gubernatarial convention committee and Assistant State legal Adviser 11 of the party in Sokoto State.

Barrister Goronyo was elected member Sokoto State House of Assembly to represent Goronyo Constituency from 2007- 2015. He became the interim organizing Secretary of the party in Sokoto State in 2014 and Goronyo local government campaign coordinator for the 2015 general elections, he was Secretary APC legal committee election petitions of 2015. In recognition of his political sagacity, Barrister Bello Muhammed Goronyo was appointed as Commissioner Ministry for Solid Minerals & Natural Resources Development, Sokoto State. from 2015-2017, deployed as Commissioner Ministry of Energy Development, Sokoto State in 2017-2018 and then further deployed as Commissioner Ministry of Information, Sokoto State, a position he held from 2018-2019 before he voluntarily resigned after serving meritoriously in all the Ministries he served as Commissioner. He got elected as Zonal Secretary APC North West in 2022 and appointed I to the APC campaign council as Director National Youth mobilization North West of the Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) in 2023, a position he served with proven results.

The Ministerial nominee has served in several capacities including as Chairman Screening and flight schedule committee 2015 Hajj operations after serving as member in 2012, 2013, and 2014. He also served as Chairman welfare and entertainment committee for the inauguration of the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, he was a two times member Sokoto State Constitutional Review Committee, Chairman for the harmonization of two communiqués at the retreat held at Katsina between the Executive and the Legislature on the one hand and RTiLead on the other hand. As Member of Sokoto State House of Assembly, he was Chairman House Committee on Judiciary (SOHA) from 2007-2011 and Minority leader of the House within same period. He became Chairman House Committee on Rural Development from 2011-2015 and became Deputy House Leader from 2011- January 2015 and Deputy Speaker SOHA from January 2015- May 2015, he served as Chairman Transportation Committee in Saudi Arabia for the 2015 Hajj Operation in Mecca, Minna, Arafat, Muzdalifa, and Secretary, Planning and Implementation Committee, Chairman Jama'a system Consults, Chairman Community Mobilisation & Development initiative (COMDI), Secretary planning and implementation committee North West University, Sokoto, Sokoto State from 2020 till date.

Barrister Bello Muhammed belongs to several clubs and Associations where he contributes immensely to humanity and societal growth and development. As a trained lawyer, he is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Member Environmental Society of Nigeria, Member Nagarta Old Boys Association, Interim Legal Adviser NBA Sokoto Branch, 2013, Patron, Buhari/Osinbajo Vanguard for Change, Member Federal Road Safety Corps, Special Marshal National Legal Adviser Stop Cancer Foundation, Founder Goronyo West Development Association, Secretary General & Founder Sultan Aliyu Babba Foundation, Legal Adviser Goronyo Progressive Union, Member State Committee on the review of 1999 Constitution, As Member ANPP Legal Committee 2003 General Elections, Patron, Adolescent Girls Project, Patron, Community Mobilization & Development Initiative, Patron, Sarkin Yamma Peace Initiative, Unity Ambassador for Africa, Peace Ambassador Youth Federation for World Peace, Legal Adviser UDUS Alumni Association Sokoto State Chapter, 2013.Legal Adviser Jama’a System Consult North West Zonal Vice Chairman Northern Youth Assembly, National President, Network for reduction of Maternal Mortality and Morbidity in Nigeria, Legal Adviser Stop Cancer Foundation.

The political juganut has won for himself several National and International Awards/Certificates which include Youth Ambassador for Peace, Arewa Patriotic Vanguard, Special Legislature Award, Hope alive award by Stop Cancer Foundation, Global Life time Achievers Int’l Gold Award, (GLAIGA 2010) Ghana.Goronyo L/Govt Student Assoc. (GOLSA) Certificate of Merit Award, Unity Ambassador for Africa Merit Award, Adolescent Girls Project Merit Award, Letter of commendation from the Goronyo Community – 2008.

The happilly married erudite lawyer, academician, politician and father of four is widely travelled within and outside Nigeria brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of achievements to the position of Minister in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's new government. With an extensive political career that includes serving as a Member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Commissioner for various ministries in Sokoto State, and holding significant positions within the APC, he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills and dedication to public service.

His educational background, including pursuing a Ph.D. in Leadership and Strategic Studies, reflects his commitment to continuous learning and enhancing his expertise in leadership. His legal qualifications, including a BL from the Nigerian Law School, equip him with a solid foundation to navigate legal matters and policy implementation effectively.

Hon. Bello Muhammad's experience as Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly and Chairman of several committees showcases his ability to lead and manage legislative affairs. He has also been actively involved in international engagements, fostering diplomatic relations and promoting Nigeria's interests on a global platform.

In addition to his political achievements, Hon. Bello Muhammad's community involvement and dedication to humanitarian causes highlight his commitment to the welfare of the people.

As Minister in President Tinubu's new government, his experience, qualifications, and leadership abilities will play a pivotal role in contributing to the development of Nigeria. With a focus on good governance, inclusive policies, and strategic planning, he is well-positioned to drive positive change and foster economic growth. His dedication to public service, coupled with his legal expertise, will enable him to address critical challenges facing the nation and work towards a more prosperous and united Nigeria.
Barr. Bello Muhammad-Goronyo is a distinguished politician with a remarkable legacy of public service and leadership. He is known for his demand for excellence and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his people.His leadership style is characterized by fairness, strong determination, and a continuous quest for improvement in the development of Sokoto State. As a visionary leader, he has consistently supported and empowered the youth by providing scholarships for master's education, enabling them to become more competitive and better equipped to contribute significantly to the progress of the state. As Minister in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's new government, I am confident that his experience, qualifications, and passion for transformative development will bring positive changes and advancement to Nigeria as a whole. His dedication to fostering growth and progress aligns well with the aspirations of the nation, and I am certain that under his leadership, Nigeria will witness significant strides towards a prosperous future for all. The choice of Hon. Bello Muhammed is a right choice and am certain he will bring his rich wealth of political and societal knowledge to bare in moving Nigeria forward. His relationship with Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko which is a mentor Mentee relationship is yet another plus for him, he is a true believer of Senator Wamakko's Political ideology which has greatly helped him in all his political achievements. He has been tested and trusted and has the capacity to deliver on mandate, his nomination is a round peg in round hole. His wealth of political experience cut across the three arms of Government ie Legislature, Excecutive and Judiciary. He is a complete party man who occupied various party positions from the local Government, State, Zonal and National level. A desendant of Sultan Muhammadu Bello of Sheik Usman bn fodio Islamic jihadist, he is a born leader who has never failed in any given responsibility and I can say without fear or favour that President Tinubu will be proud over his appointment as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I make bold to say that Hon.(Barr)Bello Muhammad Dip Law, LL.B,BL,MESM,MPhil,CMC is a man whose choice as a Minister is a right choice.

Isaiah Benjamin is a Kaduna based Journalist and writes from Kaduna.

*Says Nigeria better off for the Reps Speaker's wise choice


President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod has described the emergence of Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, a member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State as Chairman House Committee on Sports in the 10th House of Representatives as a welcome development.


In a statement signed by the Media representative on the Kaduna State Volleyball Association (KADSVA) Board, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson and made available to the sporting press in Kaduna on Friday July 28, 2023, Nimrod said that sports in Nigeria is up for gearing days ahead.

*As a dedicated sportsman and administrator who is now a lawmaker at the Green Chambers, Nigeria is looking forward to brighter days in the sports sector.

"I have personally worked with him and know his passion for sports development. He is indeed one of a kind and Nigeria will gain a whole lot from this," he said.

He commended the Speaker for taking the best decision ever, which he believes will translate to brighter prospects for the nation especially at international outings.

"Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams till date, is a member of the Kaduna State Volleyball Association (KADSVA), an his contributions have been invaluable. Nigeria needs that kind of dedication to move ahead," Nimrod added.

Nimrod who is also the chairman of KADSVA, therefore, congratulated Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams and wished him success in the assigned role.


It would be recalled that the House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, named the committees and their chairmen on Thursday, with a delighted Honourable Ekene Adams saying, "Good evening all, I am using this medium to appreciate God Almighty and also thank you all for your prayers and best wishes. I have been appointed as the Chairman House Committee on Sports. To my boss, President of Remo Stars Football Club of Ikenne, Honourable Kunle Soname and everyone I remain loyal."


.

The elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the six states of the North-Central have declared their support for the choice of former governor of Kano state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the next national chairman of the ruling party.

The elders, led by the former military governor of Plateau and Katsina states, Maj Gen. Lawrence Anebi Onoja (Rtd), and other prominent APC leaders across the zone, said President Bola Tinubu and the Progressives Governors Forum have weighed Ganduje’s leadership capacity, commitment and experience to lead the party well before taking that decision.

Addressing a press conference Friday in Abuja, Maj Gen. Onoja said there is a vacuum in the leadership of APC great party which need to be filled following the resignation of the former chairman Senator Abdullahi Adamu, hence the choice of Ganduje.

"It is not surprising therefore that since the Progressives Governor's Forum endorsed and announced Ganduje's candidature, many political interest groups have similarly endorsed him to lead the party in an acting capacity.

"We as representatives of elders of the party from North Central Zone are here today in continuation of the series of endorsements of Abdulahi Ganduje. We represent different elder's groups of the party in the zone.

"Of the series of endorsements, ours is one of the most significant because we are from the same geo political zone with the former National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu who resigned recently.

"We are concerned with merit, quality and continuity in leadership for our party, We are in no doubt Ganduje will play that chairmanship role very effectively in the an acting capacity.

"For these reasons, we hereby collectively endorse him to chair our great party to continue where Abdullahi Adamu stopped in steering the ship of the party until substantive leadership positions are filled at the next convention in line with the party's constitution."

While rallying support of all the stakeholders from the North-Central in particular and across the country, Onoja, in company of other 19 elders from the zone urged all members of the ruling party to share the same sentiment with them.

"We implore all concerned and the media to share in our collective desire for him to succeed, for the party to succeed and for the interest of Nigeria," he said.

Following his emergence as the Chairman of Committee on Sports in the House of Representatives, President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Isaiah Kemje Benjamin has congratulated Honourable Abubakar Ekene Adams.

This was expressed in a statement signed by his media Aide, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, dated Thursday July 27, 2023.

"This appointment is well deserved. Honourable Ekene Adams has been an athlete, an administrator and a core lover of sports.

" I recall years back, when few disgruntled elements tried to cause confusion in Kaduna SWAN when I was the chairman, he made a difference by coming in to pacify all parties involved, " SWAN President recalled.

He expressed optimism that Honourable Ekene Adams would do a lot to impact sports positively as Reps Sports Committee chairman.

" We wish him well as he chairs the committee and appeal to all members of his committee and agencies they will oversight to give him the maximum cooperation, " Benjamin said.

It would be recalled that Honourable Ekene Adams, the Chairman and CEO of former Kada City FC, which played in the Premier League, was until his venture into politics in 2023, the General Manager of Remo Stars.

He also chaired a sports committee created by immediate past Kaduna State Speaker, Ibrahim Zailani.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth leaders from the North-Central and other stakeholders have expressed support for the candidacy of former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to emerge as the next National Chairman of the ruling party.

Ganduje’s name has been reportedly favoured by President Bola Tinubu and the governors of the APC following the resignation of the former National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu.

The report has, however, generated reactions with some members of the APC demanding that the North-Central produce Adamu's replacement.

Addressing a press conference today in Abuja, Convener of the Coalition of North-Central APC Youth Leaders and Support Groups, Comrade Okpokwu Ogenyi, said the stakeholders from the zone have endorsed Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who he described as "a party man who has distinguished himself as an intellectual of high repute."

Comrade Ogenyi expressed optimistic that APC under Ganduje shall complement the implementation of President Tinubu's blueprint for the benefit of Nigerians.

"The North Central States consists of Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. The zone is a political hub owing to its political dominance ranging from the Military government down to the current civilian rule.

"We the people of North Central have occupied National Chairmanship position of all ruling parties in the Country and have done well in terms of party administration. We are proud to say that a Chairman from the zone led the party to victory in the last residential election.

"Today, our father who was the National Chairman of the APC has resigned his position thereby making the post vacant. As you maybe aware, there is no vaccum in governance so a competent hand must be employed in order to over our party forward.

"It is on this note that we wholeheartedly endorse Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the National Chairman of our great Party, APC. Abdullahi Ganduje is a party man who has distinguished himself as an intellectual of high repute.

"As North Central Youths, one maybe tempted to ask why we should not clamour for the position to be retained in the zone. The truth is, we have contributed our quota and wish other zones to be also given the opportunity to participate in the Party's administration."

While calling on all stakeholders from North-central and other zones to respect President Bola Tinubu's choice of Ganduje, the convener said: "We the North Central people are far above trivilism, greed and selfishness when it comes to the National interest. We firmly believe that Dr Ganduje is the best man for the job at this moment. Remember, Ganduje served Kano State for eight years and he performed credibly well. Kano under Ganduje became an example of development not only in Nigeria but Africa at large.

"We are optimistic that APC under Ganduje shall complement the implementation of President Tinubu's blueprint for the benefit of Nigerians."

*Says as team player, would lift sports higher

*Commends Gov Uba Sani over portfolio



The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kaduna State Chapter, has congratulated Professor Benjamin Kumai Gugong on his portfolio as the Commissioner, Ministry of Sports Development.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Shehu Abdullahi and Secretary, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, dated Thursday July 27, 2023.

SWAN said that it is optimistic that the heading of the sports ministry by the erudite scholar would lead to greater heights for sports in the state.

"We are excited to learn of the portfolio of an erudite scholar, Professor Benjamin Kumai Gugong as the Ministry of Sports Development Commissioner.

"As a scholar, we believe he will use his ability to research to lift the ministry. As a team player, we are also comfortable with him being handed the ministry, believing that all stakeholders, including SWAN and its members would be carried along.

"Few weeks ago, Kaduna State was put on the world map with the emergence of one of its own, Isaiah Benjamin as SWAN President at an election held in Omoku, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This is yet another plus for sports in the state," the statement said.

SWAN therefore, commended Governor Uba Sani for bringing whom they described as " A Man Of The People" to the sports ministry.

The group also urged all the Permanent Secretary, Directors, senior staff, coaches and all workers in the ministry to cooperate with the new Commissioner to take sports in the state to greater heights.

Professor Gugong, until his appointment as commissioner, was a Professor of Accounting and Finance at the
Department of Accounting ,Kaduna State University, Kaduna -Nigeria.


He has earned a B.Sc.; M.Sc.; Ph.D. in (Accounting & Finance).



He is a competent, committed and experienced lecturer, who has over 20 years of experience in the educational sector.

Professor Gugong has taught various courses in tertiary institutions. He has the ability to use humour and imagination in a lecture room setting to encourage a learning culture amongst students.

He is easy going by nature and able to get along with both work colleagues, students and administrators.

He is currently focused on developing a career by training himself in every capacity and opportunity given.

The new Sports Commissioner was born on June 29, 1973 at Kagoro, Kaduna State.

He is happily married and blessed with three children.

By; BASHIR BELLO DOLLARS, Kaduna

In a significant boost to the healthcare services in Katsina State, Governor Mallam Dikko Umar Radda on Tuesday, received a generous donation of a brand new Ambulance from Submed Nigeria Ltd.

The presentation ceremony took place at the Muhammadu Buhari House, where His Excellency Malam Dikko Umaru Radda was presented with an Emergency Intensive Care Ambulance by SUBMED Nigeria Limited, a reputable company specializing in the sales and supplies of medical equipment in Nigeria.

The governor, visibly pleased with the well-equipped ambulance, took the time to inspect the vehicle before it was taken into service.

Expressing his appreciation, Governor Radda acknowledged that the Ambulance is fully equipped with all the necessary medical facilities to provide immediate first aid to patients en route to the hospital. He emphasized that this contribution will play a crucial role in supporting the healthcare needs of patients in the state.

As a testament to the government's commitment to ensuring efficient healthcare services, Governor Radda announced that a skilled and trained driver would be designated to operate the Ambulance. Special training will be provided to the selected driver to handle the vehicle effectively and ensure prompt response during emergencies.

The presentation ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Government of the State, Architect Ahmed Dangiwa; the Chief of Staff at the Government House, Alhaji Jabiru Tsauri; and the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji.

Governor Radda extended his heartfelt gratitude to management of Submed Nigeria Ltd for this generous donation, emphasizing that such partnerships between the private sector and the government are vital in advancing healthcare delivery programs in the state.

The addition of the Emergency Intensive Care Ambulance to Katsina State's medical resources will undoubtedly bolster emergency response capabilities and contribute to the well-being of the citizens.

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, (AYCF) has joined calls for an end to the continuous detention of Alhaji Aminu Idris Yaro, the Sarkin Hausawa of Lagos, saying it is arbitrary and breach of his fundamental right to personal liberty.

AYCF in a statement by its President, Yerima Shettima, made available to our correspondent yesterday, said it is regrettable that in the 21st century, Nigeria’s security agencies would still arrogate to themselves powers of arrest and arbitrary detention of individuals in case in which there is no likelihood or evidence that they committed a crime against legal statute.


"In the instant case of the arrest and detention of the Sarkin Hausawa of Lagos there has been no proper due process of law or order."Virtually the Sarkin Hausawa and other individuals who are arbitrarily arrested and detained by the DSS are given no explanation as to why they are being arrested, and they are not shown any arrest warrant," Shettima said in the statement.


Shettima noted that depending on the social context, Sarkin Hausawa and the vast majority of arbitrarily arrested individuals are held incommunicado by the DSS and their whereabouts concealed from their family, associates, the public population and open trial courts.

He said arbitrarily depriving an individual of their liberty is prohibited under international human rights law. "Article 9 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights decrees that "no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile"


"This in essence means that regardless of circumstances, it is wrong for the DSS to deprive the Sarkin Hausawa of his liberty without proper due process of law and without having first committed an actual criminal offense against a legal statute.

"As well, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights specifies the protection from arbitrary arrest and detention by the Article 9," he said. The implementation of the Covenants is monitored by the United Nations human rights treaty bodies.

AYCF said the incarceration of the Sarkin Hausawa by the DSS for an indefinite amount of time without a trial amounts to violating Nigerian and international laws, particularly human rights laws."In recent times, we regret to say, the DSS has perfected the practice of indefinitely incarcerating individuals such as the Sarkin Hausawa who is held merely for being friends with suspended CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele who himself is being detained without due process.


"We wonder at what point being friends with people who are being investigated has become an offence. In that case almost all big personalities in Nigeria who are friends with Emefiele should be arrested and detained.

"We therefore, view the singling out of the Sarkin Hausawa for such irreverent treatment as a deliberate attempt to ridicule the revered traditional institution in the country which is unavoidable. "We remind President Bola Tinubu to the reality that he is as well a product of struggles for protection of human rights and should therefore not allow human rights breaches to be perpetrated in his administration.

"We demand the immediate unconditional release of the Sarkin Hausawa or in the alternative, the enforcement of his right to be produced before a court of law within 48 hours which has been breeched already by the DSS.

"We finally expect the northern traditional institution to rise to the occasion and speak out in the protection of the sanctity of the traditional heritage which obviously is being scandalized using Sarki Aminu as scapegoat," Shettima said.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to urgently reopen probe into circumstances leading to the extrajudicial murder of a young man by police in Bayelsa State during the tenure of Chief Timipre Sylva as governor.

Frank made this appeal in a petition titled: “Who killed Ken Niweigha? A call to the inspector General of Police to investigate the tenure of Timipre Sylva as the Governor of Bayelsa State and police complicity in his murder” which was addressed to the IGP Egbetokun.

Frank’s petition dated 24th July, 2023, was signed by his lawyer, Ernest Onyebuchi Olenyi, Esq of Enahoro & Associates chambers based in Abuja.

The petition reads in part: “The tragic incident at the heart of this petition involves the extrajudicial killing of Mr. Ken Niweigha, a prominent figure in the Odi Community of Bayelsa State.

“According to news reports and Amnesty International's research, the circumstances surrounding his death are highly contentious and have raised significant concerns about the conduct of the Nigerian police and the state of the justice system under the watch of the then Chief Security Officer and Governor of the State, Chief Timipre Sylva.

“On May 26, 2009, Mr. Ken was arrested by the police and subsequently taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department (State CID) in Yenagoa.

“During his arrest, he was paraded in front of the media, accused of leading the Egbesu Boys armed group in Bayelsa State, and implicated in the killings of 12 policemen, which led to the infamous Odi massacre in 1999.

“The police claimed that Ken had agreed to cooperate and lead them to his hideout in Odi, where he would surrender all his weapons and be prosecuted.

“However, conflicting narratives emerge from different sources, raising questions about the veracity of the police's version of events.

“The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), an affiliation of armed groups in the oil-rich Niger Delta, claimed that Ken Niweigha was executed by the police, asserting that extra-judicial executions are ‘shockingly common’ in Nigeria, attributing this to the lack of effectiveness within the police force.

“MEND's accusation suggested that the police were responsible for the killing of Ken Niweigha without due legal process.

“The police, on the other hand, presented a different account of the events leading to Ken Niweigha's death.

“Police Commissioner, Mr. Onouha Udeka stated that during the course of escorting Ken Niweigha to his hideout in Odi, a prearranged ambush took place, initiated by his gang.

“As a result, a shootout ensued between the gang and the police, in which Ken Niweigha lost his life.

“The police maintained that he was the only fatality in the exchange, and no officers were injured.

“The circumstances surrounding Ken Niweigha's death, coupled with the broader context of extrajudicial killings in Nigeria, raise serious concerns about the conduct of the police and the need for a thorough and impartial investigation.

“The situation surrounding Ken Niweigha's death has evoked deep concern and unrest within the Odi Community and beyond.

“As the Coordinator of Bayelsa State Volunteers in Odi, his role and relationship with the government further intensify the need for an independent investigation to establish the truth and hold accountable those responsible for his death.”

Frank who is the Ambassador of the United Liberation Movement for West Papau (ULMWP), urged the IGP to investigate the circumstances leading to the murder of “Daddy Ken” and expose the culprits to bring closure to the unfortunate incident and prevent such extrajudicial murders in future.

*Demands security beef up around ex-VP


A political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has called on the Federal Government to urgently investigate attempted Boko Haram attack on the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Frank also asked the Federal Government to beef up security around the former Vice President, even as he called the attention of the calling on the international community to the development in Nigeria.

The political activist revealed that some suspected Boko Haram members made attempt on the life of Atiku Abubakar on Sunday at his residence in Yola, Adamawa State.

In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, Timi Frank said the arrested suspect confessed to Police a grand plot to plant bomb the Modibbo Adama Central Mosque, the residence of the Atiku as well as the American University in Yola.

The statement reads: "Security information reaching us earlier today has it in authority that about 4 Boko Haram members all the way from Danboa, Borno State made their way at about 9:45pm local time yesterday (23/07/2023) to the Yola residence of His Excellency, the Waziri Adamawa (Atiku Abubakar) and identified themselves upon confirmation of the residence as to their mission in Adamawa.

"Reacting swiftly, the Dougirei Police command was immediately tipped off as the ring leader was promptly arrested with the rest fleeing from the premises.

"Upon investigation by the SCID Adamawa State Police HQ, it was verified and confirmed that the suspect confessed to a grand plot to plant bombs in the Modibbo Adama Central Mosque, the residence of the Waziri as well as the American University in Yola.

"These confessions of the dreaded Boko Haram sect are troubling and worrisome, as this is the first time an attempted attack of this magnitude would be planned on the person of HE Atiku Abubakar."

Narrating the incident further, Frank said: "It is quite shocking that this is coming at a time the Federal Government had given assurance to the citizens of the decimation of the dreaded group, let alone an attempt on a high profile personality like H.E Atiku Abubakar.

"Having received the official Police HQ Situation Report, we would like to call on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency beef up adequate security around the former Vice President, with swift investigation into unraveling the circumstances leading to Atiku as a target by this group.

"There is no gainsaying that it will be foolhardy on the part of the Federal Government treat this security breach with kid gloves as after effects in the event of any eventuality will be enormous for the country to contain.

"Furthermore, we must note that all through the active years of the Boko Haram sect ravaging the North-east not a single attempt was made on the person of H.E Atiku Abubakar, and we are curious as to the timing of this planned attack in this manner."

He, however, called on International Community "to take notice, that only recently the INEC confirmed in the PEPT on HE winning in 21 states and therefore sending shock waves to the opposition and current government on the possibility of a rerun election.

"Perhaps this grand plot is being sponsored by top opposition politicians to assassinate the former VP in a bid to cause chaos and deny him any chance of retrieving his stolen mandate. We are therefore circumspect in this regard.

"Therefore, any collaborators or sponsor of this dastardly ideas must be fished out forthwith to forestall any untoward reactions towards the FG and rogue politicians alike. Nonetheless, it is imperative for the FG to immediately get to the root of this matter urgently with a view to bringing all accomplices to book.

"I am confident that the Federal Government will take this security breach as a matter of national emergency."

*Names North-West, North-Central VPs, More Ex-Officio


The President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Kemje Benjamin has appointed the Online Editor of New Nigerian Newspapers, Jacob Onjewu Dickson as his media Aide.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Secretary-General, SWAN, Ikenna Okonkwo, dated Sunday July 23, 2023, which also announced other key appointments.
"The newly inaugurated leadership of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) led by Mr. Isaiah Benjamin has approved the appointments of Vice Presidents for North-west and North-central zones.

"They are Mr. Mansour Mohammed and Mr. Olayinka Owolewa.

"While Mansour oversees North-west, Olayinka takes charge of North-Central," the statement said.

It informed that the two VPs National officers of SWAN had served the professional association in various capacities including being secretaries of their various states of Kano and Kwara respectively.

The National President after ratification by the National Executive Committee of SWAN also appointed Mr. Gabriel Nwanetanya and Usman Abbas Shehu as Ex-Officio.

Gabriel and Usman have been notable as NEC members at different times previously.

"The appointees are all expected to bring their various wealth of experience to bare in advancing the growth and development of the association.

"The VPs are expected to take charge of their various zones and ensure proper coordination of the states within their zones in line with SWAN statutes in a bid to contribute immensely in the current administration's efforts geared towards taking SWAN to higher heights.

"As a leadership, we are committed to advancing the course of sports writing in Nigeria. Together, we will make it happen," the SWAN President said on Sunday.

He said the new appointments are with immediate effect, while other vacant National positions would be made in due course.

"Meanwhile, the SWAN President has appointed Mr. Onjewu Jacob Dickson as his Media Assistant.

"Jacob who is based in Kaduna is also the incumbent Secretary of SWAN in the state," the statement said.

Justices presiding over the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) have been called upon to give justice to Nigerians now that it is clear that former vice President, Atiku Abubakar won the February 25, 2023 presidential election as against Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was erroneously declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, who made the call in a statement today in Abuja, also urged the Appeal Court Justices to use the opportunity afforded by the revelation by INEC that Atiku won 21 states in the presidential election to redeem the lost image of the judiciary.

He insisted that now that INEC has voluntarily admitted on record that Atiku won 21 states instead of the 12 states it earlier credited to him, the Tribunal need not look further but to declare the former Vice President as the authentic winner of the February 25, 2023 presidential election.

INEC had, in its response to Atiku Abubakar’s and PDP’s joint petition revealed that the PDP presidential candidate won 21 States of the Federation in the February 25 presidential election.

The 21 states listed by INEC as having been won by Atiku and PDP are Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Ekiti, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Osun, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara.

“This definitely shows clearly that Atiku’s results were swapped with that of Tinubu to make him win, albeit fraudulently. The justices owe it to themselves, Nigerians and God to declare Atiku the rightful winner of the 2023 presidential election.

“We know the justices of the Appeal Court hearing the petition challenging the the declaration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of the presidential election are under tremendous pressure coupled with vile threats and intimidation to maintain an illegal status quo, but they must not succumb because the pressure of God that will be on them should they neglect this material fact would be more than the pressure from men.

“It must never be said that the man who won the least number of states and votes became president as against the man who won majority of states and votes.

“We cannot afford to go back to the era of impunity in this country when the Nigeria Governors’ conducted an election and declared that man who won 15 votes winner rather than the man that won 19 votes.

Frank who is the Ambassador of the United Liberation Movement for West Papau (ULMWP), to the East Africa and Middle East, urged the justices to be courageous in doing substantial justice in the present case, despite high-wired pressures and intimidations against them notwithstanding.

He said: “Now that that the tribunal's justices have heard arguments from all the parties in the suits, they should know that Nigerians are looking forward to them to do substantial justice and not ruling based on technicalities.

“We want to remind you that whatever judgment you give at the end of the day will remain as precedent in future. We implore you not to hand down a precedent where clear acts of criminality as witnessed during the Presidential Election will now be the law and order of the day in Nigeria.

“We strongly hold that this is not time to rule based on technicalities or to throw out well-reasoned, germane, valid and powerful submissions by the opposition parties.

“We want to remind you that this is one case where the world is waiting for the outcome and besides, the case presents the Nigerian judiciary an ample opportunity to write its name in gold in the heart of Nigerians and to prominently emplace Nigeria in the map of countries that believe and uphold the principles of fairness, equity and justice. Whatever you do with this judgment is what you will be remembered for.

“The Justices must be resolute and remain faithful to their oath of office and allegiance by carrying out their assignment without fear or favour.

“They must not succumb to any form of blackmail or intimidation. They must borrow a leaf from their counterparts in Kenya who recently saved their country from catastrophe through their courageous verdict.”