Northern CSOs Threaten Mass Protest Over Gov. Lawal’s Inefficiency and Blame Games

Douglas Ocho



….

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has  cleared a misconception on the recent attacks on Honourable Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle through a sponsored fake protest  calling on the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Chairman of the forum  Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani described the protest as another shameless and dishonest act perpetrated by a so-called faceless and non-existent group that claimed to be All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA), who took to the street in another charade of a protest demanding the probe of Matawalle.

“This is nothing but another episode in the series of sponsored, devilish, and character-damaging campaigns by certain unpatriotic, dishonest enemies of democracy, threatened by the gigantic successes achieved by the Minister and the opposition who have allegedly set aside a sum of 2 billion naira for such purposes.

“Behold, all their series of campaigns are nowhere close to the truth but are full of jargon, falsehoods, and devilish notes meant for destructive purposes. You are all aware this is not their first, they have tried with different organizations and persons who have all failed, but they have refused to back down and accept the truth.

“We are here to expose them to Nigerians,  reveal their real identities as the criminals and frauds that they are, and bring an end to their sponsored and unpatriotic plot. Hence; the APC-YLA is non-existent and nonfunctional and has only surfaced for the purpose of a campaign of calumny against Defence Minister Matawalle.

“Its address is fake; it is a marketplace that carries no bearing or any precise direction; it is a formulation to serve its scandalous agenda.The crowd for the protest was absurd; only a few of them were above 18, and the rest were minors and hired; they knew nothing about APC-YLA or Matawalle but were offered pea nuts and used to serve the agenda of the sponsors by holding placards and chanting slogans they knew nothing about.

“In the same vein, we are reporting to the APC, whose organization’s reputation is dragged to serve this devilish purpose, who is possibly infiltrated. We are also petitioning the group to APC and relevant security agencies to take immediate note and action against these imposters as we believe some of them are not even members of the APC. Furthermore, we demand a full list and membership details of their members and organizations”.

The group expressed hope that the APC will never allow the ruling party to be used as a tool for a witch hunt or a subject of personal attack. It also, expressed confidence that the security agencies will not rest until these imposters are checkmated.

“We maintain that this madness must stop, sanity must return and the normal status quo must be followed” it stressed.

ENDS

Northern Forum Wants Those Behind Fake Protest Against Matawalle Investigated

Gideon Mark

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has cleared a misconception on the recent attacks on Honourable Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle through a sponsored fake protest calling on the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Chairman of the forum Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani described the protest as another shameless and dishonest act perpetrated by a so-called faceless and non-existent group that claimed to be All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA), who took to the street in another charade of a protest demanding the probe of Matawalle.

“This is nothing but another episode in the series of sponsored, devilish, and character-damaging campaigns by certain unpatriotic, dishonest enemies of democracy, threatened by the gigantic successes achieved by the Minister and the opposition who have allegedly set aside a sum of 2 billion naira for such purposes.

“Behold, all their series of campaigns are nowhere close to the truth but are full of jargon, falsehoods, and devilish notes meant for destructive purposes. You are all aware this is not their first, they have tried with different organizations and persons who have all failed, but they have refused to back down and accept the truth.

“We are here to expose them to Nigerians, reveal their real identities as the criminals and frauds that they are, and bring an end to their sponsored and unpatriotic plot. Hence; the APC-YLA is non-existent and nonfunctional and has only surfaced for the purpose of a campaign of calumny against Defence Minister Matawalle.

“Its address is fake; it is a marketplace that carries no bearing or any precise direction; it is a formulation to serve its scandalous agenda.The crowd for the protest was absurd; only a few of them were above 18, and the rest were minors and hired; they knew nothing about APC-YLA or Matawalle but were offered pea nuts and used to serve the agenda of the sponsors by holding placards and chanting slogans they knew nothing about.

“In the same vein, we are reporting to the APC, whose organization’s reputation is dragged to serve this devilish purpose, who is possibly infiltrated. We are also petitioning the group to APC and relevant security agencies to take immediate note and action against these imposters as we believe some of them are not even members of the APC. Furthermore, we demand a full list and membership details of their members and organizations”.

The group expressed hope that the APC will never allow the ruling party to be used as a tool for a witch hunt or a subject of personal attack. It also, expressed confidence that the security agencies will not rest until these imposters are checkmated.

“We maintain that this madness must stop, sanity must return and the normal status quo must be followed” it stressed.

ENDS

Norwegian Government, UNFPA, CERSDOV Deepen Community Engagement to End GBV and Promote SRHR in Kaduna

By Markus Giwa

In a strategic effort to address gender-based violence (GBV), reduce child marriage, and promote sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), the Norwegian Government, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Centre for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), in partnership with the Kaduna State Government, successfully concluded a high-level two-day advocacy training in Kaduna State.

The event, held from May 2 to 3, 2025, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors—including traditional rulers, religious leaders, legal practitioners, healthcare professionals, and civil society representatives—to sharpen their capacities in policy analysis, strategic planning, and community-centered advocacy for gender equality and SRHR.

Speaking shortly after the training, Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, Executive Director of CERSDOV, expressed satisfaction with the caliber and commitment of participants.

“I was very deliberate in selecting invitees. We had two Hakimis—Bunun Zazzau and Danmukoyon Zazzau—who stayed through the entire program. That level of participation from traditional leaders is a major achievement,” she said.

Professor Yusuf emphasized that the event went beyond mere attendance. “We had key players present, including representatives of the Attorney General, commissioners from the Ministries of Human Services and Social Development, and the State Budget and Planning Commission, as well as notable religious figures. Achieving such inclusion takes intentional effort,” she noted.

The event marks a continuation of strategic engagements supported by Norway and the UNFPA to institutionalize gender justice, improve survivor access to services, and foster community ownership in combatting GBV and harmful traditional practices.

Looking ahead, Professor Yusuf revealed plans for a public commitment event. “The stakeholders are ready and enthusiastic. We’re planning the next stage, which will be a public declaration of commitment. Everyone here wants progress for our people,” she said.

She thanked the Norwegian Government and UNFPA for their unwavering support. “We at CERSDOV deeply appreciate the support—not just for our organization but for the entire Kaduna State. We are confident that this partnership will influence future policy direction and strengthen community resilience,” she added.

Also speaking at the training, Alexander Aku Amadi, Deputy Director of Civil Litigation at the Kaduna State Ministry of Justice, who represented the Attorney General, said the state government remained fully committed to the cause.

“The Attorney General was very eager to attend personally but had pressing engagements. I was honored to represent the ministry and stayed throughout the training due to its high quality and relevance,” he said.

Amadi pledged to carry forward the resolutions and outcomes of the training, assuring that they would feed into government programming. “Awareness has improved, but there is always more to do. This kind of initiative helps us focus on the practical steps needed to move forward,” he added.

Barrister Sidikat Adeboye, Centre Manager of the Salama Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Tudun Wada, Kaduna, noted that the training would bolster survivor confidence and access to essential services.

“With the caliber of participants—particularly traditional and religious leaders—we expect that more survivors will come forward for medical treatment, psychosocial support, and legal aid,” she said.

Barrister Sarah Sambu Ishaku, Deputy Director of Natural Law and Customs at the Kaduna Multi-Door Court House, described the workshop as transformative.

“This training gave me a new understanding of GBV and how best to collaborate with referral centers. It has opened my eyes to alternative solutions like restorative justice,” she explained.

She advocated for non-courtroom resolutions in certain cases. “Victims, offenders, and community leaders should be able to meet and resolve issues. Sometimes, it’s more impactful when survivors state their needs and receive direct restitution or support, rather than seeing offenders pay fines to the state alone,” she said.

Alhaji Bala Mohamed Tijani, District Head of Doka and Bunun Zazzau, who was recently honored as a GBV and SRHR Ambassador, described the title as both recognition and motivation.

“It symbolizes appreciation for what we’ve achieved and spurs us to do more. We still need broader awareness campaigns and stronger enforcement of protective policies,” he emphasized.

The high-level training underscored the synergy between international support and local ownership in tackling GBV and advancing reproductive rights. It also demonstrated a growing consensus among leaders that meaningful change requires community-driven approaches and inclusive dialogue.

With renewed political will, institutional backing, and grassroots advocacy, the training has set the stage for long-term, systemic action across Kaduna State—ensuring that vulnerable groups, especially women and girls, are protected, empowered, and given a voice in shaping their futures.

NNPCL: Group Tells Nigerians to Ignore Sponsored Groups Against Kyari

…Says they are jobless

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has asked Nigerians to ignore what he termed ‘Sponsored Groups ” mobilised against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL) , Engineer Mele Kyari.

According to the group, Kyari has successfully served the country with a good sense of patriotism and should not be rewarded with such sponsored attacks and protests.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service as obtainable in most developed countries.” It added.

The group, which made the appeal in a Statement made available to journalists today expressed dismay over failure on side of these sponsored protesters to recognize and appreciate that sacrifices made by Mele Kyari to refloat the moribund refineries in Port Harcourt,Warri and Kaduna is worthy of commendation and not condemnation.

While stating that Kyari is the Best Group Chief Executive Officer that Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited ever had, the group condemned and wrote off those behind the sponsored groups as jobless people with no vision for future.

The statement signed by the Chairman Comrade Bala Usman Sani further reads: “We want those behind the sponsored attacks to know that Kyari inherited an NNPC that was still struggling to shake off the negative image of a national oil company where nothing works.But he turned the situation around and he was recognized as the “Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022” by the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).

“He ensured that NNPC maintained a national strategic fuel reserve capable of serving the country’s needs for a reasonable period till normalcy was restored with the curtailment of massive smuggling of petroleum products across the country’s borders.

“Apart from encouraging private investors, like Dangote Group and other mini-refineries developers in the country to be involved in the construction of private refineries, Kyari ensured his agenda for the rehabilitation of the four refineries were on course, stopped oil theft and supported exploration of crude oil in the north

“We want to also remind them that he was instrumental to the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act(PIA) ensuring smooth transition of NNPC to a fully incorporated company under the Companies and Allied Matter Act

“Under Kyari,the national oil company achieved significant progress, which includes the revival of two major refineries, increase in domestic natural gas consumption, and a boost in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.

“Recalled that Kyari introduced the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda, which helped to address inefficiencies within the corporation

APC Urged to Reject Dauda Lawal Amid Rising Political Tensions in Zamfara

By Agamah Boris

As political speculations swirl in Zamfara State, the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a strong caution to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning against the possible defection of Governor Dauda Lawal from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the ruling party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, and circulated to journalists on Wednesday, NAN described any plan to welcome Lawal into the APC as a “strategic misjudgment” that could fracture the party’s stability and weaken its electoral prospects in the North-West state.

According to NAN, Governor Lawal’s rumored shift is not born of ideological alignment but rather a desperate move to escape the intensifying political heat being applied by entrenched APC powerbrokers — specifically, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor and Senator Abdulaziz Yari. Both figures are known to command significant grassroots loyalty and political influence in Zamfara, and have reportedly been working to neutralize Lawal’s 2027 re-election ambitions.

“The political landscape in Zamfara is delicate, and Governor Dauda Lawal’s hold on power is slipping rapidly,” the NAN statement reads. “His anticipated decampment to the APC should not be mistaken for strength or added value to the party.”

The organization stated bluntly that Lawal’s political trajectory has been marred by controversy and a lackluster performance, which it believes makes him an unsuitable ally for the APC.

“His inclusion in the APC would be an uncalculated gamble,” NAN stated. “Rather than adding value, Lawal would become a burden — creating internal conflict, risking party unity, and diluting the APC’s core message of discipline, vision, and northern unity.”

NAN contends that the APC must be especially wary in Zamfara, a state long plagued by banditry, instability, and a rapidly shifting voter base. “This is not the time for sentimental or reactionary politics. APC needs stability and must build on the solid structures already in place through committed, tested loyalists,” the statement added.

The group also warned that Lawal’s defection could send the wrong signals to party supporters across the region — particularly those who have made sacrifices to build the party’s profile in the North.

“Welcoming Governor Lawal would alienate grassroots supporters, weaken the credibility of the APC’s anti-corruption stance, and embolden political opportunism over ideological consistency.”

NAN called on the APC’s national leadership to demonstrate strategic foresight and prioritize the collective political interest of the North over individual ambitions.

“In this crucial period leading to the next general election, what the APC needs are loyal party men and women who command trust, respect, and alignment with the party’s long-term vision — not opportunists with questionable legacies.”

They concluded with a call for vigilance: “We urge the APC to tread carefully and not allow temporary political drama to derail the party’s mission. The North deserves better. Zamfara deserves a future built on strong leadership and unity, not division and desperation

Arewa Group Praises  Wike’s Leadership, Says FCT Minister a Force for National Progress

Adakole  Odeh

A northern-based advocacy group, Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing not only to the North but to Nigeria as a whole, citing his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation’s capital.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a visionary decision in appointing Wike as FCT Minister, asserting that the appointment was akin to “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

In a statement issued by the Speaker of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group applauded Wike’s pragmatic approach to governance, especially in addressing urban development challenges and security issues in Abuja.

“Since assuming office, Wike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, taking bold steps to address illegal developments, encroachments on public land, and persistent security lapses. His actions reflect a deep commitment to restoring the Abuja master plan and enforcing long-neglected laws,” Danbature said.

He highlighted Wike’s firm measures, including the demolition of unauthorized structures and the removal of street beggars, as necessary and long overdue. According to him, these reforms have reinvigorated public confidence in the FCT administration’s capacity to manage the capital effectively.

The group also commended Wike’s collaboration with neighboring states in tackling insecurity

Defection Driven by Fear of Matawalle, Yari — Northern Group Slams Gov. Lawal




By Manaseh Luka

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has condemned the ongoing plan by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the group in a statement issued and signed by its Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the governor’s decision is motivated by fear and desperation. The group noted that this move would not only be a betrayal of the principles of the PDP but also reflect Governor Lawal’s inability to provide effective leadership in the face of political challenges.

The NSCF stated that it is evident the governor’s decision is primarily driven by apprehensions regarding the political maneuvers of influential figures such as the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC. This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State,” the group stated.

The statement further alleged that Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political liability within the PDP, with a tenure marked by a lack of substantial contributions to the party’s vision and goals.

“Instead of fostering unity and progress, he has often been viewed as political baggage, failing to galvanize support and inspire confidence among party members and constituents alike,” Paul said.

Mr. Paul added that the governor’s proposed defection to the APC will not change the prevailing narrative about his leadership, but instead highlight his inability to rise above the challenges that have plagued his administration.

The NSCF maintained that the people of Zamfara State deserve a leader who prioritizes their welfare and development over personal political survival. According to the group, Governor Lawal’s decision to defect does not reflect a commitment to better governance but rather a retreat from accountability and responsibility.

“His track record within the PDP has proven that he lacks the vision and integrity necessary to lead effectively, and his transition to the APC is unlikely to yield any positive outcomes for the citizens he purports to serve,” the statement noted.

Moreover, the NSCF expressed concern that Governor Lawal’s shift to the APC will only exacerbate the existing political tensions within Zamfara State.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already embroiled in its own internal struggles. Introducing a leader who has previously demonstrated a lack of political acumen will only complicate matters further and may lead to greater instability within the state’s political landscape,” the forum emphasized.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum, therefore, called on Governor Lawal to reconsider his decision to defect to the APC, urging him instead to prioritize the interests of the people of Zamfara State over his own political ambitions.

“The citizens deserve a leader who is committed to their welfare and who can unite rather than divide. It is our hope that the governor will reflect on his responsibility to the people he serves and choose a path that fosters unity, progress, and true democratic governance,” the statement added.

Great Optimism As Major General AK Ibrahim resumes as 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

Lagos Group Urges President Tinubu to Halt Unconstitutional Tenure Extensions in LCDAs

Ubeku Adele

In a strong appeal to safeguard democratic norms, the Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG), a non-partisan civic organization, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently intervene in what it describes as an “alarming trend of unconstitutional tenure elongation” across several Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State.

The group raised concerns over what it termed systematic attempts by certain LCDA chairpersons to sidestep constitutional term limits, warning that the ongoing practices threaten to erode the state’s democratic foundations.

In a detailed statement signed by its Coordinator, Ademola Gafar, the LSGG cited specific cases including Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA, Onigbongbo LCDA, and Ikosi Isheri LCDA, where vice chair

AYCF Urges Tinubu to Declare State of Emergency in Zamfara Over Worsening Insecurity

By Adsh Akatu

The Northern youth pressure group, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State.

In light of the renewed and escalating insecurity that has left countless lives at risk, the forum has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima, said that despite earlier successes recorded by federal troops in combating banditry, the situation in Zamfara has worsened significantly.

He noted that armed groups have become increasingly emboldened, launching brazen attacks on innocent civilians, displacing families, and creating an atmosphere of fear and hopelessness. He added that the people of Zamfara are in desperate need of immediate intervention to restore peace and security to their communities.

“We must also highlight the role of the state government under Governor Dauda Lawal Dare in this escalating crisis. The Governor’s inaction, indifference, and total lack of concern for the plight of the citizens have directly contributed to the worsening security situation.

“Instead of taking decisive action to confront the bandits, the governor has demonstrated a total lack of preparedness and capacity to challenge these criminal elements. Furthermore, allegations of the excessive pillage of public funds have raised serious questions about the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people,” the statement said.

The AYCF firmly believes that a state of emergency is necessary to mobilize federal resources and restore law and order in Zamfara State. It therefore urged President Tinubu to take such a critical step to protect the lives and properties of the citizens and to hold the state government accountable for its failures.

“We stand with the people of Zamfara in their quest for safety, security, and justice. It is time for decisive action to end the suffering and restore hope to this beleaguered region,” it stated.

ENDS