Violent protest: Arewa group urges Tinubu to relocate Kano's Digital Innovation Park to Kebbi

 

Group, Concerned Northern Forum, (CNF) has called on president Bola Ahmed Tinubu to relocate the Digital Innovation Park in Kano to Kebbi state.

The group made the call through it's Spokesperson, Comrade Abdulsalam Mohammed Kazeem in a press conference held on Monday, while reacting to the violent protests in Kano state state that led to the destruction of lives and properties, including the looting of the innovation park by miscreants.

According to Abdulsalam, government innovations should be domicile in a state with relative peace like Kebbi and not a violent prone environment.

CNF while applauding the Kebbi state Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris added that the the Governor chose to prioritize peace and welfare of his citizens against personal gain, stressing that the ongoing nationwide protests should have been averted if other Governors across the country toe the path of peace.

"Contrary to what is happening in other states across the federation, Kebbi State remains a model, thanks to the dedication and commitment of the Executive Governor, Comrade Dr. Idris Nasir. For him to have prevailed on the youths and people of his state not to be involved in the senseless nationwide hunger means he has channeled the revenue, palliatives and other incentives meant for his people towards alleviating the hardship occasioned by the necessary difficulties occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy and other timely economic reforms of the current administration. 

"Dr. Nasir Idris therefore deserves commendations for upholding the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda and aligning his state to take advantage of all the interventions of this current administration.

It should be noted that, what the Executive Governor of Kebbi and a few other governors have done could have been replicated in other states as the allocation available to state governments all over the federation has doubled following the courageous removal of fuel subsidy regime by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

"We therefore call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to go after governors that have decided to feed fat on the huge allocations coming from the federal government rather than using them judiciously to provide succour and comfort for their citizens. Similarly, the federal government should consider punitive measures on states where sensitive government property and infrastructure where destroyed by relocating the affected facilities to neighbouring states with functional governors to serve as incentives for hard work and dedicated stewardship.

"For instance, the Digital Innovation Park in Kano, built to support Mr. President's 3 Million Technical Talent accelerator (3MTT) which was set ablaze in Kano and looted in Kano should be relocated to Kebbi State. It will be a grave injustice for the federal government to consider rebuilding such a strategic facility in a state where the governor is working at cross purposes with the federal government and does not have the grip on his citizens. 

"Kebbi State is also part of the North West and it won't be fair if this great Comrade Governor is not rewarded for his sterling leadership and support for the policies and projects of the government at the center. With the youthful population, economic viability and eagerness for job creation by the governor, relocating this project in Kebbi will boost the economy of the state and increase its internally generated revenue by over ₦300 billion. Indeed, Kebbi State needs interventions like this more than Kano State regardless of the governor's high impact governance.

"As one who has prioritized his people above his personal gains, Dr. Nasir Idris' one year in office has been characterized with a transformation in the infrastructural landscape of the state. He has also revolutionized Education, Health Care, Agriculture, Security and other key sectors of the economy. No wonder, with his kind intervention, the people of Kebbi State felt an obligatory need to obey him and refrain from unleashing mayhem on their states as it is happening else where. 

"If all state governors and other elected representatives decided to act responsibly and avoid the temptation for primitive accumulation, Nigerians would have chosen to side with the truth as against the faceless, deceptive protest organisers.

"As we pass a vote of confidence on Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, we call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to always consider patriots and progressives in the sharing and handling of sensitive national assignments. He is a true leader and should be rewarded for his loyalty. Kebbi State should be remembered and included in more intervention projects as the governor is sincerely working to lift his people out of poverty and suffering.” Abdulsalam said.

Concerned Northern Forum Commends Kebbi Governor, Calls for Presidential Reward

By Editor

The Concerned Northern Forum has praised the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, for his efforts in preventing the spread of nationwide protests within his state. During a press conference held at Sharon Ultimate Hotel, Area 3, Garki, Abuja, on August 5, 2024, the forum passed a vote of confidence in the governor and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognize and reward his effective governance.

In his address, the forum's spokesman, Abdulsalam Moh'd Kazeem, described the ongoing nationwide protests as mindless and purposeless, attributing them to a few criminal elements with failed political ambitions. These individuals, he said, have incited Nigerians, particularly the youth, against President Tinubu’s administration. Kazeem lamented that what began as a peaceful protest has escalated into a catastrophe of unprecedented proportions.

Kazeem noted that the protests, aimed at ending hunger and bad governance, could have been avoided. He highlighted President Tinubu’s efforts to address the wrongs of previous administrations and criticized some state governors and stakeholders for failing to properly distribute funds and materials meant for the masses. This negligence, he argued, has fueled legitimate hunger and anger among Nigerians.

Contrasting the unrest in other states, Kebbi State has remained a model of stability due to the dedication of Governor Nasir Idris. The governor’s efforts to channel revenue, palliatives, and other incentives towards alleviating the hardships caused by the removal of the fuel subsidy and other economic reforms were commended. The forum noted that Idris' leadership aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

The forum called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate governors who have mismanaged the increased allocations resulting from the fuel subsidy removal. They suggested that the federal government relocate strategic facilities from states that have experienced significant protest-related destruction to neighboring states with effective governance. Specifically, they recommended relocating the Digital Innovation Park from Kano to Kebbi State, citing the latter’s youthful population and economic viability.

The Concerned Northern Forum highlighted several achievements of Governor Idris within his first year in office, including the transformation of the state’s infrastructural landscape, improvements in education, healthcare, agriculture, and security, and gaining the trust and support of the people of Kebbi State, who have refrained from participating in the nationwide protests.

The forum concluded by passing a vote of confidence in Governor Nasir Idris and urging President Tinubu to consider patriots and progressives in the distribution of sensitive national assignments. They emphasized that Kebbi State should be included in more intervention projects as Governor Idris continues to work toward lifting his people out of poverty and suffering.

Why We Honored Core Northerner with Mayegun Oodua title - Group

By Editor

The Oodua Youth Parliament has honored business mogul Chief Adi Pajo, a core Northerner from Taraba state with the title of Mayegun of Oodua Youth Parliament. 

The ceremony, held in Abuja, celebrated Dr. Pajo's exceptional contributions to humanity and his remarkable philanthropic efforts. 

The group said Pago has empowered thousands of people accross the country and created jobs for the teaming youth. 

The Oodua Youth Parliament, representing Yoruba-speaking ethnic minorities across 17 countries, including Brazil as an ancestral home, said it was deeply impressed and inspired by Dr. Pajo's achievements. 

The group said as the founder and CEO of Jukun TV and Frontline TV, Chief Pajo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uplifting humanity and empowering others through his various initiatives.

 Aare Abdulmajeed Oladimeji Oyeniyi, the Speaker of the Oodua Youth Parliament, presented the chieftaincy title to Dr. Pajo. In his speech, AARE Oyeniyi commended Dr. Pajo for his extraordinary service, vision for a just and egalitarian society, and relentless campaign for peace and harmonious co-existence.

"We are appreciating him for his service, upliftment of humanity, and life-saving activities that make him extraordinary in all ramifications. His sagacity to show and lead by example, his vision for a just and egalitarian society, his unending, vigorous campaign for peace and harmonious co-existence, and his exemplary dedication to one united Nigeria are outstanding, remarkable, and worthy of emulation," said AARE Oyeniyi.

Dr. Pajo has empowered thousands of youths across the country and created numerous job opportunities, further solidifying his reputation as a leader dedicated to the betterment of society. His philanthropic endeavors, including various empowerment programs, have made a significant impact on communities.

Members of the Oodua Youth Parliament across Nigeria have followed Dr. Pajo's antecedents and provided glowing attestations to his attributes, confirming that he embodies the qualities needed for the Nigeria Project.

In his remarks, High Chief Dr. Adi Pajo expressed his gratitude for the honor. He thanked God Almighty and acknowledged the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, for his support.

"I am deeply humbled and grateful to be named High Chief Mayegun of Oodua Youth Parliament, i.e., Leader of Peace. This title is a profound honor and a responsibility which I accept with great pride. As Chief Mayegun, I pledge to promote peace, justice, equity, and fairness. This title is a great motivation for me," said Dr. Pajo.

The Oodua Youth Parliament looks forward to Dr. Pajo's continued contributions to peace and development across the Southern Region and Nigeria at large, confident that his leadership and philanthropic efforts will inspire many.

How Halima Adenike’s intervention foiled nationwide protest in Kogi

 

By editor 

 The Coalition of Concerned Kogi Indigenes (CCKI) has announced their decision to refrain from participating in the Nationwide protest scheduled from August 1st to August 10th, 2024, citing the influential intervention of philanthropist Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as a pivotal factor.

In a press statement issued today, CCKI, representing over one million members, disclosed that discussions with Hajiya Halimat Adenike played a crucial role in shaping their stance against the protest. The philanthropist, renowned for her humanitarian efforts through the QAT Foundation, expressed deep concerns over the potential for unrest and exploitation of state divisions during the protest period.

"Hajiya Halimat Adenike's impassioned plea resonated deeply with our concerns for peace and stability in Kogi State," stated Comrade Philip Adamu Isah, Chairman of CCKI. "Her foresight into the risks posed by the protest convinced us to prioritize dialogue and unity over participating in nationwide demonstrations."

The coalition emphasized their commitment to fostering a peaceful environment within Kogi State amidst ongoing political tensions and social complexities. They also voiced support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, urging patience in addressing national challenges inherited from previous administrations.

"We believe in constructive engagement and unity," added HON. Oheiza Anda Recheal, Secretary of CCKI. "Our decision reflects our dedication to safeguarding our community's interests and maintaining the harmony we cherish."

In response to their decision, CCKI called upon President Tinubu to consider merit and competence in future ministerial appointments, highlighting individuals like Hajiya Halimat Adenike as exemplary candidates for critical roles, particularly within the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

The coalition concluded by reaffirming their stance against participating in the nationwide protest and encouraged youths across Nigeria to prioritize dialogue and constructive engagement for the collective progress of the nation.

For further information or inquiries, the Coalition of Concerned Kogi Indigenes can be contacted through their official channels.

Protest: Halima Tejuoso calls for calm, says Tinubu will fix Nigeria

From Editor

 Founder QAT Foundation, Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuoso has called on Nigerians to maintain every sense of decorum regarding the ongoing nationwide protests.

Hajiya Halimat made the call in Abuja earlier this week during youths' solidarity protest with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said that the protest is uncalled for, noting that the current administration is still trying to sort out inherited liabilities from the previous administration.

Suing for peace, patience and dialogue against violent protests capable of turning the country into chaos, Adenike noted that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration has used available means to plead with Youths on the need to shelve their sword as the government is doing everything possible to address current challenges.

Speaking further at the protest tagged, ”protect, not protest, an initiative powered by QAT Foundation, she avered that the plan to end the present administration is out of order, warned against plunging the country into Kenya and Libya experiences.

She said, “What bad governance are we ending when the government of the day is yet to stabilize from some challenges it inherited from the former government.

“The minister of information and national orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has been addressing various youth groups and meetings. Nigeria is not Kenya and we will not allow any protest that will affect market women or one that would be hijacked by looters and hoodlums lurking around. Let’s cherish our peace and grow this democracy via dialogue.

“To this end, I urge all Nigerian youth and civil society organizations to dissipate their energies in protecting this government, this country and shun all planned protests.” she stressed.

Hajiya Adenike before now has used different avenue to urge Nigerian youths on the need to give president Tinubu more. She noted that the policies and reforms by the APC government under Tinubu will materialize in a no distant time as such Nigerians should envisage the future advantages imbedded in those reforms both for individual and national growth

Planned Protest: SWAN Rallies Nigerian Youth, Sports Personalities, Sues For Calm, Dialogue

By editor 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has urged Nigerians, mostly youths and sports personalities to toe the path of peace and dialogue, instead of engaging in violent protest regarding the challenges facing the country.

This admonition is coming on the heels of planned protest by some persons in parts of Nigeria on August 1, 2024.

SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, in a statement through the Association's Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo on Wednesday reckoned that while citizens have right to protest, such should be done in a most peaceful manner.

President Benjamin while recalling how previous protests in Nigeria had damaged critical National assets, called on the protesters to be mindful of mostly Sports infrastructure across the country as any form of destruction will further create needless deficit.

He said that instead of embarking on destruction of lives and properties, citizens should reflect on positive and progressive moves aimed at ensuring improved Sports development, which has obvious potential to uplift the country's economy.

"As the second most economic viable option in the entire world, Sports serve as catalyst for needed growth and development in any society. Therefore Sports men and women including athletes, officials, administrators and of course the sporting media have the responsibility to lead the way in terms of conduct and influence in our various residential and public places.

"Instead of joining any band wagon of destructive tendencies, let us encourage fellow Nigerians to engage in sporting activities in terms of physical exercise and other areas of gainful endeavours," he said.

The number one sports writer in Nigeria then admonished leaders at all levels to, in line with global standards, use legislative means to initiate sustainable policies that will loosen tight ends and clear bureaucratic bottlenecks, which had hampered sports development in the country.

He said, "Also, Nigeria as a developing nation should be a fortress for talent discovery and development because of abundance of human capital resources that abound in every nook and cranny of our communities, local government areas and states.

"Therefore, there is need for continious engagement with all stakeholders to harness and engage them meaningfully. In doing this, the role of the private sector which is a major driving force of the economy is critical. 

"Again, the government at all levels should do more in the provision of sporting infrastructure at the grassroots, as a veritable way of engaging mostly the young people, because Sports, with the right funding approach, has enormous potential to drastically reduce unemployment."

The SWAN President then assured that, "As professional Sports Writers, we are ever ready to offer useful contributions in form of advice amidst taking practical steps that will make meaningful impact."

Coalition Pulls Out Of Nationwide Protest, Cites Intervention of Anyim Pius, Others

By editor

The Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria, comprising more than 100 ethnic nationality groups with millions of members says it has decided to pull out if the planned nationwide protests following the intervention of key stakeholders like Senator Anyim Pius Anyim.

Anyim Pius, a former President of the Senate and a foundation member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had recently defected to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to align his political mission and vision with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a press release signed by its chairman  Comrade Moh'd Kazeem and Comrade Emmanuel Gabriel, spokesperson and made available to journalists in Abuja  shortly after a stakeholders engagement facilitated by the elder statesman, the group said it succumbed to the superior wisdom and the sound reasoning of stakeholders who are unanimous in calling for restraint and patience as Mr. President is already addressing most of the contending issues.

"We are compelled by superior wisdom of statesmen like Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and glaring facts on the ground to jettison out earlier position on the planned nationwide protests. While we were convinced that out course of action was legitimate and patriotic, it is humbling to admit that we were deceived by miscreants who are out to discredit the current administration for their personal interests.

"With the opening of our national borders to ease the importation of food and fight food inflation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing the hunger and pain Nigerians are currently experiencing. It'll therefore be unwise to continue with the protests when all hands are on deck to address our grievances.

"Just few days ago, Mr. President magnanimously issued an Executive Order mandating NNPCL deliver crude to Dangote Refinery and other Modular refineries operating in the country with naira payment. This is also a step towards achieving energy self-sufficiency, reducing the strain of foreign exchange and making products affordable.

"There are also interventions in the Ministries of Trades and Investment, Youth and Sports, Agriculture and others to address youth unemployment by scaling up skill acquisition programs with a view of creating jobs and empowering Nigerians. The Consumer Credit Scheme and National Youth Investment fund are just some examples out of many", the release noted.

The Coalition applauded the efforts of Senator Anyim Pius Anyim for opening their eyes to the complexities inherent in governance and the fact that most of the damages the current administration is trying to salvage were actually caused by the rot in successive administrations

"Our meeting with the esteemed statesman is an eye opener. We are heeding his appeal and pulling out of the nationwide protest because of his deep understanding of Nigerians political landscape and his conviction that President Tinubu is on the right track to restore Nigeria's economic fortunes and glory.

"The fact that he committed his time to facilitate this meeting instead of siding with the enemies our country is truly inspiring. As one who is committed to  the development of youths and the nation in general, we are convinced our decision to pull of the purported protest is in the interest of our country. We call on other elder statesmen to emulate him", the statement added.

The release appealed to other groups and individuals to "equally distance themselves from anarchists who are out to set fire on our beloved nation, stating further that the horrors of the EndSars protests are still fresh in the hearts of Nigerians and a repeat of the same episode will wreck Nigeria terribly"