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In the appointment of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), stakeholders roundly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the choice of this astute and result-oriented energy expert and policy strategist—a visionary administrator.

The saying that a golden fish has no hiding place aptly qualifies Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s appointment by His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who was able to spot the energy poster boy and place him strategically where competence meets passion.

Indeed, the appointment of Dr. Abdullahi as the Director-General of the Energy Commission qualifies the saying of putting a round peg in a round hole.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, who combines academic distinction with hands-on experience in energy systems, regulation, and innovation, has variously been described by stakeholders as a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s energy future—scoring a vital point in the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which clearly aims to resuscitate and reinvigorate the country’s energy sector.

As an avid scholar who holds a master’s and a doctorate in Engineering from the prestigious University of Manchester, and who has also served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Civil Engineering in the same institution, Dr. Abdullahi’s penchant for excellence is distinctive and highly commendable.

As a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), Dr. Abdullahi has distinguished himself in ways so uncommon and achievements quite alluring. His commitment to professional excellence and technical innovation underscores his capacity and capabilities in delivering on the mandate of the Energy Sector and the Commission generally.

As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, from 2021 to 2023, Dr. Abdullahi conducted an impactful research entitled “Assessment of the Structural Integrity,” contributing valuable insights to the field. His work was recognized and supported by the Industry Collaboration Fund, United Kingdom, highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge through industry-academia collaboration.

Dr. Abdullahi has over 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly within the oil and gas industry, and is known to have spent a significant part of his career at the Department of Petroleum Resources (now the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission—NUPRC), contributing to regulatory policy, energy systems management, and sustainability initiatives.

His technical competence is further complemented by his role at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), where he engaged in research and development at the intersection of space and energy technology.

Before being appointed as Director-General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi served as the Senior Technical Adviser to the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. In that capacity, he was instrumental in shaping national policies that promoted innovation, renewable energy adoption, and scientific advancement.

His advisory role provided strategic direction for programmes aimed at building Nigeria’s technological capacity in line with global sustainability trends.

He is widely reputed to be a multi-disciplinary leader, with a systems-thinking approach to Nigeria’s energy challenges, integrating insights from engineering, space research, and policy.

Since assuming office as

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has suspended its State Chairman, Elder Patrick Ambut, and State Secretary, Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi, over allegations of anti-party activities, gross misconduct, and violation of the party’s constitution.

In a statement issued on Monday by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party said the suspension followed a meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) convened after receiving petitions from the Igabi and Sabon Gari Local Government Chairmen, as well as complaints from other local chapters.

According to the statement, the suspended officials were accused of engaging in acts capable of causing disaffection among members, creating parallel party organs, and breaching several provisions of the ADC Constitution (2022 as amended).

The ADC also disclosed that it received a letter from the Kaduna State Police Command confirming an ongoing investigation into the alleged illegal removal of the Igabi Local Government Chairman, involving both suspended officials.

“The Chairman’s undemocratic disposition and selective relationship with State Working Committee members, coupled with his poor leadership style, contravene Articles 7(8 & 11) and 20(1b) of the ADC Constitution,” the statement said.

The party further accused Ambut and Oluwatuyi of running the Kaduna ADC like a “secret cult,” making unilateral decisions without due consultation or reference to the State Working Committee, and undermining the principles of transparency, accountability, and rule of law for personal gain.

To restore order and preserve the integrity of the party, the State Working Committee resolved to: suspend Elder Patrick Ambut and Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi pending the conclusion of investigations, and constitute a five-man Disciplinary Committee to probe the allegations and make recommendations.

The SWC, however, appointed Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, the Deputy State Chairman, as Acting State Chairman, and Mrs. Rachael Didams as Acting State Secretary.

The statement added that the decision was necessary to uphold the ADC’s values and allow the disciplinary process to proceed without interference.

“The suspension is aimed at protecting the integrity of the party and ensuring due process in line with our constitution,” the statement concluded.

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has described Governor Peter Mbah’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strategic and welcome development for the South East region, saying the move would strengthen the zone’s position in Nigeria’s mainstream political structure.

Reacting to public criticisms that trailed the Enugu State governor’s decision, Sani said Mbah’s defection should not be seen as an act of betrayal but rather as a bold step to rescue the South East from political isolation and irrelevance at the federal level.

Speaking with journalists shortly after attending the United Africa Development Initiative Summit held at Merit House, Abuja, Senator Sani stated:“Governor Mbah’s defection to the APC is a blessing to the South Eastern part of the country. It is a strategic decision that will factor the region into the mainstream political equation in Nigeria.”

The former senator argued that those accusing the governor of betrayal were being unfair, noting that members of the Labour Party (LP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) had also defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past.

“Why should LP and ADC members be angry with a PDP member who joined the APC when many of them also left the PDP earlier? Politics is about alignment and strategy, not sentiment,” he stated.

Sani further maintained that Mbah’s defection would open new political opportunities for the South East, saying it had “raised the chances of the region rather than diminished them.”

Describing the move metaphorically, he added:“Mbah’s defection is like taking the goods of the South East to a bigger market where the action is.”

He, therefore, urged political leaders and stakeholders in the region to rally around the governor and use his new platform to push for greater inclusion, development, and representation at the national level.

At the ongoing World Ports Conference in Kobe, Japan, port professionals drawn from 64 countries have endorsed the election of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, as Vice-President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH).

Coming on the heels of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, Dantsoho’s election as Vice-President of the IAPH is a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in the comity of maritime nations.

The International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH) is a non-governmental organization headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In November 1955, about 100 world port leaders gathered in Los Angeles to announce the creation of IAPH.

Over the past six decades, IAPH has developed into a global alliance of ports, representing about 190 ports and 167 port-related businesses in 89 countries as of December 6, 2024. Member ports collectively handle well over 60% of the world’s seaborne trade and over 60% of global container traffic.

IAPH aims to be the global trade association of choice for port authorities and operators, representing their interests at regulatory levels such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the World Customs Organization (WCO), the International Standards Organization (ISO), and other global alliances like the Global Maritime Forum and the World Economic Forum (WEF).

IAPH also enjoys consultative status and works on behalf of ports with various United Nations bodies, including the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), and the UN Global Compact.

The Progressives Unity and Development Forum (PUDF) has cautioned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore against proceeding with the planned nationwide protest demanding the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, warning that it could be hijacked by hoodlums and turn violent.

The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is scheduled to hold on October 20, with Sowore describing the date as “sacrosanct.” According to him, the march to Aso Rock Villa would be a peaceful demonstration meant to demand justice and the immediate release of the pro-Biafra leader, who has been in custody since June 2021.

However, in a statement released to journalists on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Abraham Nwanchukwu, the PUDF urged Sowore, IPOB, and their supporters to suspend the planned protest in the interest of national peace and security.

“Sowore should be told now, before the D-day, that similar protests in the past spiraled out of control, with hoodlums taking advantage to loot and destroy public and private properties,” the group said.

The statement expressed concern that the planned march could easily be hijacked by “political opportunists and criminal elements” who may seize the moment to cause unrest and attack government buildings.

Citing examples of past protests in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos, the PUDF recalled that several peaceful demonstrations in the past ended in widespread destruction of infrastructure and loss of lives due to infiltration by miscreants.

“Against this background, we are calling on IPOB, Sowore, and other supporters of the planned protest to shelve the action and adopt more civic and responsible means of engagement,” the statement continued.

Nwanchukwu emphasized that while citizens have the constitutional right to protest, such actions must not endanger public safety or national unity.

“Nobody has a monopoly of violence, and we are issuing this warning to prevent any action that could provoke counter-reactions or threaten national peace,” he added.

The group further urged security agencies to remain vigilant before, during, and after October 20 to forestall any potential breakdown of law and order. It also appealed to Nigerians to resist being used by groups “seeking to destabilize the country under the guise of activism.”

“We all want a just and peaceful Nigeria,” PUDF said. “But protests that degenerate into chaos only bring pain to innocent citizens and deepen divisions in the country.”

Background:
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in June 2021. His continued detention, despite several court rulings granting him bail, has sparked recurring protests and calls for his release from rights groups, political leaders, and international organizations.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, recently reaffirmed that the protest would go ahead, insisting it would be peaceful and constitutionally protected.

PUDF, however, insists that caution must prevail to prevent what it described as a “repeat of the 2020 #EndSARS experience,” where a peaceful youth protest against police brutality was later hijacked by hoodlums, leading to violence, arson, and deaths across major cities.

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Would you like me to rewrite this version in a BBC-style neutral tone (for publication on TruthNigeria or similar outlets) or keep this Nigerian newspaper tone (like Punch or Vanguard)?

By Ladi Magaji

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has lauded the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a well-deserved recognition of competence, integrity, and merit.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, and signed by its spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it called a “well-considered choice,” noting that Professor Amupitan’s nomination and endorsement by the Council of State marked a positive step toward restoring credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

According to the MBF, Professor Amupitan, a distinguished son of the Middle Belt from Kogi State, is eminently qualified for the position, having built an illustrious career as a scholar, legal luminary, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

The Forum highlighted that Professor Amupitan had served with excellence in academia, particularly as a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he mentored many of Nigeria’s current generation of lawyers. It emphasized his deep understanding of constitutional law, governance, and electoral jurisprudence, qualities it said uniquely prepared him to handle the enormous responsibilities that come with heading the nation’s electoral body.

“The Middle Belt Forum warmly congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) on his nomination as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and his subsequent endorsement by the Council of State. We equally extend our profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this well-considered choice,” the statement read in part.

The Forum further expressed optimism that under Amupitan’s leadership, INEC would regain public trust and restore integrity to the nation’s electoral system, which it said had been seriously eroded under the previous administration of the commission.

“It is the considered opinion of the MBF that the immediate past leadership of INEC left behind a legacy marred by serious electoral irregularities and widespread loss of public trust. Professor Amupitan’s appointment, therefore, presents an opportunity to rebuild the integrity of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission and ensure that elections truly reflect the will of the people,” the statement continued.

The MBF underscored the enormity of the task ahead, noting that the new INEC boss would now preside over Nigeria’s “democratic recruitment process,” overseeing elections at all levels — from the Presidency and Governorships to the National and State Assemblies.

“Professor Amupitan now assumes a role that is no less critical: he would now be the head handler of Nigeria’s democratic recruitment process, overseeing elections from the Presidency to Governorships, and from the National Assembly to State Legislatures,” the Forum said.

Expressing full confidence in the new appointee, the MBF said it was convinced that, true to the Middle Belt’s long-standing values, Professor Amupitan would discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God.

“We are confident that, in keeping with the Middle Belt’s tradition, he will discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God,” the group added.

The Forum also called on the Nigerian Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation process to enable Professor Amupitan to immediately begin the critical task of deepening electoral integrity and strengthening democratic governance.

“We trust that the Nigerian Senate will, in its wisdom, screen, clear, and confirm this outstanding patriot to enable him to commence his vital task of deepening electoral integrity and democratic governance,” the MBF said.

In conclusion, the Middle Belt Forum reiterated its gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing merit and competence in his selection, describing the appointment as one that resonates with the nation’s desire for credible leadership at the electoral commission.

“Once again, the Middle Belt Forum heartily congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) and expresses sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing merit, character, and competence in this appointment,” the statement concluded.

Today, we celebrate not just your birthday, but the extraordinary light you bring into every life you touch. You are a rare blend of brilliance, humility, and boundless optimism — a leader whose energy inspires confidence, whose wisdom ignites innovation, and whose compassion restores hope.

In just 40 years, you have built a legacy many can only dream of — leading with purpose, transforming challenges into triumphs, and turning ideas into impact. Your journey is a living testament that greatness is not born of comfort, but of courage, resilience, and faith.

Your leadership continues to shape the destiny of our great company and influence lives far beyond its walls. Through your unwavering dedication, you’ve shown that success is sweetest when shared and that true power lies in service to humanity.

As you celebrate this milestone, may God’s grace multiply upon you. May your strength never wane, your dreams never fade, and your light never dim. The world is richer because you are in it, and those privileged to know you are blessed beyond measure.

May the next chapter of your life bring even greater victories, deeper joy, and divine fulfillment. Keep soaring higher — your best is yet to come!

With love, respect, and warmest wishes,
Shedy Oka and Family

By Ibrahim Hussaini Tinja

In an era when political promises often fade after the applause of victory, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali, the member representing Yola North Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, stands out as a refreshing exception. Elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alkali has quietly built a reputation as a grassroots politician, a bridge-builder, and a trailblazer devoted to genuine service.

Since taking office in 2023, the lawmaker has demonstrated that politics can still be driven by purpose, passion, and proximity to the people. In Yola North, his name has become synonymous with accessibility, humility, and tangible impact—qualities that have endeared him to the masses and earned him respect even beyond party lines.




The People’s Politician

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s political journey is rooted in community service. Long before he stepped into the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he was known across Yola North for his compassion and consistent engagement with his people. His background as an active mobilizer gave him a deep understanding of the pulse of his constituency—its struggles, its resilience, and its boundless potential.

For Alkali, leadership is not an entitlement; it is a trust bestowed by the people, to be honored through service. This philosophy has defined his approach to governance. Rather than remaining confined to the chambers of the Assembly, he has made the constituency office a living hub of activity—listening to complaints, mentoring youths, and responding to community needs.



Legislating with Purpose

Since his swearing-in, Alkali has hit the ground running. Within two years, his legislative record reflects focus and foresight. His interventions in education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure are not random gestures—they are interconnected elements of a vision to uplift Yola North’s urban and peri-urban communities.

In the area of education, Alkali has sponsored motions and projects aimed at improving school infrastructure, providing instructional materials, and supporting indigent students. Several schools have benefited from classroom renovations, distribution of learning aids, and bursaries to deserving students. His philosophy is simple: education is the ladder out of poverty, and every child deserves a chance to climb it.

Equally, his commitment to youth empowerment has been remarkable. Through skill acquisition programs, he has trained scores of young people in tailoring, ICT, welding, carpentry, and other vocational skills. Many beneficiaries have received starter packs to begin their own businesses—creating ripples of self-reliance across communities.

“Hon. Alkali doesn’t just talk about empowering youths; he gives us tools to build our future,” says Aisha Umar, one of the beneficiaries of his tailoring initiative. “Today, I run my own small shop, and I’m training two apprentices. That’s real empowerment.”




Health, Infrastructure, and Humanitarian Touch

In the health sector, Alkali’s efforts have brought relief to many families. He has facilitated the renovation of primary health centers, the donation of hospital beds, and the supply of essential drugs to underserved communities. Periodic medical outreaches have provided free consultations and treatments for residents who otherwise cannot afford basic healthcare.

Infrastructure, too, has not been left behind. Roads, boreholes, and solar street lights in several wards stand as visible testimonies of his dedication. These projects have improved mobility, enhanced security, and restored dignity to communities long neglected by successive governments.

In places like Jambutu, Doubeli, and Rumde, residents point to water projects and drainage systems executed through Alkali’s constituency intervention. “Before now, we used to trek long distances to fetch water,” says Mallam Adamu Musa, a community elder. “Today, thanks to Hon. Alkali, clean water runs close to our doorsteps.”




A Model of Responsive Representation

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s leadership style combines consultation with compassion. He holds regular town hall meetings where constituents freely express their concerns and expectations. This participatory approach has strengthened the bond between him and his people, fostering trust and accountability.

In the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he is known for his calm disposition, articulate contributions, and unwavering defense of his constituency’s interests. Colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder—someone who seeks consensus rather than confrontation. His legislative interventions often reflect careful study and deep empathy.

“Hon. Alkali is the kind of leader our democracy needs,” remarks a fellow legislator. “He listens, he engages, and he acts with integrity.”




Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the impressive strides, Alkali remains humble about his achievements. He acknowledges that more work lies ahead—especially in addressing unemployment, urban poverty, and environmental degradation in Yola North. His goal is not just to deliver projects but to create systems that sustain development long after his tenure.

“We have made progress, but there is still much to be done,” he said recently. “My commitment is to continue serving the people who entrusted me with their mandate, ensuring that every initiative we undertake translates to real change in their lives.”




Behold the Man Who Has Come to Serve

In an age when public office is often viewed as a means of personal enrichment, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali represents a different breed of politician—one who measures success not by wealth or titles, but by the number of lives transformed.

His story is that of a man deeply connected to his roots, driven by empathy, and guided by a moral compass that points unwaveringly toward service. In Yola North, his footprints are not just visible—they are felt in classrooms, health centers, workshops, and homes.

Indeed, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali is redefining leadership through grassroots service—proving, one project at a time, that politics can still be noble when it is people-centered.

.

Musa Maya

Kaduna

Mobile Court Tours Corporate Premises, Sanctions Violators Across Kaduna

The Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA), under the energetic leadership of its new Acting General Manager, Yahaya Yakubu Victor, has intensified enforcement of the state’s waste management laws to ensure that solid waste in Kaduna and other towns is properly disposed of.

Since assuming office, Victor has rejuvenated the agency’s environmental drive, emphasizing compliance, public awareness, and partnership with licensed waste management firms to restore Kaduna’s environmental integrity.

On Wednesday, 9 October 2025, KEPA embarked on a mobile court tour across corporate organizations in Kaduna to enforce its directive that all establishments must register and work with authorized waste management teams.

The mobile court visited several companies — including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd — issuing fines and sanctions for various environmental offenses.

Sapphire Fined ₦150,000

The court adjourned the case involving Sapphire, imposing a ₦150,000 fine to be paid before the next hearing.

Rittys Faces Legal Dispute

Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, Kaduna, was accused of using an unauthorized waste disposal company. The firm pleaded not guilty.

Barr. Steve Swam, the prosecuting lawyer for KEPA, called Emmanuel Noel, KEPA’s Assistant Director and Chief Environmental Superintendent, as the principal witness. Noel testified that Rittys initially engaged Ecoblue Management, a licensed waste contractor, but later switched to an unapproved firm.

However, David Enwerem, General Manager of Rittys, told the court that his company had since registered its waste team with KEPA and obtained a license. He alleged that KEPA later insisted on being the sole body to manage their waste, which led to the dispute.

Barr. Swam cited KEPA’s environmental regulations, urging the court to examine Rittys’ license. Upon verifying its authenticity, he requested case withdrawal, but the judge ruled that the matter should continue to a full hearing.

FCMB Sanctioned

The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) on Constitution Road, Kaduna, was fined ₦50,000 for failing to comply with KEPA regulations.
The bank had argued that it used an authorized vendor, but the court ruled otherwise.

Synlab Penalized for Obstruction

Synlab was fined ₦50,000 for non-compliance and an additional ₦30,000 against one staff member for contempt of court after obstructing KEPA officers on duty.

Mussafir Hotel, United Surgical Ltd Also Fined

Mussafir Hotel was sanctioned ₦500,000 for operating without an authorized waste management firm.
Similarly, United Surgical Ltd was fined ₦500,000 for the first offense and ₦50,000 for the second, after officials testified that the company’s staff obstructed the mobile court team.

The court dismissed the defense’s claim of inadequate notification, noting that the offense had been clearly stated in the summons.

Ecoblue: ‘We’ll Keep Kaduna Clean and Safe’

In his remarks, Mr. Uchenna Jumbo, Consultant to KEPA and Head of Ecoblue Waste Management, reaffirmed the partnership’s goal of building a cleaner and healthier Kaduna.

“We are committed to keeping Kaduna’s environment clean and safe. Every waste management organization should be registered with Ecoblue, where they will be trained on proper disposal practices,” Jumbo said.

He added that Ecoblue would track waste movements to prevent dumping at unauthorized sites, urging residents and companies to confirm with KEPA and Ecoblue before engaging waste handlers.

Jumbo expressed optimism that under Yahaya Yakubu Victor’s leadership, Kaduna would soon become “a clean, eco-friendly city with an efficient waste management system.”

‘Fruitful Exercise,’ Says KEPA Lawyer

Speaking to journalists, Barr. Steve Swam, KEPA’s lead attorney, described the mobile court exercise as a success.

“Today was very fruitful because most organizations complied after KEPA’s earlier notices. The few that failed to comply were sanctioned accordingly,” he said.

He added that the new management’s commitment to environmental reform was already yielding results.

Cleaner Kaduna in Sight

Observers say the new KEPA administration has brought renewed energy to the state’s environmental sector. The ongoing enforcement drive, backed by the mobile court initiative, is expected to transform Kaduna into a model of urban cleanliness and environmental discipline in the North.