NYSC: We've no fears serving in North Corps members

By Editor

Some of the 2024 Batch B (Stream I) Corps members deployed to Kaduna State by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) said on Tuesday that they have no fears about serving the country in the North especially coming there for the first time.

This is even as the Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani assured them of improved security in the state and encouraged them to come to terms with economic realities in the country and pay serious attention to skills they had learned during their 21-day orientation course.

Speaking to this correspondent shortly after the close of the orientation exercise at the NYSC temporary orientation camp, Government College, Kaduna, they said the reality on the ground is different from what they have heard afar.

Chioma Silver Unoruka, a graduate of Economics from the University of Abuja said, "I'm enjoying my stay here in Kaduna and I'm eager to serve my country. 

"I don't have any fair irrespective of where I would be posted. I will accept my posting in good fate and make judicious use of every opportunity that will come my way in my place of primary assignment".

Also speaking, Chimeka Chioma Favour, a graduate of Mass Communication from Federal Polytechnic, Negede, Imo State, said "Initially, I was scared when I was deployed to Kaduna State for this national service. 

"However, that fear was gone while coming to Kaduna because this was my first time coming to the core North. I had planned redeployment but I have changed my mind because I was welcomed by the people I have so far had contact with. 

"So, my service year is looking promising and great. I started learning satellite television installation here in camp and hope to build on that going forward".

To Dike Daniel David, a graduate of Education and Political Science from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, "I look forward to settling down in my place of primary assignment to see where and how I can make an impact during this one-year mandatory service to Nigeria".

In an interview shortly after declaring the orientation course close, Uba Sani who was represented by Commissioner for Youth, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong said, that the current administration is working hard to make the State comfortable for all.

"You must come to terms with the reality that white-collar jobs are no longer readily available for all of us which is why they need to embrace entrepreneurship which they have started at NYSC camp. 

"Accept wherever you are posted in good fate because everyone has a destiny. It is not a must you stay where you do your primary assignment but if God so wishes and gives you a job in that place then stay back. I pray they all get what God wants for them",  he prayed.

Failed Politicians Plotting to Scheme Tinubu Out of Office, Coalition Raises Alarm

By Editor

The Coalition of Nigeria Civil Society Organisations and Concerned People Living With Disabilities in Nigeria has raised alarm over what it describe as an attempt by desperate politicians to oust President Tinubu and impose themselves on Nigerians

The group accused failed politicians who have become politically irrelevant of clandestinely working behind the scenes to discredit the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through baseless and politically motivated protests.

Recall that last week, a group of persons had planned to protest against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), a move which was seen by many analyst as a decoy to incite nationwide unrest and create a negative perception of the current administration by those under investigation for various financial crimes.

In a strongly worded press release signed and made available to journalists in Abuja by the spokesperson of the Coalition, Mallam Yusuf  Mohammed Jibril,, the group warned those trying to save their dying political career by sowing seeds of confusion to desist forthwith.

The release reads in part, "we are not unaware of the machinations of political jobbers who have be put out of business by the incorruptible adminstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and are hell bent on retuning to country to the old order of sharing government revenue amongst a few through fraudulent schemes.

"These crop of persons have failed to realize that it is no longer business as usual. Trying to hide under the banner of protest to incite Nigerians against the President won't work because Nigerians are more enlightened now more than before and they're equally aware of the good work Mr. President is doing".

The Coalition urged Nigerians to wary of a few selfish and disgruntled elements who were conspicuously silent over the    torturous 8 years of the previous administration but have suddenly become vocal advocate now that President Tinubu has decided to right the wrongs of the past.

"It is suspicious and hypocritical that some persons who had no complaints whatsoever when Nigerians witnessed the worst adminstration in the history of mankind have become vocal now. Where were they when Nigerians were been killed in their thousands daily with mass unemployment and inflation?" the release queried.

To buttress their firm support for the President, the group highlighted very salient achievements of current administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda and wondered why anybody will even think of protesting against a system that's working and turning the fortunes of Nigerians around.

"Mr. President is a workaholic who came to power prepared and ready to serve. In his one year in office, Mr. President signed, approved and delivered the amiable student loan project. He has equally done great strides in the area of infrastructural development with numerous legacy projects springing up across the country.

"The Agricultural sector, Steel, Marine and Blue Economy, Education and others are experiencing the revolutionary ideas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with numerous people oriented projects with huge impacts on the lives of Nigerians. The astronomical increase in our internally generated revenue since the advent of this administration deserves accolades.

"Since the return of democracy, no security administration has tackled our security challenges headlong like the current administration. With marching orders to the military top brass and free hand to do their job, President Tinubu has holistically addressed the disturbing state of insecurity that once threatened to destroy us", the group noted.

The group urged Nigerians, especially religious leaders, traditional rulers, the youths to mobilise their members to continue to show support for the President as it takes a lot of efforts to build what has been completely destroyed.

"As patriots, we are united in our numbers in showing sustained support to the current administration and we urge all opinion leaders to continue to make their voices heard above the noises of our enemies no matter how cunning and crafty their propaganda and reasons for forcing chaotic protests on the nation might be.

"We have not healed from the destructive consequences of the END SARS protest that almost crumbled our economy. If what happened in Egypt, Libya and recently Kenya will not will not counsel us to eschew violence against the government then we are doomed as a people", the release added.

While admitting that citizens have every right to protest and express their grievances in an acceptable manner, the group distanced it self from the current "forced, sponsored and ill-motivated protests", adding that their members across the 89 others Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that form the Coalition "will not be participating in any sham of a protest and will do everything possible to frustrate those protests".

NAN Addresses Escalating Public Anger, Calls For Restraint Amid Growing Calls To Protest

By Editor

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is deeply concerned about the escalating public anger and growing calls for protest across Nigeria. As an organization dedicated to promoting dialogue, understanding, and unity, we recognize the legitimate grievances of the Nigerian people, especially the youth, who are bearing the brunt of the current hardships and insecurity.

The situation in Nigeria is indeed dire, with a combination of economic challenges, insecurity, and social injustices fueling widespread frustration and anger among the populace. The recent spate of protests and calls for mass demonstrations are a clear indication of the urgent need for change and accountability at all levels of governance.

While we support the right of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their grievances, we must also recognize the potential for violence and escalation in such situations. The history of protests in Nigeria, and indeed around the world, has shown that peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn violent if not managed carefully. This is why NAN is calling for restraint and caution in the face of mounting public anger.

According to a statement issued by the Chairman Salifu Suleiman "We believe that dialogue and engagement are the most effective ways to address the root causes of the current crisis. It is crucial for all stakeholders – government officials, civil society organizations, community leaders, and citizens – to come together in a spirit of openness and cooperation to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the nation"

NAN also called on the government to take urgent and meaningful steps to address the grievances of the people and restore confidence in the leadership. It is essential for the authorities to demonstrate that they are listening to the concerns of the populace and taking concrete action to improve the situation for all Nigerians.

"At the same time, we must also recognize the need to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens. While peaceful protests are a fundamental right in a democracy, violence and destruction are never acceptable or justifiable. It is crucial for all protesters to exercise their rights responsibly and lawfully, without resorting to violence or acts of aggression.

"NAN stands ready to support and facilitate constructive dialogue and engagement between all parties involved in the current crisis. We urge all Nigerians to come together with a spirit of unity, understanding, and empathy to overcome the challenges facing our nation. By working together towards a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity, we can build a brighter future for all citizens of Nigeria".

Life Now Unbearable For Nigerians- NSCF

By Editor

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) is deeply concerned about the intolerable level of hardship and the general and pervasive insecurity being experienced across Nigeria. The rising cost of living, the lack of basic amenities, and the increasing spate of insecurity have made life unbearable for many Nigerians.

According to a statement issued by the spokesperson Comrade Paul Danjuma, the acknowledge the right of citizens to legitimate protests as a means of calling the attention of the government to the situation and the urgent need for taking visible steps towards pacifying the mounting public anger in order to avert a looming mass protest that is pregnant with unforeseen consequences.

"We plead with the public, particularly the youth everywhere and in the North in particular, to exercise restraint and stay action on the planned protests to allow room for honest, open-ended dialogue. While we understand the frustrations and grievances of the people, we believe that violence and chaos will only exacerbate the current situation.

"We call for the urgent intervention of critical stakeholders for a peaceful, transparent, and practically acceptable resolution of the situation. It is imperative that the government listens to the cries of its citizens and takes concrete steps towards addressing the root causes of the current crisis.

"We urge the government to prioritize the welfare and security of all Nigerians and to work towards creating a conducive environment for economic growth and development. The people deserve to live in peace and dignity, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that this is possible".

The forum reiterates their commitment to the peace and unity of Nigeria and call on all stakeholders to come together in a spirit of cooperation and understanding to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing our beloved country. Together, we can build a better future for all Nigerians.

ENDS

Nigerian Youths at Boiling Point Over Harsh Living Conditions: AYCF Warns of Potential Unrest

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a stark warning about the worsening living conditions in Nigeria, highlighting the growing anger and frustration among the population, especially the youth. Yerima Shettima, President General of AYCF, expressed deep concern over the dire state of affairs, noting that the situation has reached a critical juncture with the potential for imminent mass protests.

Shettima emphasized that the youth are disproportionately affected by the economic hardships and societal challenges plaguing the country. "The mounting resentment within the population has reached an alarming tipping point," he stated, pointing to widespread poverty, rampant unemployment, lack of basic amenities, and rising insecurity as key factors fueling the unrest.

The economic crisis is severe, with citizens struggling to make ends meet as the cost of living continues to rise. Record levels of unemployment, collapsing businesses, and diminishing purchasing power are exacerbating the situation. The lack of essential services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare is further contributing to the growing discontent.

Shettima warned of a palpable sense of marginalization and neglect among the populace, leading to a collective sense of betrayal towards the government. "Should these tensions go unchecked, they could give rise to widespread protests, potentially escalating into uncontrollable unrest," he cautioned.

In his statement, Shettima urged the youth to avoid violent protests, warning that such actions could further aggravate the situation and lead to more destruction and loss of life. Instead, he advocated for peaceful and constructive engagement with the government to address the root causes of the grievances. "Violence and chaos will only deepen our crises and harm our society," he said, emphasizing the need for dialogue and constructive engagement.

The AYCF called on the government to take immediate action to alleviate the brewing tensions and avert impending public unrest. Shettima urged the authorities to prioritize the welfare of citizens by improving living conditions, creating job opportunities, enhancing social welfare programs, and providing essential services. He also highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive reforms across economic, social, and security sectors to foster an environment conducive to growth, development, and prosperity.

"The time for action is now; failure to act could result in an uncontrollable scenario of public outrage," Shettima warned. He urged all Nigerians to maintain calm and composure amidst the adversities, calling for unity in addressing the nation's challenges and working towards a better future for current and future generations.

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum is a leading youth organization advocating for the welfare and development of youth in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region. The AYCF aims to promote socio-economic development, political engagement, and a peaceful, prosperous nation for future generations.

AYCF Condemns Attempts To Suppress Senator Ndume’s Right To Criticize Government

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a robust response to the statement from the Coalition of North-East Elders Forum (CNEF), which appeared to reject Senator Ali Ndume’s recent criticism of President Bola.

Tinubu’s administration. In a statement released by its President General, Yerima Shettima, AYCF accused the CNEF of attempting to suppress dissent and freedom of expression, echoing the foundational democratic values enshrined in both national and international covenants.

Senator Ali Ndume recently made pointed remarks alleging that the current administration is composed of “kakistocrats” and “kleptocrats,” suggesting that the government is being led by the least competent and most corrupt individuals primarily focused on embezzling resources. 

The AYCF emphasized that while these remarks represent Ndume’s personal opinions, his right to express them is protected and should be respected.

"The attack from CNEF against Senator Ndume is vindictive, unwarranted, and an unacceptable affront to democratic principles of freedom and fair play," stated Yerima Shettima. "It is a brutal encroachment on his right to freedom of expression, safeguarded by various international treaties and conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory."

The AYCF also voiced concerns over growing speculations that Senator Ndume might be relieved of his position as Chief Whip of the Senate. They warned that any further attempts to breach his fundamental right to hold differing views will be vigorously resisted and vehemently challenged. 

"Any government that cannot be criticized is a liability," stated Shettima, urging the North-East elders to desist from their indiscriminate attacks on Senator Ndume, whom they referred to as an eminent hero of the Northern youth.

While the AYCF clarified that it does not currently favor protests, it stressed that Ndume's observations regarding the current harsh realities faced by Nigerians are apt and timely. They urged the government to heed these observations for the benefit of all citizens and warned the North-East elders against manipulating and politicizing security issues for their own gain.

"The observations raised by Senator Ndume should be heeded by the government, as they reflect the collective concerns of many Nigerians facing hardships," the statement concluded.

The AYCF  said it remained committed to upholding democratic values and the right to freedom of expression, and call on all stakeholders to adopt a more tolerant and constructive approach to differing viewpoints.

EFCC, Tinubu: What’s Up With the Betta Edu Case?

By Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi

It has been over six months since the erstwhile Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu was relieved of her position by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu due to alleged corruption cases, embezzlement and financial misappropriation.

Tinubu decided to show an example and equally sent a strong warning to other cabinet members by suspending Betta Edu in January 2024 after a leaked memo showed that the former minister indulged in unwholesome financial dealings while steering the wheels of affairs at the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

Fracas ensued among the citizens when Edu’s case of transferring a humongous sum of almost N585.2 million into a private bank account was brought to the limelight through a widely circulated memo emanating from the Ministry.

Following this development, the country’s finest anti-graft agency, the Economic Crimes and Financial Commission (EFCC) waded into the situation by launching a probe against the suspended Minister in an attempt to get to the bottom of the matter.

Not only Edu’s situation, a series of corruption cases have rocked the Ministry highlighting that, an institution created to provide relief to vulnerable citizens has now metamorphosed into a conduit pipe for siphoning the hard-earned tax-payers money.

Recalled that Tinubu also suspended the social welfare program and the National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, NSIPA, Halima Shehu, over alleged N37.1 billion fraud in the same ministry.

Recently, the Federal High Court Sitting in Lagos ordered another former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development, Mrs Sadia Umar-Farouk, to account for payments of N729 billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians in six months.

It is disheartening that, for almost half a year since launching the investigation against Edu, both the federal government and EFCC have yet to make public, the report of the probe or arraign the suspended Minister before a court of competent jurisdiction to scrutinize the issue from the ambit of the law and order.

The persistent question Nigerians are asking is: when will Edu’s case be treated and given a deserved attention just like how other high-profile corruption cases are being treated?

As the EFCC delays to absolve or indicting the ex-minister, or making public its findings, there are suspicions that she may be let off the hook, despite the weight of allegations leveled against her, which led to her ouster in January.  Rumours emanating from some quarters are even hinting that the suspended Minister is on the verge of making a dramatic return to her initial position!

While speculations continued to emerge about her possible return which is being fueled by the EFCC’s muteness on the issue, the unfortunate situation became even more pervasive as the suspended Minister, Dr. Edu, yesterday, wrote an official condolence message on the ‘ministry’s letterhead’ over the recent Jos school building collapse where a lot of lives were lost.

At this juncture, it is duty-bound for responsible citizens including this writer to begin questioning the legality of using official documents of the ministry [letterhead] by the suspended Minister in expressing her condolences. The authorities including Presidency should quickly address this matter before it generate even more diverse hypotheses.

Notwithstanding, it has become pertinent for the EFCC and federal government to come out clean on this lingering issue by addressing the public to preserve the integrity and dignity of the nation.

The public, stakeholders, and international observers are now calling on the authorities to promptly release the findings of the probe, emphasizing that transparency, accountability, and the principle of speedy justice dispensation are critical in this matter to restore public trust and deter future misconduct.

The release of the report on Betta Edu’s probe will demonstrate the government’s commitment to openness and accountability. When public officials are accused of misconduct, investigative processes need to be transparent to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done. Withholding the report could foster suspicion, erode public trust in institutions, and fuel speculations of a cover-up.

Meanwhile, the essence of accountability is to ensure that public officials are held responsible for their actions. It is a key deterrent against corruption and abuse of power. The EFCC, tasked with fighting economic and financial crimes, must uphold its mandate by ensuring that those found guilty of corruption face appropriate consequences. This sends a clear message that no one is above the law, reinforcing the integrity of public institutions.

In the case of Edu, releasing the probe report swiftly will enhance public confidence in the government’s ability to tackle corruption. It will also demonstrate a commitment to justice and reassure citizens that their leaders are accountable.

If the investigation reveals that Betta Edu engaged in corrupt practices, she must face appropriate punitive measures. Punishment serves not only to penalize the wrongdoer but also to set a precedent and deter others from similar misconduct. Ensuring that Edu is held accountable will reinforce the message that corruption will not be tolerated at any level of government and that nobody is above the law.

Still on, given the serious nature of the allegations, it would be inappropriate for Betta Edu to return to her ministerial position. Allowing her to resume office without addressing the allegations would undermine the credibility of the government’s anti-corruption efforts. It would signal to the public that misconduct can be overlooked, thereby weakening the moral and ethical standards expected of public officials.

The principle of speedy justice is crucial in maintaining the rule of law. Delays in the judicial process can lead to the erosion of evidence, fading of public interest, and potential manipulation of the justice system.

The Nigerian government and EFCC must expedite the investigation and judicial proceedings related to Betta Edu to ensure timely justice. Prolonged delays can undermine the credibility of the justice system and embolden other public officials to engage in corrupt practices, believing they can evade consequences.

The message must be clear; corruption will not be tolerated, and those who engage in it will face the full force of the law.

MUKHTAR is a concerned Nigeria’s citizen and writes from Kano