Author Archives: News All Around

By Abbas Jimoh

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed profound sadness over the passing of Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni (rtd), describing him as a renowned son of the Middle Belt and a pillar of national unity.

In a press statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the MBF, paid tribute to the late General’s courageous military career, outstanding administrative achievements, and dedicated service to Nigeria.

“As a distinguished Senator and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Lt. Gen. Useni left an indelible mark on the nation’s development,” Pogu said. “His commitment to peace, security, and the well-being of Plateau State and the Middle Belt will be deeply remembered.”

The MBF hailed Useni’s achievements, saying it is proud of him and honours him even in death as one of the great heroes of the Middle Belt and Nigeria. “The MBF is very proud of his achievements and we honour him even in death as one of great heroes of the Middle Belt and Nigeria,” Pogu added.

The Forum extended its heartfelt condolences to the General’s family and loved ones, praying for his peaceful eternal rest. “May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come,” Pogu said in conclusion.

Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni (rtd) passed away on Jan. 23, 2025, at the age of 82, after battling a protracted illness. He was a Nigerian army lieutenant general who served as minister responsible for the administration of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja under the Sani Abacha military junta.

By Abubakar Sadiq

A Kaduna-based pressure group, “Eagle Brain,” has called on all stakeholders in the state to stop any planned relocation of the College of Administrative and Social Studies, Kaduna Polytechnic, Romi, Kachia road.

A Statement made available to newsmen in Kaduna Thursday, said the rumored relocation, if confirmed as true, would have devastating consequences on the wellbeing of the community, especially on youths development.

Reads the Statement:

“As a civil society organization dedicated to the promotion of justice, equity, and the advancement of educational opportunities in our communities, we at Eagle Brain feel compelled to address a pressing issue that threatens the very fabric of our society – the rumored relocation of the College of Administrative and Social Studies, Kaduna Polytechnic (Romi Campus, by Kachia road) and the alarming demarcation of its land into plots.

“Education is undeniably the cornerstone of societal development. It shapes minds, fosters innovation, and drives economic growth.

“The presence of higher education institutions in our communities not only enhances access to quality education but also stimulates local economies by creating jobs and supporting businesses that cater to students and staff.

“The College of Administrative and Social Studies has been a vital institution for the people of Chikun Local Government and its surrounding areas, providing invaluable services and opportunities for youth development.

“However, during a recent visit to the campus, we observed unsettling activities that warrant immediate attention.

“The open fields surrounding the school, which have historically served as communal spaces for students and the local youth, are being cultivated and demarcated into numbered plots. This alarming development raises serious concerns about the future of the institution and the community it serves.

“Moreover, there are rumors of the school’s relocation to Rigachikun, a move that would displace students, staff, and local businesses, leading to significant economic and social dislocation.

“The implications of such a decision are profound: loss of educational access, disruption of livelihoods, and the dismantling of a critical support system for the youth of our community.

“We must ask ourselves: Who stands to benefit from these actions? Why is there a concerted effort to undermine the educational foundation of our community?

“The answers to these questions are crucial as we seek to protect our rights and the future of our youth.

“As a community, we cannot stand idly by while these injustices unfold. We urge all stakeholders, including the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, Chikun Local Government, civil society organizations, community groups, faith-based organizations, political leaders, traditional institutions, youth organizations, student associations, opinion leaders, and concerned citizens, to rise and demand accountability,” the statement continued.

Eagle Brain wants stakeholders to:

“Investigate the Allegations: Demand transparency regarding the demarcation of land and the rumored relocation of the college. Who is responsible for these actions, and what are their intentions?

“Protect Our Educational Institutions: Advocate for the preservation of the College of Administrative and Social Studies as a vital resource for our community. It is essential that we safeguard our access to education and the opportunities it provides.

“Support Local Youth: Recognize the importance of the college’s facilities, such as the playground, which serves as a hub for youth engagement and development. We must ensure that our young people have spaces to grow, learn, and thrive.

“Mobilize Community Action: Encourage community members to voice their concerns and stand united against any actions that threaten our educational institutions and the well-being of our community.

“In conclusion, we at Eagle Brain have raised our voices in protest against this injustice. Now, we implore you to join us in this critical fight for the future of our youth and the integrity of our community. Together, we can ensure that our educational institutions remain a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come.”

By: Isa Malami

Kaduna – The ethnic nationalities of Lere Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State have come down strongly on a Hausa/Fulani group resident in the LGA after the group convened a press conference recently protesting the inclusion of Lere LGA as being part of Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, Northwest Nigeria.

The natives of Lere who made their misgivings known throughout “Coalition of Concern Natives of Lere LGA” in a Press Statement made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday alleged that the Hausa/Fulani group was politically motivated with the sole aim of dividing the unity of Southern Kaduna.

Signed by Comrade Stephen Sale, Secretary of the Coalition and Comrade Engr. S.I Mori, acting Coordinator, Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) Lere LGA Branch and others the statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a Press Conference addressed by a group said to be Lere Local Government Unity Association Forum. One Barrister Nasiru Bello Dembo and his secretary Mallam Ahmed Idris were signatories to the text of the Press conference which centered on the organizers of Southern Kaduna Cultural Festival (SKFEST) which ended on 28/12/2024 with a grand finale at the New Kafanchan Township Stadium

The group was angry that some political office holders from Lere LGA were tagged as members of “Southern Kaduna” in the program of the event which was jointly organised by SOKAPU, saying that it contradicted section 8, 48 and 72 of Nigeria’s Constitution. According to them, and rightfully so, Lere LGA is in Kaduna North Senatorial District. They therefore rejected the inclusion of Lere LGA in the geographical classification of “Southern Kaduna” and warned the organisers of the event to refrain from such publications to avoid causing confusion.

“They were obviously saying that our elected members mentioned in the text, who, ironically are not of Lere ethnicity, do not want to be associated with Southern Kaduna, and invariably us.

“We, the natives and owners of the land, as a Coalition hereby state the facts as below. The term “Southern Kaduna” is made up of 12 LGAs. And that includes Lere (in Kaduna North Senatorial Zone). Others are: Kajuru, Chikun, Kaduna South LGAs (both in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone). The remaining are Kaura, Jemaa, Sanga, Zangon Kataf, Kagarko, Kachia, Kauru, Kachia LGAs (in Kaduna South Senatorial Zone). This is to stress that “Southern Kaduna” is bigger than “Kaduna South Senatorial Zone.”

“Southern Kaduna” is a Geo-Socio/cultural enclave that’s defined by ethnography and ethnicity and is as old as the Iron Civilization of the Nok Terracotta dating back B.C. According to the coalition Southern Kaduna is is totally different from “Kaduna South Senatorial Zone,” which is a recent geo-political demarcation created for the convenience of administration and representative democracy.

They added that the present Lere and Kauru LGAs used to be part of Saminaka LGA up till 1989 and the old Saminaka LGA was part of the Senatorial District of old Kachia LGA, comprising the present Kachia, Chikun, Kajuru and Kagarko LGAs (the 2nd largest in Gen. Gowon’s Nigeria of 1967) ans old Jema’a LGA comprising present Jema’a, Kaura, Sanga and Jaba LGAs represented by Senator Jacob Madaki, a great Bajju man from Zonkwa (now, Late) 1st October 1979 – 30th September 1983 and 1st October 1983 – 31st December 1983 (when Gen. Muhammadu Buhari ousted the Democratically elected administration of NPN/President Shehu Shagari.

“Present Lere LGA was extracted from the old Saminaka LGA. The boundaries were so manipulated to constitute an electoral constituency, such that it favored the state’s northern power, which today constitutes the Northern Senatorial District,” alleged the natives of Lere.

“This was the same manipulation done to old Kachia LGA where Chikun and Kajuru LGAs were extracted and taken to Kaduna Central Senatorial District all with the aim of “dismembering” the Southern Kaduna peoples as a voting block and a voice.

“We remain resolved that : “These have not, will not and cannot remove the Southern ‘Kadunaness’ from Southern Kaduna people whether in Lere, K

By Mustafa Olayinka

The Akeja family of Aleke village in Isiwu town, Ikorodu Area of Lagos state is appealing for intervention from the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbotekun, Department of State Security and other relevant security agencies for immediate intervention in a land dispute involving the family and an alleged land grabber, Mr. Kamorudeen Lamina Olaseni popularly known as sir Kay Olowo who sold out their lands.

The family is seeking for justice over a long standing land disputes cases between the family and Mr. Adeniyi Odu Okemati, Mr. Rasheed Ogunbanwo among others which they claimed bought their lands from the land grabber.

Recall that Justice L.B Lawal Akapo of Lagos state court Ikeja Division Court No.15 on June 26th, 2024 ruled in favor of the members of Akeja of Aleke village as the geniune owners of the land.

In his judgement the judge said ” A declaration that members of the Akeja and Adembori families of Aleke village who have farms at Aleke village are the persons entitled to the grant of statutory/customary right of occupancy in respect of their respective farmlands at Aleke village over which they have exercised acts of ownership, enjoyed physical possession and control pursuant to Ijebu land holding system as ‘alego’ particularly described and contained in survey of Lagos government plans.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Elder name withheld due to threat said the issues is causing torture, unrest and disrupting the lives of family members and the residents in the community.

The source alleged that the land grabber has been mobilizing touts to beat and intimidate family members that dare to go against his wish.

Some of the touts mentioned to this medium includes Azeez awobo ( aka popo ), Kolawole Emmanuel ( aka stainless), Seun onifade (oro killer)
Bode oduyebo (aka general), Akeem (aka spirit), Semiu asikolaye (aka aji white)
Afolayan ( aka afo), Tajudeen ( aka obasanjo), Alahaji isiaka (aka elegusi) to deal mercilessly with any person that crosses their parts.

Recall that the Lagos State Property Protection Law, 2016, prohibits the use of force or self-help to take over landed property, but its implementation remains a concern.

Several attempts to get contact if the alleged land grabber at the time of filing this report was not successful.

Angered by the recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu policies by prominent northerners , the Northeast based Socio-Political Group under umbrella of Forum for Northeast Development has condemned Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Major Hamza Almustapha Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head of State , Gen Sani Abacha, Major Almustapha.

The Forum, which claimed Tinubu’s reform would be of great benefits to the north in the long run said, it has carefully studied the President after he was sworn in, and discovered he means well .

He however, stated that it has come out to back the new tax reform policies initiated by President Bola Ahmed Bola Tinubu, because the Northeast and entire northern region will benefit immensely.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Forum,Alhaji Baba Mala Biu and Comrade Lawan Mohammed, the Forum for Northeast Development explained :”First,we have no reason to complain because our son that the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima is from the northeast geopolitical zone and we believe he can’t betray us as a people as one of the trusted individuals that we rely upon politically.

“It is really unfortunate that some northerners such as :Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head State ,Major Hamza Almustapha have raised voices against a president that is working hard to restore the economy and indices of growth and development.

Whiles urging people of northeast and other parts of the north to remain hopeful and have confidence in Tinubu and Shettima led administration, it expressed optimism that the tax Reform policies and other economic reform policies are geared toward establishing a solid foundation for sustainable development in the region.

So, it is unwise and unacceptable for anyone from northeast region to join haters of the President to criticize reforms geared revamping our economy.

The forum however, condemned the duo of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to Late Head of State,Gen. Sani Abacha for their unnecessary criticisms and game of playing to gallery to gain cheap popularity.

Recalled that former Chief Security Officer and ex-presidential candidate of Action Alliance (AA), Major Hamza Al-Mustapha claimed President Bola Tinubu squandered has his goodwill with his shambolic performance since assuming office, highlighting the need for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s potential, describing it as a ‘blessed but disorganised land.

Similarly ,Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, had criticised President Bola Tinubu, saying his economic reform policies are putting the North and Nigerians at large under strain.

But, we are putting the records straight that President Tinubu together with Senate Kashim Shettima are two set of focused and committed individuals who are passionate and have sound knowledge about good governance and selfless service to the humanity.

It against this back that we asked people from the Northeast to support President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to succeed and take us that desires level of development.

By Suleiman Ibrahim

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the Northern Governors’ sudden change of heart regarding the national tax reform bills. The governors initially opposed the reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the Northern economy. However, they have now inexplicably capitulated to the reforms, leaving many questioning their motives.

According to the AYCF, the governors’ actions constitute a clear betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Northern people. By initially opposing the tax reforms and then conceding, they have demonstrated a fundamental lack of respect for the electorate. The AYCF has called for greater accountability from the governors, urging them to focus on their primary responsibilities.

The AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, stated that the governors’ initial opposition to the tax reforms was fundamentally flawed. Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services. Instead of engaging constructively with the government, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.

The AYCF believes that the tax reforms are essential for Nigeria’s overall development, despite potential short-term challenges. The organization has maintained its support for the reforms, recognizing that effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation.

The Northern Governors’ opposition to the tax reforms has been linked to their wider failures in managing their respective states. Many Northern states grapple with persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic amenities. The AYCF contends that the governors’ initial opposition was a distraction tactic, an attempt to mask their incompetence and avoid accountability for their shortcomings.

The AYCF has called upon the Northern Governors to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart. The people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms.

The organization has also urged the governors to focus on their primary responsibilities, improving the lives of the people they represent through good governance and effective resource management. The hasty surrender to the tax reform bills without meaningful engagement or a transparent explanation constitutes a disservice to the North and a betrayal of the public’s trust.

The AYCF will continue to advocate for policies that promote sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians. The organization will remain vigilant in holding leaders accountable for their actions.

The tax reform debate has highlighted the need for effective leadership and governance in Nigeria. The AYCF’s stance on the issue emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the nation’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

The Northern Governors’ actions have raised questions about their commitment to the development of the North. Their initial opposition to the tax reforms and subsequent capitulation have created uncertainty and undermined public confidence in their leadership.

The AYCF’s call for accountability and transparency is a step in the right direction. It is essential for leaders to be held accountable for their actions and to prioritize the needs of their constituents.

The tax reform debate is far from over. As the issue continues to unfold, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and to prioritize the nation’s development.

In conclusion, the AYCF’s condemnation of the Northern Governors’ actions is a testament to the organization’s commitment to promoting good governance and accountability in Nigeria.

The AYCF’s stance on the tax reform debate serves as a reminder that leaders must prioritize the needs of their constituents and work towards promoting sustainable development and economic progress.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a significant move, Honorable Fatima Talba, representing Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency of Yobe State, has introduced a motion to amend the Federal Medical Center Act of 2022. The proposed amendment aims to establish a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The motion gained momentum when Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, representing Koshofe Federal Constituency in Lagos, seconded it. Honorable Ogbara expressed her support, stating, “I am proud to support this bill, which will bring much-needed healthcare services to the people of Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency.”

After the motion was seconded, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, sought approval from the members to send the bill for a second reading. With the members’ consent, the Speaker forwarded the bill for further consideration.

Speaker Abbass referred the bill to the Committee on Health Institutions, a crucial step in the legislative process. The Committee will review the bill, examine its implications, hold public hearings, and consider expert opinions before deciding whether to recommend it for further action.

This development is a testament to Honorable Talba’s commitment to improving the lives of her constituents. As a dedicated legislator, she has been advocating for quality healthcare services in her community ¹.

The establishment of a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State will undoubtedly bring significant benefits to the people of the region. It will provide access to quality healthcare services, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

By Abba Dahiru

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has made a shocking revelation about the alleged sinister plans of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to sabotage the administration of current Governor, Senator Uba Sani. The accusation was made at a press conference held at the Arewa House in Kaduna, where Comrade Musa Mohammed, the National President of NCSPG, revealed that the coalition had uncovered a plot by El-Rufai to undermine Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

According to Mohammed, El-Rufai’s actions are in response to the Kaduna State House Assembly’s adoption of a report recommending that El-Rufai and his aides be investigated for alleged financial mismanagement. The report accused El-Rufai’s administration of leaving behind a debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

Mohammed stated that instead of cooperating with the investigation, El-Rufai had resorted to clandestine meetings and plotting against Governor Uba Sani. The coalition warned El-Rufai to desist from his actions, emphasizing that they would not hesitate to defend Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna State.

The NCSPG expressed satisfaction with Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, citing his commitment to good governance despite the challenges posed by the debt burden inherited from El-Rufai’s administration. Mohammed noted that Governor Uba Sani had decided to follow due process in unraveling the truth about the debt burden, rather than resorting to confrontation.

The coalition vowed to resist any attempts by El-Rufai to unseat Governor Uba Sani, emphasizing that the people of Kaduna State would not be swayed by El-Rufai’s “evil machinations.” Mohammed declared that Governor Uba Sani had done well and would continue to work tirelessly to develop Kaduna State.

Mohammed also called on anti-graft agencies to take immediate action against El-Rufai, citing the recent arrest of his finance commissioner as evidence of embezzlement. The coalition prayed for peace and tranquility in Kaduna State and the country at large.

The press conference was attended by various stakeholders, including journalists, civil society organizations, and community leaders. The NCSPG’s allegations against El-Rufai are likely to generate significant attention and debate in the coming days.

It remains to be seen how El-Rufai will respond to the allegations, but one thing is clear: the political landscape in Kaduna State is set to become increasingly contentious in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how their leaders respond to the challenges ahead. The NCSPG’s revelations have raised more questions than answers, and it is clear that the battle for the soul of Kaduna State has only just begun.

By Ameh Ochagwu

A stunning revelation has rocked the political landscape of Kaduna State, as a socio-political group has blown the lid off a shocking conspiracy involving former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

According to the Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Group (NCSPG), El-Rufai has been secretly orchestrating a campaign of sabotage against the current Governor, Uba Sani, in a desperate bid to regain power.

The group’s National President, Comrade Musa Mohammed, dropped the bombshell at a packed press conference in Kaduna, revealing that El-Rufai’s sinister plot involves exploiting his vast network of cronies and loyalists to undermine Governor Sani’s administration.

“El-Rufai’s plan is to create chaos and instability in Kaduna State, making it impossible for Governor Sani to deliver on his campaign promises,” Mohammed alleged. “He wants to discredit the current administration and pave the way for his own comeback.”

The NCSPG leader claimed that El-Rufai’s scheme is motivated by a desire for revenge against Governor Sani, who has been working tirelessly to expose the former governor’s alleged misdeeds.

Mohammed cited a damning report by the Kaduna State House Assembly, which accused El-Rufai of leaving behind a staggering $587 million in inherited debts, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

“El-Rufai’s legacy is one of corruption, incompetence, and reckless abandon,” Mohammed declared. “He has no right to interfere with the progress being made by Governor Sani.”

The NCSPG has vowed to resist El-Rufai’s plot, mobilizing its members to rally behind Governor Sani and ensure that the people of Kaduna State are not deceived by the former governor’s antics.

As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the people of Kaduna State will not be fooled by El-Rufai’s desperate attempts to cling to power. The fate of the state hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if Governor Sani will emerge victorious against the forces of corruption and deceit.

The people of Kaduna State are watching with bated breath as the situation unfolds, with many calling for transparency and accountability in governance. The 2027 elections are looming on the horizon, and the allegations made by the NCSPG are likely to have significant implications for the political landscape in Kaduna State.

The Kaduna State Government has yet to respond to the allegations, but sources close to the government have hinted that Governor Sani is taking the matter seriously and will not hesitate to take action to protect his administration.

As the battle for the soul of Kaduna State intensifies, one thing is certain: the people will not be silenced, and they will demand justice and accountability from their leaders.

By Mike Odeh James

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has come out in support of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Fajoye defended the company’s record on preventing oil theft and improving Nigeria’s oil production quota.

Fajoye’s defense comes after criticism from Comrade Jude Gbaboyor, former Secretary General of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND). Gbaboyor had petitioned the management of Arise Television to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), over alleged false claims that Nigeria had recorded two million barrels per day in crude oil production.

According to Fajoye, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has made significant contributions to securing oil installations and pipelines in the Niger Delta region. The company has implemented a community-friendly approach, which has brought peace to the once chaotic waterways and creeks in the region.

Fajoye highlighted the company’s efforts in combating oil theft, including the detection and elimination of several illegal operations. Between August 2022 and November 2024, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited discovered 3,963 incidents related to oil theft, including 702 illegal connection points, 971 theft cases, and 1,784 illegal refineries. This led to the destruction of 3,063 facilities.

The company has also apprehended several vessels and equipment involved in illegal oil activities, including eight vessels, three tugboats, six barges, 117 vehicles, and 1,743 wooden boats. Fajoye noted that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has collaborated with government and security agencies to enhance coordinated efforts against oil theft.

In addition to its collaborative efforts, the company has employed advanced surveillance technologies to monitor oil installations and detect illegal activities. This includes the use of drones, sensors, and satellite imagery for real-time monitoring.

Fajoye stated that the efforts of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited have led to a significant reduction in oil losses. The company’s operations contributed to a 79% reduction in crude oil losses, demonstrating its effectiveness in combating oil theft and improving oil production.

As a Niger Delta youth leader, Fajoye’s defense of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited highlights the company’s positive impact on the region. The company’s community-friendly approach and collaborative efforts with government and security agencies have contributed to a safer and more secure environment for oil production.