Yakubu’s Nomination Won’t Affect INEC’s Independence — Northern Stakeholders

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has said the nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, for an ambassadorial role will not compromise the commission’s independence or impartiality.

In a statement on Tuesday, the group’s convener, Yerima Shettima, said the concerns being raised in some quarters were “misguided and unnecessary,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law and cannot be weakened by the post-service appointment of any of its officials.

Shettima said INEC operates under a system designed to withstand political pressure, adding that its neutrality is reinforced by legal frameworks, public scrutiny and the oversight of political parties, civil society and the media.

“The idea that Professor Yakubu’s nomination can undermine INEC is unfounded,” he said. “INEC’s independence is not tied to one individual. Its processes and safeguards are too strong to be influenced by a future appointment.”

He said critics of the nomination were ignoring the fact that since the 2010 electoral reforms, the commission has been strengthened to function above partisan interest. He said innovations under Yakubu helped deepen the electoral process, noting that the 2023 elections produced major wins for opposition parties across the country.

According to him, the debate has also failed to recognise Yakubu’s long service to the country. He said the INEC chairman had served under four different presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without questions over his professionalism.

“Professor Yakubu has built a reputation for service,” Shettima said. “His work at TETFUND transformed tertiary education funding, and his reforms at INEC strengthened transparency. His ambassadorial nomination does not negate these facts.”

The group urged political actors to focus on strengthening institutions rather than creating fears around the personal career trajectory of public officials.

“Democracy is built on strong institutions, not on the personalities of those who lead them,” Shettima said.

The NSCI urged political parties, civil society and the media to avoid narratives that could erode public confidence in INEC, saying the commission remains central to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

NAN Alerts Tinubu to Alleged Smear Campaign Against Matawalle

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what it described as a coordinated smear campaign targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, warning that the development could unsettle the North’s already fragile security and political climate.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group alleged that following last week’s resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, “certain political actors” had intensified efforts to discredit Matawalle for what it called “purely political motives.”

NAN claimed that the backlash was part of a broader scheme aimed at weakening President Tinubu’s support base in the North ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to Sulaiman, intelligence available to the organisation suggested that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was linked to activities allegedly designed to mobilise unrest and fuel protests against the minister — a move it warned could escalate tensions in the North-West.

“These machinations are clearly designed to destabilise the region and erode the President’s strong support base,” the group said. “The President must be wary of anyone seeking to weaken his administration through orchestrated attacks on loyal allies like Matawalle.”

NAN also drew parallels between ongoing security anxieties in Kebbi State and the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction in Borno State, warning that any missteps in managing the current situation could trigger political ripple effects.

The group said Matawalle had demonstrated commitment to stabilising the North’s security landscape and had earned public trust across several communities.

“Northern Nigeria stands united in appreciating Matawalle’s efforts. His initiatives have yielded tangible results, and attempts to smear him are mere distractions from the real issues,” the statement added.

NAN urged President Tinubu to publicly reaffirm his confidence in Matawalle, describing the minister as “a key pillar” in sustaining political cohesion and public confidence in the region. It cautioned that sidelining him would amount to “a strategic miscalculation” ahead of the next general elections.

The group also called on the presidency to openly dismiss what it described as “baseless and politically motivated attacks,” insisting that the smear campaign was detrimental to both national security efforts and the stability of the North.

ENDS

Kebbi Govt Delegation in Bauchi for a Condolence Visit over the Death Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

Kebbi Govt Delegation in Bauchi for a Condolence Visit over the Death Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

Kebbi State Governor, Comerade Dr.Nasir Idris has sent  a powerful delegation to Bauchi State to  condole with the family of the  Late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.

The delegations was lead by the Hon. commissioner for Religious Affairs Arc Muhammad Sani Aliyu, min and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs Hon.Faruku Umar Ambursa alongside APC chieftain Alh Samaila Mabo and other Islamic leaders from the state.

conveying the Governor’s messages to the family, the Hon commissioner for Religious Affairs stated that the purpose of the visit was to condole with them over the demise of the Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi. He described the Sheikh’s death as a colossal loss to the family, Nigeria and the entire Muslim world.

He added that the late Sheikh was a great scholar who consistently preached peace, love and unity in society, noting that his vacuum cannot be replaced.

"I am here onbehalf of the Kebbi State Governor and the people of Kebbi State to express our sorrow over the passing of the  renowned Islamic scholar and spiritual icon, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who died on Sunday.

"His death has  plunged Nigeria, Africa and the global Muslim community into mourning, with tributes pouring in for a man widely regarded as one of the most influential religious figures of his generation" he said.

Governor Idirs described sheikeh Dahiru Bauchi as “a guiding light, a father to the Ummah, a refuge for the troubled, and a voice of truth,” noting that his compassion and wisdom touched countless lives.

He therefore stated further that the passing of Sheikh is not just the loss of a revered scholar but “the fading of a rare, radiant star whose brilliance shaped generations.”

Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was celebrated for decades as one of the strongest pillars of faith, humility and modesty in the Muslim world.

His teachings, prayers and leadership provided comfort to families, direction to communities and inspiration to leaders across the continent. His unwavering dedication to peace, justice and unity earned him admiration far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“The intellectual and spiritual world of Islam stands quieter, dimmer, and deeply wounded”, he said.

The Kebbi State Governor extends its sincerest condolences to the bereaved family, to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the Government and people of Bauchi State, to the entire Muslim Ummah, and to all Nigerians whose lives were touched by the late Sheikh.

PGF pay sympathy visit to Gov Nasir Idris over abduction of Schoolgirls in Maga

A high-powered delegation of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), led by its Chairman and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, on Thursday paid a sympathy visit to Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, following the tragic abduction of schoolgirls of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Uzodimma conveyed the Forum’s deep sorrow over the incident and expressed their collective solidarity with the government and people of Kebbi State. 

He condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as an inhuman act never associated with Africa or Nigeria in the past. He expressed shock that such brutality has now occurred in Nigeria, specifically in Kebbi State.

The PGF Chairman assured Governor Idris that all Progressive Governors stand united with Kebbi State at this difficult time. 

He reaffirmed their commitment to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies to strengthen national security and bring an end to insecurity across Nigeria. 

He added that the governors were ready to provide all necessary logistical and network support to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and the country is secured.

Governor Uzodimma also commended the positive improvements in Nigeria’s economy over the past two and a half years, noting increased revenue and the need to ensure the gains translate into prosperity for ordinary Nigerians. 

He emphasized that "an injury to one is an injury to all," affirming that Kebbi State is not alone in this struggle.

Responding, Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the delegation. He described their visit as very dear to the state, significant, and deeply reassuring.

The Kebbi State Governor recounted the distressing incident of the abduction and the trauma experienced by families and communities. 

He noted that the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, had visited the state earlier to deliver President Tinubu’s message of encouragement and the assurance that security agencies were working tirelessly for the safe release of the abducted schoolgirls.

Governor Idris expressed gratitude to the Progressive Governors for their solidarity and compassion. He assured them that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of the children. 

He also disclosed that he had met with parents, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to coordinate efforts and prayers for the girls' safe rescue.

The Governor reiterated his confidence that the abducted students would be safely reunited with their families soon.

The Progressive Governor’s delegation was led by the Executive Governor of Imo State, who is also the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, His Excellency Hope Uzodinma; the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; the Executive Governor of Kogi State  His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo; and the Governor of Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Other Governors on the entourage were the Governor of Jigawa State His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi; and Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu  Akabe.

France Assures Deepening Ties With Nigeria, Reaffirms Global Commitment to Peace

    

…France has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation as the French Embassy in Abuja joined the world to commemorate Armistice Day, marking 107 years since the end of the First World War.

The solemn ceremony, held on Tuesday, recognised the sacrifices of French soldiers and all who died for the Republic — not only during the First World War but also in other conflicts around the world — in defence of liberty, democracy, and human dignity.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, who led the ceremony, said it was a solemn reminder of the cost of peace and the duty of nations to preserve it. Fonbaustier praised the bravery of soldiers who fought for the Republic, saying their sacrifices embody the very spirit of France — courage, honour, and service to humanity. “France remembers not only those who fell on the fields of Europe but also those who fought and died in Africa, Asia, and beyond,” he stated.

Fonbaustier also reaffirmed France’s strong partnership with Nigeria and its continued commitment to multilateral cooperation, peacekeeping, and humanitarian support in Africa and worldwide. He noted that both nations share a vision of stability and mutual respect built on dialogue and democratic values. “France stands with Nigeria and all peace-loving nations in defending the ideals of freedom and human dignity,” he added.

Speaking at the event, the Defence Attaché of France to Nigeria, Colonel Stéphane Useo, stated that the commemoration represents more than mere remembrance; it reflects France’s enduring commitment to promoting peace and upholding shared human values. He said, “Every year, generations gather before the monuments of our towns and villages, united in remembrance and strengthened in our shared purpose — to build a world where liberty, security, and dignity are guaranteed for all.”

Useo paid tribute to the courage and selflessness of French soldiers through the ages, noting that their sacrifices continue to define the strength and values of the French Republic. He also shared a personal reflection, revealing that members of his own family were among those who experienced the horrors of war. “For my family, as for many French families, war was not distant history — it was lived experience. It taught us that freedom is never free, and that peace must always be defended,” he said.

He further highlighted the symbolism of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe and the Bleuet de France, the blue cornflower that has represented solidarity with veterans since 1925. The Defence Attaché described the flower as “a small but powerful emblem of compassion, resilience, and unity.”

The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths and a moment of silence at the embassy’s memorial plaque, as France renewed its message that remembrance is not only about honouring the past but also about sustaining the collective resolve to secure a peaceful and united future.

Kebbi Government Dismisses Claim that Abduction of Schoolgirls in Maga Occurred in a Christian Enclave

The Kebbi State Government has dismissed as false and misleading the claim by Rep. Riley M. Moore, member of the United States Congress that the tragic incident that occurred on Monday at Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State occurred in a “Christian enclave”.

This claim, reported by the Daily Post of Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, is entirely untrue and clear misrepresentation of facts. Maga is a predominantly dominated by Muslims community, and the majority of the abducted students are Muslims which is contrary to the claim made by the American lawmaker.

According to the report, the lawmaker’s reaction focused on the vulnerability of communities that have experienced repeated acts of violence in recent years. This is factually incorrect. Banditry in Northwestern Nigeria  has overwhelmingly affected Muslim communities. These criminal groups do not discriminate based on religion.

On different occasion, these bandits attacked and kill Muslims in their places of worship, more than the Christians. 

A recent example  is the attack on Muslim worshippers in a village near Malumfashi in Katsina State, where several people were killed inside a mosque during prayers.

If these bandits were driven by religious motives, why then do they attack and kill Muslim while praying in mosque? 

It is pertinent to note that the American lawmaker has either been misinformed or has chosen to ignore the realities on the ground.

The Kebbi State Government wishes to make it clear to the global community that terrorist in Nigeria target victims indiscriminately irrespective of religion or political affiliation. They attack people in their homes, schools, places of worship and sometimes block roads kill or abduct people on transit.

For over a decade, the predominantly Muslim states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa have endured sustained attacks, killings and displacement caused by the Boko Haram insurgency. The same case in Northwestern states of Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi all with large population of Muslims with few population of Christians have suffered more casualties from banditry than any other region.

We therefore urge the lawmaker Rep. Moore  and others making similar claims to kindly verify any information and report from Nigeria properly before making public statements that may further distort facts or fuel misunderstanding.

Northern Youth Council Commends Ministers of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff for Upholding Professional Standard

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has thrown its support behind the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O Olukayode, for upholding the professional standard displayed by Navy Lt. AM Yerima in an encounter with the former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of Abuja, Barrister Nyesom Wike.

It would be recalled that Navy Lt. AM Yerima, alongside other naval personnel acting on superior orders, prevented the Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, from gaining access to a landed property belonging to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral AZ Gambo (Rtd), in Abuja. 

The young Naval officer conducted himself in accordance with global military standards. He displayed a high level of discipline and decorum, which is the tenet of the military.

Perhaps, Bar. Nyesom Wike forgot that the young officer, Navy Lt. AM Yerima, was not just a Nigerian but a symbol of Nigeria as an entity, and Nigeria as an entity is bigger than any individual, and as such, engaging the young officer in that manner translates to engaging the Nigerian entity. So, what the young officer exhibited needs no condemnation, but rather commendation, accolades, and a call for strict adherence to professional standards in the line of duty.

The composure, the choice of words, and the polite manner in which he responded show that the Nigerian Armed Forces are the home of discipline and decorum.

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria also condemns the act of National Youth Council of Nigeria for writing a letter apologizing to the FCT minister Bar Nyesom Wike. The Minister should know that the letter wasn't written with the consent of the Nigerian Youth. 

As a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Bar Nyesom Wike knows better that the officer has not erred in anyway. 

We therefore calls on all office holders, including politicians and Nigerians, to always prioritize the Nigerian entity above any other interest.

Signed: 

Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad

MICA MNIPR ANIM MNUJ AIIPS

National Publicity Secretary

Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)