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By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a passionate appeal on the floor of the National Assembly, Hon. Fatima Talba, Representative of Nengere Potiskum Federal Constituency, urged the Federal Government to engage in peaceful dialogue with the organizers of the upcoming protest scheduled for August 1, 2024. Her plea came as tensions simmered across the country, with many fearing the protest could turn violent.

Hon. Talba’s words were laced with concern and a deep understanding of the issues at play. She acknowledged the protesters’ grievances, citing unemployment, poverty, and inequality as legitimate concerns that needed to be addressed. However, she cautioned that violence and confrontation would only exacerbate the problems, leading to more harm and suffering for all Nigerians.

Instead, she advocated for a peaceful resolution, urging the government to listen to the protesters’ demands and work together to find solutions that benefit everyone. Her appeal was rooted in her belief that dialogue and understanding are essential for building a harmonious society.

The Representative’s words resonated across the chamber, striking a chord with her colleagues who share her commitment to peace and prosperity. Her call for peaceful dialogue has sparked hope that a resolution can be found before the protest, avoiding a potentially volatile situation.

Hon. Talba’s appeal is a testament to her dedication to her constituents and her country. She remains steadfast in her belief that Nigeria can overcome its challenges through peaceful means, and her voice is a beacon of hope in these uncertain times.

As the clock ticks closer to August 1, the nation holds its breath, hoping that Hon. Talba’s words will be heeded, and a peaceful resolution will be found. The world watches, eager to see if Nigeria can navigate its troubles and emerge stronger on the other side.

By Vincent Bono

The Grand Alliance of Coalition of Northern Youths Movement (GANOM) has accused Bello Turji, a bandits kingpin, of making baseless allegations against Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle, in order to destroy President Bola Tinubu’s legacy fight against insecurity in the North-West.

The group’s chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf, described Turji’s allegations as a “poorly scripted job by enemies of progress” and emphasized that those targeting Matawalle are more interested in destroying Tinubu’s legacy on the fight against insecurity in the North-West.

Yusuf questioned the credibility of Turji’s allegations, asking why a bandit like him would be given prominence to talk about insecurity when he is making life difficult for his own people.

He concluded by calling on President Tinubu to intensify military operations against bandits in the North-West and to address economic hardship in the country.

The group also clarified that Matawalle is not hiding bandits in Zamfara Government House, as alleged by Turji.

“Our attention has been drawn to a viral video on social media where one of the notorious bandits’ kingpins known as Bello Turji was making an allegation against some notable political leaders in the North-West including the former Governor of Zamfara State and the current Minister of State Defense Bello Matawalle and current Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu.

“Ordinarily, it is not in our character to respond to such baseless and poorly-scripted nothingwood movie being acted by element like Bello Turji and his co-crime merchants within and outside Zamfara State, but a need to set the record straight on the person of criminal Turji and the political rationale behind the viral video.

“It is on record that Bello Turji is fond of making baseless accusations against perceived political enemies of his sponsors who are teleguiding him to poison the minds of northerners against the possible re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu come 2027.

“And let us clearly state here that the majority of those calling on President Tinubu to replace Matawalle over the comedy video clip shared allegedly by agents of Zamfara state government are dangerous and worse unpatriotic Nigerians who are ready to go to any length to sow a seed of discord among Nigerians against a southern president just like they did to Goodluck Jonathan in 2014.

“So, those targeting Minister Bello Matawalle are more interested in destroying Tinubu’s legacy on the fight against insecurity in the North-West so they can use it against him and his political party which should not be allowed.

“Or, how can a bandit like Bello Turji being given prominence to be talking about insecurity when he is making life difficult for his own people?

“The truth is that, the ongoing military operations in the North-West is breaking Turji’s enclaves and his promoters unhappy which is why the military needs to intensify their onslaught against these criminal elements in their enclaves in Shinkafi, Sabon Birni, Isa, Zurmi, Jibia and many other areas surrounding Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Niger States.

“Again, his allegations have not been only against Matawalle. He has accused a former governor of Zamfara State, Ahmed Sani Yerima that he was sponsoring bandits. He also accused the late Emir of Zurmi, Atiku Abubakar of the same allegations.

“Can we now say the security agencies especially the Department of State Security Service have not done their work which could have led to disqualification of Matawalle while he was being screened by the National Assembly better than Turji and his hidden sponsors?

“For those who watched the clip, Turji is just playing a script, using politics to destroy good names of many innocent people after his terror reigns in Shinkafi and environs.

“So it’s those who wants to destroy Tinubu’s led federal government that are using him because there was never a time the federal government is committed to securing Nigeria and deployment of military to trouble zones like what we have now.

“One can imagine a heartless bandit like Bello Turji who set vehicle on fire with several persons including a pregnant woman talking about sympathy. Those he killed their loved ones, those he destroyed their livelihood are still alive today to judge him.

“It’s pertinent for the Security agencies to invites the social media user who is very closed and ally to Zamfara state government that have recorded and shared the interview with Bello Turji for clarification of sponsorship.

“To this end, we are calling on President Tinubu not to take the development lightly and we urge him to put on his political thinking cap to address some of the issues like economic hardship in

Abo Musawa

..
The Zamfara Conscience Movement (ZCM) has issued a stark warning regarding a troubling and increasingly apparent close relationship between the Zamfara State government, led by Dauda Lawal Dare, and notorious bandits and criminal gangs that have devastated the state and neighboring areas in the North-West region.

The ZCM’s concerns escalated following the emergence of a video clip featuring Bello Turji, a prominent bandit leader. In the clip, Turji is seen openly criticizing eminent political leaders such as the Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle.

The ZCM finds it highly improbable that such bold statements could have been made without governmental support, pointing to a potentially deeper and more sinister collaboration with these criminal elements.

In a statement signed by ZCM Chairman Sahabi Lawali, the movement highlighted a prior video showing hooded armed bandits confessing to having ties with the government. These disturbing revelations, coupled with Turji’s audacious declarations, suggest a worrying trend of collusion between the current administration and criminal groups.

The bandits in the videos not only express their loyalty to Dauda Lawal but also vow to execute any orders he may give, raising significant questions about the present-administration nexus and Lawal’s motives.

“There appears to be a deliberate strategy employed by Dauda Lawal to use these bandits as instruments to discredit his predecessor,” stated Sahabi Lawali. “This tactic undermines the rule of law, erodes the ethical foundations of our political process, and jeopardizes the safety and well-being of our citizens.”
Lawali said it is no wonder that the security situation in Zamfara State has significantly deteriorated under the current administration compared to the previous leadership of Bello Matawalle.

The group said the fact that none of the local government headquarters were ever infiltrated by bandits during Matawalle’s tenure, whereas now, under the current administration, these areas are constantly under attack, is a cause for concern.

“The lack of action from Governor Lawal in addressing these frequent invasions is disappointing. Instead of consoling with the victims or condemning the attacks, Governor Lawal seems more focused on criticizing his predecessor, Bello Matawalle. This misplaced focus has resulted in wasted resources and energy that could have been better utilized in providing relief for the people who are suffering from these attacks.

“It is time for Governor Lawal to shift his attention from political squabbles to the pressing issue of security in the state. Cooperating with the federal government’s effort in addressing the root causes of these attacks and implementing effective measures to prevent future invasions should be the main focus of the government,” Lawali said.

ZMC noted that the stark difference in the security situation in Zamfara State under the two administrations of Matawalle and Lawal is undeniable and warned Governor Lawal to concentrate more on taking action to address the escalating violence in the state and prioritizing the well-being of the people over personal vendettas.

The group pointed out that Governor Matawalle’s decision to engage in dialogue with bandits has been vindicated by the presence of former IGP MD Abubakar in Governor Lawal’s administration as chairman of the state Security Trust Fund after leading his transition team in 2023.

“We recall that MD Abubakar led the reconciliation committee under the previous administration of Bello Matawalle by engaging with various stakeholders, including leaders of the bandits, religious and traditional leaders, and community representatives.

“Despite Governor Lawal’s firm stance against negotiating with bandits, the fact that Bello Turji claims that bandits still exist in the government house suggests that MD Abubakar may still be continuing negotiations behind the scenes,” they said.

The ZCM urges a comprehensive and transparent investigation into these alarming developments to ensure that justice prevails and the integrity of Zamfara’s political system remains intact. Inaction, the ZCM warns, would only embolden criminal elements, further tarnish governmental credibility, and compromise public safety.

“The administration must address these allegations head-on. It is imperative that swift, decisive action is taken to dismantle any existing alliances between the government and the bandits,” added Lawali. “Public trust in our leadership and the rule of law must be restored.
“This call to action is both justified and essential.

The video evidence depicting bandits pledging allegiance to Dauda Lawal is a clear indicator of the alarming collusion that threatens the state’s peace, security, and democratic ethos. Immediate and thorough measures are critical to safeguard the interests of the citizens and uphold the sanctity of the political process in Zamfara State” Lawali concluded.

By Suleiman Tanko

Bello Turji, the infamous bandit gang leader, has inflicted immense suffering upon the communities of Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and other north-western states. His reign of terror has brought about widespread devastation, leaving behind a trail of tears, sorrow, and death. Turji’s criminal activities, which include kidnapping for ransom and wanton destruction of properties, have instilled fear and anxiety in the hearts of innocent citizens, turning once-thriving communities into ghost towns.
Turji’s modus operandi is one marked by ruthlessness and brutality. He shows no mercy towards his victims, resorting to violence and intimidation to achieve his nefarious goals. The sheer audacity of his actions, combined with the callous disregard for human life, underscores the urgent need for law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against him and dismantle his criminal network.
In addition to his criminal activities, Turji is also a master manipulator and propagator of lies. He has made it a habit to falsely accuse prominent personalities, including traditional leaders, community heads, religious scholars, and political figures, in an attempt to tarnish their reputations and sow discord within communities. His baseless accusations against Sheikh Bello Yabo and Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle are clear examples of his malicious intent and ruthless tactics.
Turji’s attacks on Minister of Defence Bello Matawalle, a key figure responsible for the current successes in the fight against banditry in Zamfara and the North generallu, are not only unfounded but also attempts to undermine the progress made in addressing the security challenges faced by the region.
Minister Matawalle has been instrumental in implementing various strategies to combat banditry and restore peace to the area. His efforts have led to a significant decrease in the activities of criminal elements in the North and have brought hope to the residents of the region.
It is important to recognize Turji’s actions for what they truly are – the desperate actions of a criminal backed into a corner, lashing out in a final attempt to save himself from his inevitable downfall. By resorting to deceit and manipulation, Turji is seeking to deflect attention from his own crimes and evade accountability for his actions. However, it is essential that his lies and fabrications are exposed for the falsehoods they are and the larger conspiracy at play, with political motives driving his malicious agenda.
From the interview with Turji, it is evident that he was playing a script handed to him by some desperate politicians in the state.
The interview seemed to be orchestrated with a specific agenda in mind, aiming to discredit Matawalle by insinuating his connections with bandits even after he had left office. However, the ill-conceived scheme backfired as Turji failed to convincingly play his part in the script.
This misguided attempt to discredit Matawalle through Turji’s interview only served to expose the desperation and lack of credibility of some politicians in Zamfara state and his attempt to follow the script fell short as he made several glaring errors and missteps.
One of the biggest blunders in Turji’s interview was when he claimed that more than a year after Matawalle had left office, bandits still held substantial influence in the government house. This statement not only backfired on the current governor, Dauda Lawal, but also lacked any basis in reality.
Importantly too, throughout Matawalle’s tenure as governor, none of the headquarters of the 14 local government areas in the state were ever infiltrated by bandits. In contrast, under the current administration, several local government headquarters and even the state capital have been invaded by bandits in just the first year.
Moreover, Turji attempted to link Matawalle to the activities of bandits in Sokoto state, where he had never been governor. This blatant misrepresentation only further highlighted Turji’s lack of comprehension and ability to play the script effectively.
It is also worth mentioning that Turji was actually involved in Matawalle’s reconciliation initiative, which led to a year of peace and decreased hostilities in the state before the resurgence of violence under the current administration.
Another source of concern is a video clip of a band of heavily armed masked bandits proclaiming their allegiance to Dauda Lawal. The fact that they stated they are “with Dauda Lawal 100 per cent and will do whatever he likes us to do” raises serious suspicions about the ties between the current administration and criminal elements.
This unequivocal declaration of loyalty indicates a close relationship between Dauda Lawal and these bandits, suggesting that they may be working in concert to further their own interests. Furthermore, the bandits’ willingness to carry out any task assigned to them by Lawal raises questions about the true nature of their relationship and the motives behind their actions.
It is clear that Dauda Lawal is using these bandits as a tool to tarnish the image of his predecessor, by aligning himself with criminal elements and using them to carry out his bidding.
The latest attempt to undermine Matawalle and his legacy through Turji’s interview only serves to highlight the depth of this connection between the bandits and the Lawal administration in the state
It is however clear that the scheme has failed miserably. The lack of accuracy and coherence in Turji’s statements only serve to discredit the script handed to him by desperate politicians. It is imperative for the citizens of Zamfara state to critically assess the information presented to them and not fall victim to manipulative political agendas. The truth always prevails, and it is essential to seek out factual and unbiased information in order to make informed decisions for the betterment of the state.
Bello Turji’s malicious campaign of lies and deceit should not be allowed to dictate the narrative. His actions must be met with skepticism and condemnation, as he continues to wage a war of misinformation against innocent individuals and institutions. As the truth comes to light, Turji’s downfall is imminent, and justice will prevail in the face of his reckless and unfounded allegations.

Rabiu Jamilu

The Northern Emancipation Network (NAN) staunchly denounces the recent inflammatory remarks made by former Minister Solomon Dalung against the current administration of President Bola Tinubu. Dalung’s comments, which seem to advocate for violent protests and civil disobedience, are not only irresponsible but also pose a serious threat to national stability and unity.

As a former government official, Solomon Dalung carries a significant responsibility to uphold integrity and respect for the rule of law. However, recent statements attributed to him suggest a failure in meeting this obligation. By encouraging the youth to engage in acts of violence, Dalung is not only betraying the trust placed in him by the public, but also jeopardizing the lives and futures of impressionable individuals.

The group in a statement issued by it’s Chairman, Salifu Suleiman also averred that, Dalung as a public figure has a platform that can influence and shape the mindset of young people. His words carry weight and can incite actions that have far-reaching consequences. It is therefore crucial that he exercises caution and responsibility in his speech, particularly when it comes to matters of violence and conflict.

Encouraging the youth to engage in acts of violence goes against the principles of integrity and respect for the rule of law. It undermines the very foundations of a just and orderly society, and can lead to chaos, destruction, and unnecessary loss of life. The consequences of such actions are catastrophic, and can have long-lasting repercussions for both individuals and communities.

By promoting violence, Dalung is not only failing in his duty as a former government official, but also betraying the trust that has been placed in him. His actions are irresponsible and dangerous, and have the potential to sow division and conflict among young people. It is essential that he recognizes the impact of his words and takes steps to rectify his behavior.

Furthermore, the allegations of incompetence and ineptitude leveled against President Tinubu by Dalung are baseless and unsubstantiated. While constructive criticism is a vital part of a democratic society, it must be grounded in facts and evidence. Making sweeping accusations without due diligence only serves to sow discord and hinder the progress of our nation.

NAN firmly believes in the power of peaceful dialogue and cooperation to address grievances and effect positive change. We call on all Nigerians to reject the temptation of violence and instead engage in constructive conversations to find solutions to our challenges.

The Northern Awareness Network condemns Solomon Dalung’s incendiary comments and urges all Nigerians to reject calls for violence and embrace peaceful means of expressing dissent.

ENDS

… Accuses him of Failing to stand up and speak for developmental issues

Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum (KPTF) has threatened to mobilise for recall of the representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Lawal Adamu over his failure to speak on matters of development, especially insecurity within his Constituency since he was inaugurated as member of the 10th Senate.

According to the Kaduna based development forum, it is very disturbing that for over a year, the lawmaker never stood up at the floor of Senate to either speak on threatening issues affecting the people or attract Federal projects to the State .

The Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum,which made the threat in statement signed by the Chairman,Alhaji Inuwa Bala Giwa stated, “We observed that since 1999, this is the first time a Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial zone appeared docile and incompetent.For us as a pressure group,this is grossly unacceptable,hence our resolve to call him to tell us why.

“People of Kaduna Central Senatorial District want know why the silence when the economic hardship is taking it’s toll on them; daredevil bandits are threatening their peace and the recent issue of alleged looting of State’s Treasury by the former Governor Nasir Elrufai and his cohorts”.

While accusing Senator Adamu of the People’s Democratic Party of working with former Kaduna Governor Mal Nasir Elrufai to undermine the administration of Governor Uba Sani and sponsoring orchestrated viral video of assault of one Dan Bilki Commander to blackmail the Governor,the forum expressed disappointment that as Senate Committee Chairman on Education, he has not build any school.

The group however noted that ,”More worrisome,is that when he was supposed to be busy working on bills can be help move Kaduna forward,he junkets around world to watch English Football Matches .

“From information gathered , he only shares money to his selected political supporters and spend most of time in Abuja.Sadly this is why he was elected.

“Against this background,we are giving him 14 days to give account of his stewardship and failure to do so, we would mobilise members of his Constituency to recall him. “

The Arewa Progressives For Good Governance (APGG) has blasted former minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung for supporting nationwide protest over economic hardship and alleging that some prominent personalities will join the protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration.

The group described Dalung as a failed Minister and liar, said it’s not true that personalities such as former Lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani’s, Senator Adams Oshiomhole , ACF Your Leader, Yerima Shettima and several others have agreed to join the planned protest.

Dalung via his Facebook Page had said,”The rights of Nigerians to protests cannot be taken by executive fiat. The duties of the @PoliceNG is to provide security for the protesters, anything to the contrary is unlawful. The revolution was declared by @officialABAT against bad governance, and since he is the occupant of Aso Rock, this call to duty must be obeyed by all.

The group however said , “We understand the pains Nigerians are going through because of the current hardship caused by withdrawal of Petroleum subsidy, but we can authoritatively says there will light at the end of the dark tunnel.

“Any northerner calling for protest against Tinubu’s Administration over economic hardship is not fair .Our son, former President Muhammadu Buhari was President for eight and collapsed the economy,but our Northern brothers kept quiet.”

The Arewa Progressives For Good Governance,which this in a statement made available to Journalists questioned the morality of the former Minister.Notimg that he who must come to equity must come with clean hands.

In the statement signed by the Chairman, Mal Ibrahim Musa Bichi ,the group which revealed what it termed:”Six Facts About The Sacked Buhari Minister, Solomon Dalung”, averred that “Dalung was appointed a minister by President Buhari for his record of constantly attacking his Christian indigenes of Plateau State.

“As a Minister of Sports Nigerian Athletes went to Rio Olympics in 2016 without sports kits and uniforms.A situation that embarrassed Nigeria at the Global scene.

“In 2018,the International Athletes Association mistakenly credited the account of Nigeria’s Sports ministry with the sum of $133,00.Dalung unlawfully withdrew the money and pocketed it.The IAAF had to write several letters and issued threats to suspend Nigeria.Arrest warrant was issued against Dalung until the Buhari Government sacked him and the money was paid by the successor minister Mr Sunday Dare.”

It alleged that Dalung tried unsuccessfully to return as a minister but was rebuffed by Buhari and he started attacking him.

It also recalled that “In 2023,Solomon Dalung returned to his village,picked up the SDP ticket after he was rejected by PDP and LP.He contested the House of Reps seat and was beaten even by a party that had no candidate.

“A Failed Minister,A Judas who sold his people and now without a home.”

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

Arewa Ears Community Development Forum, in an effort to lend support to other Northerners who are in dire need of upliftment of their lives, has expressed interest in establishing a partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), a government establishment to assist Nigerians.

We are greatly impressed by the work SMEDAN has been doing under the leadership of Dr. Charles Odii since his appointment as Director General in October 2023. Arewa Ears is currently recognized as one of the most outstanding organizations in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region, for its unwavering commitment to providing hope and a sense of belonging to the common citizens across the 19 Northern states.

Some of what we have achieved include offering entrepreneurship skills training and providing support to individuals to kickstart small businesses, enabling them to meet their basic needs and enhance their livelihood. We firmly believe that addressing the root causes of issues such as hunger, poverty, and unemployment is crucial in promoting peace and stability in any society.

Arewa Ears understands that hunger can lead to anger, and unchecked anger can escalate to violence. We recognize that beneath the surface of anger lie deep-seated emotions such as hurt, fear, frustration, sadness, and vulnerability. By addressing these underlying emotions and providing sustainable solutions, we aim to foster a peaceful and prosperous environment in the Northern region of Nigeria.

It is disheartening to witness the transformation of the once peaceful and welcoming Northern region into an area plagued by ignorance, banditry, poverty, child trafficking, unemployment, and various forms of criminal activities. However, we are optimistic that through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, we can effect positive change and uplift the lives of the people in the region.

We equally believe that collaborating with SMEDAN, we can leverage our respective strengths and resources to create greater impact and reach more needy individuals. Together, we can work towards building a more resilient and thriving community in the Northern states of Nigeria.

We would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential areas of collaboration and explore how our organizations can complement each other’s efforts towards achieving our shared goals. Your support and partnership would be invaluable in advancing our collective mission of promoting entrepreneurship, reducing poverty, and fostering sustainable development in the Northern region.

We identify SMEDAN as a crucial entity in addressing pressing issues, particularly concerning poverty and unemployment, within the 19 Northern states. During the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of Arewa Ears Community Development Forum, Ambassador Mohammed Muazu, who was accompanied by his fellow members, Ambassador Sadiq Ibrahim Adamu, Ambassador Nura Garba Ahmad, Ambassador Sudais Suleiman Sokoto, Ambassador Lawan Munkailla, Ambassador Hadiza Mohammed Borno, and Ambassador Ibrahim Hussain Tinja, recently had a meeting with the Director General of SMEDAN, Dr. Charles Odii, along with Ms. Bridget Ohikhokai – Deputy Director F&A, and Alh. Moshood Lawal – Head Corporate Affairs (SMEDAN).

During the meeting, Ambassador Mohammed Muazu briefed the Director General, Dr. Odii, on what Arewa Ears Community Development Forum is all about and its mission and vision to promote and develop the good people of Northern Nigeria, irrespective of religion, tribe, and ethnicity. Ambassador Muazu highlighted the urgency of intervention in certain states that are mostly affected by unemployment. He informed plans to launch sensitization programs targeting youth in these states and invited SMEDAN to actively participate in these initiatives.

He disclosed that Arewa Ears Community Development Forum is an organization dedicated to addressing the pressing issues that are affecting the people of Northern Nigeria, particularly high levels of poverty and unemployment. Ambassador Muazu expressed his concerns about these issues and emphasized the need for collaboration with SMEDAN to support their cause. He also highlighted the fact that poverty and unemployment are major root causes of insurgency in the region, which has destabilized the entire Northern region.

Responding, Dr. Charles Odii promised to collaborate with Arewa Ears Community Development Forum and support their efforts to address these issues. He pledged to travel to all 19 Northern states of Nigeria together with Arewa Ears to raise awareness and find solutions to the challenges facing the region. He also committed to supporting 3000 active members of Arewa Ears with sensitization programs and professional entrepreneurship skills training through the application of INITIAL CREATE START SKILLS (ICSS) and Empowerment programs.

The meeting between Arewa Ears Community Development Forum and SMEDAN marks a significant step towards addressing the socio-economic challenges facing Northern Nigeria. By working together, these organizations can make a real difference in the lives of the people in the region and help create a more prosperous and stable future for all.

Arewa Ears Community Development Forum sees

Baba Tureta


The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) is deeply concerned about the intolerable level of hardship and the general and pervasive insecurity being experienced across Nigeria. The rising cost of living, the lack of basic amenities, and the increasing spate of insecurity have made life unbearable for many Nigerians. According to a statement issued by the spokesperson Comrade Paul Danjuma, the acknowledge the right of citizens to legitimate protests as a means of calling the attention of the government to the situation and the urgent need for taking visible steps towards pacifying the mounting public anger in order to avert a looming mass protest that is pregnant with unforeseen consequences.


“We plead with the public, particularly the youth everywhere and in the North in particular, to exercise restraint and stay action on the planned protests to allow room for honest, open-ended dialogue. While we understand the frustrations and grievances of the people, we believe that violence and chaos will only exacerbate the current situation.”


“We call for the urgent intervention of critical stakeholders for a peaceful, transparent, and practically acceptable resolution of the situation. It is imperative that the government listens to the cries of its citizens and takes concrete steps towards addressing the root causes of the current crisis.”


“We urge the government to prioritize the welfare and security of all Nigerians and to work towards creating a conducive environment for economic growth and development. The people deserve to live in peace and dignity, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that this is possible.”


The forum reiterates their commitment to the peace and unity of Nigeria and call on all stakeholders to come together in a spirit of cooperation and understanding to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing our beloved country. Together, we can build a better future for all Nigerians.

Mark Rezon

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of affairs in Nigeria, saying the prevailing harsh living conditions have reached a critical juncture, leading to escalating frustration and anger among the populace. A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima said, The AYCF has been closely observing the burgeoning discontent, particularly among the youth, who are disproportionately suffering due to economic hardships and societal challenges. He further averred that the mounting resentment within the population has reached an alarming tipping point, with the likelihood of imminent mass protests becoming more pronounced, adding that the youth, in particular, are experiencing a profound sense of disillusionment and disenfranchisement, which has eroded their hopes for a better future. Shettima pointed out that widespread poverty, rampant unemployment, lack of basic amenities, and rising insecurity are cultivating an environment ripe for unrest.

“The economic situation is dire, with Nigerian citizens grappling to make ends meet as the cost of living continues an upward trajectory. Unemployment rates have surged to record levels, businesses are collapsing, and the purchasing power of the average citizen is diminishing at an alarming rate.

“The lack of basic services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare is exacerbating the plight of the people, further contributing to the growing discontent. There is a palpable sense of marginalization and neglect, leading to a collective sense of betrayal towards the government.

“Should these tensions go unchecked, they could give rise to widespread protests, potentially escalating into uncontrollable unrest.”

The youth leader, however, implored the youth to abstain from violent protests or actions that could further aggravate the situation, stressing that violence will only breed further destruction and loss of life, without effectively addressing the root causes of our grievances.

“We advocate for channeling frustrations and grievances through peaceful and constructive means of engagement that can foster positive change. It is imperative that the youth of Nigeria refrain from participating in any protests or demonstrations that could disrupt the nation’s stability.

“Violence and chaos will only deepen our crises and harm our society. Instead, we must harness our energies towards constructive dialogue and engagement with the government to seek sustainable solutions.”

He also called upon the government to take immediate action to alleviate the brewing tensions and avert impending public unrest. The authorities must prioritize the welfare of the citizens, working diligently to improve living conditions for all Nigerians. This includes the creation of job opportunities, enhancement of social welfare programs, and provision of essential services to the needy.

“There is an urgent need for comprehensive reforms across economic, social, and security sectors to foster an environment conducive to growth, development, and prosperity. The government must respond to the needs and concerns of the people, engaging with sincerity, empathy, and a clear commitment to addressing national challenges.

“The time for action is now; failure to act could result in an uncontrollable scenario of public outrage. We urge all Nigerians to maintain calm and composure amidst these adversities. Let us, as a nation, unite to address the challenges we face, and work towards building a better future for current and future generations. Together, we can overcome these hardships and create a more prosperous and equitable society for all.”