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Transparency and Budget Monitoring Group (TBMG) has described as “Unfortunate” the failure on side of the former the former Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Hameed Ali, to remit 62 billion Naira funds generated during his era as the Custom Boss.

The Senate Public Account Committee has again initiated investigation into the alleged under-remittance of N62 billion by the Customs Service under Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , Hamid Ali successor.

The Committee which sat recently gave the current Customs boss a two-week ultimatum to provide a defense against the accusation of under-remittance insisted the Auditor General Report revealed 62 billion Naira unremitted funds .

In a statement made available to journalists in Kaduna ,the former Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Hameed Ali,had appeared before the then Senate Committee on Public Accounts after he was summoned several times by the panel.

The Statement signed the Secretary, Garba Mohamed Gusau claimed Ali,who appeared before the committee to respond to queries in an auditor-general’s report didn’t remit the funds before he left office .

According the report currently under review by the committee , concerns are raised over the disparity between the NCS’s reported total collection of N691 billion for the federation account and the actual remittance of N629 billion into the account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Statement further reads: “We are therefore urging the Senate to launch investigate the outstanding debts and financial discrepancies and ensure the need for transparency and accountability within the Nigerian Customs Service under the current administration.

“We also suggest that the former Custom Boss,Hamid Ali be investigated and prosecuted.”

By Babalele Musa

Kaduna – The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the brutal killing of 16 travelers in Udune Efandion, Uromi, Edo State, calling for swift justice and accountability. The victims, mainly Hausa hunters traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Sallah celebrations, were reportedly lynched over false allegations of being kidnappers.

In a statement issued by AYCF President-General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the organization expressed deep outrage over the tragic event, describing it as an act of extreme lawlessness and a serious threat to national unity. According to Shettima, the victims were intercepted around 1:30 p.m. by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes before being handed over to an enraged mob.

“This incident is a disgraceful act of mob injustice. Innocent travelers were falsely accused, denied their right to a fair hearing, and subjected to a horrifying death. Such barbaric actions must not be tolerated in any civilized society,” Shettima stated.

Eyewitness reports described the gruesome nature of the killings, revealing that some victims were removed from the vehicle with wheelbarrows and thrown into a raging fire, while others were burned alive inside the van. The AYCF warned that such unchecked mob violence is a growing danger that, if not addressed, could lead to more ethnic hostilities across the country.

The organization demanded an immediate and thorough investigation, insisting that those who incited and participated in the killings be identified and prosecuted. “Justice must be served, not just for the victims and their families, but to restore public confidence in the rule of law. If we allow such acts of violence to go unpunished, we risk normalizing jungle justice in our society,” Shettima warned.

While acknowledging the deep pain and anger among the Hausa community in Uromi and beyond, the AYCF urged them to remain calm and refrain from any retaliatory actions. The group emphasized that legal action was the only appropriate way to seek justice and prevent further bloodshed.

“We understand the frustration and grief caused by this

The Kaduna Good Governance Forum (KGGF) is calling out former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his Commissioners for spreading falsehoods about Kaduna’s revenue generation.

El-Rufai claimed that the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) decreased from N7 billion to N2 billion monthly under Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

However, the KGGF in Statement signed by the Secretary, Comrade Tijanni Usman presented records showing that Kaduna State generated ₦62.41 billion in 2023, with the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) contributing 77.1% (₦48.13 billion). In 2024, the IGR increased by 12.5% to ₦70.22 billion, with KADIRS contributing 73.8% (₦51.87 billion) of the total revenue.

The forum attributed the improvement to Governor Uba Sani’s prioritization of robust revenue sector reforms, including the introduction of an electronic portal for revenue collection. This has helped surpass the best years under El-Rufai’s administration.

“The available records reveal that between January and February 2025 alone, ₦14.16 billion was collected proving that revenue mobilization under Uba Sani is not only stable, but growing.

“It’s worth noting that Governor Uba Sani’s administration has been recognized for its efforts in revenue generation.”it stated .

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Kaduna State was ranked as the leading revenue-generating state in Northern Nigeria in 2023, with an impressive N62.48 billion in IGR .

We make bold to say the allegations of secret N100 million withdrawals from the IGR account is nothing short of another falsehood peddled by a drowning man.

El-Rufai and his cohorts in bid to pull down Governor Uba Sani have resorted deliberate attempt to sponsor falsehood and paint a gloomy picture about the good efforts of his predecessor, who is working tirelessly to reverse all his bad deeds while in office .

By: Chika Obi

The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has strongly condemned the recent imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The group described the move as unconstitutional and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic reputation.

In a statement issued by its Global President, Dr. Philip Fola, ANPE expressed deep concern over the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials. ANPE argued that the imposition of emergency rule signals a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism, undermining the principles of federalism and due process enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

The group noted that Nigeria, once hailed as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is now facing growing criticisms. “The suspension of elected officials without due process is a clear violation of democratic norms,” the statement read.

Nigeria’s reputation as a stable investment destination is at stake. This arbitrary abrogation of constitutional procedures erodes trust in Nigeria’s dedication to democratic values, which discourages potential investors. ANPE warned that such actions could erode investors’ confidence and further destabilize the nation’s fragile economy.

The group emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution delineates the processes for addressing grievances against elected officials, none of which is the unilateral imposition of a state of emergency by the federal government. By ignoring this legal procedure, the President not only set a dangerous precedent but also signaled a disregard for the principles of federalism.

This authoritarian maneuver has drawn criticism from international observers, destroying Nigeria’s status as an investment destination. “It is a thing of disappointment that our beloved country, which was once praised as a beacon of democracy in Africa, is gradually being perceived by international communities as a nation that is failing in its democratic ideals,” the group said.

Many international bodies and foreign governments have expressed disapproving concerns over the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria. This perception has been further exacerbated by the actions of President Tinubu, as an emergent dictator in the international circuit. Such descriptions, whether accurate or hyperbolic, have had a chilling effect on Nigeria’s global standing, tarnishing its reputation as a stable and democratic investment destination.

The statement further accused the National Assembly of failing in its duty to check executive overreach, calling on lawmakers to investigate the constitutionality of the emergency rule in Rivers State. ANPE also urged the judiciary to uphold the rule of law by ensuring that constitutional procedures are followed in addressing political crises.

Furthermore, the Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) is deeply troubled by the decision made by some of the key stakeholders in the face of this constitutional crisis. It is unfortunate that the National Assembly, which is tasked with checking executive excesses and upholding the Constitution, has become a disappointment in executing its role as a bulwark against authoritarianism.

Their support for this blatant violation of constitutional norms is a disgrace to Nigerians in the diaspora. We call on the National Assembly to reinvestigate this matter thoroughly and to take appropriate action to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. We also call on the judiciary to adjudicate on the constitutionality of the state of emergency and to ensure that the rule of law prevails.

Emphasizing the economic implications of political instability, ANPE warned that foreign investors may withdraw or withhold investments due to uncertainty about Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance. While calling for immediate reconciliation and dialogue, ANPE urged the federal government to respect state autonomy and democratic institutions.

The strength of our nation lies in our unity and commitment to democracy. President Tinubu must rectify this aberration to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic integrity and economic viability.

Meanwhile, Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, has warned against halting allocations to Rivers State, citing potentially severe consequences for the state’s residents ¹.

The Centre for Energy Development and Economic Sustainability (CEDES) has strongly condemned the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over the recent Naira-for-Crude policy, warning that the move is a deliberate attempt to cripple local refineries and sustain Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Dr. Umar Sani, Executive Director of CEDES, accused the NNPCL of working against national interest by prioritizing foreign exchange gains over the survival of local refiners.

He noted that the Naira-for-Crude arrangement had ensured steady crude supply to Nigerian refineries while helping the government save on foreign exchange and reinvest in critical infrastructure.

“It is outrageous that the NNPCL, instead of strengthening local refining, has decided to sabotage it by imposing a dollars-for-crude system. This policy is designed to choke local refineries, making it impossible for them to access crude oil at reasonable rates. The ultimate goal is to force Nigeria back into total reliance on fuel imports, which benefits only a corrupt few,” Sani said.

“Under the Naira-for-Crude system, the NNPCL could no longer make its usual bogus claims of petrol imports to justify billions of dollars in subsidies. The policy ensured transparency, saved the government huge amounts in foreign exchange, and allowed for reinvestment in developmental infrastructure. But with this new move, we are back to a system where crude oil is sold in dollars, fueling corruption and economic instability,” he added.

CEDES warned that the NNPCL’s latest move could lead to higher fuel prices, petrol scarcity, worsening inflation, and further hardship for Nigerians.

The centre called on the federal government to immediately reverse the policy and uphold the Naira-for-Crude system to support local refining and economic stability.

“We demand that the government reinstate the Naira-for-Crude policy and stop this reckless sabotage of local refineries. The NNPCL must not be allowed to undermine Nigeria’s energy security and economic sovereignty,” Sani stated.

By Nduka Opara

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo sociocultural organization, has strongly condemned recent allegations against Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The organization described the allegations as malicious and unfounded, urging all stakeholders to support Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, emphasized that INEC’s credibility and neutrality have improved significantly, making it essential for all stakeholders to support the commission. He noted that the allegations are a deliberate fabrication designed to incite chaos and destabilize the electoral landscape.

Isiguzoro also expressed concern over reports of clandestine plans by unprincipled politicians to exploit the ongoing political crisis between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He stated that such maneuvers are designed to orchestrate chaos and manipulate the public narrative surrounding Professor Yakubu and his pivotal role at INEC.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improvements in INEC’s independence, credibility, and transparency. The organization believes that Professor Yakubu’s initiatives to reshape INEC for efficient electoral reform should not be undermined by orchestrated, faceless groups.

Isiguzoro emphasized the importance of supporting Professor Yakubu and his dedicated team at INEC. He called upon all Nigerians, regardless of partisan affiliation, to rise in defense of the country’s institutions, denounce falsehoods, and ensure that INEC’s integrity remains sacrosanct.

In a related development, Ohanaeze Ndigbo had previously cautioned INEC against losing the confidence of Nigerian voters, urging the commission to ensure credible elections ¹.

*Fixes Tuesday March 25 to address contemptuous act

A pressure group, Action Collective has asked Nigerians to disregard speculation making the rounds regarding a non-existing order vacating the earlier order against the Senate in the ongoing case involving Senator Natasha Uduaghan.

The group said a Federal High Court in Abuja Abuja had rather clarified that it never vacated its earlier order restraining the Senate from subjecting Senator Natasha Uduaghan to investigation over the alleged sexual harassment against the Senate President Goodwill Akpabio.

The group said the court did not consider the Plaintiff’s application for mandatory injunction invoking its disciplinary jurisdiction but prioritised the motion of the Senate which was only filed on Monday the 17th day of March, 2025.

A Kogi based group while debunking the rumour through a statement Thursday in Abuja, said that order was subsisting.

A section of the media had erroneously reported that the restraining order against the Senate Committee on Ethics had been vacated.

The group said while the Senate, in spite of the restraining order, went ahead to sit and tried Natasha leading to the pronouncement of her six months suspension.

“They equally filed an application which was vehemently opposed by the Plaintiff’s counsel, Michael Numa SAN, who emphasized the contemptuous actions of the Senate in defying the Court’s orders.

“Numa argued that the Senate was not entitled to any further orders from the same Court it had disrespected.

“After standing down the matter for a few hours the Judge returned to deliver a ruling, offering clarification on the scope of Order 4. And contrary to the interpretation sought by the 2nd Defendant (Senate) that the order (restraining order)was meant to halt the entire legislative function of the Senate, the Court noted that from the material before it that the National Assembly has been carrying out its legislative functions without an hindrance.

“The Court went further to clarify that owing to the varying interpretations of the order, it will set aside the consequential aspects of Order 4 which was simply meant to give effect to the predicate orders.”

The group declared that contrary to false reports circulating,”the Court did not set aside Orders 1, 2, or 3, which included orders restraining the Senate’s Ethics Committee from continuing with its investigation into the Plaintiff’s alleged conduct while the Motion for a Interlocutory injunction remained pending.

“Additionally, the Court did not reverse its directive for the Defendants to show cause within 72 hours or overturn the order to maintain the status quo ante bellum.

“The Court’s decision only involved the clarification of Order 4, due to the differing interpretations of it by the Defendants.

“The matter was subsequently adjourned to March 25, 2025, for the hearing of all pending applications including the substantive dispute.

“We use this medium to assure the general public that justice shall prevail even as we ask the general public to disregard the misinformation in circulation,” the Kogi group clarified.

A desperate plan to compile faceless names from Kogi State purportedly seeking for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate has been uncovered.

The plan, according to Kogi Central based pressure group on the platform of Action Collective, made the revelation public on Wednesday.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is presently serving six months suspension slammed on her over the sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

A statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, signed by its coordinator, Dr. Onimisi Ibrahim, said intelligence also revealed that allies of those fighting Senator Natasha in the Nigerian Senate are behind the plot.

According to the group, findings revealed that the latest move is considered by Senator Natasha’s traducers as ‘nailing the coffin’ to prevent her from seeking justice which she is currently pursuing both here in Nigeria and from the international community.

“We gathered reliably that a former governor in Kogi state has been contacted to carry out this evil plan. We also have an information that some ally INEC staff have also been recruited to commence the recall of Senator Natasha.

“This project which is said to gulped over two million dollars, will involve the recruitment of faceless persons from the various local government areas in Kogi State who would be paid to append false signatures on the purported recall paper,” the group alleged.

The statement also alleged that some highly placed staff of INEC have been paid huge sums of money to carry out and endorse the plan, adding,”that is why it is important to alert the public especially the civil society and Human Rights Activists including the Media, who are the watchdog of the society as well as the security agencies to remain vigilant and subject such documents regarding the planned recall to proper scrutining. A stitch in time saves nine!.”

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State Chapter yesterday rejoices with the people of Kaduna state and the entire Middle Belt over the appointments of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas on their appointments as Pro-Chancellor and Vice Chancellor, respectively, of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia.

A statement signed by the Kadun Chapter of the MBF and made available to our reporter in Kaduna added that The appointments, announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “are a testament to the exceptional leadership, dedication, and contributions of these distinguished individuals to education and national development.”

According to Danbaki, “Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, is a globally respected intellectual, peace advocate, and voice of reason.
“ His unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and the advancement of education has earned him admiration across Nigeria and beyond,” he added
“As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Bishop Kukah’s visionary leadership will undoubtedly guide the university toward becoming a center of academic excellence and innovation,” the statement continued.

On the Professor, Danbaki said: “Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas, an accomplished academic and administrator, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Vice Chancellor. His distinguished career in academia and research, coupled with his passion for institution-building, positions him as the ideal leader to steer the university toward achieving its mandate of fostering applied sciences and technological advancement,” he said.

“The Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna Chapter, commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for these strategic appointments, which reflect his administration’s commitment to recognizing and harnessing the immense human resources within the Middle Belt region.
“The Forum expresses its profound gratitude to the President for his foresight and urges him to continue identifying and appointing more capable leaders from the Middle Belt to key positions in his administration.

“As the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, prepares to admit its first cohort of students in September 2025, we are confident that under the leadership of Bishop Kukah and Prof. Qurix, the institution will become a hub of academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovation.

“Their appointments align perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda, and we trust that they will lay a solid foundation for the university’s growth and impact.

“The Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna Chapter, pledges its full support to Bishop Kukah, Prof. Qurix, and the entire university community as they work to transform the educational landscape of Southern Kaduna and Nigeria at large. We pray for God’s wisdom, guidance, and strength as they embark on this noble journey,” ends the statement.

Kaduna Good Governance Forum(KGGMG)has asked citizens of the State and the general public to ignore the recent allegations of corruption raised by former former Kaduna Governor Malam Nasir Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

According to the forum, instead of Elrufai jumping from one media house to another seeking for relevance, he should present himself to the relevant anti-graft agencies to account for the 423 Billion Naira looted Kaduna money under his administration.

El-Rufai, had appeared on a radio programme where he accused his successor, Uba Sani, of diverting local government funds to buy properties in Seychelles, South Africa and United Kingdom.

However,the forum in a press statement made available to journalists today asked Elrufai to stop finding faults and evil machinations to pull down the good image and works of Governor Uba Sani.

The statement signed by Comrade Mustapha Ibn Mohammed explained,” Governor Uba Sani How can Uba Sani who enjoined local government chairmen to be transparent and accountable in the handling of public finances during their swearing in ceremony at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House will later turnaround.

“As a good governance group, we have frequently followed the allocation from the Federation Account over the past one year and discovered a high level of transparency and accountability.

“We also make bold to ask how did Uba Sani achieved over one thousand per cent (1000%) revenue performance in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) with over fifty billion naira (N50bn) achieved if he is corrupt.

“Governor Uba Sani’s administration Under Sani’s leadership has emerged as a national frontrunner in public sector reform, demonstrating an unbeatable commitment to efficiency, transparency, and professionalism.

“It is unfortunate that a former Governor with case of corrupt acts while in office, could be so careless to name a prudent and accountable leader such as Uba Sani corrupt”.

” At this juncture, we dare Elrufai to present evidence of corruption against Uba Sani or we file a case of character assassination against him . “