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By Suleiman Abbah

In today’s world, safety and security are paramount concerns for communities at all levels. Governments play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of their citizens, but often need to rely on grassroots participation to effectively address the diverse and ever-evolving security challenges faced by communities.

The security situation in Zamfara is currently at a critical crossroads, with Governor Dauda Lawal Dare seemingly at odds over how to address the ongoing challenges. Since assuming office, Governor Lawal has consistently failed to go beyond lamentations and cooperate with Nigerian federal security agencies, preferring to engage in perpetual complain, blame games, and finger-pointing instead of actively seeking solutions to combat the terrorist activities plaguing Zamfara state.

Governor Lawal’s approach to security issues in Zamfara calls into question his leadership abilities and commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens of the state. Rather than working collaboratively with security agencies to develop effective strategies to combat terrorism, he has chosen to engage in political posturing and shifting the blame onto others.

The lack of proactive measures and decisive action on the part of Governor Lawal has only served to exacerbate the security challenges facing Zamfara. His failure to take responsibility and provide strong leadership in the face of these threats has left the people of Zamfara feeling vulnerable and abandoned.

His attitude has significantly hindered the military’s counter-terrorism efforts, putting the lives and safety of citizens at risk not only in Zamfara but also in neighboring states. While other governors in affected states are actively supporting the nation’s troops and implementing initiatives to combat insecurity, Governor Lawal appears more focused on blaming his predecessor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and criticizing the federal government.

Lawal’s constant complaints against the presidency and federal security agencies have diverted attention from pressing security and governance issues in the state. His remarks are often riddled with inaccuracies and a blatant disregard for the truth, further exacerbating the security challenges in Zamfara.

In just one year, Governor Lawal has earned a reputation for leading the worst administration in Zamfara’s history, lacking the necessary courage and political will to confront the state’s security crisis. Despite claiming concern for the challenges facing Zamfara citizens, Lawal has failed to take concrete steps to address youth unemployment, insecurity, and poverty in the state.

Zamfara is currently led by a governor ill-prepared and ill-equipped to lead, driven by personal ambition for power and wealth rather than a genuine commitment to improving the lives of its people. As a result, Zamfara citizens continue to suffer from rampant armed crime, extreme poverty, and a lack of support from their government.

It appears that till the end of his tenure, Lawal cannot rise to the occasion and demonstrate true leadership in addressing the security challenges facing Zamfara. He cannot move beyond mere words and take concrete actions to ensure the safety and security of all residents of the state. This failure has only further escalate the security crisis and put more lives at risk. Only through genuine leadership and a commitment to the welfare of its people can Zamfara overcome its current security crisis and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.

This is evident in the comparison between Defence Minister Bello Matawalle and Governor Lawal, two figures in Zanfara State politics. While Matawalle has established himself as a seasoned politician with a profound insight into the needs and concerns of the local communities, Governor Lawal, a relative newcomer to the political arena, seems to lack the same level of understanding and connection to people in the state.

Lawal’s predecessor, Matawalle, now serving as a federal Minister of State for Defence, has been hailed for his innovative approach to engaging local communities in finding solutions to the state’s security issues. His deep understanding of the grassroots dynamics and culture of the state has earned him the moniker of a ‘grassroots innovator’.

Matawalle’s approach, which incorporates a bottom-up feedback loop and involves stakeholders at the local level, has proven to be effective in identifying and addressing the specific security and safety needs of communities in Zamfara. By combining local knowledge with government resources, Matawalle has been able to implement innovative security strategies that are responsive to the ever-changing political and environmental landscape of the state.

Matawalle has recognized the vital role that grassroots play in enhancing community safety and security. He understands that the affected communities are naturally and legitimately the first responders to crises and are best positioned to identify the most pressing security issues facing their communities.

 By partnering with the grassroots, Matawalle has gained valuable insights into the local context and ensured that their interventions are truly responsive to community needs.

One key advantage of working with the grassroots as Matawalle has shown, is the ability to establish community ownership over security. When communities are actively involved in the design and implementation of security solutions, they are more likely to embrace and sustain these initiatives in the long run. Additionally, grassroots serve as bridges between government forces and the communities on the ground, providing valuable feedback and ensuring that interventions are tailored to local realities.

Matawalle believes that innovation in security does not always have to be synonymous with the use of force; it can also involve improving processes or policies to better meet the security needs of communities.

 The key to Matawalle’s successful security innovation lies in building trust, fostering resilience, and maintaining open lines of communication between all stakeholders involved. By supporting grassroots organizations and empowering local communities, Matawalle aims to ensure that their solutions are truly impactful and sustainable in the long term.

In contrast, Governor Lawal, a relatively new player in the political arena, appears to lack the same level of insight and connection to the local communities that Matawalle possesses. This has led to a disconnect between grassroots participation in security matters in areas of information sharing and government policies, hindering progress in addressing the security situation.

Matawalle’s experience and long-standing presence in the political scene have allowed him to build strong relationships with the local communities in his state. 

This connection has enabled him to effectively gauge the security challenges faced by the people and tailor his policies accordingly. His approach to security matters has been characterized by a high level of grassroots participation, with communities actively engaged in information sharing and the formulation of government initiatives.

 As a result, progress has been made in addressing the security situation in the state.

On the other hand, Governor Lawal’s lack of political experience and connection to the local communities has hindered his ability to effectively address security challenges in his state. His disconnect from the grassroots has resulted in a lack of community participation in security matters, leading to gaps in information sharing and ineffective government policies. This has ultimately hindered progress in addressing the security situation in the state, as the government is unable to adequately respond to the needs and concerns of the people.

Matawalle’s deep insight and connection to the local communities have played a significant role in addressing security challenges in Zamfara state. In contrast, Governor Lawal’s lack of experience and disconnect from the grassroots have impeded progress in addressing security issues. 

Matawalle’s approach in partnering with these organizations demonstrates the importance of involving communities in the security decision-making process. By empowering grassroots organizations and fostering community ownership over security initiatives, governments can enhance their ability to address security challenges effectively and sustainably. 

The collaboration between grassroots organizations and government entities such as Matawalle’s innovative approach to security highlights the importance of local engagement in addressing complex challenges. By leveraging local knowledge, building community ownership, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, innovators can create meaningful change that is truly responsive to the needs of the people they serve. 

It is evident that a strong connection to the local communities is essential in effective governance, particularly in addressing security matters. As such, it is imperative for Governor Lawal to prioritize building relationships with his constituents in order to address pressing security issues and promote sustainable development. Ultimately, the success of safety and security initiatives relies on the active involvement and support of grassroots organizations, as they are essential partners in creating safe and secure communities.

By Suleiman Abbah

In today’s world, safety and security are paramount concerns for communities at all levels. Governments play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of their citizens, but often need to rely on grassroots participation to effectively address the diverse and ever-evolving security challenges faced by communities.

The security situation in Zamfara is currently at a critical crossroads, with Governor Dauda Lawal Dare seemingly at odds over how to address the ongoing challenges. Since assuming office, Governor Lawal has consistently failed to go beyond lamentations and cooperate with Nigerian federal security agencies, preferring to engage in perpetual complain, blame games, and finger-pointing instead of actively seeking solutions to combat the terrorist activities plaguing Zamfara state.

Governor Lawal’s approach to security issues in Zamfara calls into question his leadership abilities and commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens of the state. Rather than working collaboratively with security agencies to develop effective strategies to combat terrorism, he has chosen to engage in political posturing and shifting the blame onto others.

The lack of proactive measures and decisive action on the part of Governor Lawal has only served to exacerbate the security challenges facing Zamfara. His failure to take responsibility and provide strong leadership in the face of these threats has left the people of Zamfara feeling vulnerable and abandoned.

His attitude has significantly hindered the military’s counter-terrorism efforts, putting the lives and safety of citizens at risk not only in Zamfara but also in neighboring states. While other governors in affected states are actively supporting the nation’s troops and implementing initiatives to combat insecurity, Governor Lawal appears more focused on blaming his predecessor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and criticizing the federal government.

Lawal’s constant complaints against the presidency and federal security agencies have diverted attention from pressing security and governance issues in the state. His remarks are often riddled with inaccuracies and a blatant disregard for the truth, further exacerbating the security challenges in Zamfara.

In just one year, Governor Lawal has earned a reputation for leading the worst administration in Zamfara’s history, lacking the necessary courage and political will to confront the state’s security crisis. Despite claiming concern for the challenges facing Zamfara citizens, Lawal has failed to take concrete steps to address youth unemployment, insecurity, and poverty in the state.

Zamfara is currently led by a governor ill-prepared and ill-equipped to lead, driven by personal ambition for power and wealth rather than a genuine commitment to improving the lives of its people. As a result, Zamfara citizens continue to suffer from rampant armed crime, extreme poverty, and a lack of support from their government.

It appears that till the end of his tenure, Lawal cannot rise to the occasion and demonstrate true leadership in addressing the security challenges facing Zamfara. He cannot move beyond mere words and take concrete actions to ensure the safety and security of all residents of the state. This failure has only further escalate the security crisis and put more lives at risk. Only through genuine leadership and a commitment to the welfare of its people can Zamfara overcome its current security crisis and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.

This is evident in the comparison between Defence Minister Bello Matawalle and Governor Lawal, two figures in Zanfara State politics. While Matawalle has established himself as a seasoned politician with a profound insight into the needs and concerns of the local communities, Governor Lawal, a relative newcomer to the political arena, seems to lack the same level of understanding and connection to people in the state.

Lawal’s predecessor, Matawalle, now serving as a federal Minister of State for Defence, has been hailed for his innovative approach to engaging local communities in finding solutions to the state’s security issues. His deep understanding of the grassroots dynamics and culture of the state has earned him the moniker of a ‘grassroots innovator’.

Matawalle’s approach, which incorporates a bottom-up feedback loop and involves stakeholders at the local level, has proven to be effective in identifying and addressing the specific security and safety needs of communities in Zamfara. By combining local knowledge with government resources, Matawalle has been able to implement innovative security strategies that are responsive to the ever-changing political and environmental landscape of the state.

Matawalle has recognized the vital role that grassroots play in enhancing community safety and security. He understands that the affected communities are naturally and legitimately the first responders to crises and are best positioned to identify the most pressing security issues facing their communities.

 By partnering with the grassroots, Matawalle has gained valuable insights into the local context and ensured that their interventions are truly responsive to community needs.

One key advantage of working with the grassroots as Matawalle has shown, is the ability to establish community ownership over security. When communities are actively involved in the design and implementation of security solutions, they are more likely to embrace and sustain these initiatives in the long run. Additionally, grassroots serve as bridges between government forces and the communities on the ground, providing valuable feedback and ensuring that interventions are tailored to local realities.

Matawalle believes that innovation in security does not always have to be synonymous with the use of force; it can also involve improving processes or policies to better meet the security needs of communities.

 The key to Matawalle’s successful security innovation lies in building trust, fostering resilience, and maintaining open lines of communication between all stakeholders involved. By supporting grassroots organizations and empowering local communities, Matawalle aims to ensure that their solutions are truly impactful and sustainable in the long term.

In contrast, Governor Lawal, a relatively new player in the political arena, appears to lack the same level of insight and connection to the local communities that Matawalle possesses. This has led to a disconnect between grassroots participation in security matters in areas of information sharing and government policies, hindering progress in addressing the security situation.

Matawalle’s experience and long-standing presence in the political scene have allowed him to build strong relationships with the local communities in his state. 

This connection has enabled him to effectively gauge the security challenges faced by the people and tailor his policies accordingly. His approach to security matters has been characterized by a high level of grassroots participation, with communities actively engaged in information sharing and the formulation of government initiatives.

 As a result, progress has been made in addressing the security situation in the state.

On the other hand, Governor Lawal’s lack of political experience and connection to the local communities has hindered his ability to effectively address security challenges in his state. His disconnect from the grassroots has resulted in a lack of community participation in security matters, leading to gaps in information sharing and ineffective government policies. This has ultimately hindered progress in addressing the security situation in the state, as the government is unable to adequately respond to the needs and concerns of the people.

Matawalle’s deep insight and connection to the local communities have played a significant role in addressing security challenges in Zamfara state. In contrast, Governor Lawal’s lack of experience and disconnect from the grassroots have impeded progress in addressing security issues. 

Matawalle’s approach in partnering with these organizations demonstrates the importance of involving communities in the security decision-making process. By empowering grassroots organizations and fostering community ownership over security initiatives, governments can enhance their ability to address security challenges effectively and sustainably. 

The collaboration between grassroots organizations and government entities such as Matawalle’s innovative approach to security highlights the importance of local engagement in addressing complex challenges. By leveraging local knowledge, building community ownership, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, innovators can create meaningful change that is truly responsive to the needs of the people they serve. 

It is evident that a strong connection to the local communities is essential in effective governance, particularly in addressing security matters. As such, it is imperative for Governor Lawal to prioritize building relationships with his constituents in order to address pressing security issues and promote sustainable development. Ultimately, the success of safety and security initiatives relies on the active involvement and support of grassroots organizations, as they are essential partners in creating safe and secure communities.

By Suleiman Abbah 

In today’s world, safety and security are paramount concerns for communities at all levels. Governments play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of their citizens, but often need to rely on grassroots participation to effectively address the diverse and ever-evolving security challenges faced by communities. This is evident in the comparison between Defence Minister Bello Matawalle and Governor Lawal, two figures in Zamfara State politics.

Matawalle has established himself as a seasoned politician with a profound insight into the needs and concerns of the local communities, while Governor Lawal, a relative newcomer to the political arena, seems to lack the same level of understanding and connection to people in the state.

Matawalle’s approach to security incorporates a bottom-up feedback loop, involving stakeholders at the local level, and has proven effective in identifying and addressing specific security needs. By combining local knowledge with government resources, Matawalle has implemented innovative security strategies responsive to the state’s changing landscape.

In contrast, Governor Lawal’s lack of political experience and connection to local communities has hindered progress in addressing security challenges. His disconnect from the grassroots has resulted in a lack of community participation, leading to gaps in information sharing and ineffective government policies.

Matawalle’s experience and connection to local communities have allowed him to build strong relationships and effectively address security challenges. His approach demonstrates the importance of involving communities in security decision-making, empowering grassroots organizations, and fostering community ownership.

The collaboration between grassroots organizations and government entities highlights the importance of local engagement in addressing complex challenges. Building community ownership and fostering partnerships is essential for creating meaningful change responsive to the needs of the people.

A strong connection to local communities is essential in effective governance, particularly in addressing security matters. Governor Lawal must prioritize building relationships with his constituents to address pressing security issues and promote sustainable development. The success of safety and security initiatives relies on grassroots involvement, making them essential partners in creating safe and secure communities.

The National Youth Alliance (NYA) has announced the appointment of Comrade Eragbe Anslem as its new Director of Research, Strategy and Planning, and Spokesman.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the National Chairman/Youth President, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson to newsmen in Kaduna, this development is aimed at strengthening the NYA’s strategic direction and enhancing its communication efforts.

Comrade Eragbe Anslem, a seasoned youth leader and strategist, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

He is the immediate past National Youth Leader of the Labour Party, and the Labour Party’s Senatorial candidate for Edo North in the 2023 elections.

He is also a former Student Union President of the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University (ABU).

With his impressive track record and expertise, Comrade Anslem is tasked with leading the NYA’s research and strategy initiatives, as well as serving as the organization’s official spokesman.

The NYA, a youth-driven political movement, is committed to empowering young Nigerians and promoting their active participation in the country’s political and economic development.

This appointment is seen as a significant milestone in the NYA’s efforts to reposition itself as a formidable force in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has formally responded to recent comments made by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, who criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu for allegedly lacking the will to address the chronic insecurity afflicting Zamfara state and Northern Nigeria.

The rebuff from NAN, presented by its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, targets Governor Lawal’s assertions made during a recent appearance on Channels Television. Suleiman countered Governor Lawal’s criticisms by pointing out the governor’s own ineffectiveness and absence during critical security crises affecting his state.

Suleiman highlighted a striking instance to underscore his point; on the very day female students from the Federal University Gusau were abducted, Governor Lawal embarked on a personal trip to the United States, thus leaving his state leaderless during a dire emergency.

“Governor Lawal’s unwarranted trip to the United States at such a critical time demonstrates his disconnection from the realities on the ground in Zamfara. It was alarming that the governor remained incommunicado and inaccessible to efforts from the Ministry of Defence and federal government officials seeking his cooperation,” said Suleiman.

Further, NAN stressed that Governor Lawal has consistently refused to collaborate with federal initiatives aimed at combating insecurity, thereby undermining collective efforts.

“The NAN firmly believes that Governor Dauda Lawal needs to reassess his approach towards federal collaborations and should work constructively with all stakeholders to enhance security in Zamfara and beyond. The organization reaffirms its support for Minister Bello Matawalle’s efforts in ensuring a secure and stable Nigeria,” the statement said.

According to NAN, Governor Lawal’s expectation for the Federal Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle, to prioritize Zamfara over other states solely based on his state of origin is both concerning and unjustifiable.

“Expecting Matawalle to prioritize Zamfara because he hails from there sets a dangerous precedent. While advocacy for one’s home state is natural, leaders must remain impartial and prioritize national interests. Matawalle’s duty is to safeguard the entirety of Nigeria, ensuring that each state receives adequate attention and resources to address its unique security challenges,” commented NAN.

The group underscored the expansive role of the Minister of Defence, which involves harmonizing efforts between the military, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies to combat nationwide security threats. Matawalle’s focus on overhauling the operational environment for the nation’s security forces has been pivotal in enhancing their effectiveness against terrorism, insurgency, and other critical threats.

NAN praised Matawalle’s proactive measures in addressing resource shortages, inadequate training, and operational constraints that had previously hampered security efforts.

“While it is understandable that Matawalle might have a vested interest in the security of Zamfara, his ultimate responsibility lies with the entire nation. Every state faces its unique security challenges, and it is essential that Matawalle maintains a balanced approach to ensure national security,” NAN emphasized.

By Matthew Denis

The name Alhaji Mayaki Abubakar continues to rings bell as a philanthropist and serial real estate entrepreneur donates his time, resources, and wealth to support worthy causes, making a positive impact on his immediate Lagos Community and people at grassroots in kwara North.

As a Serial entrepreneur, with his unflinching effort he establish and grow new ventures, creating jobs for thousands of apprentices thereby driving economic growth.

As an exemplifies Innovator, he has an adaptability disposition that navigate challenges, learn from failures, and pivot strategies to succeed.

He is creating lasting legacies through his philanthropy flair and businesses impacting on communities as a change-maker, driving positive change in the world!

Alhaji Abubakar is identified by people as a gift to Humanity, Symbol of Simplicity, and dedicated Servant to the masses whose exceptional supports for the downtrodden cannot be overemphasized.

The Tsonga born humble flower is a Lagos- based father of seven and husband of three wives, displaying high sense of responsibility and commitment to his families and the community at large.

His source of wealth and knowledge of exploration have been linked to his undying commitment and connection in the business of Estate management and evaluation; land dispute settlement, grassroots developer–and icon of peaceful mobilization and transformation in local and urban communities.

The epitome is known for his kind heartedness, administrative qualities, land expertise advise, social engineer, vision founder and executor, man of excellence, and a passion for philanthropy. As a seasoned businessman and real estate expert, he has made a lasting impact in the industry through his company, MYK LAND AND PROPERTIES NIGERIA LIMITED. Located at No.11 Nepa Street Alatisé- Ibejú, Lekki, Lagos State, with steep branch at Eyinle No.34 Segandogo, Lucky Fiber Street, Ikorodu, Lagos State. Making him all- time accessible and available to the General Public.

Some of his notable among countless of his achievements will be listed as you read further.

Even Though he has been supporting the good and appreciative people of Tsonga Emirate community, he has avowed to do more and open for social and economic manifestation of greatness in the lives of his people. Putting smiles and joy in the faces of the people has been his footsteps and paths.

The indigenous son of kwara in Shonga, Edu Local Government area of Kwara state Is a well-birthed and proud son of the soil with a deep love for his community and nation. His contributions to humanity and national development have earned him numerous honors, including; Aare Asoludero of Ladaba Kingdom, Lagos, Mayaki General of Nupe, Lagos State, Chairman Nupe of Ikorodu, Lagos State, Akinrogun of Ejigbo land, Lagos State, and others.

With his audacity and honesty in land dispute resolution, his rare personality with his business acumen has been essentially earned him numerous Award.

A caring nature like Alhaji Mayaki Abubakar is the ideal leader to serve the good people of Edu Local Government, Nupe community, Kwara State representative stools, and Nigeria at large.

As a man whose door is always open for technical and financial supports–his heart is always willing to listen and support. Leveraging his wealth of experience and wide political and traditional leaders across the globe, productive relationship with security and legal honchos in Nigeria.

He is a blossom friend to Fmr Inspector General of Police today whose frankness made him a boot friend with the likes of Deputy Inspector General of Police, division heads, Lagos State Executive Council Members, Serving Honorables, and many revered personalities in Lagos and Abuja seat of government.

His connectedness and love for peaceful coexistence drove his keen success in the prominent land issues like that of; Kpoka, Eleran Egbe, Ibeju Lekki Lagos, Ladaba- Oké, Igboyé Epe, Lakowe Hold Lekki, Agility Mil’12 Lagos State, Abijo Lekki Lagos State, and many land disputes resolution breakthroughs.

His unflinching supports cut across community development and Human capacity development. Traversing his lasten impact in the lives of the people in these communities. He is a lover of students Union, a supporter of youths progress and integration, and an outspoken lion in the struggle for State and National development.

The philanthropist charisma is a pointer to the society that he’s the kind of leader that the society is yelling for that has a versatile experiences in transforming the economic and infrastructural development in the country.

*Say it’s one year of Uncommon leadership, trailblazing

A pro-democracy group under the aegis of The Natives has rolled out drums to celebrate the first year anniversary of the National Assembly under the Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the Chairman of the current legislative arm of government.

The Natives, comprises of 371 ethnic, religious and tribal backgrounds with millions of members across the country, had congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his one year anniversary of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, and as the political knight that oversaw the sustained democratic journey to midwife our present dispensation, we celebrate his tenacity.

According to the Natives, both the President and Senate President’s leadership in the National Assembly have embarked on impact driven and corrective leadership since they took oath of office in the last one year.

In a statement released on Thursday in Abuja by the Supreme Leader of the Native, Hon. Smart Edwards said the country has deepened democratic processes with more inclusiveness and greater cooperation since the current leadership of the National Assembly emerged.

The Native described Senator Akpabio as a traiblizer who has a provided an uncommon leadership in the last one year.

Hon. Smart said Senator Akpabio can be Nigeria’s Lee Kuan Yew, urging Nigerians, irrespective of their political interest, tribe or religion to renew their hopes and support for the current government.

The statement said: “Today is actually that day the impact driven, corrective National Assembly was inaugurated. It was born to give Nigeria an experience of legendary service via uncommon leadership at the National Assembly.

“It is that spirit we celebrate today, in a man of Candour whose mentorship and passion and dedication, we salute as Natives of the Land.

“Under Senate President Goodswill Akpabio, Nigeria has seen commitment to nationhood, a drive to restore the dreams, hopes and aspirations of a people. The National Assembly under the team spirit of Godswill Akpabio/Tajudeen Abbas, one of the nation’s embodiment of teamwork, indeed the country has deepened our democratic processes with more inclusiveness and greater cooperation.

“Today, Senator Akpabio can be called our own Lee Kuan Yew, building the foundation of a modern and prosperous Nigeria via the establishment of a people’s centered parliament, Swift, thorough and compassionate”.

The statement added that under Akpabio, the Senate has spearheaded legislative initiatives that address pressing national issues

“From economic reforms to social welfare programs, each proposal reflects a commitment to substantive change, our collective bargaining power has been strengthened on the global stage with jinx breaking entry in world discuss and diplomacy.

“No doubt as Natives, we celebrate His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate and His Excellency Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and their entire leaderships at the National Assembly for their sacrifices, unwavering dedication in the 10th National Assembly.”

As we mark another democracy day, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) says it has come to the conclusion to call on Nigerians to have hope in a renewed Nigeria. According to the President General of the forum Alhaji Yerima Shettima, after series of his consultations, our perceived unity is very superficial and skin deep only to sustain the bureaucracy of exploitation of the Nigerian populace.

“Compatriots, the opportunity beckons as in the immortal words of Williams Shakespeare,’ there is a tide in the affairs of men which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat and we must take the current when it serves or lose our venture’. He admonished, “To all those saddled with the responsibility of ensuring a renewed hope, every Nigerian deserves a better life as the time to give the Nigerian worker his due is now.

Though we are yet to overcome the primordial attachment to ‘loyalty’ over and above capacity, we are indeed confronted with the malaise of nepotism and of course mediocrity. “However, the project ‘NIGERIA’, is one I am convinced shall be successful given our collective resolve for a better nation, for with peace and plenty NIGERIA shall indeed be blessed” he reiterated Shettima while congratulating Nigerians on democracy day urged us to reflect on gains of the democratic processes towards sustaining and making it better. ENDS

Northern Coalition for Democracy and Good Governance (NOCODGOG )has replied the Nigerian Labour Congress over recent attack on the personality of the Secretary of Federal Government, Mr George Akume .

Mr. Akume had declared that he cannot afford to pay each of his four drivers N100, 000 as salary in a month.

But in reaction,the Nigerian Labour Congress via press statement issued on Friday said, it was “disheartening” that the SGF, a high ranking government official would make statement to trivialise the genuine grievances of Nigerian workers, when he said, he can’t afford to pay his four drivers N100,000 each as salary.

According to the group in the statement signed by Comrade Abdullahi Baffa Ringim and Comrade Andrew Bartholomew Rufus , the NLC’s reaction was undoubtedly grossly insensitive and inconsiderate to the personality someone,who was a former Governor; former Senator and the current SGF.

The further reads:”We know Akume as a patriot and a sensitive Nigerian,who considers the reality on ground rather than playing to the gallery.He was just being honest by making such statement over lingering matter of minimum wage for workers .

“The statement Akume made was because he didn’t steal public funds while in positions of authority held over the years. It is only corrupt leaders and thieves that afford to pay such unrealistic demands by Labour unions.

“We also deemed unacceptable for NLC to express disappointment over Akume’s comments, where the SGF described the “legitimate and constitutionally protected industrial action” as a “treasonable felony” and “economic sabotage” .

It asked, “what is “deeply troubling” that has undermined the spirit of constructive dialogue necessary for resolving the ongoing issues with the realistic statement made by the SGF”

“We make bold to say , Akume not among those who loot our treasury around the country, those who diverted public resources meant for hospitals and schools, padded budgets and inflated contracts including those who steal trillions of naira in the name of subsidy are the real economic saboteurs who commit treasonable felony.

While stating that the SGF is not one those NLC described people paying personal staff “starvation wages”,the group said considerations must be given to background of leaders to reach conclusion.

“The SGF during his as Governor of Benue State was not committed to regular payments workers,but also an advocate their rights and welfare.”it added .