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Angered by the recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu policies by prominent northerners , the Northeast based Socio-Political Group under umbrella of Forum for Northeast Development has condemned Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Major Hamza Almustapha Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head of State , Gen Sani Abacha, Major Almustapha.

The Forum, which claimed Tinubu’s reform would be of great benefits to the north in the long run said, it has carefully studied the President after he was sworn in, and discovered he means well .

He however, stated that it has come out to back the new tax reform policies initiated by President Bola Ahmed Bola Tinubu, because the Northeast and entire northern region will benefit immensely.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Forum,Alhaji Baba Mala Biu and Comrade Lawan Mohammed, the Forum for Northeast Development explained :”First,we have no reason to complain because our son that the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima is from the northeast geopolitical zone and we believe he can’t betray us as a people as one of the trusted individuals that we rely upon politically.

“It is really unfortunate that some northerners such as :Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to late former Head State ,Major Hamza Almustapha have raised voices against a president that is working hard to restore the economy and indices of growth and development.

Whiles urging people of northeast and other parts of the north to remain hopeful and have confidence in Tinubu and Shettima led administration, it expressed optimism that the tax Reform policies and other economic reform policies are geared toward establishing a solid foundation for sustainable development in the region.

So, it is unwise and unacceptable for anyone from northeast region to join haters of the President to criticize reforms geared revamping our economy.

The forum however, condemned the duo of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and Former Chief Security Officer to Late Head of State,Gen. Sani Abacha for their unnecessary criticisms and game of playing to gallery to gain cheap popularity.

Recalled that former Chief Security Officer and ex-presidential candidate of Action Alliance (AA), Major Hamza Al-Mustapha claimed President Bola Tinubu squandered has his goodwill with his shambolic performance since assuming office, highlighting the need for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s potential, describing it as a ‘blessed but disorganised land.

Similarly ,Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, had criticised President Bola Tinubu, saying his economic reform policies are putting the North and Nigerians at large under strain.

But, we are putting the records straight that President Tinubu together with Senate Kashim Shettima are two set of focused and committed individuals who are passionate and have sound knowledge about good governance and selfless service to the humanity.

It against this back that we asked people from the Northeast to support President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to succeed and take us that desires level of development.

By Suleiman Ibrahim

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the Northern Governors’ sudden change of heart regarding the national tax reform bills. The governors initially opposed the reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the Northern economy. However, they have now inexplicably capitulated to the reforms, leaving many questioning their motives.

According to the AYCF, the governors’ actions constitute a clear betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Northern people. By initially opposing the tax reforms and then conceding, they have demonstrated a fundamental lack of respect for the electorate. The AYCF has called for greater accountability from the governors, urging them to focus on their primary responsibilities.

The AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, stated that the governors’ initial opposition to the tax reforms was fundamentally flawed. Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services. Instead of engaging constructively with the government, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.

The AYCF believes that the tax reforms are essential for Nigeria’s overall development, despite potential short-term challenges. The organization has maintained its support for the reforms, recognizing that effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation.

The Northern Governors’ opposition to the tax reforms has been linked to their wider failures in managing their respective states. Many Northern states grapple with persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic amenities. The AYCF contends that the governors’ initial opposition was a distraction tactic, an attempt to mask their incompetence and avoid accountability for their shortcomings.

The AYCF has called upon the Northern Governors to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart. The people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms.

The organization has also urged the governors to focus on their primary responsibilities, improving the lives of the people they represent through good governance and effective resource management. The hasty surrender to the tax reform bills without meaningful engagement or a transparent explanation constitutes a disservice to the North and a betrayal of the public’s trust.

The AYCF will continue to advocate for policies that promote sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians. The organization will remain vigilant in holding leaders accountable for their actions.

The tax reform debate has highlighted the need for effective leadership and governance in Nigeria. The AYCF’s stance on the issue emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the nation’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

The Northern Governors’ actions have raised questions about their commitment to the development of the North. Their initial opposition to the tax reforms and subsequent capitulation have created uncertainty and undermined public confidence in their leadership.

The AYCF’s call for accountability and transparency is a step in the right direction. It is essential for leaders to be held accountable for their actions and to prioritize the needs of their constituents.

The tax reform debate is far from over. As the issue continues to unfold, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and to prioritize the nation’s development.

In conclusion, the AYCF’s condemnation of the Northern Governors’ actions is a testament to the organization’s commitment to promoting good governance and accountability in Nigeria.

The AYCF’s stance on the tax reform debate serves as a reminder that leaders must prioritize the needs of their constituents and work towards promoting sustainable development and economic progress.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a significant move, Honorable Fatima Talba, representing Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency of Yobe State, has introduced a motion to amend the Federal Medical Center Act of 2022. The proposed amendment aims to establish a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The motion gained momentum when Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, representing Koshofe Federal Constituency in Lagos, seconded it. Honorable Ogbara expressed her support, stating, “I am proud to support this bill, which will bring much-needed healthcare services to the people of Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency.”

After the motion was seconded, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, sought approval from the members to send the bill for a second reading. With the members’ consent, the Speaker forwarded the bill for further consideration.

Speaker Abbass referred the bill to the Committee on Health Institutions, a crucial step in the legislative process. The Committee will review the bill, examine its implications, hold public hearings, and consider expert opinions before deciding whether to recommend it for further action.

This development is a testament to Honorable Talba’s commitment to improving the lives of her constituents. As a dedicated legislator, she has been advocating for quality healthcare services in her community ¹.

The establishment of a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State will undoubtedly bring significant benefits to the people of the region. It will provide access to quality healthcare services, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

By Abba Dahiru

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has made a shocking revelation about the alleged sinister plans of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to sabotage the administration of current Governor, Senator Uba Sani. The accusation was made at a press conference held at the Arewa House in Kaduna, where Comrade Musa Mohammed, the National President of NCSPG, revealed that the coalition had uncovered a plot by El-Rufai to undermine Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

According to Mohammed, El-Rufai’s actions are in response to the Kaduna State House Assembly’s adoption of a report recommending that El-Rufai and his aides be investigated for alleged financial mismanagement. The report accused El-Rufai’s administration of leaving behind a debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

Mohammed stated that instead of cooperating with the investigation, El-Rufai had resorted to clandestine meetings and plotting against Governor Uba Sani. The coalition warned El-Rufai to desist from his actions, emphasizing that they would not hesitate to defend Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna State.

The NCSPG expressed satisfaction with Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, citing his commitment to good governance despite the challenges posed by the debt burden inherited from El-Rufai’s administration. Mohammed noted that Governor Uba Sani had decided to follow due process in unraveling the truth about the debt burden, rather than resorting to confrontation.

The coalition vowed to resist any attempts by El-Rufai to unseat Governor Uba Sani, emphasizing that the people of Kaduna State would not be swayed by El-Rufai’s “evil machinations.” Mohammed declared that Governor Uba Sani had done well and would continue to work tirelessly to develop Kaduna State.

Mohammed also called on anti-graft agencies to take immediate action against El-Rufai, citing the recent arrest of his finance commissioner as evidence of embezzlement. The coalition prayed for peace and tranquility in Kaduna State and the country at large.

The press conference was attended by various stakeholders, including journalists, civil society organizations, and community leaders. The NCSPG’s allegations against El-Rufai are likely to generate significant attention and debate in the coming days.

It remains to be seen how El-Rufai will respond to the allegations, but one thing is clear: the political landscape in Kaduna State is set to become increasingly contentious in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how their leaders respond to the challenges ahead. The NCSPG’s revelations have raised more questions than answers, and it is clear that the battle for the soul of Kaduna State has only just begun.

By Ameh Ochagwu

A stunning revelation has rocked the political landscape of Kaduna State, as a socio-political group has blown the lid off a shocking conspiracy involving former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

According to the Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Group (NCSPG), El-Rufai has been secretly orchestrating a campaign of sabotage against the current Governor, Uba Sani, in a desperate bid to regain power.

The group’s National President, Comrade Musa Mohammed, dropped the bombshell at a packed press conference in Kaduna, revealing that El-Rufai’s sinister plot involves exploiting his vast network of cronies and loyalists to undermine Governor Sani’s administration.

“El-Rufai’s plan is to create chaos and instability in Kaduna State, making it impossible for Governor Sani to deliver on his campaign promises,” Mohammed alleged. “He wants to discredit the current administration and pave the way for his own comeback.”

The NCSPG leader claimed that El-Rufai’s scheme is motivated by a desire for revenge against Governor Sani, who has been working tirelessly to expose the former governor’s alleged misdeeds.

Mohammed cited a damning report by the Kaduna State House Assembly, which accused El-Rufai of leaving behind a staggering $587 million in inherited debts, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

“El-Rufai’s legacy is one of corruption, incompetence, and reckless abandon,” Mohammed declared. “He has no right to interfere with the progress being made by Governor Sani.”

The NCSPG has vowed to resist El-Rufai’s plot, mobilizing its members to rally behind Governor Sani and ensure that the people of Kaduna State are not deceived by the former governor’s antics.

As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the people of Kaduna State will not be fooled by El-Rufai’s desperate attempts to cling to power. The fate of the state hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if Governor Sani will emerge victorious against the forces of corruption and deceit.

The people of Kaduna State are watching with bated breath as the situation unfolds, with many calling for transparency and accountability in governance. The 2027 elections are looming on the horizon, and the allegations made by the NCSPG are likely to have significant implications for the political landscape in Kaduna State.

The Kaduna State Government has yet to respond to the allegations, but sources close to the government have hinted that Governor Sani is taking the matter seriously and will not hesitate to take action to protect his administration.

As the battle for the soul of Kaduna State intensifies, one thing is certain: the people will not be silenced, and they will demand justice and accountability from their leaders.

By Mike Odeh James

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has come out in support of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Fajoye defended the company’s record on preventing oil theft and improving Nigeria’s oil production quota.

Fajoye’s defense comes after criticism from Comrade Jude Gbaboyor, former Secretary General of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND). Gbaboyor had petitioned the management of Arise Television to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), over alleged false claims that Nigeria had recorded two million barrels per day in crude oil production.

According to Fajoye, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has made significant contributions to securing oil installations and pipelines in the Niger Delta region. The company has implemented a community-friendly approach, which has brought peace to the once chaotic waterways and creeks in the region.

Fajoye highlighted the company’s efforts in combating oil theft, including the detection and elimination of several illegal operations. Between August 2022 and November 2024, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited discovered 3,963 incidents related to oil theft, including 702 illegal connection points, 971 theft cases, and 1,784 illegal refineries. This led to the destruction of 3,063 facilities.

The company has also apprehended several vessels and equipment involved in illegal oil activities, including eight vessels, three tugboats, six barges, 117 vehicles, and 1,743 wooden boats. Fajoye noted that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has collaborated with government and security agencies to enhance coordinated efforts against oil theft.

In addition to its collaborative efforts, the company has employed advanced surveillance technologies to monitor oil installations and detect illegal activities. This includes the use of drones, sensors, and satellite imagery for real-time monitoring.

Fajoye stated that the efforts of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited have led to a significant reduction in oil losses. The company’s operations contributed to a 79% reduction in crude oil losses, demonstrating its effectiveness in combating oil theft and improving oil production.

As a Niger Delta youth leader, Fajoye’s defense of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited highlights the company’s positive impact on the region. The company’s community-friendly approach and collaborative efforts with government and security agencies have contributed to a safer and more secure environment for oil production.

By Mike Odeh James

The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship has commenced, with over 80 golfers from various golf clubs across Nigeria participating in the four-day tournament. The championship, which began on Thursday, January 9, 2025, will feature a series of events, including a special barbecue and an Old School Night.

The participating golfers, dressed in their finest green and white attire, were seen teeing off at the lush green course of the Kaduna Golf Club. The event has attracted several dignitaries, who were present to witness the commencement of the championship.

According to the organizers, the championship is expected to end on Sunday, January 12, 2025, with a presentation of prizes to the winners. The event promises to be an exciting one, with golfers competing in various categories, including the Veterans Men Category and the Ladies Category.

The Kaduna Golf Club has been hosting the annual ladies golf championship for over a decade, and it has become a premier golfing event in Nigeria. The club’s lush green course provides a challenging yet scenic environment for golfers to showcase their skills.

The championship has also become a social event, with participants and spectators alike enjoying the various activities and entertainment lined up for the duration of the tournament. On Friday, a special barbecue event is scheduled to take place, while Saturday will feature an Old School Night, complete with music and dancing.

The organizers of the event have promised that this year’s championship will be bigger and better than previous editions. With over 80 golfers participating, the competition is expected to be fierce, and spectators can look forward to some thrilling golfing action.

As the championship progresses, golfers will be competing for top honors in their respective categories. The winners will be presented with prizes on Sunday, January 12, 2025, during the closing ceremony of the event.

The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship is a testament to the growing popularity of golf in Nigeria. The event provides a platform for golfers to compete, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful game of golf.

As the tournament comes to a close on Sunday, golf enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting finale, complete with prize presentations and a closing ceremony. The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship promises to be an unforgettable event, and one that will be eagerly anticipated by golf enthusiasts in the years to come.

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State Chapter, has expressed disappointment over Punch Newspaper’s criticism of the federal government’s decision to establish a Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Southern Kaduna. In a press statement signed by the Chairman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF questioned the newspaper’s motives, wondering why it did not condemn the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions.

According to Binniyat, the Punch Newspaper’s editorial of January 7, 2025, dismissing the new university as “political” and a “Greek gift,” was unfair and demonstrated a lack of understanding of the historical marginalization of Southern Kaduna. “We feel that had the Editors of Punch been armed with the shocking marginalization that Southern Kaduna has suffered in the allocation of federal institutions in Kaduna State, they would have written their editorial from a rather sympathetic perspective,” Binniyat said.

The MBF chairman noted that Southern Kaduna, which makes up 12 local government areas out of the 23 in Kaduna State, has been neglected in the allocation of federal institutions. “Kaduna State has an approximate landmass of 46,000 square kilometers, out of which Southern Kaduna has an estimated 26,000 square kilometers. Yet, Southern Kaduna has no single university,” Binniyat lamented.

Binniyat also pointed out that the new university in Kachia already has a well-developed physical structure, courtesy of the privately-built Nok University, which was forfeited to the federal government by the EFCC. “Unlike Speaker Abbas, who secured N80 billion funding for Zaria’s new schools, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is not costing the federal government much to build,” he said.

The MBF chairman questioned the Punch Newspaper’s silence on the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions. “Why didn’t the Editors of Punch write their editorial condemning the creation of new federal universities when Zaria town, which is already saturated with federal institutions, got additional four new ones?” Binniyat asked.

Binniyat also expressed concern that the Punch Newspaper’s criticism may be motivated by a desire to discourage the federal government from establishing the new university. “We suspect that the motive behind the Punch Editorial is to discourage the federal government from seeing the takeoff of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” he said.

The MBF chairman emphasized the importance of the new university to the people of Southern Kaduna, who have been historically marginalized. “A university is not merely a place of learning; it is an economy and a development hub of its own, with accompanied value chains that could dramatically spark unprecedented prosperity to its area of location and environs,” Binniyat said.

Binniyat called on the Punch Newspaper to reconsider its stance on the new university, noting that the MBF would appreciate a follow-up editorial that takes into account the historical context of Southern Kaduna’s marginalization. “We hope that the Punch Newspaper will do the right thing and give us a balanced reportage,” he said.

In conclusion, Binniyat reiterated the MBF’s commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of the people of Southern Kaduna. “We will continue to speak out against injustice and marginalization, and we will not be silenced by critics who do not understand our struggles,” he said.

Residents of Sankwab Runji community in Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State have decried constant collapse of primary School classes which adversely affects academic activities in the community.

The school’s classrooms, with broken walls and crumbling infrastructure, have become a symbol of neglect but also of determination.

The LGEA Primary School which serves about 200 pupils from the village and nearby areas, has been functioning in a precarious state for years.

Two blocks of classrooms have partially collapsed walls, exposing the students to extreme weather conditions whereby during rainy seasons, water seeps through the broken walls flooding the classrooms, while in dry seasons cold winds whip through the exposed spaces, making learning a big challenge.

Lamenting to our reporter, the Chairman, Parents Teachers Association of the school Mr. Bitrus Magaji said the school has only 4 Teachers who have been making extraordinary efforts to ensure learning continues.

Mr. Bitrus Magaji continued by stating that every year community members make voluntary financial contributions and community service towards fixing the school but each year comes with it’s challenges

The school has been using tree shades to carry out some class lessons However, these temporary fixes are far from being adequate, whereby some parents had to transfer their wards to nearby public or private schools.

Youth Leader of the community Mr. Livinus Achi and Mr. Joseph Bitrus who is a parent, expressed frustration over the development and called on the State Government and Local Government Chairman Engineer Bege Joseph to come to their assistance.

“We have being engaging ourselves in community service where we tasks each family some token for repair work at the school after which we contract builders to come and fix the collapsed structures but after some months, another side will collapse and the situation becomes worst that is why we are calling on our Governor, Senator Uba Sani and the Local Government Chairman Engineer Bege Joseph to come to our assistance”

According to the youth leader, the school was established in 1992 when government build a 2 classroom block and the principal’s office but all other classes where built through community efforts.

The parents believe that with government intervention, resilience of the students and the dedication of their teachers will inspire change and enable the children achieve their future dreams.

“The plight of LGEA Primary School Sankwab Runji serves as a stark reminder of the disparities in access to quality education in rural areas. It also highlights the strength of communities that refuse to let adversity stand in the way of their children’s futures”

… Insists recovery of looted funds very necessary

…Warns Against Elrufai’s interference

Kaduna Based development monitoring group under aegis of Forum for Good Governance (FFGG) has backed the arrest of former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Local Government, Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu over allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.

The former Commissioner,who served under Governor Nasir Elrufai’s administration was arrested following a petition,where he was accused of laundering N3.96 billion and misappropriating N244 million between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement made available to journalists today, the Forum for Good Governance in Kaduna said there was nothing wrong with his arrest , especially when the issue revolves around looting of public funds.

The group in the Statement signed by Hon. Ahmadu Ibrahim Kauru warned against any attempt by Elrufai to interfere with the process must be resisted vehemently. Recalled that same Elrufai never had respect for rule of law when he was Governor.

We gathered that Elrufai in his days as Governor arrested and detained innocent journalists several and media practitioners such as; Luka Binniyat of Vanguard Newspapers ,Jacob Dickson of Authentic Newspaper , Stephen Kefas and Gabriel Idibia and nobody dated challenged him.

While noting that recovery of looted funds is very necessary now that Kaduna state is highly indebted,the Forum insisted that ,” His arrest must not be politicised because we all know that once an agency arrest an individual for looting of public funds or financial crime,it is in order.

The statement further reads: Allegations such as misappropriation of funds, sale of $45 million in state-owned foreign currency at an undervalued exchange rate of N410 per dollar, instead of the parallel market rate of N498 per dollar, causing a loss of over N3.96 billion to the government.

“Additionally, he is accused of failing to account for proceeds from the sale of government houses in Marafa Estate, Kaduna, amounting to approximately N244 million.

“We gathered from reports that the Kaduna State House of Assembly previously investigated Sa’idu’s financial dealings and forwarded its findings to anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and ICPC.

“We are happy that the police confirmed his arrest was not politically motivated but, followed by credible allegations of financial crimes and will remain in detention as investigations continue.”