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By Kennedy Busayo

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held a successful ward congress in Kaduna State, with an impressive turnout across the 23 local government areas. The congress, which took place on July 27-28, 2024, was conducted peacefully in all 81 wards of Kaduna Central Senatorial District, under the supervision of party officials and observed by INEC officials and security operatives.

Senator Lawal Usman Adamu (Mr. LA), representing Kaduna Central, took the opportunity to donate 12 trailers of fertilizer and over N50 million to his constituents, fulfilling his promise to support their well-being.

While monitoring the congress in his constituency, Sen. LA emphasized the importance of unity, discipline, and political cohesion among PDP members. He described the ward congress as a chance to inject new leadership and endorse those who have performed well for party progress.

Sen. LA assured the party leadership of his unwavering support and loyalty towards achieving the set goals for PDP’s progress and development in the state and beyond.

“We will continue to support our great party, PDP, and our leaders at all levels to ensure we give Nigerians a sense of belonging once again,” he said.

Reports from across the state indicated that the 2024 party congresses in almost all wards of the 23 local governments were conducted peacefully.

By Adamu Girei

The National Unity Forum For Peace on Monday described the videos in circulation credited to the Bandit leader Bello Turji against the Minister of State Defense, Bello Matawalle as politically motivated.

The chairman of the group in a statement argued that the sponsors and promoters of the malicious videos against the former Governor of Zamfara State were cooked to tarnish his image.

The group believed that the drama was being scripted and acted by enemies of Zamfara and other banditry-invested states in the North-West, urging the scriptwriters and actors to desist from playing politics on the issue of security.

”We should be careful in all we do. We shouldn’t become tools for the destruction of lives and property all in Destroying the name of politicking.

“It is a matter of principle and patriotic tendencies for all of us northerners to put politics aside and condemn such irresponsible acts sponsored to malign the personality of Hon Bello Matawalle.

”It is a serious concern to us that certain characters are behind the release of the trending video clip of Bello Turji on social media.

“We warn that those hired or misguided to be abusing and sharing that video of characters like bandit Bello Turji against Matawalle are ignorant of Zamfara politics,

The chairman stressed that the reality about what he referred to as a comedy show was intended to destroy and bring him down politically against 2027 political activities without knowing God’s time and protection are supreme.

”The video clip was shared on all the social media platforms and funny enough, some officials of Zamfara State government are allegedly involved in sharing it on their timeline – including a media aide to Governor Dauda Lawal”, the group said.

The group, however, warned anyone involved in promoting Turji Bello at the expense of Zamfara citizens who were being killed, maimed, and kidnapped for ransom daily, to desist from such acts.

They emphasized that the people of Zamfara State are suffering and need genuine support and assistance, not politically motivated mischief.

The National Unity Forum For Peace called on all well-meaning individuals and groups to join hands in condemning such acts and promoting peace and unity in the region.

The group reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts towards achieving lasting peace and security in Zamfara State and the North-West region.

They urged the government to take decisive action against those promoting insecurity and to protect the lives and properties of citizens.

By Adamu Girei

The Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), an umbrella body of young people in the 19 Northern States, has urged Nigerian youths to resist the temptation of participating in the proposed nationwide protest.

The group urged youths in the north to do everything possible to protect their land and nation from every form of violence.

In a statement signed by the Speaker, AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul Danbature on Monday, called on well-meaning Nigerians to consider other forms of protest apart from street protests, so as not to play into the hands of the enemies of the nation.

“We have therefore come to the conclusion to explore other avenues to express our displeasure, and this we have done by writing a detailed position paper to Mr. President, and this is enjoying adequate attention from the Government as we speak, and we at this point officially and collectively withdraw from the National street protest.”

“As you all know, recently we have been at the forefront of the struggle, mobilizing for the forthcoming National protest tagged ‘End Bad Governance in Nigeria’, and this is as a result of our conviction that there are genuine grounds to protest, ranging from insecurity to harsh economic situations in the Nation as a result of some economic policies of this Government.”

“Meanwhile, as we were mobilizing for the protest, we were also consulting our stakeholders in Northern Nigeria; the Royal Fathers, the Entrepreneurs, and some political and social actors across the lengths and breaths of our region, and all these consultations have enriched and deepened our knowledge about the various government policies and programs.”

“We have also understood that while we have genuine intentions to express our displeasure on the current economic situation in our Nation, there are other several and more effective ways to communicate the same message, bearing in mind that there are different enemies of our Nation both within and outside Nigeria waiting for every available opportunity to perpetrate evil in Nigeria.”

By Monday Moses

NSCF Reveals Targeted Attacks on Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle

The desperate attempts by forces of corruption now fighting back the system including sponsoring tailored interviews to shamefully twist the narratives using terror leaders like Bello Turji and other crime lords to fabricate unsubstantiated lies against Matawalle has been uncovered.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has come forward with allegations that a sinister and coordinated cabal is targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

This revelation was made in a statement by Comrade Danjuma Paul, highlighting Matawalle’s crucial role in challenging and successfully nullifying the controversial currency swap policy instituted by the Buhari administration.

At the height of public suffering due to the Buhari government’s unpopular Naira redesign policy, three former governors—Bello Matawalle of Zamfara, Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna, and Yahaya Bello of Kogi—took decisive action to challenge the policy in court.

Their bold intervention played a key role in relieving the nation of its economic duress.

“An unforgiving cabal, in collaboration with certain individuals within the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and supported by a financially bankrupt section of a disgruntled northern elite, is orchestrating attacks against these former governors,” explained Comrade Paul.

“El-Rufai has already been marginalised, while Yahaya Bello is being relentlessly pursued, leaving Matawalle as the last man standing.”

Comrade Paul recounted the immense hardship endured by Nigerians during the implementation of the currency swap policy, which saw the redesign of the Naira lead to significant economic disruptions and mass suffering.

It was during this period that the trio of former governors intervened legally, a move that turned public sentiment against them among certain powerful factions.

The NSCF’s statement emphasizes that the current targeting of Matawalle is not a random act but a calculated vendetta aimed at settling scores for their judicial triumph over the now-defunct currency swap policy.

Comrade Paul called for vigilance and support for Matawalle, stressing the importance of ensuring that those who stand up for the people’s welfare are not penalized for their actions.

“The scheming against Matawalle, fueled by those who wish to exact a ‘pound of flesh’ for the loss inflicted upon them by the court’s decision, is not just an attack on one man but an affront to justice and the collective good of Nigeria,” Comrade Paul asserted.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum urges the Nigerian public and international observers to pay close attention to this unfolding situation and to stand in solidarity with those who have shown courage in the face of adversity.

Emeka Kalu

The current unrest plaguing Nigeria has instilled a sense of unease among the populace, with reports indicating a significant number of Nigerian politicians fleeing the country for shelter overseas. The abrupt exodus of top government officials, political elites, and prominent business figures has triggered widespread apprehension, particularly among the Igbo residents in the North and Southwest states.

In response to these concerning developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, is proud to extend its appreciation to the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their unwavering dedication in curbing the politically motivated nationwide protests set to commence from August 1st to 10th, 2024.

Ohanaeze had previously called upon Igbo residents in the Northern and Southwestern states to abstain from participating in the forthcoming protests, aligning with our core principles of peace and advocating for calm amidst turbulent times.

A statement issued Secretary-General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro assured, both Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora, that stringent security measures will be enforced by the Ministry of State for Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to safeguard against any form of molestation, intimidation, or harm to Igbo lives and properties in the North and Southwest regions.

He reiterated the resolute decision of Igbo traders and residents to boycott the planned nationwide protests is a testament to our unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity.

“We implore the proponents of the August 1st to 10th, 2024 protests to explore avenues for dialogue with President Tinubu to address their grievances peacefully and amicably, without resorting to violence or causing casualties.

“We are cognizant of the presence of foreign mercenaries in league with unpatriotic elements, scheming to incite chaos in Nigeria and using the Igbo people as pawns in their destructive pursuits. However, the collective decision of Igbo residents to distance themselves from the protests has left the instigators perturbed, prompting concerns that they may resort to inciting violence against the Igbo populace in a bid to provoke their involvement.

The Igbo leader underscored that the withdrawal of Igbo residents from the protests disrupts the sinister plans of the sponsors, rendering their malevolent intentions unattainable and therefore urged the Presidency, through the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, to intensify efforts in protecting Igbo residents in the North and Southwest from any form of harassment or intimidation.

“Importantly, we affirm that there will be no protests in the Southeast, as we entrust Igbo youths with directives to thwart any attempts to incite unrest within the region and in solidarity, we uphold the values of peace, unity, and non-violence, demonstrating our unwavering resolve to foster a harmonious and prosperous nation.

ENDS

By Deborah Ajulo

The Speaker of Zamfara State Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Abdulhamid Ibrahim, has been elected Chairman of the Conference of State Youth Parliament Speakers of Nigeria (CSYPS).

The election took place during a national meeting of the conference on Wednesday, where Abdulhamid secured the highest number of votes, achieving a two-thirds majority over his competitor, the Speaker of the Taraba State Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. AM-Dan Maliki, who did not receive any votes.

Abdulhamid succeeds Rt. Hon. Prince Osawemwenhio Uwagboe, the immediate past Speaker of the Edo State Youth Parliament, and will serve a one-year term.

In his acceptance speech, Abdulhamid expressed his commitment to elevating the conference by enhancing its role in youth activism through parliamentary dialogue and initiatives. He emphasized the importance of fostering strong connections and networks with other youth parliaments, parliamentary organizations, and notable institutions globally.

The Chairman urged Nigerian youths to shun violence and collaborate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Government to achieve greater infrastructural development as true dividends of democracy.

Abdulhamid also commended Dr. Dauda Lawal, Governor of Zamfara State, for his resilience in fighting banditry and the ongoing urban rehabilitation efforts in the state. He stressed that Governor Lawal’s dedication to restoring peace and improving infrastructure has created a more secure and prosperous environment for the youth and all citizens of Zamfara State.

Mike Odeh James

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) convened an emergency virtual meeting on July 24, 2024, bringing together its National Executive, 36 State Chairmen, and other key stakeholders to address the nation’s pressing issues and the planned nationwide protest on August 1, 2024.

During the meeting, the council discussed the escalating socio-economic challenges facing Nigerian youths, including rising inflation, insecurity, unemployment, and widespread hardship. The council acknowledged the alarming levels of poverty, inequality, and social injustice that have sparked widespread discontent among young people.

In a statement signed by Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe, the NYCN President, the council emphasized the need for a unified response to these challenges. The President announced that the council will engage in:

• Broad stakeholder consultations: The NYCN will hold talks with government officials, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media within the next four days to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues and to explore possible solutions.
• Press conference: A national press conference is scheduled for July 31, 2024, where the NYCN leadership will address the nation and outline its stance on the planned protest. The council will also use this platform to present its demands and expectations from the government.
• Call to action: The council urged its members to remain vigilant and await further instructions. The NYCN has over 100 affiliated youth organizations and millions of members across the country, and the council is mobilizing its vast network to take action.

The National Youth Council of Nigeria reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for the interests of Nigerian youths and driving positive change in the country. The council acknowledged the nation’s challenges and called on all stakeholders to collaborate towards a better future for Nigeria.

Stella Mark

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed concern and worries by recent revelations concerning a fabricated video that implicates Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, in collusion with bandit kingpin Bello Turji.

According to the group, evidence suggests that the video was orchestrated by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Dare Lawal, representing a desperate effort to smear the All Progressives Congress (APC) federal administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

A statement issued by the Chairman Salifu Suleiman said, such despicable actions are clear indicators of the rampant corruption and collusion between politicians and criminal elements that plague Zamfara State, stressing that the links between Governor Lawal and Turji, a notorious criminal, have raised substantial concerns about the quality of governance and mounting security issues in the region.

“It is deeply troubling that a sitting governor is linked to known criminal elements,” said [Name], spokesperson for NAN. “This form of corruption is not just a disservice to the people of Zamfara; it undermines the safety and governance of the entire state and sets a dangerous precedent for the rest of the country.”

NAN also deplored the situation where personal gain and power appear to motivate actions over the welfare of the citizens. The collusion between Governor Lawal and criminal entities exemplifies a blatant disregard for the rule of law and tarnishes the foundational principles of democracy and good governance. The implications have dire consequences not only for Zamfara State but for the nation at large.

NAN insist on the statement that an urgent federal intervention to investigate these troubling relationships and hold all parties involved accountable. Swift and decisive action is essential to eliminate corruption and dismantle criminal influences within Zamfara State, ensuring leaders are devoted to public service with transparency and accountability. The safety and security of all Nigerians, particularly those in regions afflicted by banditry and violent extremism, must be a top government priority.

“Federal authorities must act immediately to disarm bandits, dismantle these criminal networks, and restore law and order,” added [Name]. “Zamfara State’s residents deserve leaders dedicated to their safety and future prosperity.”

NAN averred that residents of Zamfara has continued to face attacks on their villages, rampant kidnappings, and senseless killings, making it imperative for security agencies, local authorities, and community leaders to work cooperatively to restore peace.

“To effectively combat rising violence, the government must address banditry and violent extremism’s root causes with urgency and decisiveness. NAN therefore calls on the federal government to prioritize the security and well-being of all Nigerians and deliver a safe environment conducive to growth and prosperity.

NAN said it remained committed to these values, advocating for peace, security, and socio-economic development across Northern Nigeria. Together, through united and concerted efforts, we can achieve a future free from violence and fear, enabling every Nigerian to live in peace and security.

NAN is a dedicated organization committed to promoting peace, security, and socio-economic development in Northern Nigeria. Our mission is to advocate for transparency, good governance, and justice while striving to create a secure and prosperous environment for all residents of the region, the statement added.

The Kaduna State Non-Indigenes Forum (KSNIF) has withdrawn from the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship, citing concerns that hoodlums may hijack the protest to loot their shops and market stalls.

In a statement, KSNIF Chairman Chief Emeke Emmanuel Okafor and Secretary Mr Adewale Peter Adelanwa urged citizens to shun the protest, given the police ban on unlawful protests and past experiences of violence and looting in Kaduna.

The forum expressed concerns about the potential for violence and looting, citing past instances where protests in the state had degenerated into crisis.

KSNIF called on security agencies to tighten security around business premises and appealed to citizens not to join the protest, citing the risk of hijacking by groups with ulterior motives.

The forum stated that while they are affected by economic hardship, they cannot afford to lose their investments and properties, especially during Nigeria’s current economic crisis.

KSNIF also called on the state government to deploy security operatives to potential flashpoints should the protest take place.

James Shindong

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has said the recent sponsored attacks on the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle and the National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu are targeted on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It would be recalled that recently during his appearance on Channels Television, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal criticized the administration of President Tinubu alleging that he lacks the will to address the chronic insecurity afflicting Zamfara state and Northern Nigeria.

Similarly, Governor Lawal through sponsored faceless groups attacked the Minister for state defence Matawalle and the NSA apparently calling for their removal, another subtle way of trying to get at the President knowing well that they are among the trusted loyalist of the President.

In a statement issued by the President General of AYCF Alhaji Yerima Shettima, he averred that Governor Lawal has failed to repose his own ineffectiveness and absence during critical security crises affecting his state, stressing that on the very day female students from the Federal University Gusau were abducted, the Governor embarked on a personal trip to the United States, thus leaving his state leaderless during a dire emergency.

Governor Lawal’s unwarranted trip to the United States at such a critical time demonstrates his disconnection from the realities on the ground in Zamfara. It was alarming that the governor remained incommunicado and inaccessible to efforts from the Ministry of Defence and federal government officials seeking his cooperation.

Shettima said, it is no longer news that Governor Lawal has consistently refused to collaborate with federal initiatives aimed at combating insecurity, thereby undermining collective efforts, This was recently collaborated with a viral video where bandits pledged their allegiance to him.

The expansive role of the Ministers of Defence and the NSA, which involves harmonizing efforts between the military, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies to combat nationwide security threats and their focus on overhauling the operational environment for the nation’s security forces has been pivotal in enhancing their effectiveness against terrorism, insurgency, and other critical threats.

Specifically, Matawalle’s proactive measures in addressing resource shortages, inadequate training, and operational constraints that had previously hampered security efforts and maintaining a balanced approach to ensure national security is quite commendable.

AYCF therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to give attention to distractors because Matawalle and Ribadu are trusted ally who remain committed to his renewed agenda.