SOKAPU youth wing demands transparent probe into Mary Habila’s death

The Youth Wing of the Southern Kaduna Peoples’ United Associations (SOKAPU) has called for a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the death of Miss Mary Habila, saying only a credible probe can establish the truth and ensure justice.

In a statement signed by its National Youth Leader, Ambassador Solomon Simon, the group expressed sadness over Habila’s death, describing it as a tragedy that has left her family, the Southern Kaduna community and many Nigerians seeking answers.

The youth wing extended condolences to the deceased’s family, praying for strength to bear the loss and for the repose of her soul.

The group said its demand for justice was not intended to politicise the incident or prejudge anyone but was based on the belief that every Nigerian life is sacred and deserving of justice.

According to the statement, conflicting accounts surrounding the circumstances of Habila’s death, including public comments by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and updates from the Nigeria Police Force, make an impartial investigation even more necessary.

“It is neither our responsibility nor our intention to determine which account is accurate. That responsibility rests solely with the relevant law enforcement authorities charged with uncovering the truth through a credible and impartial investigation,” the statement said.

SOKAPU urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Ebonyi State Police Command and other relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted without fear, favour or external interference.

The group also called for strict adherence to lawful investigative procedures, regular updates to the deceased’s family on significant developments, public release of the investigation’s findings in accordance with the law, and prosecution of anyone found culpable, irrespective of status or influence.

While acknowledging reports regarding the family’s position on further forensic procedures, the youth wing appealed to all parties to cooperate with lawful investigative processes capable of establishing the facts, stressing that justice is best served through professional and transparent investigations conducted with respect for the family’s dignity.

It further urged the Federal Government to allow investigative agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibilities independently, noting that public confidence in governance is strengthened when justice is seen to be done.

The organisation also appealed to the media to prioritise verified facts over speculation and urged the people of Southern Kaduna to remain calm and pursue justice through lawful and peaceful means.

“Mary Habila can no longer speak for herself. Her family mourns, and her community grieves. The responsibility to establish the truth now rests with the institutions empowered by law to do so,” the statement added.

AYCF disowns statement backing Gbajabiamila, launches probe

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has dissociated itself from a purported statement circulated in its name backing the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, over the controversy surrounding the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

In a statement signed by its President-General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the forum said it never issued any official position on the matter and urged the public to disregard the publication.

“The publication being circulated does not emanate from the leadership of the AYCF and should therefore be disregarded by members of the public,” Shettima said.

He explained that the forum was still studying developments surrounding the controversy and would only make its position known after due consultations and careful evaluation of all available facts.

According to him, the AYCF remains committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration but stressed that its support for the government does not prevent it from demanding due process, fairness and accountability in matters of public interest.

The forum expressed concern over what it described as the unauthorized use of its name, saying the action was capable of misleading the public and damaging its credibility.

Shettima disclosed that the AYCF had commenced an internal investigation to identify those behind the purported statement and any collaborators involved in attributing the publication to the organisation.

He added that the forum would also formally write to the media organisation that published the report to demand an explanation on how the statement was attributed to the AYCF without verification from its recognised leadership.

The AYCF urged Nigerians to rely only on statements issued through its official channels, reaffirming its commitment to national unity, peace, stability and responsible public engagement.

Senate’s Arrest Order Against Kyari Raises Due Process Concerns – Arewa Youths

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The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has condemned the arrest order reportedly issued against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr. Mele Kyari, by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, describing the action as capable of undermining the principles of fairness and due process.

In a statement issued on Thursday  signed by its president, Alhaji Danbature Abdul, the group expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of trial by media and premature public judgment before the conclusion of investigations.

AYAGL acknowledged the constitutional oversight responsibilities of the National Assembly but stressed that such powers must be exercised in accordance with justice, fairness, and established legal procedures.

The group noted that reports indicated that Kyari had communicated his inability to appear before the committee due to medical treatment outside the country and had expressed readiness to honour the invitation upon his return.

According to the youth organisation, the decision to issue an arrest order under such circumstances raises questions about proportionality and respect for due process.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. No individual, institution, region or political group owns this country. Every Nigerian citizen deserves to be treated fairly and accorded the constitutional right to be heard before judgment is passed,” the statement said.

AYAGL also appealed to Senator Adams Oshiomhole to ensure that the matter is handled in a manner that does not create the impression of personal bias.

The group described Oshiomhole as a respected national leader with a longstanding reputation for advocating justice, democracy and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, urging him to promote objectivity and national cohesion in the handling of the matter.

It further warned against attempts by individuals or groups to use public institutions to settle scores or discredit achievements recorded in the petroleum sector during Kyari’s tenure at NNPCL.

The organisation maintained that under Kyari’s leadership, the national oil company witnessed significant reforms, including the publication of audited financial statements, implementation of key provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), strengthening of corporate governance structures, attraction of investments, refinery rehabilitation efforts and initiatives aimed at improving accountability across the petroleum value chain.

While insisting that no public official should be shielded from scrutiny, AYAGL stressed that investigations must not be transformed into persecution or public conviction before the establishment of facts.

The group also called on national leaders to focus attention on pressing challenges facing the country, including insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and youth development.

According to AYAGL, national discourse should be directed towards strengthening economic reforms, promoting national unity and addressing issues affecting the daily lives of citizens rather than creating distractions capable of deepening divisions.

It therefore urged the Senate Committee on Public Accounts and other stakeholders to ensure that all investigations are conducted professionally, fairly and without prejudice.

The group reiterated its commitment to accountability, transparency and the rule of law, while rejecting any attempt to criminalise or demonise individuals before the conclusion of due process.

“Nigeria’s democracy will flourish when justice is guided by evidence, fairness and due process, not by media sensationalism, political pressure or public hysteria,” the statement added. :

ENDS

Tinubu Secures 5,652 Votes in Kebbi Governor’s Ward as Idris, Dakingari, Bagudu Lead Mobilisation

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, alongside the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Abubakar Bagudu, and Ambassador Saidu Usman Dakingari, successfully mobilised support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who secured 5,652 votes in Nassarawa II Ward, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Declaring the results after collation, the Kebbi State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu polled 5,652 votes in the Governor’s ward.

The APC chairman commended the electorate for their orderly conduct and coordination, which contributed to the party’s victory.

While monitoring the elections across the state, including in the Argungu Emirate, Governor Idris described the exercise as peaceful, hitch-free, and successful.

According to him, the outcome reflects the overwhelming love and support the people of Kebbi State have for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor and his entourage also visited Nassarawa I Ward, where he expressed delight over the massive turnout recorded across polling units in the state.

“I am overwhelmed by the large number of people who came out en masse to vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the governor stated.

In Nassarawa I Ward, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also secured 2,652 votes, according to the officially declared results.

Governor Idris thanked the people of Kebbi State for their continued support for the APC and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering more dividends of democracy across the state.

He further urged the people of the state to reciprocate the support and benefits extended to Kebbi State through the efforts of President Tinubu by turning out en masse to support him in the general elections.

APC Primaries: Aliero Secures Kebbi Central Senatorial District Ticket as Rivals Step Down

Senator Adamu Aliero has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) flag bearer for Kebbi Central Senatorial District after securing the party’s senatorial ticket.

Announcing the result in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee for Kebbi Central, Comrade Garba Muhammad, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful and orderly conduct of the exercise.

He commended stakeholders for ensuring a transparent and rancour-free primary process.

“Having fulfilled all the requirements of the law and APC regulations, I hereby declare Senator Adamu Aliero as the APC flag bearer for Kebbi Central Senatorial District,” Muhammad said.

In his remarks, Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, thanked Almighty Allah for the smooth conduct of the exercise and praised the people of Kebbi State for their support and confidence in his administration.

He also lauded the reconciliation committee under the leadership of Ambassador Saidu Usman Nasamu, for persuading other aspirants to step down, thereby ensuring a peaceful resolution.

“The committee did a remarkable job. I thank Kabiru Giant for stepping down unconditionally for Senator Aliero. In Kebbi North, Dr. Hussaini Kangiwa stepped down for Senator Yahaya Abubakar-Abdullahi, while in Kebbi South, Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah stepped down for Ja’afar Muhammad Gajere,” the Governor said.

“I thank all of them for placing the unity of the party above personal interest. This demonstrates that, by the grace of God, we will secure victory in all elective positions in 2027,” he added.

Governor Idris commended the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, for providing leadership that has united party members across the state.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, noting that Kebbi State had benefited immensely from numerous federal projects and programmes under the current administration.

“We have witnessed significant development under President Tinubu’s administration. We must not only deliver Kebbi State for him in 2027, but also secure overwhelming votes for him and all APC candidates at every level,” he said.

Earlier, the State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, recalled that two aspirants had initially contested for the Kebbi Central ticket — Senator Adamu Aliero and Alhaji Kabiru Giant. He explained that Kabiru Giant later withdrew from the race through a formal letter to the party, paving the way for Senator Aliero to emerge unopposed.

In his acceptance remarks, Senator Aliero thanked Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve once again and appreciated Governor Idris for his role in reconciling aspirants and promoting unity within the party.

He pledged to provide quality representation to the people and urged all aspirants to unite with the winners to ensure victory for the APC in the 2027 general elections.

“Our cooperation and unity are critical to the success of the APC at all levels in the 2027 general elections,” he said.

Mai Kero Wins APC Ticket for Kaduna South Federal Constituency 2027

Hon. Hussaini Abdulkarim Ahmed, popularly known as Mai Kero, has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary for Kaduna South Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad, the office said Mai Kero secured the ticket through a consensus arrangement ratified by the party.

The results were announced on Saturday at the APC State Secretariat in Kaduna by Chairman of the Primary Election Committee, Senator Yakubu Hussaini. According to him, Mai Kero polled 1,130 affirmative votes to emerge winner. He added that the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

Mai Kero, who represents Kaduna South Federal Constituency and serves as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, thanked the APC leadership, delegates, and the people of Kaduna South for their trust and support.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Kaduna State Governor Malam Uba Sani, CON, for their leadership and commitment to party cohesion and development in the state.

The lawmaker acknowledged fellow contenders who stepped down from the race, including Hon. Kabiru Yakubu Jarimi, for their sacrifice toward party unity. He said he was extending the hand of fellowship to them and called on all aspirants to work together for APC’s victory in 2027.

“This victory belongs to the people of Kaduna South. It is a mandate to continue the work we started in delivering quality representation, infrastructure, education, and empowerment programs,” Mai Kero said.

Since assuming office, Mai Kero has facilitated free eye care and surgery for over 5,000 people across Kaduna State, constructed more than 10km of roads in Kaduna South Federal Constituency, and provided educational scholarships both locally and internationally. 

He also oversaw the construction of N1.5 billion educational facilities at Government Girls Secondary School Maimuna Gwarzo and a state-of-the-art Skills Acquisition Center at Kurmin Mashi. Other interventions include youth and women empowerment programs, and support for farmers.

On legislative work, he single-handedly sponsored a bill addressing land degradation caused by yearly flooding in Kaduna South Local Government, with a focus on accessing Ecological Funds for remediation.

He pledged to build on these gains and work with all stakeholders to ensure greater development for the constituency.

Capacity Movement President Alleges Manipulation of Reps Primary in Kaduna, Warns Against Imposition

National President of Capacity Movement, Alhaji Sani Shehu Sado, has alleged widespread irregularities and manipulation in the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election in parts of the state.

Sado accused some government-backed interests of coercing party leadership to do the bidding of powerful political actors at the expense of internal democracy and the wishes of party members.

In a statement made available to journalists, the movement President claimed that there was an absence of party leaders and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in more than 95 percent of the wards monitored during the exercise in wards within Kaduna metropolis and that it may be worse in rural areas, raising concerns over the credibility and transparency of the process.

He alleged that the primary election was characterized by manipulation, exclusion of genuine delegates, and attempts to impose preferred candidates on party members.

According to him, “members must be allowed to freely choose flag bearers in a free, fair, and credible primary election devoid of intimidation, coercion, and political interference.”

Sado warned that the party risks losing public confidence and support ahead of the general election if urgent steps are not taken to address grievances arising from the exercise.

He said the APC must retrace its steps and return to the principles of fairness, justice, and internal democracy upon which the party was founded or risk facing serious consequences during the main election.

Alhaji Sado further stated that aggrieved members and stakeholders should resist all forms of irregularities capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process going forward and in other primaries.

Political observers say allegations of manipulation and imposition of candidates have remained recurring issues in party primaries across the country, often leading to internal crises, litigations, and defections ahead of major elections.

Efforts to get an official reaction from the Kaduna State chapter of the APC on the allegations were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

ENDS