Over 100 PDP members defect to APC in Kebbi

By Editor

Barely one month to Kebbi State Local Government Elections, over one hundred members of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Receiving the decampees on Friday at Government House, Birnin Kebbi, the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru assured the new members of equity, fairness and justice.

He commended them for taking good decisions, saying, "You people have impressed me for taking a bold step, as you know the present administration has done a lot to the people of the state, we are not going to leave you people alone."

The chairman explained that APC as a party remained a party for everyone, "therefore, we are ready to ensure justice for everyone. In line with principles of fair play, our Governor has touched the lives of the people irrespective of party affiliation.

"The APC led administration under the able leadership of His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu is ready to carry everyone along."

In his speech,, the Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris expressed appreciation over the development, while assuring them of equal opportunity, equal treatment, as well as justice and fairness.

He said his administration would not tolerate any false information rather, it was ready to work harmoniously with the people to ensure good governance and accountability.

"You people are living witnesses, you can attest to the fact that projects are ongoing across the state and 'In Sha Allah' I am ready to collaborate with all the necessary stakeholders to make Kebbi great," he added.

He observed that their defection to APC would add value to the party, especially as the local government elections was just around the corner, "therefore, I want to urge you to be committed to the party policies and ideals."

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, the former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and a strong politician in Bunza Local Government, Hon. Sani Bunza said that their decision was for good of their people and the state at large.

According to him, "we have discovered a lot of changes in the present APC government in Kebbi State.

"Let me use this medium to commend the present administration under the able leadership of His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris for the various achievements recorded in the state within a short period time.

"We have seen a lot of changes in Kebbi and that's what inspired us to defect so as to support this government, because the state is for all of us. We are going to join hands with the governor to ensure that he brings the desired development to the state," he added.

Those defected memebers are Alhaji Faruku Ajala, Alhaji Bala Gradee, Hon Garba Hassan Wara, Hon. Bello Sheahu Kasaura, Alhaji Umar Yaro Gari, Hon. Umaru Kambaza and others 

Yoruba Youths Absolves Matawalle of Involvement in Yahaya Bello's Escape

By Editor 

The Yoruba Youth Council (YAC), an influential body representing the youths of Yorubaland, has strongly condemned recent allegations suggesting that Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, facilitated the escape of the embattled former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to Niger Republic.

In a fervent response to a report that Matawalle, described as an ally of Bello, orchestrated the escape using eight military personnel in two dark-tinted Hilux pickup trucks and a Land Cruiser, Comrade Eric Oluwole, National Leader of Yoruba Youths, condemned these allegations as "reckless, wicked, unethical, false, irresponsible, immoral, and actionable," describing them as a blatant attempt to smear the minister’s reputation. 

Oluwole asserted that the accusations appear to be a coordinated attack, potentially involving the incumbent Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal.

"Jackson Ude, the writer of this trash, is suspected to be working with Governor Lawal, who has long sought to tarnish the image of Dr. Matawalle, one of the most effective ministers in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.

How can the writer be so specific about Matawalle among all the ministers working with Mr. President?" Oluwole questioned, invoking a Yoruba proverb: "Bi iku ile ko ba pani, ti ita ko le pani," meaning "It is difficult for the enemy from outside to kill without the support of the enemy within."

Independent investigations by the Yoruba Youth Council suggest that Jackson Ude is affiliated with Atiku Abubakar, while retired General Aliyu Gusau, a close associate of Atiku Abubakar from Zamfara state, might also be involve,  implying a conspiracy involving these figures and Governor Dauda Lawal aimed at destabilizing President Tinubu's government by maligning Dr. Bello Matawalle.

"Yoruba youths recognize Dr. Bello Matawalle as a successful former Governor of Zamfara State who significantly contributed to the state’s progress. This reputation led to his inclusion in President Tinubu's cabinet, where he has demonstrated unwavering dedication and excellence. 

Dr. Matawalle’s proximity to the President and his hard-working nature have made him a valuable asset to the current administration,” stated Oluwole.

The Yoruba Youth Council stands firmly behind Dr. Bello Matawalle and calls for a thorough investigation into these allegations to uncover the truth and uphold justice. 

The council also urges media outlets and individuals to exercise due diligence and ethical standards in reporting, to avoid spreading unfounded and damaging claims.

Northern Forum Decries Increase In Banditry, Kidnapping Activities In Zamfara, other states

By Editor

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has decried the increase in banditry and kidnapping activities in Zamfara and the frontline states of Katsina, Niger, Sokoto, and Kaduna. 

 The forum said it has been closely monitoring the events unfolding in Northern Nigeria in recent months, particularly the disturbing increase in banditry and kidnapping activities in northwest and North central regions. 

According to statement issued by the spokesperson of the forum, Comrade Paul Danjuma,he said “it is with grave concern and profound disappointment that we have observed Governor Dauda Lawal's troubling association with bandit leaders such as Turji and Musa Kamarawa, all in a misguided attempt to undermine Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle.”

The forum said  escalating rate of criminal activities in Zamfara, coupled with Governor Lawal's focus on “personal vendettas and questionable alliances, poses a grave threat to the security and well-being of the people of the state.”

The forum said in recent months, Northern Nigeria has witnessed a troubling surge in banditry and kidnapping activities, particularly concentrated in Zamfara and the frontline states of Katsina, Niger, Sokoto, and Kaduna. “The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has been monitoring these developments with grave concern and profound disappointment,” they maintained. 

“Of particular alarm is Governor Dauda Lawal's troubling association with infamous bandit leaders, such as Turji and Musa Kamarawa, seemingly in a misguided attempt to undermine Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle. This political maneuvering, at the expense of public safety, poses an acute threat to the security and well-being of Zamfara's residents.

“The NSCF is deeply disturbed by recent revelations that notorious bandit chief Musa Kamarawa and his brother have been welcomed and hosted by government officials in Gusau for nefarious purposes. Such actions are not only unacceptable but also undermine ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities in the region.

“While we acknowledge the efforts of the federal government and security forces, led by President Bola Tinubu and supported by Defense Ministers Badaru Abubakar and Bello Matawalle, to combat banditry, the situation in Zamfara remains dire. Governor Lawal's apparent collusion with criminal elements illustrates a severe lack of commitment to his foremost responsibility: safeguarding the lives and properties of his constituents.

“The people of Zamfara are justifiably frustrated and angered by the state government's failure to prioritize their safety over political interests and personal vendettas. The alarming frequency of heinous crimes, including the abduction of innocent school children, underscores the urgent need for decisive action,” the forum urged. 

The  forum however demanded  swift and thorough action from the federal government to uncover the motives behind the Zamfara government's inexplicable ties to bandit leaders. Those providing refuge to criminals like Musa Kamarawa must be held accountable and face the full weight of the law.

“Governor Lawal must demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing the grave security challenges facing Zamfara and place the well-being of his constituents above all else. The resurgence of insecurity in Zamfara, fueled by the state government's alarming complacency, threatens not only the people of Zamfara but the entire northern region.

“The NSCF will persist in its advocacy for the security and welfare of the people of Zamfara and the broader northern community. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to join us in condemning Governor Lawal's actions and demanding justice for the victims of banditry and kidnapping. 

“The time for action is now, and we will not rest until the people of Zamfara can live without fear of violence and insecurity. The NSCF remains steadfast in its commitment to holding accountable those who betray the trust placed in them by the Nigerian people and working towards a safer and more secure future for all,” the statement concluded. 

Protest: Halimat Adenike urges youths to give Tinubu more time

By Editor

The Founder, QAT Foundation Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho Adenike has urged Nigerian youths to give president Bola Ahmed Tinubu more time to address contemporary challenges.

The call was made during the launch of disability trust fund beyond disability project, held at the presidential banquet villa hall in Abuja on Monday.

Citing the irreparable loss experienced during the 2020 endSARS protests, Halimat noted that a lot of destinies were cut short before their time as protest was hijacked by miscreants and hoodlums. She feared that the protest will worsen Nigeria's challenges without remedy.

The Humanitarian while soliciting for prayers for the government stressed that one year is too small to judge the present administration and as such appealed to the teaming youths to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving the challenges against any protest.

Hajiya Halimat who likened every member of the society as critical stakeholders appealed to them to support the government in their various communities by offering support to the less privilege. This she said will compliment government efforts to eradicating poverty in the country.

On her part as a philanthropist, she disclosed that the QAT Foundation had never seek for assistance from any International or local organization, as she avered that fifty percent of her hard earned money and proceeds from five of her contracting companies remains her source of income tailored towards alleviating the plights of less privilege across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.

She added that, “everything will be okay. What I want them to do is dialogue. Mr. president, this is what we need and the president will send someone to address them. Don't allow opposition to instigate and push you into protest.

“We have not gotten over endSARS protest. A lot of people were killed and a lot of destinies were cut short. Please, let's be patient with Mr. President. Atleast let's give him another one year. I know some people will say another one year of suffering, no. I just said another one year but I know it's not going to be up to one year everything will stabilize gradually. Also, continue to pray for him. He's not just our president, he's also like a father.

“His policy are policies that has come to stay in other to stabilize the country. How can you rate the performance of an administration in just one year. It's not even up to half of the first tenure, so Why can't we just be patient.

“Look at the students loan fund, it has been launched. The disability he has added more than 509% increment on their budget and so many that he has done. I equally want to appeal to Mr. President that if there's any way he can send a representative to address the Nigerian Youths before the end of this month it will go a long way.”

The philanthropist, Adenike at the program also bagged honorary award as the Humanitarian of the year from the office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on special needs and equal opportunities for the demonstration of uncommon dedication in caring for the less privilege using her personal resources.

Insecurity: Attack On Matawalle, NSA Targets Tinubu

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has said the recent sponsored attacks on the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle and the National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu are targeted on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It would be recalled that recently during  his appearance on Channels Television, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal criticized the administration of President Tinubu alleging that he lacks the will to address the chronic insecurity afflicting Zamfara state and Northern Nigeria. 

Similarly, Governor Lawal through sponsored faceless groups attacked the Minister for state defence Matawalle and the NSA apparently calling for their removal, another subtle way of trying to get at the President knowing well that they are among the trusted loyalist of the President.

In a statement issued by the President General of AYCF Alhaji Yerima Shettima, he averred that Governor Lawal has failed to repose his own ineffectiveness and absence during critical security crises affecting his state, stressing that on the very day female students from the Federal University Gusau were abducted, the Governor embarked on a personal trip to the United States, thus leaving his state leaderless during a dire emergency.

Governor Lawal's unwarranted trip to the United States at such a critical time demonstrates his disconnection from the realities on the ground in Zamfara. It was alarming that the governor remained incommunicado and inaccessible to efforts from the Ministry of Defence and federal government officials seeking his cooperation.

Shettima said, it is no longer news that Governor Lawal has consistently refused to collaborate with federal initiatives aimed at combating insecurity, thereby undermining collective efforts, This was recently collaborated with a viral video where bandits pledged their allegiance to him.

The expansive role of the Ministers of Defence and the NSA, which involves harmonizing efforts between the military, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies to combat nationwide security threats and their focus on overhauling the operational environment for the nation’s security forces has been pivotal in enhancing their effectiveness against terrorism, insurgency, and other critical threats.

Specifically, Matawalle's proactive measures in addressing resource shortages, inadequate training, and operational constraints that had previously hampered security efforts and maintaining  a balanced approach to ensure national security is quite commendable.

AYCF therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to give attention to distractors because Matawalle and  Ribadu are trusted ally who remain committed to his renewed agenda.

Group Knocks Beta Edu for Using Emotionally Blackmail to Seek Reinstatement

By Editor

A rights group, Concerned Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Awareness Forum has warned the sacked Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Beta Edu to stop blackmailing the Federal Government.

Dr. Beta Edu was sacked by the Tinubu adminstration barely 6 months in office following high profile cases of corruption running into billions of naira and other unwholesome acts including nepotism and lopsided appointments at the Ministry while she held sway.

In a strongly worded press release in response to a purportedly sponsored newspaper publication seeking to elicit emotional sympathy from Nigerians, the Chairman of the group, Mallam Auwal Dalori maintained that there was nothing spectacular about Dr. Beta Edu's days in office as the little she did was budgeted for and not her personal resources.

According to the release, "we are dismayed with a sponsored newspaper publication allegedly emanating from our members in Borno and Niger states seeking the reinstatement of Dr. Beta Edu who was obviously insensitive to our plight as she pursued the sole agenda of self enrichment and aggrandizement.

 

"It is not possible for any IDP to call for her reinstatement bearing in mind her antecedents except they're paid to do so as we suspect. In fact, it is possible that the whole publication was done without the consent and knowledge of our brothers and sisters in states mentioned. 

"As a matter of fact, anybody who claims to have enjoyed 'a new lease of life' under the fantastically corrupt stewardship of Dr. Beta Edu deserves a psychiatric examination as nothing was done for poor Nigerians commensurate to the budgetary allocation to the Ministry.

The group denounced the words of one Usman Mungonu, a supposed IDP in Muna Camp, Borno State, who described Dr. Beta Edu's time in office as a reassuring commitment to upholding the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling it a mere gimmick concoted to deceive the public.

"There was nothing reassuring about Dr. Beta Edu's tenure in office. She never showed any concern about the plight of IDPs aside the fake facade at government sponsored events. How could anybody be fooled by this charade when all she was concerned about was to accumulate enough money for her political ambition in Cross River State?

"To say she exuded empathy, love, and care for vulnerable Nigerians is a slap on our collective vulnerability. Her presence at IDP camps and other events was simply a matter of necessity and not because she cared. Someone who cares for you cannot embezzle funds meant for your welfare as she did severally. The era of lies and half truths must end", the release stated.

The rights group however acknowledged the vacuum created by the suspension of Dr. Beta Edu and it's implication for poverty alleviation and humanitarian services but urged Mr. President not to even contemplate reappointing the sacked Minister as she has nothing to offer Nigerians.

“No doubt, the continued vacancy at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation is having a toll on us in our various camps across the country. The fact that the first few months of the Tinubu adminstration were wasted with the appointment of the self serving Minister compounds our problems.

"We therefore urge Mr. President to appoint a true humanitarian and philanthropist who will genuinely attend to our needs even beyond the confines of state budgets with dedication and love. Those calling for the reinstatement of Beta Edu are enemies of our community and Nigeria. They must not be taken seriously", and any attempt to reconsider her for any appointment will destroy the long outstanding history of the fight against corruption at any rate the release ended.

Group expresses confidence in Tinubu’s ability to deliver, says protest not option

By Editor

Group, Self Reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, has warned against plunging the country into chaos through violent protest.

The group was reacting to the planned protests by youths, against president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration on alledged hardship posed on the country through his new policies and reforms in an open letter issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Sunday on "the negative impacts of youth protest against president Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

The National Chairman and Secretary, Self Reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, Comrade Munnir Shehu, and Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim in the letter said that Nigeria is yet to recover from the scars posed on the nation by the 2021 endSARS protest and as such the government must put up appropriate measures to stop any protest that would lead to the breakdown of laws and order.

The national executives further disclosed that the disability group will try everything possible to mobilize it's members both for self defence and for the integrity of Nigeria, adding that embracing constructive dialogue remains panacea to solve Nigeria's problem and not protest.

“We, the self-reliance for Physically Challenged Traders of Nigeria, are compelled to urgently address the recent calls for youth protests against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We firmly believe that such actions pose a significant and imminent threat to our nation’s stability, unity, and progress, and could potentially plunge our country into chaos, comparable to the destabilization seen in other nations experiencing similar unrest.

“Let it be known that if these protests proceed, we will mobilize massively across the country to defend our rights and the integrity of Nigeria. Protests of this nature are not only unproductive but also dangerously destabilizing. 

“They risk plunging our nation into chaos, undermining the very fabric of our society, and inflicting harm on all citizens, especially the physically challenged community who are often the most vulnerable during times of unrest. We do not want to experience the turmoil and violence that occurred during the EndSARS protests, which left deep scars on our nation.

“We implore the youth and all concerned citizens to deeply consider the potential consequences of their actions. The government has taken significant steps to address the pressing issues facing our nation. Among these initiatives are the introduction of student loans, designed to make education more accessible and attainable for all, and the proposed ₦70,000 minimum wage, aimed at improving the standard of living for workers and their families. These measures reflect a genuine commitment to enhancing the welfare of all Nigerians and addressing long-standing economic challenges.

“Furthermore, the Npower program, which has provided valuable employment and training opportunities for countless Nigerians, will continue to be a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to combat unemployment and enhance skills development. All outstanding issues related to the program will be resolved, and the stipends will be increased from ₦30,000 to a higher, more sustainable amount, ensuring that participants receive fair compensation for their contributions.

“In addition to these efforts, we are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fill the existing ministerial vacancies promptly. Appointing qualified individuals to these crucial positions will enhance the efficiency of the government’s operations and ensure that all sectors are functioning optimally.

“Specifically, we urge the President to appoint Dr. Halimat Tejuosho, the esteemed mother of all persons with disabilities and the vulnerable in Nigeria, without delay. Her appointment would greatly enhance the advocacy and support for the physically challenged community and ensure their interests are represented at the highest level of government.

“Our association also wishes to highlight the particular vulnerability of our members during such protests. Many of us use open spaces to market our small businesses. During protests, our goods and properties can be vandalized. As physically challenged individuals, we cannot easily escape or protect our livelihoods from such violence. The loss of our goods would not only devastate our businesses but also put our families in a dire situation, leading to hunger and further economic hardship. Additionally, in the chaos of a protest, physically challenged individuals are at a higher risk of injury or even death, as they may be unable to quickly move to safety amidst the confusion and wild following.

“Given these serious concerns, we strongly advocate for dialogue over protests. The potential for violence, economic loss, and human tragedy is too great to ignore. Protests under such conditions should not hold, as they endanger lives and threaten the stability of our nation.

“We have unwavering confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is steadfastly dedicated to resolving any outstanding issues that are critical to the nation’s well-being. His administration has consistently demonstrated a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue and take decisive actions toward national development and progress.

“In this context, resorting to deadlock and confrontation through protests is not only counterproductive but perilous. Such actions threaten to derail the positive strides we have made and compromise the potential for further advancements. We advocate for a path of constructive dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful advocacy. It is through these channels that we can achieve substantive progress and ensure the stability, unity, and prosperity of our beloved country.

“We call upon all Nigerians to rise above division and discord, to unite in the spirit of patriotism, and to work collaboratively towards our shared goals of national development and progress. Let Us channel our energies into efforts that will lead to sustainable and positive change for all citizens, fostering an environment where every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability, can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth.

“In conclusion, we urge everyone to reject the path of protest and confrontation and to embrace dialogue, unity, and constructive action. Let us stand together in defence of our nation’s stability and work tirelessly towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all.” the letter reads.