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By Yerima Soro

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, President of the Afenifere Youth Council, and demanded his immediate release.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, Prince Ojajuni was kidnapped on Monday, February 17, 2025, and has been in captivity ever since.

“The alarming situation surrounding the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, the President of the Afenifere Youth Council, calls for urgent attention, demanding his immediate release by the kidnappers,” Shettima said in a statement.

Shettima described the situation as “worrisome,” emphasizing the need for urgent action to ensure Prince Ojajuni’s safe release. He noted that the kidnappers are demanding an exorbitant ransom of ₦100 million and have threatened to take Prince Ojajuni’s life if their demands are not met.

“The recent escalation in the kidnappers’ demands, which now includes the provision of two Keke NAPEP vehicles, alongside a menacing deadline set for Tuesday, at 3 PM, underscores the urgent need for immediate action,” Shettima stated.

“The threat to execute Prince Ojajuni if these demands are not met is not just a reflection of the lawlessness that has gripped our nation, but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the face of greed and desperation,” he added.

Shettima posited that Prince Ojajuni is not merely a name but a beacon of hope and a symbol of the aspirations of the youth, adding that his unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Yoruba people has resonated deeply within the communities.

“His abduction represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a grievous affront to the collective conscience of our race and the nation as a whole. It is a stark reminder of the challenges our society faces in safeguarding the lives and futures of our youth,” Shettima said.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, representing the interests and voices of the northern youth, unequivocally condemns this act of violence and lawlessness. We recognize that the abduction of Prince Ojajuni is part of a larger crisis that has plagued our nation, where kidnappings for ransom have become an all-too-common occurrence. This trend is not merely a regional issue; it is a national emergency that demands the immediate and concerted efforts of all levels of government,” he stated.

Shettima called on the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni.

“In light of this dire situation, we call upon the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni. It is imperative that security agencies are mobilized to locate and rescue Prince Ojajuni without delay,” he stressed.

Shettima further urged the Federal Government to collaborate with state governments, local communities, and civil society organizations to create a robust framework for combating kidnapping and improving the overall security situation in the country.

“The Federal Government must ensure that law enforcement agencies are adequately equipped and empowered to address the rising tide of kidnapping and violence in our society. Engaging with community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to understanding the root causes of this crisis. A dialogue that prioritizes the safety and aspirations of our youth will foster a more secure environment for all,” he said.

Shettima also called for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom.

“The government must launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safety measures and encourage community vigilance. Empowering citizens with knowledge is a crucial step in combating the menace of kidnapping. We call for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom. The legal framework must reflect the seriousness of these crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable,” he stated.

In the present situation, Shettima said the AYCF stands in solidarity with the Afenifere Youth Council and all those advocating for the safe return of Prince Ojajuni, while imploring all Nigerians to unite in this critical moment, transcending ethnic and regional divides to demand justice and security for the people.

“We call upon everyone to act swiftly and decisively. The life of Prince Ojajuni hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure his safe return. Let us not allow fear and despair to dictate our future; instead, let us rise together as a nation, resolute in our commitment to justice, safety, and the well-being of our youth. Time is of the essence,” he stressed.

In a recent press briefing held on Monday, February 24, 2025, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, lauded High Chief ENGR Kestin Pondi, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, for his pivotal role in elevating Nigeria’s crude oil production to over two million barrels per day.

Fajoye attributed this significant achievement to the diligent efforts of Tantita Security Services Limited in combating oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta region. He emphasized that the enhanced security measures have not only bolstered oil output but also revitalized local aquatic ecosystems, allowing communities to resume fishing activities.

“Before now, if you threw bread into the river, you would hardly see any fish eating it. But today, thanks to Tantita Security Services Limited, the fishes are back,” Fajoye remarked, highlighting the environmental restoration witnessed in the region.

The youth leader also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting High Chief Engr Pondi and Tantita Security Services Limited with the mandate to secure Nigeria’s oil fields. “I wish to thank President Bola Tinubu for reposing trust in Delta State and for giving our illustrious chief the opportunity of protecting Nigeria’s oil fields,” Fajoye stated.

In addition to enhancing national oil production, Fajoye praised High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi for creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths in Delta State, thereby contributing to the state’s safety and economic development.

Fajoye urged the Delta State Government to collaborate more closely with High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi to further benefit the state’s youth. He suggested initiatives such as tax relief for Pondi’s enterprises and granting greater access to state and federal facilities to facilitate job creation and development projects.

Reflecting on the state’s progress, Fajoye noted, “Delta State has never had it so good since the coming of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.” He expressed optimism that the combined efforts of Governor Oborewvori and High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi would continue to drive positive change and prosperity in the region.

Recent reports indicate that Nigeria’s oil production, including condensate, rose by 4% month-on-month to 1.737 million barrels per day in January 2025, with projections to reach 2.06 million barrels per day by the end of the year. The collaborative efforts of security agencies and local stakeholders have been instrumental in this upward trajectory.

Tantita Security Services Limited, under the leadership of High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi, has been recognized for its unwavering commitment to eliminating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s vital oil infrastructure. Their operations have not only deterred illicit activities but also fostered a safer and more prosperous environment for the communities in the Niger Delta.

By Abdulrahman Yusuf

…Warns Against Dragging Gov. Uba Sani into Mr. LA’s Failure

The Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group has once again criticized the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Lawal Adamu, following accusations against Kaduna State Governor, Malam Uba Sani, of alleged sabotage.

According to the group, the real question is: who is sabotaging who? They argue that records over the past 18 months show that the PDP senator has failed to make an impact—unable to speak on the Senate floor or sponsor bills that could alleviate hardship in the state.

The PDP, through its Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman on Media and Communication, Yusuf Dingyadi, had alleged that the state government refused to distribute learning and teaching materials procured by Senator Adamu, claiming it was a ploy to discredit him.

However, in a swift response, the Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group questioned why the PDP is defending a senator they claim has failed to fulfill campaign promises.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Bello Bashir Mohammed, the group criticized the PDP for making what it described as baseless allegations, insisting that Senator Adamu has no significant projects to show since taking office.

The statement reads: “Mr. LA and his cohort cannot hide behind his inability to perform and bring tangible projects to the table. The public already knows he has failed, and he will be voted out in 2027.”

“How dare the PDP compare Governor Uba Sani’s time in the Senate with that of a lawmaker widely regarded by his constituents as a complete failure?”

The group further noted that other lawmakers from the state, including a PDP senator, have successfully executed impactful projects, such as attracting a university to Southern Kaduna—with the support of Governor Uba Sani and the President.

“If Senator Lawal Adamu had done anything significant, we are confident that the Governor and the President would have openly supported him and even gone the extra mile to ensure his success,” the statement added.

The group emphasized that it is speaking out to prevent the misrepresentation of facts, warning the PDP against blaming Governor Uba Sani for what it described as the incompetence of its senator.

Aisha Yesufu, a well-known Nigerian activist and co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) movement, is facing intense scrutiny over allegations of receiving funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the pretext of the BBOG campaign. The Forum for Peace and Tranquility in Nigeria (FPTN) has urged the federal government to launch an investigation into Yesufu, claiming that the funds may have been used to support Boko Haram insurgents.

The allegations gained momentum following reports that USAID allocates around $697 million annually to various organizations, some of which have been linked to terrorist groups like Boko Haram, Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and ISIS. In a statement signed by its Secretary, Mal Iliya Mohammed Suleiman, the FPTN demanded that Yesufu disclose her sources of funding, warning that failure to do so could result in legal action.

The controversy took a new turn when investigative journalist David Hundeyin alleged that Yesufu and her BBOG associates were involved in a USAID-supported initiative aimed at ousting former President Goodluck Jonathan. This revelation has sparked renewed debate about Yesufu’s involvement in the BBOG movement and her alleged political agenda.

The FPTN also highlighted previous accusations of financial impropriety against Yesufu. The Labour Party’s National Working Committee, led by Julius Abure, had previously called for an investigation into Yesufu’s handling of funds during the 2023 presidential campaign. The party accused her, along with Pastor Ighodalo and others, of misappropriating and diverting over N12 billion and $15 million in campaign donations.

The FPTN stressed that these allegations have created a cloud of suspicion, necessitating a thorough investigation into Yesufu’s financial activities and funding sources. The group called on authorities to take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure transparency.

Yesufu has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as unfounded and politically driven. She remains steadfast in her commitment to the BBOG movement and her broader activism, asserting that her work is focused on advocating for justice and accountability in Nigeria. As the debate continues, pressure mounts for a detailed investigation into the claims against her.

The Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group (KGGMG) has launched a scathing attack on Senator Lawal Adamu, representing Kaduna Central, for his alleged non-performance and lack of representation in the National Assembly. According to the group, Senator Adamu’s failure to speak on critical issues affecting the state, such as insecurity and economic hardship, has left his constituents feeling neglected and unrepresented.

The KGGMG expressed disappointment that despite being in office for almost two years, Senator Adamu has not adequately represented the interests of his constituents or advocated for policies that benefit the state. The group’s coordinator, Bagudu Ibn Mohammed, noted that several other groups in the state have also expressed similar concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance.

In fact, the Kaduna Elders Forum had previously demanded Senator Adamu’s recall due to his non-performance, while the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum threatened to mobilize for his recall from the National Assembly. The KGGMG described Senator Adamu as the “worst senator ever” elected in Kaduna’s history, citing his lack of tangible achievements and infrequent visits to his constituents.

As the 2027 elections approach, the KGGMG is questioning how Senator Adamu expects to be re-elected when he has failed to deliver on his promises and has not provided adequate representation for his constituents. The group’s criticism highlights the growing concerns about Senator Adamu’s performance and the need for more effective representation in the National Assembly.

Senator Lawal Adamu, also known as “Mr. LA,” is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and has been serving as a senator since May 2023. Despite his philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social welfare reform, his performance as a lawmaker has been heavily criticized by various groups in Kaduna State.

The KGGMG’s condemnation of Senator Adamu’s performance is the latest in a series of criticisms from various stakeholders in Kaduna State. As the senator’s tenure comes under increasing scrutiny, it remains to be seen whether he will take steps to address the concerns of his constituents and improve his performance in the National Assembly.

Kaduna based Human Rights group, K-23 Movement has applauded the National Security Adviser,Mal Nuhu Ribadu for concerted efforts and proactive steps taken to rid the north and indeed the entire country of banditry, terrorism and other security challenges.

According to the group, kidnapping and banditry had become economic crimes, which many criminals engaged in to make cool money in the country, before Ribadu alongside security agencies deployed proactive strategies that are already yielding fruits to tame insecurity in the country

The Chairman of K-23 movement Comrade Bashir Bello, who made the commendation during a press conference held at Arewa House Kaduna, expressed angered overs what he described as “unprovoked vituperations” from the former Governor Nasir Elrufai against the NSA and other political leaders.

He words: ” We are angry at Elrufai’s vituperations against the respected National Security Adviser , Mal Nuhu Ribadu and Kaduna State Governor .

El-Rufai had backed Haj. Naja’atu Muhammad when he released a newspaper article as evidence of where Ribadu vowed to expose leaders of the All Progressives Congress, including President Tinubu. According to him, Ribadu has serious amnesia.

According to him , the K-23 is unhappy that a man facing alleged corruption, should be very careful not stirr up controversy that overheats the polity. We want him to know that this campaign of calumny against he highly revered National Security adviser would be resisted

While noting that those who come to equity must come with clean hands, the Chairman described, Mal Nuhu Ribadu as a man of proven integrity ,who served his country meritoriously as the pioneer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC and left with an unblemished record with unrivaled achievements .

Bello who reiterated readiness ready to give all necessary support that will help the NSA rid the north of insecurity challenges, said he is elated that the National Security Adviser is working tirelessly to rid the north and indeed the entire country of banditry, terrorism and other security challenges.

Speaking about El-Rufai, he said ,he It is on record that his administration in Kaduna State built a reputation for political repression by muzzling dissenting voices, sending numerous citizens to jail including journalists, traditional, politicians and academics without recourse to fairness.

He further said, “Among the numerous casualties of his repressive rule are a journalist Luka Biniyat who spent 185 days in jail. Steven Kefason also journalists spent 162 days in Jail. Dr. John Danfulani a university lecturer with the Kaduna State University was detained for 22 days and subsequently sacked from the university. We will not forget the nine Adara elders detained for 183 days. Abubakar Idris alias Dadiyata, a lecturer and public commentator was also abducted in his home.

“Five years down the line, his whereabouts is still unknown. Bashir Hamdada, a political associate of Senator Shehu Sani, was abducted and tortured for days in a detention facility for voicing his concerns. Galadiman Ruwan Zazzau A traditional title holder was detained for several days for defending the labour movement. His predecessor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero was not spared either as he was humiliated and forced to display the EFCC charges board to the world after being detained for several days. likewise the former Secretary to the State Government Hamza Ishaq Danmahawayi and former PDP State Chairman A.G. Haruna. The list is endless.

“The ex-governor has flooded the media with wild claims that the current administration of Gov. Uba Sani has failed to disclose to the people of Kaduna State the fabled N150billion Financial intervention to the state while forgetting to remove the speck on his own eyes.

“Lest I forget, it is on record that erstwhile governor has, for the eight years he held sway as, refused to disclose the trillions that accrued to the state coffers from various grants and loans, which to date no member of the Kaduna state can testify how they were spent. The followings may suffice
He received millions of dollars Paris refund from the Federal Government without disclosing the sum to the people of the state.

Bello however revealed, “He received billions of naira in Ecological funds and failed to disclose the sum to the people of the state .He collected billions of Naira from the Excess Crude Account without disclosing the sum to the state
He also received billions of naira from Special Grants by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) without disclosing the sum to the state.

“He received payment for Stamp Duties in billions without disclosing the sum to the state. He also mortgaged the state Internally Generated Revenue IGR to a commercial bank and received billions of naira in return without disclosing the sum to the state until the startling revelations made by the report of Kaduna State House of Assembly emerged, no one could defend how the USD350million loan the ex-governor received from the World Bank was spent
Mal Nasir El-Rufai should therefore spare Governor Uba Sani his tantrums which are capable of distracting the current administration from the steady progress being made in the state in all areas of governance.

“Besides, we are calling on all relevant agencies to investigate his record of abuse of office and human rights violation including arbitrary detention and the illegal demolition of homes and business property in Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan, which rendered the state’s economy comatose. We should not forget that the ex-governor was disqualified by the National Assembly when his name was forwarded for ministerial screening on the grounds of security and poor human rights records”.

He emphasized the need for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute El-Rufai for the alleged charges of monumental corruption levelled against him by the State House of Assembly and other crimes committed against the State.

By Mike Odeh James

The K-23 Movement, a group of outraged citizens from Kaduna State, has launched a scathing attack on former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of “monumental corruption” and “executive impunity” during his eight-year tenure. The group demands that El-Rufai be prosecuted for his alleged crimes, which they claim have left Kaduna State in ruins.

“El-Rufai’s stewardship of Kaduna State was a catastrophic failure, marked by rampant corruption, reckless abandon, and a callous disregard for human life,” the group alleges. “He has brought shame and infamy to our state, and it is imperative that he be held accountable for his actions.”

The K-23 Movement cites a damning report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which details El-Rufai’s alleged corruption and abuse of office. The report accuses El-Rufai of embezzling trillions of naira in state funds, including millions of dollars in Paris Club refunds, billions of naira in ecological funds, and billions of naira from the Excess Crude Account.

Specifically, the group alleges that El-Rufai mismanaged a $350 million loan from the World Bank, which was intended for development projects in Kaduna State. Instead, the group claims that El-Rufai diverted the funds for personal gain, leaving the state with a massive debt burden.

“El-Rufai’s corruption is staggering, and his attempts to deflect attention from his own crimes by launching vicious attacks on the current administration are pathetic,” the group says. “He must be held accountable for his actions, and we demand that the EFCC take immediate action to prosecute him.”

The K-23 Movement also accuses El-Rufai of perpetrating human rights abuses, including arbitrary detention, torture, and the illegal demolition of homes and business properties. They cite the cases of several individuals who were incarcerated by El-Rufai’s administration, including:

• Luka Biniyat, a journalist who was detained for 185 days without trial
• Steven Kefason, a journalist who was detained for 162 days without trial
• Dr. John Danfulani, a university lecturer who was detained for 22 days and subsequently sacked from his job
• Abubakar Idris, a lecturer and public commentator who was abducted and tortured for days in a detention facility
• Bashir Hamdada, a political associate of Senator Shehu Sani, who was abducted and tortured for days in a detention facility
• Nine Adara elders who were detained for 183 days without trial

The group demands that El-Rufai be investigated for these human rights abuses, which they claim have caused immense suffering and hardship for the people of Kaduna State.

“El-Rufai’s reign of terror must end,” the group declares. “We will not rest until he is brought to justice for his crimes, and we demand that the authorities take immediate action to prosecute him.”

Babalola Jerry

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) youth vanguard North West Zone has said they are aware of individuals being sponsored to plot the downfall of the party, saying they will resist it vehemently.

Speaking shortly after their meeting in Kaduna where they reaffirmed their loyalty and support for the Kaduna State PDP youth leader Alhaji Aliyu Ya’u, the Zonal youth leader of the PDP national youth vanguard North West Zone, Hon. Ibrahim Ahmadu, made the declaration.

Hon. Ahmadu averred that those who do not mean well for the party are those seeking his removal of the youth leader after fulfilling all requirements and won the position unopposed.

“We therefore wish to sound this note of warning to those trying to drag the party into the mud to desist because we will resist them, because PDP is very ready to wrestle power from the ruling APC come 2027” he said.

“PDP is bigger than any individual and no one has the monopoly to bring down the party, so, any agent of darkness attempting to destroy the good will of the party in Kaduna State and Nigeria will certainly meet stiff resistance” he stressed.

Hon. Ahmadu said the youth vanguard is committed more than ever before to work tenaciously for the success of the party now and in 2027.

Mohammed Sani Ilu

The recent fire outbreak at a Tsangaya school in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State has generated significant grief and alarm, particularly given the tragic loss of 17 young lives. Additionally, this incident injured at least 16 other pupils. The ramifications of this disaster extend beyond immediate loss as it intertwines with broader socio-political issues within Zamfara State. The perception that these incidents are omens linked to the governance of Dauda Lawal Dare has emerged among community members, raising concerns about leadership accountability and systemic failures.
The Tsangaya, or Almajiri, school system is a traditional form of education in northern Nigeria. Unfortunately, these schools are often underfunded and inadequately equipped. The tragic fire incident exemplifies this vulnerability. Many residents expressed anger over the lack of basic safety measures in a facility that serves vulnerable children. Such instances highlight systemic failures in educational infrastructure and student safety. This raises questions regarding the state government’s commitment to improving conditions in educational institutions, especially those catering to marginalized groups.
The current administration has faced increased scrutiny over its inability to respond effectively to such tragedies. Many residents have begun associating these incidents with a perceived jinx tied to Dauda Lawal Dare’s leadership. Some argue this perspective is unjustified, positing that natural disasters and accidents are not solely the responsibility of governance. However, the failure to prevent or address these calamities effectively reflects inadequacies in governance.
The political implications of this incident cannot be overstated. Since Dauda Lawal Dare assumed office, there has been a series of unfortunate events in the state, leading many to opine that his leadership has brought a “bad omen.” This belief can be partially attributed to a string of crises, including disasters and increased insecurity in the region. For instance, the boat accidents that occurred in September 2024 further illustrate the state’s problems. Reports indicate that numerous boat mishaps claimed dozens of lives, with incidents such as the one in Mashayar Yandaga River resulting in five survivors and nine recoveries of deceased individuals. Such events have prompted residents to question the effectiveness of governance and disaster management within the state.
Moreover, the following boat accident, where at least 64 people were feared dead, only heightened these sentiments. These accidents were closely followed by another capsizing in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, underlining how precarious life can be in Zamfara State. With inadequate regulations in place, riverine communities have faced significant dangers, and the fear of losing lives has created a climate of anxiety. This recurring cycle of despair has led to calls for more effective leadership that prioritizes public safety and welfare.
The broader impact of these incidents on the community cannot be overlooked. The recent floods that displaced thousands of individuals further compounded the challenges faced by the residents of Zamfara State. The Displacement Tracking Matrix assessed the consequences of extensive flooding, identifying over 61,000 individuals impacted. A large proportion of this affected population continued to live in their homes, despite damage that varied from partial to complete destruction. The economic ramifications are staggering, affecting the primary income sources of many families reliant on farming and petty trading. Loss of homes and livelihoods not only exacerbates poverty but also erodes community resilience.
Furthermore, it is critical to examine the historical context of resource allocation in Zamfara State. Over the years, the state has faced challenges in securing adequate funding for critical sectors, including education and disaster management. Irregularities in developmental planning have often left communities ill-prepared for emergencies. Influential local leaders and NGOs have advocated for better governance, yet tangible changes remain limited. The current administration’s struggle to address these historical failures has resulted in widespread disillusionment among residents.
Critics of Dauda Lawal Dare’s government highlight that effective leadership should involve proactive disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. Events like the recent fire outbreak in the Almajiri school, coupled with recurrent boat accidents and flooding, demand a comprehensive approach. This includes investing in educational infrastructure, improving safety protocols, and developing a robust disaster response mechanism. Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort between governmental agencies and community members to foster resilience.
In terms of future developments, the Zamfara State government must prioritize resource allocation towards building a more robust disaster management framework. Engaging with community leaders and local organizations can provide substantial support for raising awareness and strengthening local capacities. Active involvement of residents in governance processes may foster accountability and ensure their voices are heard in confronting these crises.
In conclusion, the recent tragedies in Zamfara State, marked by the heart-wrenching loss of young lives in a fire at a Tsangaya school and a series of boat accidents, necessitate urgent reflection and action. The interplay of governance challenges, infrastructural inadequacies, and socio-economic vulnerabilities must be urgently addressed. As residents grapple with their grief and loss, the call for accountable leadership that truly prioritizes the welfare of its people grows louder. Effective governance must rise to meet these challenges, ensuring that such devastating incidents are prevented in the future.

By Uche Nwosu

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed its support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and President Bola Tinubu over their recent decisive actions in dismissing three suspended Residents Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states. This commendation underscores the vital role of maintaining electoral integrity and accountability within Nigeria’s democratic processes.

According to NAN in its statement signed by the Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the dismissal of the three RECs in March 2023 stemmed from serious allegations of unlawful assumption of roles and dereliction of duty during the recent general elections adding that these suspensions are emblematic of the commitment by INEC to upholding the integrity of electoral processes in Nigeria.

“INEC’s actions not only address immediate concerns of misconduct but also bolster public confidence in the electoral system’s capacity to adjudicate fairly against corruption and negligence. This proactive approach is critical in setting a precedent that faces electoral malpractice head-on.

“Within the context of Nigerian politics, the urgency of maintaining electoral integrity has become increasingly pronounced. The country’s recent history has been plagued with instances of electoral fraud and malpractice, regularly undermining democratic institutions.

“The conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud further reflects the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions during the electoral process. Such legal actions signal to the public and potential offenders that ethical violations will have consequences. The relationship between accountability and integrity is crucial for enhancing the legitimacy of electoral results and the overall democratic environment in Nigeria.

“In light of these developments, the Northern Awareness Network urges all stakeholders involved in the electoral process, including security agencies and political parties, to imitate INEC’s example by implementing stringent internal disciplinary measures against those engaging in misconduct”. Suleiman said, upholding ethical standards across the board is paramount for fostering a political culture that values integrity and transparency adding that Political parties, in particular, are in a unique position to influence their members’ conduct. By establishing clear ethical guidelines and adhering to them, parties can not only avoid scandals but also improve their relationships with the electorate.

“It is also important to recognize the complexities surrounding the disciplinary procedures within INEC itself. The organization has faced criticism in the past for its handling of electoral malfeasance. The thoroughness of INEC’s investigation and execution of the dismissals indicates a commitment to procedural integrity, which is essential for maintaining public trust.

“Adherence to due process ensures that actions taken are justified and transparent. This, in turn, reinforces the credibility of the electoral system, as decisions are based on established norms and legal frameworks rather than arbitrary judgment. Moving forward, the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders can play a significant role in consolidating democracy in Nigeria. Ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections is a shared responsibility. This collaboration could manifest in various forms, such as joint training programs for election officials and security personnel, workshops aimed at raising awareness about electoral ethics, and fostering collaborations between civil society organizations and electoral bodies. The Northern Awareness Network says it stands prepared to support initiatives aimed at promoting accountability and integrity in future electoral events, signaling a commitment to fostering a democratic culture that emphasizes the electoral rights of citizens.

“Additionally, global perspectives on electoral integrity provide useful insights for Nigeria. Countries that have successfully strengthened electoral processes often do so through comprehensive electoral reforms that involve a range of stakeholders. These countries exemplify the importance of continuous assessment of electoral practices and the necessity for adaptability in regulatory frameworks.

“Embracing lessons from such examples can guide Nigeria toward reforms that bolster the integrity of its electoral system. The actions taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission and President Bola Tinubu in dismissing the three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners represent a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s electoral landscape”. The group further stressed that upholding electoral integrity and accountability is essential not only for the immediate future of Nigerian democracy but also for fostering public trust in its institutions. The Northern Awareness Network’s call for collaboration among all stakeholders underscores the necessity of a collective commitment to establishing a fair electoral process. By reinforcing ethical standards, ensuring accountability, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria can make significant strides toward a more representative and resilient democracy, the group added.