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A Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered the Nigeria Police and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to investigate the allegations of tax evasion, fraud, and related offences levelled against Engr. Augustine Chinedum Emelobe, Chairman of Northbridge Energy Limited.

The court order comes as the Leaders and Elders’ Council of Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State renewed their demand for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately prosecute Engr. Emelobe over the same allegations.

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Salami Odion

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, as Nigeria’s ambassador to an unspecified international mission, describing the development as a boost to the nation’s diplomatic profile.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja and signed by its Chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group said the nomination was a recognition of Yakubu’s “distinguished record of public service” and his “vast experience in global affairs,” which it argued would be invaluable in strengthening Nigeria’s engagement on the international stage.

Sulaiman noted that the former INEC chairman had earned national and international respect during his stewardship at the electoral body, where he championed reforms aimed at improving electoral transparency and deepening democratic processes.

He dismissed concerns raised in some quarters that Yakubu’s new appointment could compromise the independence of INEC, insisting such fears were “misguided and reckless.”

According to him, the neutrality of INEC is anchored on law, institutional safeguards, and multilayered oversight mechanisms—not on the post-service career of any individual.

“INEC’s integrity is not tied to the personal trajectory of any former official,” Sulaiman said. “It is a system strengthened by reforms since 2010, monitored by political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. Democracy rests on institutions, not personalities.”

The group further highlighted Yakubu’s career under four successive presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—as evidence of his professionalism and non-partisan disposition.

It recalled that as Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, Yakubu initiated reforms that continue to shape the nation’s tertiary education sector. It also pointed to innovations introduced under his leadership during the 2023 general elections, which it said enabled opposition parties to record their highest number of elective positions in the country’s political history.

The Northern Awareness Network urged Nigerians to support the nomination, adding that effective diplomacy required individuals with proven administrative competence and an understanding of Nigeria’s governance architecture.

Sulaiman stressed that rather than question Yakubu’s nomination, Nigerians should focus on strengthening national institutions and reinforcing accountability across all sectors.

“This appointment is an opportunity to present Nigeria’s democratic values to the world with credibility,” he added. “We call on Nigerians to rally behind this development and remain committed to building strong, resilient institutions.”

The statement concluded with the group expressing confidence that Professor Yakubu would bring his “wealth of experience, integrity, and calm leadership” to the diplomatic assignment once confirmed.

ENDS

Sama Daniel

…..

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has dismissed concerns that the ambassadorial nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, could compromise the commission’s independence and impartiality.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the group described the ongoing public debate as “misguided and reckless,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law, not by the personal career choices of its officials.

Shettima noted that INEC’s independence is anchored on strong legal and institutional frameworks that prevent undue interference, adding that suggestions that Yakubu’s post-service appointment could taint the commission’s neutrality were unfounded.

“The integrity of INEC does not hinge on the actions of one individual. It is secured by robust structural safeguards and the active engagement of all stakeholders,” the statement read.

The NSCI emphasized that INEC remains the most scrutinized public institution in Nigeria, with its activities monitored by political parties, civil society organizations, and the media. According to the group, this level of oversight ensures that no single individual, including the chairman, can compromise the commission’s credibility.

Highlighting reforms since 2010, the organization said the electoral body has built a resilient system that continues to improve over time. It added that the 2023 general elections—described as historic for opposition parties—were a testament to the commission’s evolving strength and institutional capacity rather than the influence of any one official.

The group also defended Professor Yakubu’s record in public service, noting that he had served under four presidents with differing political ideologies—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without partisan controversy.

Shettima further recalled Yakubu’s achievements as head of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, where he was credited with helping to transform Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape. His tenure at INEC, he said, had similarly been marked by technological innovation and improved transparency.

The NSCI urged stakeholders to prioritize strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions rather than amplifying fears over individual appointments, stressing that democracy thrives on strong systems, not personalities.

“We call on political parties, civil society, and the media to reject narratives that undermine INEC and to recommit to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement added.

The group reaffirmed its support for Yakubu’s nomination and called for collective efforts to maintain the integrity of the country’s electoral framework.

ENDS

Gov. Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has intensified moves for the removal of Minister State for Defense, Mr Bello Matawalle, as prerequisite to join All Progressive Congress (APC).

It was reported that Lawal had meeting with President Bola Tinubu along with Enugu and Taraba state governors at Peninsular Hotel, Paris sometimes a go where he indicates his intention of joining All Progressive Party, APC along with two governors mentioned.

Lawal was said to be presurising on the presidency to remove Matawalle and bestow with the APC party structures and leadership in Zamfara state for long time,

With the resignation of Mohammed Badaru as Minister of Defence yesterday, Gov Dauda returns to trenches of demanding the President Tinubu to sack Matawalle immediately as condition of his joining APC.

The move he is making with support of a senior security head to facilitate damning reports against the personality of Minister Matawalle.

Based on the demands Governor Lawal will mobilised Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members into APC folk when he ensured that Matawalle was removed.

It was glaring that Gov. Lawal dared President Tinubu and his loyalists forcing a way for his political collusions into APC highlighting Matawalle as the only stempling block behind his political success.

The governor was not pleased with Matawalle’s  political dominance especially in the northwest and his ability to succeed in mission assigned to him.

It was alleged that Lawal was not comfortable with Matawalle’s accomplishments on handling banditry and kidnappings in region as well as how is mastered ways to ensure peace building initiatives.

Matawalle’s glaring success manifested when giving with presidential mandates to rescue kidnapped Maga secondary students in Kebbi state, restoring normalcy in Sokoto state and others.

Ike Ikechuche

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what it described as a growing campaign of calumny against the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammad Bello Matawalle, warning that the development could undermine security and political stability in the North.

In a statement issued by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group alleged that following the recent resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, certain political interests had intensified efforts to discredit Matawalle.

NAN claimed that the attacks were part of a wider political strategy purportedly aimed at weakening President Tinubu’s support base in the North ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to the organisation, intelligence it gathered suggested that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was linked to activities allegedly intended to stir public unrest and mobilise protests against the minister. The group said such actions could heighten tensions in the already fragile security environment in the North-West.

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

The group further drew parallels between current security concerns in Kebbi State and the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in Borno State, warning that any missteps in managing the situation could have far-reaching political consequences.

It argued that Minister Matawalle had demonstrated firm commitment to improving security and had earned the trust of many northern communities.

“Northern Nigeria stands united in appreciating Matawalle’s efforts. His initiatives have yielded tangible results, and attempts to tarnish his image are distractions from the real issues,” NAN stated.

The group urged President Tinubu to reaffirm his confidence in the minister, stressing that sidelining him would amount to a strategic error in the buildup to the next general election.

NAN also called for a public denouncement of what it described as “baseless attacks” against the Defence Minister, insisting that Matawalle remained a key pillar in sustaining political cohesion and public confidence in the North.

ENDS

By Salmon Alli

The Northern Elders Progressive Group has dismissed renewed calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the criticisms as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically driven.”

Addressing journalists on Monday, the Coordinator of the group, Yusuf Abubakar, said recent media attacks targeting the minister were part of a broader political manoeuvring within the country’s public space, especially as federal security operations continue to record gains nationwide.

Abubakar noted that some commentators have attempted to link persistent insecurity in parts of the North-West to alleged shortcomings within the Ministry of Defence. He argued that such claims ignore the complex nature of Nigeria’s security challenges and the significant progress recorded under the current administration.

He emphasised that since assuming office, Matawalle has been instrumental to a series of reforms aimed at revamping defence operations, modernising military capabilities, and strengthening collaboration among security agencies.

According to Abubakar, the minister’s role in enhancing joint operations among the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence services has been central to improving counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts across the country.

He cited the successful rescue of abducted school

The Northern Forum for Good Governance has appealed to Northern Senators to support and ratify the nomination of Mr. Reno Omokri as one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominees.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Dr. Musa Mohammed, the group said Omokri has demonstrated “the capacity to lead and represent Nigeria effectively at any level,” adding that his nomination is a welcome development deserving of national support.

President Tinubu recently forwarded 32 ambassadorial nominees — including Omokri — to the Senate for confirmation, just days after sending an initial list of three names. However, sources within the National Assembly revealed that the Senate is currently grappling with internal disagreements, largely triggered by Omokri’s inclusion on the list.

Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and a prominent social media commentator, had in the past been critical of President Tinubu, including allegations that he once referred to the President as a “drug baron.” These past comments have reportedly stirred controversy within Senate circles as lawmakers debate his suitability.

But the Northern Forum for Good Governance insists that ambassadorial appointments should be based solely on merit, competence, and the capacity to deliver, not on sentiments or past political disagreements.

“The issues of capacity and performance should be the yardstick for appointments, not flippant matters or emotional considerations,” the group stated.

The Forum urged Northern Senators to prioritize national cohesion and development by supporting Omokri’s confirmation. It argued that President Tinubu’s decision to nominate him despite previous criticisms shows statesmanship and an ability to recognize talent above personal differences.

“Tinubu must have seen a unique side of him despite his past attacks, and that is what is most important from a good leader,” the statement added.

The Senate is expected to begin screening the nominees in the coming days.

The Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony has scheduled Thursday, December 4, for another high-level interfaith peace parley aimed at strengthening unity and understanding among Christian and Muslim stakeholders in Plateau and Kano States.

The planned dialogue follows the organisation’s recently concluded and widely commended interfaith engagement in Abuja, where religious leaders from across the North explored collaborative approaches to mitigating tensions and fostering a culture of mutual respect.

In a statement issued on Monday, the organisers said the forthcoming summit would bring together prominent Islamic and Christian clerics, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, youth representatives and key community influencers from both states.

According to the statement signed by Dr. Mohammed Kassim, the initiative seeks to consolidate ongoing conversations on peaceful coexistence, enhance inter-religious cooperation, and build sustainable frameworks for conflict prevention across northern communities.

“The Yari Roundtable has created a platform for honest dialogue, where leaders can collectively examine root causes of conflicts and articulate actionable solutions that promote lasting peace,” the statement read.

The parley is expected to review recent communal challenges and outline strategies for strengthening trust between various faith-based groups, particularly in communities that have experienced recurrent violence.

The organisers stressed that the event aligns with the Roundtable’s broader mission of promoting unity, tolerance and harmony across the North. They expressed confidence that the Plateau–Kano peace dialogue would contribute meaningfully to ongoing peacebuilding efforts and reinforce the importance of partnerships among religious bodies.

At the end of the meeting, participants are expected to issue a joint communiqué outlining resolutions and commitments to deepen interfaith collaboration and long-term peace initiatives.

By Musa Luka

Matawalle debunks reports that he claimed Zamfara security won’t work without him

The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has dissociated himself from a report circulating on social media, claiming he said “Zamfara security initiative wouldn’t work without him.”

Matawall described the reports as maliciously crafted to tarnish his good reputation and efforts, and undermine the Federal Government’s efforts at tackling the security challenges facing the nation.

He said at no time did he grant any such interview, noting, however, that he had taken Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to task over his poor strategy and non-cooperation with the Federal Government on mechanism for tacking the security challenges.

Matawalle, who had earlier served as Zamfara governor for four years before his present ministerial appointment, noted that Governor Lawal’s attitude of not carrying him and other stakeholders along in his arrangements for tackling the state’s security situation that has become a national issue is condemnable.

He said meeting with the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, alone and neglecting him who is a son of the soil and a minister from the state also saddled with defence matters, is regrettable.

“Everything should not be politicised. This is the time all hands should be on deck to tackle the security problems,” Matawalle said.

He also condemned the governor for authorizing that security operatives on the ground in Zamfara move to tackle the security threat without coordinating with Abuja, a situation he described as a major drawback in the process.

He described the story as a sponsored mischief by certain group of people who were out to use all other avenues to create political tension and instability in Zamfara State.

“Premium Times as a respected medium ought to have clarified from Matawalle or his media aides his statement on the matter in order to give accurate information to the public.

“The media should not be used as tools of political mischief and mudslinging because of differences in political leanings.

“As a stakeholder in the management of security in the nation, there is no reason for him to want to sabotage the efforts of any state governor, talk less of his own state where the security challenges have become unmanageable due to poor governance,” Matawalle added.

According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to securing communities and ensuring residents return safely to abandoned farmlands, schools and homes.

He said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is fully committed to addressing the country’s problems and no political collusion

By Musa Luka

‎”We Are Helpless, We Have Nothing Left to Give” Kurama Cries out as Bandits Demand N500m to Free 13 Breadwinners

The entire Kurama Chiefdom in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State has been plunged into uncontrollable mourning as terrorists holding thirteen residents, including an ECWA pastor, have issued a chilling ransom demand of Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000) – a sum the traumatised communities say is impossible to raise. ‎ Two weeks after gunmen stormed the sleepy villages of Gidan Yawa, Maiyamma, Jantsauni, and Maidoki around 10:30 pm, shooting three people dead and abducting thirty others in a night of terror, the bandits have now reduced their captives to thirteen and delivered their outrageous price for freedom. ‎ “We are finished. These are the breadwinners of their families; farmers, fathers, a pastor, and the bandits are asking for half a billion naira. Where will poor villagers find such money?” wept Mr. Pius Agaji Kyauta, National Publicity Secretary of the Federated Kurama Association.
‎“Our people are helpless. We have no guns, no soldiers, no money. We are at the mercy of these killers.” ‎ The affected villages, quiet farming settlements on the outskirts of Yarkasuwa, were overrun by suspected armed Fulani bandits who moved from house to house, dragging out men, women and children while firing indiscriminately. The thirteen still in captivity are believed to be those considered most “valuable” by the terrorists. ‎ The Kurama people say they have been abandoned to their fate. Traditional rulers sit in silence, palaces turned into mourning grounds. Mothers whose sons were taken wail openly in the streets. The communities have no means to borrow, no collateral to sell, and no hope of meeting even a fraction of the ransom. ‎ This latest atrocity is only the most recent in a long chain of bloodshed visited upon the Kurama nation. In recent years, the District Head of Garun Kurama, the District Head of Gurzan Kurama, a Catholic priest of Yadin Garun Kurama Parish, the wife and son of the Lere LGA APC Chairman Hon. Jonathan Shekarau, and countless farmers have all been kidnapped or murdered. Many remain in captivity or were killed when ransom could not be paid. ‎ “We beg President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and our Governor Senator Uba Sani – please come to our rescue,” Mr. Kyauta pleaded, his voice breaking. “Kurama people, Amo, Surubu, Chawai, even Igbos living among us – everyone is a victim. We are tired of burying our people and paying blood money we do not have.” ‎ As night falls over the scarred villages, mothers clutch empty mats where their children once slept, fathers stare at abandoned farms, and an entire chiefdom waits in helpless dread – knowing the next phone call from the bandits could bring either a reduced demand they still cannot meet, or the unbearable news that more lives have been taken because they are too poor to buy them back. ‎ For now, the Kurama nation can only mourn and pray, utterly powerless against the terror that has made their land a valley of tears.