Northern Integrity Security Forum Tackles Sule Lamido Over Calls For Matawalle's Removal

By Editor

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has described recent remarks made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, calling for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence,  Bello Mohammed Matawalle as an unfortunate.

According to the security forum, such call coming amid the troubling climate surrounding the abduction of the Emir of Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto state, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa and his son is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible, unstatesmanlike and alarmingly disingenuous.

The statements from the forum which was signed by the Chairman Tijjani Auwalu said, it was crucial to affirm that while the situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is of utmost concern, the challenges faced are national in scale, engulfing various facets of our society—from urban centers to rural localities. 

It stressed that Lamido's attempt to limit Matawalle's responsibilities solely to Sokoto or the North is a gross misrepresentation of the reality that security is an ongoing national issue, requiring collective efforts and shared accountability across government tiers.

"The timing and target of Lamido's critique raise significant questions regarding his underlying motives. It is disconcerting that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while overlooking Badaru Abubakar, the senior Defence Minister, who coincidentally shares the same home state of Jigawa with Lamido. 

"We must ask: why direct unrelenting attacks towards a loyal ally of President Tinubu, while seemingly absolving a senior counterpart? Such selective criticism indicates a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining the political framework supporting our President, rather than a genuine concern for the nation's security.

"Moreover, the contrasting nature of Lamido's recent expressions of empathy for a singular Emir in captivity stands in stark contradiction to his silence throughout the years of suffering endured by ordinary Zamfara communities and other ordinary Nigerians". 

The forum noted that thousands have fallen victim to heinous acts of abduction, torture, extortion, and displacement over the past two decades and the absence of Lamido's voice in addressing these widespread tragedies all this while raises concerns about his commitment to empathy and meaningful advocacy for the Nigerian people.

This singular attack on Matawalle cannot be detached from the backdrop of emerging investigations of Bashir Hadejiya, linked to serious criminal activities including, terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross border crimes, the.forum stated. 

"The growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations unfold. NISF expects that as this inquiry progresses, more personalities with dubious affiliations will be brought to light, further revealing the motivations behind such orchestrated smear campaigns.

"It bears noting that the relentless criticism directed at Matawalle is indicative of a concerted effort by a faction of inconsequential northern politicians—of which Lamido is a prominent member—to weaken the integrity and growing influence of President Tinubu in the North".

NISF posited that Matawalle's unwavering allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies the support necessary for a resilient governance and political structure. Hence, these attacks serve as a testament to Matawalle's reliability and dependability, which must be subdued if these politicians wish to see President Tinubu rendered vulnerable.

"We solemnly caution that in the fullness of time, the extent of involvement of several figures  in the crimes of Bashir Hadejiya would be exposed. The ongoing investigation into Bashir Hadejiya's criminal activities will inevitably blow open the cover of those whose actions contradict their public personas".

The forum therefore urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast and resolute against attempts to incite division within his solid support base in the North, adding that the loyalty embodied by figures such as Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is indispensable to the integrity of the current administration and national security.

"The NISF stands firm in our commitment to supporting our President's efforts of fortifying the Northern region's security and integrity. We shall not waver in promoting a united front against any efforts to undermine our collective strength in pursuing a safer and more prosperous Nigeria" the statement added.

World Humanitarian/ Int'l Youth Day: Halimat Tejuosho Empowers 600 Nigerian Youths In Kaduna

By Editor

Philanthropist, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho Adenike through the QAT Foundation has empowered not fewer than 600 Nigerian youths in Kaduna state.

The empowerment cuts across the six geopolitical Zones of the country, with the aim to encouraging youths with innovative skills of the 21st century, both for their livelihoods support and for self reliance.

The beneficiaries, hundred from each of the six Nigerian geopolitical Zones totalling six hundred, were empowered with Sewing machines, grinding engine, Hair dryer, among other items.

Speaking at the one day event, in Kaduna on Monday, Hajiya Halimat, who is the CEO of QAT Foundation said that the event is to commemorate the 2024 world humanitarian/ International Youths' Day, tagged “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development, and equally the World Humanitarian Day, “The time is now to Act for Humanity and Protect Humanity.”

She disclosed that the foundation had trained the participants in their different skills acquisition, while noting that skills remain the most valuable asset of the human society.

Calling on well meaning Nigerians to contribute their quota to national development, Tejuosho noted that government cannot do everything alone without collaboration from relevant stakeholders in the society.

She condemned the recent nationwide protests across the country, an act that she lamented was perpetrated by youths, void of patriotism to destroy their own country rather than building it.

She called on Nigerian youths to exercise patience with the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration who is doing everything humanly possible to give everybody the Nigeria of their dreams, particularly the youths, whom she affirmed that they remained the leaders of tomorrow.

Citing some of the interventions of the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration in one year, Adenike said that the administration of Tinubu has shown its commitment to the youth by setting up the student loan scheme, adding that 45.6billion Naira has already been processed for payment to students and their respective institutions.

The philanthropist equally stated that “more than N570 billion has been released to the 36 states to expand livelihood support to their citizens, while 600,000 nano-businesses have benefitted from the government's nano-grants. An additional 400,000 more nano-bussinesses are expected to benefit.

“On the other hand, 75,000 beneficiaries have been processed to receive the Tinubu's N1million Micro and Small Business single-digit interest loans,  starting this month. The APC government has also built 10 MSME hubs within the past year, created 240,000 jobs through them and 5 more hubs are in progress which will be ready by October this year.”

In his presentation, the Guest Speaker, Dr. Mohammed Sule from the University of Jos, Plateau state while speaking on the theme of event, “Digital Skills For Green Entrepreneurship” linked contemporary challenges of Nigerian youths with over dependency as a result of fear to take risk.

He avered that every business is associated with risk, adding that the greatest risk in life is to take no risk at all.

"Digital skills are essential for green entrepreneurs to succeed in today's digital economy. By acquiring these skills, entrepreneurs can develop sustainable businesses that thrive online and offline, contributing to a more environmentally conscious future.

“The fear of failure has discouraged not just youth but the larger society from venturing into one business or the other. Unknown to them that such action is the greatest enemy of success.” Dr. Sule said.

He urged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the equipments and give the skills all it takes to profit both themselves and the larger society.

One of the beneficiaries, Blessing Sunday who applauded the gesture of QAT Foundation said “I am the most happiest person today because initially when I told my friend that I am undergoing this program, some of them laughed at me thinking that it was a scam. I cannot thank the NGO enough, I pray that God will continue to bless them more.” she said 

Asked on whether she will sell it as the case of some beneficiaries, Blessing said, “I am a beneficiary of Sewing machine and I have learned fashion design,so why will I sell it. I will not sell it instead I will use it to buy more machines to enlarge myself based on the lecture we have received today.” she added.

Trans-border suspect: Ohanaeze youths hail security agencies’ collaboration

By editor 

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has hailed the collaborative efforts of the Nigerian security forces.

The Igbo group spoke in reaction to the recent arrest of A Nigerian who specialises in money laundering and other transnational crimes.

It could be recalled that the man, whose name was given as one Bashir Hadejiya, was arrested by the Nigeria police following intelligence reports on smuggling large catches of weapons along with large bars of gold believed to have been stolen from the Central Bank of Libya.

He was also linked to the recent EndBadGovernance protest, and confessed to sponsoring a large number of youths who participated in the just concluded #EndBadGovernance Protests in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa and Abuja.

Reacting through a statement made available to journalists, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said the arrest was the fruit of the deep collaboration among the security agencies.

Nnabuike, who said the arrest was of great concern, stressed that, “while we commend the police for the feat, we must state that no stone should be left un-turned in unearthing those behind this trans-border criminal activities.

“His arrest is no doubt an eloquent testimony to the fruitful collaboration and capacity of the Nigerian security forces, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu,  Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who have all shown serious commitment to restore security across the country.

“We must, however, note that his confession is mind boggling and should not be treated with kid’s gloves. This is a great opportunity to unravel the cabal that has been destabilizing the country, especially the North, security wise.

“There is no doubt that Bashir Hadeja is not alone; just as he confessed, this is a trans-border crime, and they have a ring. Their activities constitute a serious threat to the existence of Nigeria and this is why every effort must be made to identify his collaborators. When they are found, they must be brought to book.

“This also confirms our earlier fears when we kicked against the EndBadGovernance protest. We knew that as good as the intentions may sound, there were undercurrent dealings which could jeopardise the overall interest of the country. Our fears were justified considering the wanton destruction of properties, especially across the Northern part of the country. Hadeja’s confessional statement has also buttressed the fears.

“Having said this, our utmost fear right now lies with Hadejiya's confessions, particularly regarding his connections to influential figures in the political sphere, including allegations linking him to a former Director of the Department of State Security Service (DSS). This should worry every patriotic Nigerian.

“It is imperative to urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be mindful of some elements who are hell bent on discrediting his government and all those around him. The president should be watchful of such mischief makers who do not mean well for his government but are agents of destabilization.

“On our part, we urge the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu,  and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, to continue with their collaborative efforts, which is bearing visible fruits. They should not be distracted by enemies of state, who hide under some faceless names and groups to disparage the efforts of the government and the security agencies.

“As we urge Nigerians to be more vigilant, we look forward to a comprehensive investigation of Hadejiya and his collaborators. There should be no sacred cow."

NSCF Alerts On Plans By Governor Lawal To Disseminate Baseless Allegations Against National Security Officials

By editor 

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) said the forum is compelled to publicly address a concerning development that has come to her attention regarding the intentions of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal.

 It has been reported that Governor Lawal is allegedly orchestrating a press release through a group known as the Arewa Integrity League, the purpose of which appears to be the dissemination of unfounded allegations and fabrications against esteemed national security officials which includes high-ranking individuals such as the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Directorate of State Security, Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to the forthcoming press statement, purportedly to be issued by one Comrade Musa Garba, accusations are expected to be leveled against these defense officials claiming that they have manipulated false reports with the intent to unjustly implicate Governor Dauda Lawal, former National Security Adviser Aliyu Gusau, and Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar in alleged criminal activities connected to the ongoing investigation involving the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya. 

NSCF in a statement issued by it's spokesperson Ali Muhammad Sani said, they find such intended allegations not only to be irresponsible but also profoundly damaging to the integrity of our national security apparatus, adding that the relentless effort to tarnish the names of respected officials, who are fulfilling their commitments to the nation, should be condemned unequivocally. 

"The ongoing investigation concerning the activities surrounding Bashir Hadejiya represents a matter of significant public interest and demands transparency, integrity, and utmost seriousness from all parties involved.

The NSCF firmly advocated for accountability and justice. We recognize the imperative of conducting investigations grounded in facts, as opposed to responding to politically motivated smear campaigns. 

"The claims to be made by the Arewa Integrity League warrant rigorous scrutiny, for they serve only to distract from the legitimate work and responsibilities of security officials who diligently work to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of all citizens in our diverse communities.

"We urge the public, media, and all relevant stakeholders to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of such spurious allegations. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of evidence-based assertions and to reject rumors that could lead to irreparable harm to individuals’ reputations and erode public trust in our institutions. 

"As a forum committed to enhancing awareness and promoting transparency throughout Northern Nigeria, we call upon all citizens to prioritize truth and integrity during these disconcerting times. The alleged machinations of Governor Dauda Lawal and the Arewa Integrity League present a stark reminder of the necessity for caution, discernment, and a steadfast commitment to justice over political theatrics.

"We call on the security agencies to be proactive in acting quickly to checkmate the manoeuvres of these unpatriotic enemies of state and bring whoever is involved either directly or remotely to justice to serve as deterrent.

"In conclusion, the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum stands resolutely in solidarity with those devoted to the truth. We will continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and integrity in all matters concerning our nation's security and governance. The principles we champion are not just vital for maintaining the rule of law but are essential for fostering trust and harmony within our society".

NAN Warns Against Fabricated Claims by Arewa Integrity League Against Matawalle

By Editor,

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has brought to public’s attention disturbing developments concerning the planned dissemination of a press statement by the Arewa Integrity League, allegedly sponsored by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State. 

The said statement is expected to contain false claims and fabricated allegations aimed at discrediting key figures in Nigeria’s national security architecture, including the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Department of State Security, Mr. Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle. 

According to the Chairman NAN, Salihu Suleiman, in the planned offensive by the Arewa Integrity League, its spokesman, Comrade Musa Garba, would seek to create a narrative suggesting that these esteemed officials have engaged in manipulative tactics to engineer false reports implicated in a high-profile ongoing investigation tied to the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya.

He said, such unfounded attack aims primarily to tarnish the reputations of individuals who are steadfast in their commitment to national security and the principles of justice, while simultaneously seeking to obfuscate the real issues surrounding the investigation.

"We, at NAN, firmly believe that any attempts to distort the truth for political leverage are not only unethical but also detrimental to the integrity of our national institutions. The nature of these allegations raises serious concerns regarding the intentions behind such a coordinated smear campaign against responsible officials who are executing their duties to ensure law and order within our great nation"

NAN therefore called on the public to remain vigilant and discerning when consuming information that may serve as propaganda rather than fact. The role of the media and the public is crucial in upholding our democratic values and ensuring that truth prevails over deceitful narratives.

It also called on Law Enforcement Agencies to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. We encourage these bodies to diligently pursue the ongoing investigations without political interference and to ensure that those who promote falsehoods face the necessary legal repercussions.

NAN further called on political leaders to conduct their affairs with integrity and honor, refraining from engaging in character assassinations that detract from the greater good of society. It is imperative for leaders to focus on genuine issues affecting our communities, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics that threaten our unity.

" We also call on Civil Society Organizations to play their part in safeguarding the integrity of our governance systems by calling out misinformation and holding accountable those who perpetuate falsehoods for their own ends".

The NAN also declared their stand in solidarity with the individuals targeted by this nefarious campaign, recognizing their dedication and service to our nation’s security and stability. We will not shy away from advocating for truth and justice while exposing those who choose to weaponize falsehoods for personal or political gain.

NAN reiterated their commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of truth in governance and implored all citizens and leaders to reject division and embrace integrity, prioritizing the collective interest of our nation above all else.

Bashir Hadejiya's Arrest: Ethic Groups Commend NSA, Defence Ministers, Security Agencies

By editor 

Group of ethnic nationalities namely Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), Northern Awareness Network (NAN) and.the Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has said that our recent collective focus on the security of the Nigerian state has been underscored dramatically by the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya, a suspect implicated in treason, gun-running, and other transnational crimes.

According to the groups in separate press statements, the operation, orchestrated by our diligent security agencies, represents a remarkable achievement in safeguarding the integrity and sovereignty of Nigeria, while commending the Nigerian Police and the myriad security agencies involved in such extraordinary success. 

According to a statements issued by the President General of AYCF Yerima Shettima, Chairman of NAN, Salifu Suleiman and the leader of the YYC Comrade Eric Oluwole, the arrest is a loud testimony of the vigilance of our country's security network being coordinated jointly by the National Security Adviser; (NSA)Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru and defence minister for State; Bello Matawalle, the Armed Forces, Police and other security agencies.

The groups viewed the apprehension of individuals such as Bashir Hadejiya not only protects our borders but also underscores the importance of vigilance in combating increasingly sophisticated networks of crime and terrorism. The nexus between local and international criminal enterprises calls for a fortified response from all stakeholders to dismantle these dangerous operations.

"The confession of Bashir Hadejiya has unveiled a disturbing nexus of criminality that transcends national boundaries, posing significant threats not only to Nigeria but to the broader West African region and beyond. His involvement in the gun-running trade and the smuggling of gold pilfered from the Central Bank of Libya underscores a perilous partnership with international criminal networks.

"These entities do not merely undermine our national integrity; they provide the very resources necessary for exacerbating terrorism and instability across West Africa—a situation that represents a severe affront to our sovereignty and a pronounced invasion of our peace".

The tireless work and unwavering commitment of President Tinubu's security team, specifically  the resolute efforts of key figures such as NSA, Defence Ministers are quite commendable and essential in our collective fight against such security threats. 

"To bolster our national security further, we advocate for empowering these defenders—providing them with the tools, resources, and authority necessary to navigate complex national security challenges. It is only through a well-resourced and supported security team that we can expect to confront the evolving threats that loom over our democracy, the statements added.

"While we commend the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for it's efforts to protect the sovereignty of our Country we call on the Federal Government to provide the fund and materials needed  for the security agencies to function optimally".

ENDS

AYAGL, CSOs alleges oil thieves behind calls for Kyari’s sack

 

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has alleged that recent calls for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, are being orchestrated by individuals involved in oil theft.

In a statement by the Speaker of AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature, he claimed that those pushing for Kyari’s sack are disgruntled elements who have lost the opportunity to continue their illegal activities within the oil sector under Kyari’s leadership.

According to the Speaker, "the call for Kyari's removal is a calculated attempt by those who have been involved in oil theft and other nefarious activities to get back at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"These individuals are frustrated by the transparency and accountability that Kyari has brought to the Nigerian oil and gas sector, and they see his removal as their only chance to resume their illegal operations."

DanBature further stated that under Kyari’s leadership, Nigeria’s oil production has seen a significant increase from 900,000 barrels per day in late 2022 to 1.53 million barrels per day by July 2024, including condensates. He noted that Kyari’s tenure has been marked by efforts to curb oil theft and other criminal activities in the sector.

"When Kyari took over as head of NNPC in July 2019, the corporation was grappling with low production, widespread pipeline vandalism, and large-scale oil theft. Despite these challenges, Kyari has implemented reforms that have not only increased production but also brought greater transparency to the sector," he said.

The AYAGL Speaker also highlighted Kyari's introduction of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) initiative, which he said has restored public confidence in the NNPC. 

"Kyari’s achievements, including the publication of audited financial statements and the ongoing rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries, are clear indicators of his commitment to transforming the sector," DanBature added.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the calls for Kyari’s removal, emphasizing that these efforts are aimed at destabilizing the progress made in the oil sector. "As a group committed to good leadership, we stand firmly behind Mele Kyari and will continue to support his efforts to bring positive change to the Nigerian oil industry," DanBature concluded.