AYCF Raises Alarm Over Plot To Undermine Stability Of Nation

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has raised concerns regarding threats to Nigeria's stability in a recent press release by its President General, Yerima Shettima. 

The AYCF, representing the youth of Northern Nigeria, has highlighted several alarming incidents that it believes are part of a deliberate strategy to undermine the stability of the nation. 

AYCF raised particular concerns over the integrity of political leadership in Nigeria's northern region with revelations specifically pointing to a plot targeting prominent figures, including the Vice President Kashim Shettima, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and Senator AbdulAziz Yari. 

The orchestrations, revealed by Abdul Dan Bature, one of the organizers of the August 1 protests, particularly the $50,000 scheme focused on Minister Matawalle, cast a long shadow over the political landscape, engendering suspicions about the motives behind such malign activities.

The AYCF’s called for a deeper inquiry into the political dynamics that may underlie these attacks apparently aimed at undermining the political influence of northern leaders, who are deemed crucial to the support base of President Bola Tinubu's administration. By targeting these key figures, the orchestrators of this scheme may be attempting to create divisions between the President and the northern political ranks, thereby destabilizing the broader political landscape of Nigeria. 

Shettima said such revelations highlight a greater concern regarding the safety and security of political office holders in a nation where power struggles often lead to nefarious tactics. The implications of such blackmail campaigns possess the potential to disrupt governance and compromise the effectiveness of leadership, particularly at a time when national unity and stability are paramount.

The $50,000 plot against Minister Matawalle serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths to which President Tinubu's adversaries go to in their desperation to strip him of the influence of such powerful political figures in the North. 

The specificity of Matawalle as the target illustrates a calculated approach to weaken the President's existing political structure within the northern region. Minister Matawalle’s pivotal role in the defence sector amplifies the stakes involved, suggesting that such attacks could also compromise national security by diverting attention from pressing matters of state.

The AYCF posits that the recent incidents of protests, unrest and the mounting agitations across Nigeria signal a broader and more daunting objective: the potential disruption of governance with intentions that may verge on coercive change. 

The notion that a systematic approach is at play raises serious concerns not merely for political actors but for the collective stability of the nation. In light of the fragmented nature of Nigeria's socio-political landscape, the potential for exploitation of existing divisions—particularly those rooted in ethnicity and religion—becomes a pressing reality that necessitates both urgency and vigilance.

Evidence of escalating tensions is starkly illuminated by recent protests in regions like Kaduna, Taraba, Benue, Katsina, and Kano, areas marked by deep-seated ethnic and religious divides.

The AYCF cautions that unrestrained unrest in these regions could devolve into pervasive violence, thereby ushering Nigeria toward a state of chaos that could spiral beyond recovery. Such scenarios evoke an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, undermining the very tenets of governance and security.

In addressing these alarming revelations, it becomes imperative for relevant authorities to conduct thorough investigations into the claims made by the AYCF.

 The integrity of the political system must be upheld, and those engaging in blackmail schemes should be held accountable to restore public confidence in governance.

As the nation grapples with such malfeasance, it is vital for Nigerian society to remain vigilant and demand accountability to safeguard its democratic values and ensure a future of political integrity.

I Reject Offer Of $50,000 To Blackmail Defence Minister Matawalle - Arewa Youth Leader

By Editor

One of the leaders of the Arewa Youth who was among leaders of the end bad governance protests in Nigeria,  Ambassador Abdul Danbature has disclosed how he was offered the sum of $50,000 to blackmail the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle which he turned down.

Danbature who is the Speaker of the  Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) said, the offer which is coming from outside the country wass extended to him through one of their agent in Nigeria.

According to him, the offer is for him to engage in a two months two weeks of constant attack through press conferences, issuance of  press releases on the person and personality of Bello Matawalle.

" They offered me $50,000 to blackmail the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle, and to tarnish his image and cordial working relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the good people of Zamfara State.

" Infact, the Terrorists kingpin Bello Turji who came out recently in a viral video where he made unsubstantiated allegations against the Minister was offered same amount to carry out such hatchet job" he further disclosed.

Ambassador Danbature said, the Youths which he represents are committed to good governance and leadership and will not in any form allow themselves to be given to any form of gratification for image slandering and blackmail of any government personality, individual or organization.

He said, he is forced to speak out because there are individuals who are committed to tarnishing images of personalities for political interests, while calling on Youths to beware of such individuals and avoid their antics and manipulations.

" For me, the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle is a good man who gave his best as Governor of Zamfara State and currently contributing in no small measure to stabilizing the security situation in the country.

" I therefore wish to use this medium to call on all and sundry that I cannot, neither can our group be used to malign any body in an attempt to settle political scores" he stressed.

ENDS

Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuosho: Celebrating a Philanthropist's Extraordinary Contributions to Humanitarian Sector, Nation Building

By MUKHTAR Ya'u Madobi 

In a world where selflessness is often overshadowed by personal gain, few individuals stand out as true beacons of hope and generosity. One such individual is Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuosho, the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Queen Adenike Tejuosho Foundation, (QAT Foundation). 

Over the years, she has been a remarkable humanitarian cum philanthropist whose tireless efforts have continued impacting the lives of countless people in Nigeria. By utilizing her resources and unwavering commitment through the QAT Foundation, this philanthropist has made significant strides in alleviating the sufferings of vulnerable populations, including people living with disabilities (PWDs), women, youths, and students. 

The impact of her work has been profound, ranging from awarding scholarships to providing empowerment in the form of financial grants and start-up capital and engaging in various corporate social responsibility initiatives across several communities.

As such, several beneficiaries across different quarters in Nigeria are singing praise for their life saviour, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho for her unwavering efforts and dedication towards improving their livelihoods through her giant strides.

Hajiya Halimat has always been at the forefront of exhibiting and displaying uncommon patriotism by always working for the betterment of Nigeria and its citizens. This love for her dear country was once again demonstrated during the ongoing nationwide hunger protests where she has been traveling across the nook and crannies of the country thereby sensitizing the minds of the populace, especially youths on the danger of violent approaches in registering grievances.

According to Halimat Tejuosho, embracing constructive dialogue between citizens and government will help better in facilitating and paving the way for Tinubu's administration to address the current concerns and uplift the country to greater heights.

Firstly, she visited Kogi State and preached peace to the people, as a result, the Coalition of Concerned Kogi Indigenes (CCKI)- a group with more than 1 million active members announced their withdrawal from participating in the national Protests. This timely intervention by Hajiya Halimat was the main reason why the hunger protests couldn't see the light of day in the confluence state.

Again, she equally risked her life and stormed Jos, the capital city of Plateau State, where a significant level of violence including vandalism and looting of properties was recorded during the protests. She also preaches the gospel of peace to the participants by assuring them of Tinubu's administration's commitment and dedication to addressing their grievances and his efforts in building a Nigeria where every citizen is dreaming.

This masterstroke demonstrated by the Iron Lady has no doubt helped greatly in dousing tensions across the North-central state. 

Meanwhile, as a testament to Hajiya Halimat's empathy and great service towards people with special needs, the Arewa Youth with Disabilities Forum paid her a courtesy visit in Abuja last month to ” identify with the philanthropist who has demonstrated uncommon dedication in caring for the less privileged using her resources." 

Therefore, it was not surprising when the guests seized the moment and honored the seasoned Humanitarian advocate with the award of  'PWDs Model and Philanthropist of the Year.’ This development has further demonstrated her untiring and selfless service to the PWDs community, the downtrodden and the elderly across the 19 northern states and the country at large.

In his address, the President of Arewa Youth With Disabilities Forum, Mallam Muhammad Musa Zaria thanked their host for welcoming them and restated their appreciation of her tireless efforts in ameliorating the plight of People Living With Disabilities (PWDs) all over the country. He prayed to Almighty Allah to make it easy for her and grant her heart desires.

“We are proud to identify with you. Indeed you are a worthy Ambassador of our community as you have consistently offered your entire life for the betterment of the downtrodden. Even as we continue to call for your nomination as the Honourable Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, our prayers are with you and we are convinced you will  perform excellently well, so using our resources on you at any rate is in line.”

No doubt, judging by the sensitive nature of the Humanitarian Ministry and the fact that the leadership position has been left vacant for a long time due to corruption and ineptitude, it is therefore, high time to consider a person worthy of recognition for replacement so that Nigerians can continue smiling even in the present economic hardships. 

The Need for a Leader in Humanitarian Affairs

In light of these extraordinary contributions, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should consider appointing Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho to the vacant position of Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation courtesy of her good track record of performance in helping the needy. The strategic importance of this ministry cannot be overstated, especially during these critical times.

Nigeria is home to a diverse and dynamic population, but it is also a country grappling with significant humanitarian challenges. Millions of Nigerians live in poverty, with many more facing vulnerabilities due to disabilities, gender inequalities, and lack of access to education and economic opportunities. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation plays a crucial role in addressing these issues, by providing essential support and services to those in need.

With Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho at the helm, the ministry would benefit from a leader who has firsthand experience and a proven track record of making a difference in people's lives. Her deep understanding of the challenges being faced by marginalized communities, coupled with her innovative approaches to problem-solving, would ensure that the ministry's programs are both effective and impactful.

One of the standout aspects of Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho's work is her focus on empowerment. By awarding scholarships, she has paved the way for opportunities for countless students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and contribute to the nation's development. Also, her giant strides in using personal resources to provide start-up materials and capital have empowered women and youths to start their businesses, fostering economic independence and growth within communities.

Such initiatives align perfectly with the goals of the 'Renewed Hope Agenda' of President Tinubu aimed at making Nigeria a better place for the citizens to thrive. No doubt, if given a chance to lead the Ministry, with her vast experiences and skills, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho could expand these programs, reaching even more people and creating a ripple effect of positive change across the country. Her vision for empowerment and sustainable development would be instrumental in driving the ministry's mission forward.

Again, The importance of having a dedicated leader for this Ministry like Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho cannot be overstated, especially during these critical times when Nigeria is facing a range of challenges, from economic instability to social unrest. The ministry's role in providing humanitarian aid, supporting poverty alleviation initiatives, and promoting social inclusion is more crucial than ever.

Leaving the ministry without a leader hampers its ability to respond effectively to these challenges. It is essential to have a capable and compassionate individual at the helm, someone who can steer the ministry towards achieving its goals and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.

Therefore, the appointment of Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho would bring much-needed stability and direction to the ministry, allowing it to operate at its full potential.

In a nutshell, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho is not only a commendable individual whose philanthropic efforts have transformed countless lives but also the ideal candidate to lead the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Her appointment would be a testament to President Tinubu's commitment to addressing the pressing humanitarian needs of the nation and empowering its most vulnerable citizens.

As Nigeria navigates through these challenging times, the leadership of someone as dedicated and visionary as Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho is essential. Her proven track record, deep empathy, and innovative approaches to humanitarian work make her the perfect choice to steer the ministry towards a brighter and more inclusive future for all Nigerians.

Rest assured, if considered, the appointment of Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho would be a 'square peg in a square hole.' Surely!

MUKHTAR Ya'u Madobi writes from Kano via ymukhtar944@gmail.com

Appointing Halimat Tejuosho as humanitarian minister will reduce agitations - CSOs tell Tinubu

By Editor

Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (CCSON) has said that appointing Halimat Tejuosho Adenike as Humanitarian Affairs Minister will reduce agitations from different groups cut across the country.

The group in a press statement jointly signed by the Deputy National Chairman and Spokesperson of the coalition Comrade Auwal Mohammed and Joy Elizabeth was reacting to the seven appointments made by president Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the federal ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, on Tuesday night.

Applauding president Tinubu for the appointments, the group stated that the move is a clear reflection of what Tejuosho has been telling them that the president is committed to take Nigeria to the promise land.

The group however, urged Tinubu to consider Adenike for the position of Humanitarian Affairs Minister because her track record of intervention in the ongoing nationwide protests is outstanding and therefore should be given the full opportunity in the president Tinubu's led administration to enable her contribute her quota to national development.

CCSON, a Coalition of over 200 Civil Society Groups, that constitutes over 50 million members across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) avered that Tejuosho risked her life from Abuja to Jos in the view to speak with protesters in other for them to end the protest which they obliged, stressing that her intervention in Kogi foiled the protest with no single interest. 

Auwal further reiterated that the people living with disabilities, whom Adenike serve as their national patron also shunned the protest because of her interest, adding that there is nowhere in Nigeria that a single PLWDs was seen to have joined the Nationwide protest, courtesy of Adenike's role.

The national chairman while making reference to Kogi State, also added that Adenike had several town hall meetings with Kogi youths both in Lokoja and Abuja sensitizing them on the need not to be part of the protest due to the complexity nature of the state and they obliged.

They also worried that they have unravelled plans by some prominent personalities in the North, lobbying to hijack the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry, urging the president not to succumb to the pressure on the ground that the position belong to a southerner and not for the North.

He said, "Our major surprise is on the ground that some of those political appointees under president Bola Ahmed Tinubu could not even come out to defend the him because of fear of attack but Adenike used her personal resources meeting with different groups to foil the protest.

"The people of plateau state had to stop the protest because of her intervention on Sunday. Also, Kogi State and people living with disability refused to even participate at all because of her intervention. So we are calling on the president for her immediate nomination as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, following her outstanding track record and mediation skills, even if not for anything else for that singular act during this crisis where those that were leaders did not show face.

"Humanitarian Affairs is a very sensitive ministry which a vacuum that the suspended Minister created is part of what led to the protest. So there is nothing wrong if the president should consider the recommendation of more than 70 CSOs that has written and calling on Mr president to consider her appointment.

"Appointing her will make Nigerians believe that Mr. President is interested in the welfare of young Nigerians. This CSOs constitutes over 50 million people cuts across the country. This means that if Adenike is appointed those that are agitating have been tactically settled because the agitations will reduce drastically." Part of the statement reads.

Nationwide Protestin Nigeria Spark Mixed Reactions

 

The ongoing nationwide protests in various parts of Nigeria have elicited a range of reactions both domestically and internationally. 

Bishop John O. Dickson, President of Friendship Church International Worldwide, has voiced his concerns about the situation. He described the protests, branded as "EndBadGovernance," as a significant embarrassment and a blemish on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The American-Nigerian Christian cleric lamented the negative impact these protests have had on Nigeria's image and reputation. 

Bishop Dickson stressed the importance of the government heeding the complaints of its citizens and working deliberately to address their grievances. While he acknowledged that dialogue alone is insufficient, he emphasized the need for justice, fairness, and equitable treatment among Nigeria's diverse population. He also urged Nigerians to pray and seek divine intervention to prevent the situation from escalating further. 

Commenting on the current economic challenges, Bishop Dickson highlighted Nigeria's wealth in human and natural resources. However, he pointed out that corruption and lack of productivity have hindered the effective utilization of these resources. He called for deliberate efforts to change this narrative and predicted a promising future for Nigeria if the government adopts and effectively implements sound policies. 

In her statement, Pastor Mrs. Esther Dickson is against shooting and looting of protesters.  She called for a thorough investigation and respect for human lives and rights as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution. She urged aggrieved Nigerians to engage in peaceful and lawful demonstrations, cautioning against looting and the destruction of private and public property.

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.