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.

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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"

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Allegations Of Office Abuse: Northern Group Wants Defence Minister, Badaru Probed

Call for Investigation into Allegations Against Defence Minister Muhammed Abubakar Badaru

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has expressed its deep concern regarding the allegations of abuse of office and conflict of interest against the Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammed Abubakar Badaru and demand serious probing into the matter.

The forum in a statement issued by it's spokesperson Aliyu Muhammad said, in the light of such serious accusations, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate a comprehensive probe into the matter, thus reinforcing the integrity of his administration's commitment to the fight against corruption. "It is imperative to highlight that the principles of transparency and accountability are foundational to good governance". 

Muhammad noted that the recent petition submitted by the Young Guardians of Accountability (YGA) has brought to light troubling claims that Minister Badaru has violated federal laws by maintaining active business interests while serving in a public office, adding that the YGA’s allegations indicate that the minister continues to operate private companies, including a Bureau de Change, in direct contravention of legal restrictions that prohibit such conflicts of interest.

The NSCF said, it acknowledges the commendable efforts made by President Tinubu's administration in addressing issues of corruption, but urged the President to demonstrate consistency in applying the same level of scrutiny to Minister Badaru. 

"The establishment of a committee to investigate allegations of financial misconduct against Edu was a necessary step towards accountability. It is crucial that this same rigor be extended to all public officials, including those in the highest echelons of government.

"The President cannot afford to be selective in the war against corruption. If the administration is to maintain its credibility and the trust of the Nigerian people, it must be unwavering in its commitment to uphold the law. The perception of selectivity in the fight against corruption undermines public confidence and could potentially erode the very foundation upon which this administration stands. 

"It is our belief that the allegations against Minister Badaru, if left unaddressed, will foster an environment of skepticism and distrust among the citizenry regarding the government's anti-corruption stance.

NSSF says it recognize that the fight against corruption is a complex and multifaceted challenge, but it is one that must be met with steadfast resolve. The assurance given by this administration that no one is above the law must be upheld in practice, not merely in rhetoric. 

"The selective investigation of certain individuals while others remain unaccountable creates an impression of favoritism and inequity that is detrimental to the principles of justice and fairness.This situation is not merely a matter of ethical governance; it poses significant risks to national security. The individual responsible for protecting our borders and ensuring the safety of our citizens must be above reproach, both in conduct and in perception. 

"It is deeply troubling that the individual responsible for overseeing Nigeria’s defence and security is involved in financial dealings that could pose a conflict of interest. This is not just about corruption—it is about the safety and security of the nation. If the allegations are true, then Mr. Badaru must step aside to allow a full and independent investigation,” the statement from our organization reads.

The implications of these allegations extend beyond mere governance; they touch upon the very fabric of our national sovereignty. If a minister entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding our nation is entangled in questionable financial activities, it raises legitimate concerns about the prioritization of national interests over personal gain, the group stated.

The citizens of Nigeria deserve to have confidence in their leaders, and any shadow of doubt must be addressed transparently and decisively.

Furthermore, we urge President Tinubu to reassure Nigerians that his government is steadfast in its commitment to accountability across all sectors. 

"We are calling on the president to act decisively and prove that his administration’s anti-corruption agenda is not just rhetoric. The credibility of this government is at stake, and Nigerians are watching closely,” we emphasize.

In a time when our nation faces numerous challenges—ranging from security threats to economic instability—leadership integrity is crucial. 

The NSCF further said it  believes that accountability must be upheld at all levels of government, and we stand firm in our call for a thorough investigation into Minister Badaru’s alleged dealings. 

We reiterate our call for Minister Badaru to step aside during the investigation process to ensure that it is conducted without bias or interference. 

"The safety and security of Nigeria must always come first, and we must work collectively to uphold the values of integrity and accountability in our governance" it concluded.

ENDS

AYCF Condemns Plateau Killings, Demands Compensation for Victims

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the recent killing of scores of residents in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing the incident as senseless and unacceptable.

The youth group also called on the federal government to provide adequate compensation for families of the victims and survivors of the attacks.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the President-General of AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, said the tragic incident reflected the worsening state of insecurity across the country.

“This act of senseless violence has left numerous lives lost and entire communities devastated. It is not only a violation of human rights but also a reminder of the growing insecurity in parts of our country,” the statement said.

Shettima urged the government to take immediate and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further bloodshed.

He extended the forum’s condolences to the affected families and communities, noting that the trauma and pain caused by such incidents cannot be overstated.

“The perpetrators of these heinous acts must be brought to book. The government must show compassion and responsibility by supporting the survivors through medical aid, psychological support, and financial compensation,” the AYCF leader said.

He called on the federal government to establish a special victims’ support fund for those affected by the Plateau attack and similar incidents elsewhere in the country.

“This is not just a call for justice. It is a call for compassion, accountability, and a collective commitment to end these atrocities,” he said.

The AYCF also commiserated with the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, and the people of the state over what it described as another round of senseless bloodshed.

Shettima reaffirmed the group’s solidarity with the people of Plateau and urged all stakeholders to prioritise the safety and dignity of Nigerians, regardless of their location or background.

AYCF Condemns Killing of 16 Northern Travelers in Edo, Demands Justice

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the killing of 16 Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State, describing it as a “horrific display of mob injustice” and calling for swift action against those responsible.

In a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, the group expressed outrage over the attack, which occurred on Thursday in the Udune Efandion community. The victims, mostly Hausa hunters traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Sallah celebrations, were intercepted around 1:30 p.m. by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes before being set upon by a mob.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of 16 innocent lives, who fell victim to a brutal and misguided attack fueled by false accusations and sheer ignorance,” Shettima said.

He described eyewitness accounts as disturbing, noting that some victims were thrown into the flames after their vehicle was set ablaze.

“The chilling reality of mob justice in Southern Nigeria has once again been exposed. Eyewitness reports reveal a horrifying scene where some victims were removed on wheelbarrows and thrown into the fire. This is an act of sheer barbarism that has no place in a civilized society,” he said.

The AYCF called for an immediate investigation, insisting that justice must be served.

“We demand swift and decisive action from the authorities. Those who incited and participated in this heinous crime must be brought to book. The justice system must not be overshadowed by the lawlessness of a mob,” Shettima stated.

Acknowledging the anger within the Hausa community in Uromi and beyond, the AYCF urged restraint while pursuing justice through lawful means.

“We understand the pain and outrage this incident has caused. However, we appeal to our brothers and sisters to remain calm and avoid any form of retaliation. It is crucial to seek justice through legal and diplomatic channels rather than violence,” Shettima added.

The group pledged support for the victims’ families and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring such an atrocity is not repeated.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims. We will not relent in our advocacy until the perpetrators of this crime are held accountable. Nigeria must be a country where law and order prevail over mob rule,” he said.

The AYCF called on security agencies and the government to take concrete steps in addressing mob violence, warning that failure to act decisively could lead to further instability.

“We must build a society where dialogue and understanding triumph over ignorance and violence. The AYCF remains committed to promoting peace, justice, and unity among all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or regional differences,” Shettima said.

Ohanaeze slams critics of INEC over Natasha’s recall process

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, has issued a scathing condemnation of the recent allegations made against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly under the leadership of Professor Mahmoud Yakubu.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, described the allegations as "malicious falsehoods peddled by the anti-democratic group known as the South-South Alliance—an organization evidently manipulated and funded by unscrupulous politicians whose sole aim is to erode public trust in INEC."

Isiguzoro emphasized that the credibility and neutrality of INEC have improved significantly in recent times, making it imperative for all stakeholders to rally in support of the institution. "It is essential that we safeguard the integrity of INEC at all costs, as it represents the cornerstone of our nation's electoral democracy," he stressed.

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo deputy president general also warned that the spurious allegations against INEC pose a significant risk of inciting violence and destabilizing the electoral landscape. "We implore INEC to dismiss these baseless accusations as the distractions they are, intentionally devised to draw attention away from their critical responsibilities."

Isiguzoro called on all Nigerians to rise in defense of the nation's institutions, denounce falsehoods, and ensure that the integrity of INEC remains sacrosanct. "Let us unite in our shared commitment to uphold the democratic principles that bind us as a nation," he urged.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Professor Yakubu and his team at INEC to fortify Nigeria's democracy against anti-democratic forces.

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