AYAGL Dismisses Defence Minister’s Resignation Rumours, Reaffirms Support for Musa

 The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has dismissed reports alleging that the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has resigned from office, describing the claims as false, misleading and a deliberate attempt to undermine ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security.

In a statement issued by its President, Amb. Danbature Abdul, the group said the rumours were the handiwork of individuals seeking to distract the minister and erode public confidence in the country’s security leadership.

AYAGL reaffirmed its confidence in General Musa, commending his leadership, professionalism and commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s defence architecture.

The group said the minister’s operational approach has continued to yield positive results in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality, insisting that those spreading the false reports were uncomfortable with the progress being recorded.

It also praised Musa’s commitment to youth development, noting that his support for empowerment programmes, capacity-building initiatives and youth engagement reflects his dedication to building a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.

According to the group, the confidence reposed in the minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscores his competence, integrity and unwavering commitment to national service.

AYAGL urged Nigerians to disregard the purported resignation reports and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of creating unnecessary tension or undermining the morale of security institutions.

The group called on citizens to continue supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the collective effort to restore lasting peace and security across the country.

It reaffirmed its support for General Musa and other public officials working to strengthen national security and promote sustainable development.

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

Gov. Idris Launches Digital Training to Boost Workers’ Service Delivery

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has launched a digital training programme for civil servants in the state aimed at boosting effective service delivery.

Flagging off the training exercise at the ultra-modern State Secretariat in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the governor reminded workers that the present administration belongs to them, hence the need to sustain their support and cooperation.

“Nobody is better than you as far as this administration is concerned. Some people say a labour leader or a teacher cannot run the affairs of a state.

“With the help of Almighty God and your support, today, a teacher is successfully steering the affairs of this administration,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of the training, Gov. Idris stated that the programme was designed to give workers a sense of belonging and create a conducive atmosphere for them to work efficiently and effectively.

The governor also promised to improve the welfare of workers through schemes that would enhance their living standards, adding that such initiatives would include car, motorcycle, and housing loans.

Highlighting some of his administration’s achievements, Gov. Idris disclosed that the government had renovated, reconstructed, and furnished over 2,000 schools, rehabilitated and equipped 22 hospitals, renovated 192 primary healthcare centres, abolished casualisation, absorbed all casual workers, and recruited 5,244 workers across different sectors.

He further noted with satisfaction that the present administration was not owing salaries, pensions, gratuities, or death benefits, assuring workers that the government remained up to date in all payments.

The governor added that the Kebbi State Government had implemented the new minimum wage of ₦75,000, which he noted is above the Federal Government’s approved ₦70,000 minimum wage.

He urged civil servants to continue supporting government policies and programmes to ensure improved performance and development in the state.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, TPL Malami Shekare, thanked the governor for providing a conducive working environment and prioritising the training and retraining of civil servants.

He assured the governor of the readiness of civil servants to continue supporting and cooperating with his administration in moving Kebbi State to greater heights.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Ibrahim Mohammad Sakaba, commended the governor for initiating the training programme.

He explained that the e-governance initiative would equip civil servants with essential digital skills for modern public administration.

About 2,000 junior and middle cadre workers are expected to participate in and benefit from the training programme.

The event also featured the presentation of a “Digital Governor” award to Dr. Nasir Idris by the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Ibrahim Mohammad Sakaba.

ADC Youth Forum Endorses Shuaibu Idris for Kaduna Governorship

The Kaduna State chapter of the ADC Youth Consultative Forum has endorsed Hon. Shuaibu Idris mni, popularly known as Mikatai, for the governorship ticket of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the next gubernatorial election in Kaduna State.

The group said the endorsement followed what it described as extensive consultations and careful assessment of the political realities and leadership needs of the state.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Aminu Yahaya, the forum said the endorsement was based on merit, competence, leadership capacity and integrity rather than sentiment or ethnic considerations.

According to the group, Kaduna State requires “a leader who understands governance, possesses intellectual depth, commands integrity, and has the practical capacity to unite and develop the state.”

The forum described Shuaibu Idris as an experienced and intellectually sound personality with the capacity to address the state’s socio-economic and political challenges.

It noted that his educational background, administrative experience and human resource management skills distinguished him among contemporary political figures in the state.

The group also cited his integrity, credibility and grassroots acceptance as part of the reasons behind the endorsement.

“At a time when citizens are demanding transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership, Hon. Shuaibu Idris stands out as a man of integrity and credibility,” the statement said.

The forum further stated that the aspirant possessed the financial and economic understanding required to drive investment, youth empowerment and infrastructure development in Kaduna State.

It added that Idris had continued to demonstrate political maturity and bridge-building capacity across different divides.

The group called on the leadership of the ADC, party stakeholders, youth and women groups, religious and community leaders, as well as residents of Kaduna State, to support Idris’ governorship ambition.

According to the forum, the endorsement reflects the aspirations of youths seeking “competent, visionary and people-oriented leadership” in the state.

Gov. Idris Successfully Scales APC Screening, Appreciates Party Leadership

 

The Kebbi State Governor, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris has successfully scaled through gubernatorial screening conducted by the national body of All Progressives Congress (APC).

The screening exercise, conducted on Friday by the screening committee headed by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda at the Plateu State Liaison Office, Abuja on Friday was peaceful and successful.

In his remarks, the Chairman, of the Screening Committee, who is also the Party's National chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, congratulated Governor Idris on the successful screening which paves the way for his second term bid.

"Having met the requirement of the party and the provisions of the law, you have been successfully screened and qualified to contest for second term in office,” he stated.

He explained that the APC Screening Committee for Sitting Governors seeking re-election or aspiring for Senate seats is chaired by himself.

He added that the APC National Secretary, Sen. Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D, serves as Secretary of the committee, while other members include members of the National Working Committee (NWC).

Responding, the Kebbi State Governor and APC gubernatorial Aspirant, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris appreciated the APC national leadership for finding him worthy to be the flag bearer of the party for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

The Governor equally thanked the people of Kebbi State for their continued support and confidence in his administration, assuring them that his second term in the office would also provide more developmental projects across all sectors of the economy.

Gov. Idris pledged to sustain and expand athe good works his administration has already initiated for the benefit of the people of Kebbi and Nigeria at large. 

The Governor was accompanied by the State APC leadership led by Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, His Excellency Ambassador Saidu Usman Nasamu Dakingari, Acting Speaker State House of Assembly Rt Hon Samaila Muhammad Bagudo, SSG,Alh Yakubu Bala Tafida, Dr. Usman Sani Tunga, members of the House Representatives, members State House of Assembly, members State Executive Council, and other party stakeholders.

Youth Groups Seek Stronger Collaboration With Defence Ministry on Peace and Security

 

A coalition of youth and civil society organisations has called for stronger collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Defence in efforts to promote peace, unity and security across Northern Nigeria.

The group, operating under the Forum for Youth Development, Unity & Peace Initiative (FYDUPI), made the call during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, in Abuja.

The delegation, which included members of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership, ethnic nationality groups from Northern Nigeria, Christian Youth Alliance and other civil society partners, was led by its Chairman, Comrade Abdul Danbature.

The group said the visit was aimed at presenting a proposal focused on strengthening national security through coordinated youth and community engagement.

According to the delegation, key areas of focus include promoting peaceful coexistence among religious and ethnic groups, strengthening grassroots peacebuilding, supporting community-based intelligence sharing with security agencies, combating drug abuse among youths and enhancing youth empowerment initiatives.

Others include promoting public awareness of government and military achievements as well as encouraging productive youth engagement across communities.

The group said the Minister expressed readiness to work with them in advancing national peace and security efforts.

“He emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and continuous advocacy for social cohesion,” the statement said, adding that the Minister also stressed the need to address misinformation and ignorance through education and sustained engagement.

The delegation further noted that the Minister encouraged the use of social media platforms, including TikTok, as tools for promoting positive values and public enlightenment.

In recognition of the initiative, the Minister reportedly presented the delegation with an award, describing the engagement as a step toward stronger collaboration in support of national security objectives.

FYDUPI described the meeting as productive and reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Defence Ministry and other stakeholders to promote peace, unity and stability across the country.

The group said it would continue to pursue community-driven solutions aimed at addressing insecurity and strengthening social cohesion in Northern Nigeria and beyond.

Group Warns APC Against Imposing Kaduna Senate Candidate

The Capacity Movement has warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against imposing a candidate for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that only a transparent and democratic primary process would be acceptable to party members.

The group issued the warning while rejecting the alleged endorsement of former senator Shehu Sani as a “consensus candidate” for the Kaduna Central Senate race.

In a statement signed by its President, Shehu Sani Sado, the movement described the purported endorsement as undemocratic and lacking broad consultation with stakeholders and aspirants within the party.

According to the statement, any attempt to impose a candidate could trigger discontent and political tension within the APC in Kaduna State.

“The APC must understand that fielding any unpopular or imposed candidate in Kaduna Central could have grave political consequences for the party in future elections,” the group stated.

The movement questioned how a credible consensus arrangement could emerge without the participation of other aspirants, including Yerima Shettima and Yusuf Zailani.

“We make bold to ask: how can any credible consensus emerge without broad consultations and the inclusion of other notable aspirants and stakeholders in the race?” the statement added.

The group also raised concerns over alleged links between the endorsement exercise and interests within the Kaduna State Government despite previous assurances that no aspirant would be favoured.

“It is also disturbing that despite repeated assurances by Governor Uba Sani, through the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, that there would be no anointed candidate in Kaduna State, an official campaign office allegedly linked to government interests is now being associated with this controversial endorsement exercise,” the statement said.

The Capacity Movement maintained that democracy within the APC could only thrive through openness, credibility and equal opportunity for all aspirants.

The group therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Uba Sani, the national leadership of the APC and the Kaduna State chapter of the party to guarantee free, fair and transparent primaries.

It specifically demanded direct primaries for the Kaduna Central Senatorial contest.

“We wish to state clearly, unequivocally and without ambiguity that we are demanding direct primaries for the Kaduna Central Senatorial contest,” the statement noted.

The movement further warned that any process perceived to deny aspirants a level playing field could be challenged through legal and political means.

“Anything short of a direct and credible democratic process will be resisted through every legitimate political and legal means available,” it added.

Northern Youth Groups Condemn Sealing of ACF Headquarters, Demand Legal Action

The Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACON) has condemned the sealing of the national headquarters of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, describing the action as illegal and unconstitutional.

In a  statement jointly signed by Muhammad Isa, Director of Public and Strategic Communication of JACON, and the group’s Secretary, Comrade Raphael Terkolar, they stated that the closure of the ACF headquarters represented “a dangerous assault on the rule of law, fundamental rights of association, and the sanctity of civil society organization's in Northern Nigeria.”

The youth groups said there was no justification for the shutdown of the ACF office without due legal process.

“This draconian action… represents a dangerous assault on the rule of law,” the statement said, adding that the development was being viewed “not as an isolated act but as a calculated pattern of intimidation against voices of reason and conscience in our region.”

JACON accused the police of exceeding its constitutional powers, insisting that sealing a private property and civil society office without a court order amounted to abuse of power.

The group called on the Inspector-General of Police to identify and sanction officers allegedly involved in the action.

“We strongly condemn the Nigeria Police Force for overstepping its constitutional mandate,” the statement added.

The youth coalition further alleged that the action may have been aimed at silencing the ACF over its positions on governance and national issues.

It urged the leadership of the ACF to institute legal action against the Nigeria Police Force and any other parties connected to the sealing of the headquarters.

According to the group, the ACF should seek judicial pronouncement declaring the action unlawful and resist “any backdoor negotiations that legitimise the act.”

JACON also warned that northern youths may mobilise for peaceful protests and civil action should the ACF headquarters remain sealed.

The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ACF, which has pitched the Board of Trustees (BOT) against the National Executive Committee (NEC) over tenure disputes, constitutional interpretation and allegations of financial misconduct.

The internal rift has led to parallel claims of legitimacy by both camps, further deepening tensions within the influential northern socio-political organisation.