2027: Kebbi Gov, others endorse Tinubu for second term

 

The Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu and political office holders of All Progressives Congress (APC) from

the North West zone have collectively endorsed and passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for 2027 presidential election.

The endorsement was made after a stakeholders’ meeting, comprising all Governors of the  North West, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Deputy Senate President as well as former Governors from the zone.

In his endorsement speech, Governor Idris said he endorsed Mr President for his prosperous leadership.

Gov. Idris, who announced his endorsement alongside other  political juggernauts in the party said: “ I Nasiru Idris, have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his prosperous leadership come 2027.”

The National Chairman of APC, Chairmen of State Chapters, state and federal legislators, as well as Ministers, Heads of Federal Agencies, including  senior political appointees, were also at the meeting held in Kaduna on Saturday.

Groups Demand Defence Minister’s Resignation Over Insecurity in North

 

Two regional security advocacy groups have called for the resignation of the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, over what they described as his failure to address worsening insecurity in the North.

The North-West Alliance for Security (NWAS) and the North-East Youth Revival Movement (NEYM), in separate statements issued Tuesday, decried the increasing spate of killings, displacement, and destruction in their respective zones, blaming the federal government’s inability to contain the crises on weak leadership at the helm of the defence ministry.

NWAS, in a statement signed by its chairman, Musa Zakaria, lamented the continued operations of armed bandits in Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto states, saying the region had become a hotbed of lawlessness, with an estimated 30,000 bandits spread across 100 gangs.

“The persistent failures of the Minister of Defence to effectively address these challenges leave us with no option but to call for his immediate resignation,” the group said.

It said the North-West was suffering from violent attacks linked to radicalised bandit groups that now operate with jihadist factions, blurring the lines between criminality and terrorism.

“Thousands have been killed, millions displaced, and the economy crippled. Our traditional systems of dispute resolution have collapsed, creating a vacuum now filled by terror and fear,” the group added.

In a similar vein, NEYM called for Minister Badaru’s removal over last week’s deadly Boko Haram attack on a military base in Marte, Borno State, which left five soldiers dead and several military assets looted.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Abbarious Lawal, NEYM said the incident exposed deep-rooted weaknesses in Nigeria’s military structure, citing low morale, desertion, and poor strategic coordination.

“The attack highlights a critical crisis of confidence within our armed forces. Our soldiers are often left without adequate training, equipment, or support,” the group said.

It added that the assault forced residents of nearby communities to flee to Dikwa, Mafa, and Lukumani, further worsening the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Quoting data from SBM Intelligence, the group said over 2,000 people were killed in violent incidents between January and March 2025, with Borno State accounting for the highest number of casualties.

Both groups said the Minister of Defence had ample time to demonstrate leadership but failed, adding that excuses would no longer suffice in the face of national tragedy.

“The time has come for decisive action. Minister Badaru’s resignation is not just symbolic—it is necessary. We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace him with someone capable of confronting the security crisis head-on,” they stated.

They urged civil society groups, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to join their call for urgent reforms and accountability in the country’s defence sector.

Dauda Lawal Is A Liability, Don't Accept Him, NAN Cautions APC

 

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) says it feels compelled to address a matter of critical importance that could have significant ramifications for the political atmosphere of Zamfara State and beyond. 

NAN in a statement issued by it's Chairman Salihu Suleiman urged the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to exercise caution and discernment regarding any potential decision to accept Dauda Lawal, the current governor of Zamfara State, should he choose to decamp from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The northern group said, it has come to their attention that Governor Lawal is facing mounting pressure from formidable political adversaries, notably Minister Bello Matawalle and  Senator AbdulAziz Yari, both figures who are not only influential within the political framework of Zamfara State but also possess the resources and support necessary to undermine Lawal's ambitions for a second term.

According to the statement, the dynamics of Zamfara's political arena are fraught with challenges, and it is evident that Lawal's position is increasingly precarious. 

The NAN says it believes that Lawal's potential shift to the APC would not only be ill-advised but could also serve as an unnecessary burden on the party. 

"His political value is questionable, and his track record raises concerns about his ability to contribute positively to the APC's objectives and vision for the region. Instead of bringing strength and unity, Lawal's inclusion could sow discord and division within the party ranks, particularly in a time when cohesion and strategic alignment are paramount for electoral success.

"The APC must consider the implications of aligning with a leader whose political capital is waning. The party has worked diligently to build a robust foundation in the North, and it cannot afford to risk its reputation and electoral prospects by embracing a figure who lacks the necessary support and credibility. Dauda Lawal's political journey has been marred by controversies and challenges that could detract from the APC’s message of progress, transparency, and accountability.

"It is essential for the leadership of the APC to recognize that the political landscape is continuously evolving, and the decisions made today will shape the future of the party and its standing in the eyes of the electorate. Welcoming Dauda Lawal into the APC fold could be perceived as a misstep, alienating core supporters and undermining the party's efforts to present a united front against its political rivals".

NAN also called on the leadership of the APC to exercise prudence and foresight in their decision-making processes, stressing that should Dauda decide to leave the PDP, is not the ally that the APC needs at this critical juncture. Instead, the party should focus on nurturing leaders who embody the values and aspirations of the Northern region, leaders who can galvanize support and drive the APC's agenda forward.

"Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the progress and prosperity of the North. We urge the APC to heed this warning and prioritize the collective interests of our people over individual ambitions" the statement concluded.

Fear Of Matawalle, Yari Cause Of Gov.Lawal's Proposed Defection To APC Says Northern Group

  

 

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has condemned the ongoing plan by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

According to the group in a statement issued and signed by it's Chairman Comrade Danjuma Paul, the governor's decision is motivated by fear and desperation which will not only be a betrayal of the principles of the PDP but also a reflection of Governor Lawal's inability to provide effective leadership in the face of political challenges.

The group said, it is evident that the governor’s decision is primarily driven by his apprehensions regarding the political maneuvers of influential figures such as the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Senator AbdulAziz Yari. 

"The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC. This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State.

"Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political liability within the PDP. His tenure has been characterized by a lack of substantial contributions to the party’s vision and goals. Instead of fostering unity and progress, he has often been viewed as a political baggage, failing to galvanize support and inspire confidence among party members and constituents alike".. 

Mr Paul said, the governors proposed defection to the APC will not alter the narrative; rather, it will only serve to further highlight his inability to rise above the challenges that have plagued his governorship.

The NSCF said, they firmly believe that the people of Zamfara State deserve a leader who prioritizes their welfare and development over personal political survival, adding that Governor Lawal's decision to defect does not signal a commitment to better governance but rather a retreat from accountability and responsibility. 

"His track record within the PDP has proven that he lacks the vision and integrity necessary to lead effectively, and his transition to the APC is unlikely to yield any positive outcomes for the citizens he purports to serve.

Moreover, the NSCF is concerned that Governor Lawal's shift to the APC will only exacerbate the existing political tensions within Zamfara State. 

"The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already embroiled in its own internal struggles. Introducing a leader who has previously demonstrated a lack of political acumen will only complicate matters further and may lead to greater instability within the state’s political landscape" them forum emphaosed.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum therefore called on Governor  Lawal to reconsider his decision to defect to the APC, while urging him to prioritize the interests of the people of Zamfara State over his own political ambitions. 

"The citizens deserve a leader who is committed to their welfare and who can unite rather than divide. It is our hope that the governor will reflect on his responsibility to the people he serves and choose a path that fosters unity, progress, and true democratic governance" them statement added..

NAN Calls for Urgent Federal Intervention in Zamfara State ...

Zamfara State stands as a testament to resilience amid adversity. However, the current security situation has spiraled into a crisis that demands immediate federal intervention. 

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has raised an urgent alarm, imploring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the region, stressing that the escalating violence, rampant kidnappings, and pervasive banditry have rendered the lives of Zamfara’s residents precarious. 

NAN in a statement issued by it's Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the situation illuminate the gravity of the situation, the failures of local governance, and the pressing need for a concerted federal response.

The Chairman noted that over recent months, Zamfara State has experienced a resurgence of violence that has left communities traumatized. Reports indicate that armed groups have grown increasingly audacious, launching coordinated attacks on villages, displacing families, and instilling a pervasive sense of fear among the populace. 

It further averred that the initial successes of federal troops in combating banditry now seem like distant memories, overshadowed by the current wave of violence that has spiraled out of control.

"The statistics are sobering: thousands have been displaced, lives have been lost, and the fabric of society has been torn apart. The psychological toll on the people of Zamfara cannot be overstated. Families live in constant fear, children are deprived of education, and economic activities have come to a standstill. The security crisis has morphed into a humanitarian catastrophe, necessitating an urgent and robust response.

"At the core of this escalating crisis lies the apparent inaction of the state government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal Dare. NAN expresses grave concern regarding the governor's preparedness and capacity to confront the bandits who have wreaked havoc across the state. 

"Instead of prioritizing the security and welfare of the citizens, the governor appears more focused on the misappropriation of public resources. This negligence has not only exacerbated the security challenges but has also eroded public trust in the government’s ability to protect its citizens".

NAN noted that citizens of Zamfara find themselves in a precarious position, abandoned by their elected officials who have failed to provide the necessary leadership in times of crisis. The lack of decisive action from the state government has created a vacuum that has been filled by violence and fear. 

"It is incumbent upon the state leadership to prioritize the safety and security of the populace, yet the current administration seems ill-equipped to do so.

"In light of the deteriorating security situation, NAN's call for a state of emergency is not merely a plea for attention; it is a desperate cry for immediate action to address a growing humanitarian crisis. Declaring a state of emergency would facilitate the mobilization of federal resources, including military and law enforcement personnel, to restore order and protect vulnerable communities.

Federal intervention is crucial in situations where local governance has failed to provide security and stability. The capacity of federal resources to address widespread violence cannot be understated. A coordinated response involving military, police, and humanitarian agencies is essential to restore peace and provide much-needed support to the affected communities.

Moreover, the declaration of a state of emergency would send a clear signal to the people of Zamfara that their plight has not gone unnoticed. It would reaffirm the commitment of the federal government to protect its citizens and restore law and order in a region that has suffered for far too long.

"The humanitarian implications of the ongoing crisis are profound. As violence escalates, the basic needs of the populace—food, shelter, and security—are increasingly compromised. Displaced families are often left without adequate support, facing hunger and deprivation. The psychological impact of living under constant threat cannot be overlooked, as the trauma of violence seeps into the very fabric of community life".

NAN further opined that the longer the crisis persists, the more entrenched the challenges become. Children are unable to attend school, and livelihoods are shattered and the implications extend beyond immediate security concerns; they threaten the long-term stability and development of the region. 

"A comprehensive approach that includes humanitarian assistance, community rebuilding, and long-term security strategies is essential to address the multifaceted challenges faced by Zamfara State.

This call to action extends beyond the corridors of power. It is a collective responsibility that demands the involvement of all stakeholders—citizens, civil society organizations, and relevant authorities.

"The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and security. Advocacy for the rights and protection of citizens must be amplified, and the voices of those affected by violence must be heard.

"As we stand at this critical juncture, it is essential that we recognize the humanity of those affected by violence and insecurity. The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and well-being. It is time for all stakeholders to come together, united in the pursuit of peace, stability, and justice for the people of Zamfara State. The time for action is now.

The failure of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to act decisively against the bandits underscores the urgent need for federal intervention" the statement added.

AYCF Call for State of Emergency in Zamfara State

Northern youth pressure group under the auspices  of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed grave concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State. 

In light of the renewed and escalating insecurity that has left countless lives at risk, the forum has hereby called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima said, despite earlier successes recorded by federal troops in combating banditry, the situation in Zamfara has worsened significantly. 

He noted that Armed groups have become increasingly emboldened, launching brazen attacks on innocent civilians, displacing families, and creating an atmosphere of fear and hopelessness, adding that the people of Zamfara are in desperate need of immediate intervention to restore peace and security to their communities.

"We must also highlight the role of the state government under Governor Dauda Lawal Dare in this escalating crisis. The Governor's inaction, indifference, and total lack of concern for the plight of the citizens have directly contributed to the worsening security situation. 

"Instead of taking decisive action to confront the bandits, the governor has demonstrated a total lack of preparedness and capacity to challenge these criminal elements. Furthermore, allegations of the excessive pillage of public funds have raised serious questions about the governor's commitment to the welfare of the people".

The AYCF says they  firmly believes that a state of emergency is necessary to mobilize federal resources and restore law and order in Zamfara State and therefore urged President Tinubu to take such critical step to protect the lives and properties of the citizens and to hold the state government accountable for its failures.

"We stand with the people of Zamfara in their quest for safety, security, and justice. It is time for decisive action to end the suffering and restore hope to this beleaguered region" it stated.

ENDS

Yoruba Youths Condemn Protest Against Ex NNPCL Boss Kyari, Faults Call For His Probe

Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) said there attention has been drawn to the call by a group led by one  Comrade Kabir Matazu, calling for the probe and prosecution of the immediate past Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), ex-Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari.

The group, which styled itself as the Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, had on Tuesday protested at the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice’s office, to air its perceived grievances.

But in a statement on Thursday by the YYC National Coordinator, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the council faulted the group’s call which it described as narrow, selfish, unjustifiable, unpatriotic, and uncalled for.

It reeled out Kyari's achievements in office to justify its position that rather than persecution in the name of prosecution, as demanded by the protesting group, Kyari deserves commendation and applause by all well meaning Nigerians for his exemplary service.

According to the statement, “An objective view of the grievances of the protesters shows that the so-called anti corruption group, is hiding under that noble cloak to fight for interests that are purely personal, narrow, selfish, and unpatriotic.

“Why is it that the so-called anti corruption group in its Tuesday’s shameful protest to the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, narrowed its grievances against the former NNPCL management only to the alleged non payment by the Kyari administration of a $2 billion debt to a company?

“Why is it that the group in its sponsored grievances failed to see other burning issues of national interest like the worsening escalation of fuel pump price, dispute between the NNPCL, private refineries and marketers, occasional scarcity leading to loss of several man hours to the embarrassing fuel queues, low production, thereby aggravating the nation’s socioeconomic problems, and fight for their resolution?

“Why is it that Kyari must be guillotined over the alleged debt to a company, while the NNPCL management, a continuum, exists to handle such complaint, if really it exists, and any other debts which the company could have owed in the previous administration?”

“We note satisfactorily that Kyari who left office on April 2, 2025, and assumed duties on July 8, 2019 as the  Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), recorded many laudable achievements that have transformed the company to what is known today as the NNPCL.”

Some of these achievements, among many numerous others, according to the YYC are, NNPC’s rebirth through the Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence (TAPE), a five-step strategic roadmap for NNPC’s attainment of efficiency and global excellence; 

"Introduced transparent operational processes accountable to the Nigerian people, and benchmarked against established global best practices by world-class oil and gas companies;

Right operational cost structure, to guarantee value-addition towards NNPC’s sustained profitability.

"Achievable goals, priorities and performance standards and criteria, by developing suitable governance structures for its strategic business units, and the entrenchment of team-spirit, work ethic and collaboration with all key stakeholders to achieve set corporate goals.

"Discovery of oil in the Kolmani River-II Well, expected to significantly boost oil production capacity, removal of the traditional injunction that stopped oil production at the OML-25 oil flow station, attainment  of a new peak output of 331,400 barrels of per day on May 28, 2020"

The group also averred that in the 2019 financial year, Kyari ensured the NPDC maintained a unit oil production cost of $16.5 per barrel per day and also executed a funding and technical services agreement (FTSA) and alternative financing deal for NPDC’s OML 13 valued at about $3.15 billion and OML 65 for $876 million an agreements that resulted in a 32% and 21% incremental production output in OMLs 40 and 30.

"Financing and redevelopment of OML 119, one of NNPC’s critical projects, which aligns with the Federal Government’s aspiration to boost the country’s crude oil and gas production, growing reserves, and monetizing the nation’s enormous gas resources.

Revision Of Unit Costs for JVs, PSCs that saved costs through NNPC’s revision of joint venture and production sharing contract (PSC) operators’ unit costs, down to $19 per barrel and $18.3 per barrel, from the initial $31 per barrel and $24.3 per barrel respectively.

"Acquisition of four new oil acreages (OMLs 11, 24, 116 and 98, while recovering debts for gas supplies totaling about N16.64 billion and $3.55 million.

Achieved an average oil production capacity of 1.8 million barrels per day prior to the recent decision by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to cut its members’ output to boost crude oil prices and stabilize the oil market.

"Supported NAPIMS to secure external funding for the SPDC’s Santolina 3 projects expected to deliver an average production of 16,300 barrels of oil per day, while also superintending over the resolution of the Escravos gas-to-liquids (EGTL) cost dispute with Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL).

"Settlement agreement is expected to bring in additional $2billion to the Federal Government in the next 20 years, while providing about 1.5 million litres of diesel per day to the country.

Sustained Average Oil Output despite the challenges in the oil and gas industry;

Signed innovation agreement between NPDC and the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) involving the formalization of the transfer of OMLs 60, 61 and 63.

"Signing of the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for NLNG T7 FID project to expand the production capacity of the six-train plant by 35 per cent, from the extant 22 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 30 MTPA, and boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global LNG market. The project has the prospects of further attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in excess of $10 billion to Nigeria, and creating 12,000 new jobs.

"Flagging off the EPC activities on the 614 kilometers-long Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) pipeline project by NNPC; The pipeline project represents phase one of the 1,300 kilometre-long Trans-Nigerian Gas Pipeline (TNGP) project being developed as part of Nigeria’s Gas Master Plan to utilize the country’s surplus gas resources for power generation as well as for consumption by domestic customers. Apart from helping the government to save over $300 million, the AKK project would also attract over $2billion of FDI.

"Completion of the Okpai Power Plant to guarantee the supply of electricity to the national grid; Ensuring the sustenance of gas supply to power plants in the country and other domestic users leading to a peak energy capacity of 111,591.83 megawatts-hour through the execution of a funding and technical services agreement (FTSA) with NPDC on OML 11, while taking the FID on the $3.5 billion West African Gas Project (WAGL);

Rehabilitation, operations and maintenance of the Escravos Crude Oil Terminal.

"Execution of the intelligent pigging of the West African Gas Pipeline project as part of regulatory compliance and flow assurance, which is instrumental to achieving delivery of Nigeria-Gas foundation volume of 133 million BTU and cumulatively of more than 190 million BTU through the pipeline system;

Recovering debts valued at over N80billion and $45million owed the NNPC, through its subsidiary in charge of gas development and supply, the Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) by gas off-takers.

"Uninterrupted fuel supply to the downstream sector; “Operation White” to curb products diversion and smuggling, and ensure that the entire country was kept continuously wet with petroleum products; Authentication of ctual volumes of petroleum products imported and consumed in the country"

ENDS