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By Hauwa Lawal

Maiduguri

A northern youth group under the umbrella of Arewa Youth for Progress and Development (AYPD) has taken a swipe at Abuja-based political activist, Deji Adeyanju, over his recent criticism of Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.

Adeyanju had in a Facebook post accused the governor of deceiving Nigerians at the onset of his administration with “fake propaganda,” describing him as “a complete disaster as governor” and alleging that he has “a love for tyranny and jailing critics.” He further suggested that Zulum might attempt to “repackage himself after 2027 and try to become another Nigerian messiah.”

Reacting in a statement signed by Abubakar made available to journalists in Maiduguri, the AYPD described Adeyanju’s comments as “reckless, baseless, and a direct insult to the people of Borno State.”

“To call a performing governor, widely respected across the North as a symbol of people-centered leadership, a disaster is nothing but the highest form of insult to our people. It is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the group declared.

The group highlighted what it described as Zulum’s “unmatched achievements” in governance, citing his efforts in rebuilding communities ravaged by insurgency, expanding access to quality education, healthcare delivery, infrastructural development, and programs targeted at poverty alleviation.

According to AYPD, since assuming office in 2019, Zulum has supervised the construction of schools, hospitals, housing units, and roads across both urban and rural areas of Borno State, often leading from the front by personally monitoring projects and humanitarian interventions.

“Governor Zulum has never fooled anyone or paraded himself as a messiah. We know him as a leader who has deep passion for the emancipation of his people from poverty, insecurity, and underdevelopment. His style of leadership is humility, service, and sacrifice,” the statement noted.

The youths warned Adeyanju against what they called “cheap political blackmail” and issued him a seven-day ultimatum to retract his comments and tender a public apology to Governor Zulum and the people of Borno State.

“Failure to do so will attract massive resistance from northern youths, as we cannot allow baseless attacks on leaders who are genuinely working for the progress of our people,” AYPD warned.

They urged Nigerians to “see through the antics of professional critics” and focus on encouraging leaders who are working under difficult circumstances, particularly in states like Borno that have faced years of insurgency.

By Esse Adams

The Northwest Progressives Forum (NPF) has declared Kebbi State a national model in Hajj administration, praising Governor Nasir Idris and Alhaji Faruk Enabo, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, for their transformative leadership and commitment to pilgrims’ welfare.

Following Kebbi’s exceptional performance during the 2024 and 2025 Hajj exercises—where the state earned eight awards from Saudi authorities—the NPF described the operations as “a masterclass in religious service delivery.” These accolades recognized Kebbi’s outstanding arrangements in areas such as sacrificial animal logistics (Hadaya), feeding, accommodation, transportation, and airport screening.

Leadership Rooted in Empathy and Action

Governor Idris’s personal involvement in the pilgrimage and his financial support to all 3,871 pilgrims in the 2025 Hajj exercise, just as in the previous year, drew admiration from the Forum. Speaking recently, the governor pledged:

> “We will continue to render the needed support to our Pilgrims Welfare Agency and NAHCON in this direction and we will never relent.”



Operational Excellence Under Alhaji Faruk Enabo

Alhaji Faruk Enabo, Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency, was credited with orchestrating Kebbi’s seamless Hajj logistics. He emphasized that Governor Idris’s unwavering backing was the cornerstone of their success:

> “The unwavering support of Gov. Idris to the agency had culminated not only in the tremendous success of the Hajj operations in the state but the state stood tall amongst its peers.”



NPF’s Endorsement

In its official statement, the Northwest Progressives Forum declared:

> “Kebbi State has set a new benchmark for Hajj administration in Nigeria. Governor Nasir Idris and Alhaji Faruk Enabo have demonstrated that with vision, empathy, and accountability, even the most complex religious operations can be executed with excellence.”



A Blueprint for the Nation

The Forum urged other states to emulate Kebbi’s model, especially in areas of early planning, financial transparency, and direct engagement with pilgrims. With the 2025 Hajj season on the horizon, Kebbi’s example stands as a beacon of what’s possible when leadership meets purpose.

The recent bye-elections in Kaduna State have been hailed as free, fair, and transparent by a coalition of rights groups and election observers, who described the exercise as a milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

Under the platform of the Coalition of Rights Groups and Election Monitors, the observers deployed teams across different local government areas, reporting high levels of transparency, voter participation, and peaceful conduct throughout the process.

In a joint statement issued in Kaduna on Wednesday, the groups gave the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) high marks for early deployment of election materials, strict adherence to guidelines, and smooth electronic transmission of results.

“The Kaduna elections set a positive example in the North-West,” said Dr. Amina Mohammed, spokesperson of the Civil Rights and Democracy Watch (CRDW). “Our observers reported minimal cases of irregularities, and those were not significant enough to affect the overall outcome. The people of Kaduna spoke clearly, and their votes counted.”

The Network of Election Observers (NEO) also commended security agencies for their professionalism during the polls.

“We observed professionalism from security operatives across polling units. Their presence reassured voters and discouraged malpractice,” stated Mr. Peter Okafor, NEO’s National Coordinator.

The groups congratulated Governor Uba Sani on his victory, urging him to carry all stakeholders along in governance while prioritizing delivery of democratic dividends. They also appealed to opposition parties to accept the outcome of the elections in good faith and work with the government to advance peace and development in Kaduna State.

With both local and international monitors endorsing the exercise, analysts say Governor Uba Sani’s mandate now enjoys added legitimacy, bolstering public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system

In a strong show of support, the Oil Industry Transparency Solidarity League (OLTRASOL) has voiced its satisfaction with the sweeping reforms initiated by Malam Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). The group described Kyari’s tenure as “transformational and courageous,” emphasizing that his legacy should not be overshadowed by current probes or political shifts. The group called Kyari’s leadership “a rare blend of courage, vision, and integrity,” urging Nigerians not to forget the strides made under his watch.

OLTRASOL highlighted several landmark achievements under Kyari’s leadership:

Subsidy Reform: Kyari took bold steps to dismantle entrenched subsidy cartels, a move that OLTRASOL says saved Nigeria billions and restored fiscal discipline.

Exploration Expansion: He spearheaded oil exploration in previously untapped regions, signaling a new era of energy diversification.

Pipeline Diplomacy: As the architect of the AKK pipeline and a key facilitator of the Algerian and Moroccan gas pipelines, Kyari positioned Nigeria as a strategic energy supplier to Europe.

NNPC Overhaul: Under his watch, the NNPC underwent a historic transformation aligned with the Petroleum Industry Act, transitioning into a commercially driven entity.

Transparent Recruitment: OLTRASOL praised the merit-based recruitment process introduced during his tenure, calling it “a rare moment of integrity in public sector hiring.”

Fuel Availability: The group credited Kyari with ending the long-standing fuel queues that plagued Nigerian cities, citing improved logistics and supply chain management.

Production Boost: Nigeria’s oil production capacity saw a notable rise, reflecting operational efficiencies and strategic investments.


While acknowledging that Kyari did not succeed in fully reviving Nigeria’s refineries—now under investigation—OLTRASOL urged the public and policymakers to adopt a balanced view. “Leadership is not about perfection; it’s about progress,” the group stated. “Kyari made tough decisions in a tough environment. His efforts deserve recognition, not revisionism.”

OLTRASOL warned against the tendency to vilify public servants post-tenure, especially those who dared to challenge entrenched interests. “We must not allow political winds to erase the strides made. Mele Kyari’s reforms laid the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable oil sector.” Referencing a recent public post by Senator Shehu Sani, OLTRASOL echoed the sentiment that Kyari’s legacy should be preserved:

> “Mele Kyari was never a perfect man, but he did a number of good things that shouldn’t be easily forgotten,” Sani wrote. “He also did something good that is worthy of being appreciated.”



As Nigeria navigates its energy future, OLTRASOL concluded by urging Nigerians to resist the urge to vilify reformers once they leave office.

> “We must not allow political winds to erase the strides made. Mele Kyari’s reforms laid the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable oil sector. History will be kinder than headlines.”

Hon. Mu’azu Hamidu Jantabo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, has received widespread recognition for his effective implementation of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago’s comprehensive development agenda, demonstrating remarkable progress across multiple sectors of the state’s transformation plan.

The Concerned Niger Progressives Network (CNPN), in an official statement signed by Publicity Secretary Mohammed Yahaya, praised Jantabo as “a strategic executor of Governor Bago’s blueprint” who has successfully translated the administration’s vision into tangible achievements that directly benefit Niger State citizens.

Education Sector Advancement

Jantabo’s implementation of the administration’s educational development goals has yielded significant results through the Jantabo Bursary Scheme, which has:

• Provided critical support to 1,283 students across multiple institutions
• Directly benefited 1,111 students at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai
• Supported 172 additional students from other institutions nationwide
• Earned recognition from the National Youth Council of Nigeria for motivating academic excellence

Infrastructure Development Execution

The commissioner has been instrumental in advancing the administration’s infrastructure blueprint, particularly the 1,000km state-wide roads initiative, through:

• Successful completion of Malle and Graveyard Roads in Lapai LGA
• Ongoing construction of the strategic Bypass Road and Drainage Project
• Comprehensive rehabilitation of essential public service vehicles
• Enhanced community mobility and flood prevention measures

Grassroots Mobilization and Governance

Beyond physical infrastructure, Jantabo has advanced the administration’s participatory governance model through:

• Extensive consultation tours in Southern Lapai (Azza)
• Re-energization of APC support base at the grassroots level
• Demonstration of responsive leadership through community engagement
• Execution of the governor’s vision for inclusive development

The CNPN statement emphasized that “these efforts reflect a governance model rooted in responsiveness, efficiency, and direct community impact,” noting that Jantabo’s work exemplifies the successful implementation of Bago’s development blueprint.

During a recent community outreach in Bida, Jantabo reinforced his commitment to the administration’s vision, stating: “Every directive he gives is a mission I carry out with pride and purpose.”

The network concluded that Jantabo’s multifaceted achievements across education, infrastructure, and governance sectors demonstrate exceptional progress in advancing the state’s development blueprint, making him a cornerstone of the administration’s success in delivering tangible results to the people of Niger State.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia state, Prince Paul Ikonne, has challenged Governor Alex Otti to stop “distracting the people with contradictions” and come clean on the ₦54 billion school renovation controversy.

The Governor at the weekend during his monthly media chat had dismissed claims that N54bn is missing from the state treasury, describing the allegations as baseless and a reflection of ignorance about government budgeting and spending processes.

Reacting to the Governor’s claim through a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ujo Justice, PhD, Ikonne wondered why a governor who boasts of having “seasoned accountants” in his administration would be contradicting himself “all in a bid to downplay a now national issue and the question on the lips of every Abian: where are the schools, and where is the ₦54 billion?”

Ikonne reminded the governor that similar sums had been written off in the past without evidence on the ground, noting that about ₦18 billion was previously announced for school renovation with “nothing to show for it.”

Quoting an online media report – Sahara Reporters’ recent findings, Ikonne said the governor’s dismissal of the ₦54 billion expenditure claim as a “mistake” is contradicted by official state budget performance documents.

According to the reports, budget performance data shows that in the last quarter of 2024 alone, Abia State recorded ₦54.066 billion as spent on rehabilitation and repairs of public schools. The total amount spent throughout the 2024 fiscal year stood at ₦58.323 billion.

Ikonne argued that if Governor Otti insists that only ₦2.1 billion was spent on schools, then he must explain why his own administration’s budget records state otherwise.

He further pointed to the online report’s review of the approved 2024 budget, which showed that ₦64.7 billion was allocated for renovation/modelling of 51 schools — averaging ₦1.26 billion per school.

“This data,” Ikonne stressed, “makes it clear that the governor is either deliberately misleading Abians or is unaware of what his government is signing off.”

He welcomed the Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), which is demanding a breakdown of the ₦54 billion, including the list of schools supposedly renovated, their names, locations, and the nature of works done.

“Governor Otti should stop hiding behind semantics. Budgets are estimates, but expenditures are facts. The documents clearly show ₦54 billion was reported as spent between October and December 2024. If he disputes this, let him publish the schools. Abians are not asking for excuses — we are asking for evidence,” Ikonne said.

The APC chieftain concluded by urging the governor to prioritize truth over propaganda.

“He added that Dr. Otti should realize that leadership is about accountability, not storytelling.

“He cannot claim to be the face of transparency while avoiding the simplest of questions: show us the schools.”

Oricha Musa

Lokoja

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.

Your Excellency,
Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo,
Executive Governor of Kogi State.

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,

On behalf of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) and the United Progressive Political Parties (UPPP), I, Hon. Bala Abdulghafar Dirisu, wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to Your Excellency and your esteemed family on the passing of your beloved father, Alhaji Ahmed Momoh Sani Ododo.

Indeed, “every soul shall taste death.” We are comforted by the knowledge that he lived a fulfilled life of faith and service. At this trying moment, we pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives him his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus.

We also pray that Allah (SWT) grants you, your family, and the entire Ododo household the patience and strength to bear this irreparable loss.

Please accept our deepest sympathy and solidarity.

Wassalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

Yours sincerely,
Hon. Bala Abdulghafar Dirisu
Gubernatorial Candidate, National Rescue Movement (NRM)
Chairman, United Progressive Political Parties (UPPP)

By Ojo Sola, Abuja

The Platform for Cooperation on Mixed Migration (PCMM) has announced plans for the Cultural Hangout Festival (CHF) 2025, a three-city celebration highlighting the contributions and rights of migrants.

The festival will be held in Abuja from December 12–14, with subsequent editions in London and Manchester, United Kingdom.

Themed “Honouring the Contributions of Migrants and Respecting Their Rights,” the Abuja event would bring together migrants, policy leaders, cultural icons, and development partners.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cultural Hangout Festival, Aihawu Victor, said in a statement that the event would feature music, dance, art, storytelling, trade exhibitions, and policy dialogue, all aimed at promoting inclusion, cultural exchange, and economic opportunities.

According to him, the CHF aligns with the United Nations Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), supporting objectives to empower migrants, eliminate discrimination, and create conditions for their full contribution to sustainable development.

One of the highlights would be the Migrant Excellence Awards Night, a red-carpet ceremony recognising outstanding migrants who have significantly contributed to Nigerian society and beyond, he said.

Aihawu clarified that Abuja was chosen in recognition of Nigeria’s leadership role in migration governance, especially as the country currently chairs the Rabat Process, an Africa-Europe dialogue platform on migration and development.

“Cultural Hangout Festival is more than an event, it’s a declaration that migration enriches societies.

“We are here to challenge negative narratives, foster inclusion, and celebrate the people who carry cultures across borders,” said Aihawu.

The Abuja edition builds on the success of the inaugural CHF London held in May 2025 in commemoration of Africa Day, which was endorsed by the African Union and attended by Africans in the Diaspora and lovers of African culture.

Already, some federal ministries are showing interest in the cultural hangout considering its diplomatic advantage, cultural integration and economic importance to the participating countries especially Nigeria.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has yesterday night struck a major blow against electoral malpractice in Kaduna, arresting a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) agent, Shehu Fatange, with a staggering cash of about ₦30 million allegedly set aside to buy votes in today’s bye-elections.

Fatange was apprehended Friday evening at a hotel in Kaduna metropolis, where he was coordinating the illicit distribution of funds to sway voters in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency poll.

According to impeccable security sources, the suspect was caught red-handed with the money, which investigators believe was meant to compromise the integrity of the elections and tilt the outcome in favour of his party.

The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed the arrest. Its spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the suspect was in custody and under investigation, stressing that security agencies were working hand-in-hand to ensure a free, fair and credible election.

The dramatic bust comes against a backdrop of rising tension, with parties trading accusations of desperate politicians’ planned vote-buying, thuggery to rig the bye-elections in Chikun/Kajuru, Zaria and Sabon-Gari constituencies.

While details of the sting remain under wraps, the DSS and police assured that investigations are ongoing, urging voters to stay calm and troop out peacefully to exercise their franchise today.

By Samuel Konna

 The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has warned that Nigeria’s democracy is in grave danger if the current wave of infighting, ego battles, and factional wars within opposition parties is not urgently resolved.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, the coalition of elder statesmen and leaders from major socio-cultural groups in Southern and Middle Belt Nigeria said the absence of a credible, disciplined, and united opposition would clear the way for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to dominate the political space without meaningful checks.

SMBLF expressed “deep concern” over the disarray and internal crises plaguing opposition parties, stressing that a healthy democracy “thrives on the presence of a credible, organized, and vibrant opposition.”

“At this critical period in our national history, the role of the opposition goes beyond contesting elections,” the statement read. “It includes holding the government to account, offering alternative policies, defending citizens’ rights, and serving as a constant reminder that political power is not a birthright of any party.”

The forum lamented that self-inflicted wounds within opposition ranks were ceding ground to a “power monopoly” that stifles accountability and encourages impunity.

> “Nigeria’s democratic project is too important to be sacrificed on the altar of internal wrangling. The people deserve a united, disciplined, and focused opposition that can checkmate the excesses of the ruling party and ensure governance remains people-centered rather than power-centered,” SMBLF said.

The leaders urged opposition parties, regardless of size or ideology, to put aside “ego, personal ambition, and petty rivalries” in the interest of national stability.

Warning to the Ruling Party

SMBLF also called on the APC to resist the temptation of undermining the opposition through “subtle intimidation, inducement, infiltration, or other underhand tactics.”

“No ruling party, however powerful, should forget that democracy is sustained by pluralism, not political domination,” the statement warned. “A political culture that actively sabotages dissent will inevitably breed instability, disillusionment, and resistance from the citizenry.”

INEC Urged to Act

The forum turned its attention to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), reminding it of its “statutory obligation to serve as an impartial umpire and a guardian of the democratic process.”

SMBLF insisted that INEC must proactively resolve intra-party disputes in accordance with the Electoral Act, rather than “folding its arms or selectively intervening.”

> “By appearing to favor one party over another, INEC risks further erosion of its already battered public trust and affirming the perception that it is working at the behest of the ruling APC,” the group said.

The forum outlined four specific demands to INEC:

1. Strengthen internal mechanisms for the timely resolution of intra-party conflicts brought before it.

2. Ensure strict adherence to the Electoral Act in all party matters, without bias or political coloration.

3. Publicly reaffirm neutrality to reassure Nigerians of its commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.

4. Guarantee real-time transmission of election results, noting that glitches in the last presidential election raised serious doubts over the integrity of the process.

Call for Political Pluralism

“Nigeria’s democracy is still relatively young, and its sustainability requires all political stakeholders to play by the rules,” SMBLF stressed. “A democracy without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only. And a democracy where the umpire is compromised is one headed for collapse.”

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to working with political actors to deepen democratic culture, entrench justice, and ensure “the will of the Nigerian people remains the ultimate authority in governance.”

The statement was jointly signed by:

Oba Olaitan Ladipo, Chairman, Afenifere (SMBLF Chairman)

Sen. John Azuta-Mbata, President, Ohaneze Ndigbo

Ambassador Goodknows Igali, President, PANDEF

Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President, Middle Belt Forum