By Maria Ladike

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has cleared a misconception surrounding recent attacks on Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, through a sponsored fake protest calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Chairman of the forum, Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani, described the protest as a shameless and dishonest act orchestrated by a faceless and non-existent group claiming to be the All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA). The group had staged a protest demanding the probe of Matawalle.

“This is nothing but another episode in the series of sponsored, devilish, and character-damaging campaigns by certain unpatriotic, dishonest enemies of democracy, threatened by the gigantic successes achieved by the Minister. The opposition has allegedly set aside a sum of 2 billion naira for such purposes,” Sani alleged.

He continued, “Their campaigns are nowhere close to the truth but are full of jargon, falsehoods, and malicious intent. This is not their first attempt—they’ve used different groups and individuals in the past, all of whom failed. Yet, they persist.”

Sani said the CNF was compelled to expose the perpetrators to Nigerians and reveal their identities as “criminals and frauds,” insisting that APC-YLA is a fictitious group created solely for a smear campaign against Matawalle.

“Its address is fake—it’s just a market area with no specific location. The protest was absurd; only a few participants were above 18, the rest were minors hired for peanuts to carry placards and chant slogans they didn’t understand,” he claimed.

CNF also disclosed that it is petitioning the APC and relevant security agencies, urging an investigation into the impostors. “Some of them are likely not even APC members,” he added. “We demand a full list and membership details of their organization.”

The group urged the APC not to allow itself to be used for witch hunts or personal vendettas, and expressed hope that security agencies would act decisively to curb such acts.

“We maintain that this madness must stop, sanity must return, and the normal status quo must be followed,” CNF emphasized.

ENDS

By Omomna Adimi

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has retracted allegations made against Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defense and former Governor of Zamfara State. CNF Chairman Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed admitted that the group was misled by opposition propaganda.

“We were misled by the information presented to us, and the content of the press text was blown out of proportion,” Mohammed said at a press briefing in Kaduna. “It was a political witch hunt, deliberately orchestrated and propagated by the opposition who are envious of the Minister’s achievements.”

Matawalle’s Achievements

Mohammed highlighted Matawalle’s accomplishments as Governor of Zamfara State, including:

• Infrastructure development: new airport project, road construction, and upgrades to the state’s water supply
• Healthcare: construction of primary health centers across all 147 wards, procurement of ambulances, and healthcare investments
• Education: settling examination fees for NECO and WAEC, investing in technology infrastructure
• Security: Matawalle’s current efforts as Minister of State for Defense towards actualizing the Renewed Hope agenda

Allegations of Misinformation Campaign

Mohammed alleged that the current Zamfara State Government has released over two billion naira to finance a misinformation campaign against Matawalle. “We call on the general public to disregard such toxic news and any future press conferences sponsored to malign the Minister,” he said.

Support for the Federal Government

Mohammed concluded by urging Nigerians to support the federal government’s efforts. “Matawalle to the best of our knowledge did well as Governor and is presently doing extremely well in the security sector… We deeply acknowledge and commend the efforts of this administration in restructuring and ultimately building a new Nigeria.”

By Christian Odeh

In a bold step toward eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), ending child marriage, and advancing sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), the Norwegian Government, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Centre for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV) have joined forces with the Kaduna State Government to conclude a high-level advocacy training in Kaduna.

The two-day training, held from May 2 to 3, 2025, convened an influential cross-section of society including traditional rulers, religious leaders, legal experts, healthcare professionals, and civil society actors. The event aimed to equip participants with skills in policy analysis, strategic planning, and campaign development to advance gender equality and SRHR in communities across Kaduna State.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the event, Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, Executive Director of CERSDOV, applauded both the turnout and the quality of participation.

“I was very deliberate in selecting invitees. We had two Hakimis—Bunun Zazzau and Danmukoyon Zazzau—who remained present throughout the training. That speaks volumes about their interest and commitment,” she said.

Professor Yusuf also highlighted the presence of top government officials and traditional authorities, noting their collective dedication.

“We had representatives from the Attorney General’s office, commissioners from the Ministries of Human Services and Social Development, and Budget and Planning Commission, alongside religious and traditional leaders. That kind of inclusive gathering is not easy to achieve,” she added.

According to her, the next step is a public commitment event, already in the works. “The stakeholders are ready and willing because all of us want to progress as a people. We at CERSDOV are especially grateful to the Norwegian Government and UNFPA for supporting not just our organization but the broader Kaduna community. We’re confident this initiative will shape future policies.”

Representing the Attorney General, Deputy Director of Civil Litigation in the Kaduna State Ministry of Justice, Alexander Aku Amadi, echoed the government’s enthusiasm and commitment.

“The Attorney General had other obligations but delegated me to attend. I stayed for the entire duration of the training, and I must say it was exceptionally organized,” Amadi stated.

He committed to forwarding the resolutions of the training to relevant government arms. “The government has done a lot in terms of awareness, but there is room for improvement, and this training sets the tone for further progress.”

Barrister Sidikat Adeboye, Centre Manager of Salama Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Tudun Wada, Kaduna, was optimistic about the potential for increased survivor engagement.

“With the caliber of stakeholders here, we expect more survivors will come forward for medical, psychosocial, and legal support,” she noted.

From the judiciary, Barrister Sarah Sambu Ishaku, Deputy Director of Natural Law and Customs at the Kaduna Multi-Door Court House, described the training as enlightening.

“I now better understand how to collaborate with referral centers on Gender-GBV issues,” she said, stressing the importance of restorative justice in certain GBV cases.

“Not every case needs to go through the formal courts. Survivors, offenders, and community leaders can sit together to reach a resolution. For instance, a survivor can state their specific needs and receive direct support—this is more impactful than mere fines paid to government coffers.”

Alhaji Bala Mohamed Tijani, District Head of Doka and Bunun Zazzau, was also in attendance and reflected on his recent decoration as a GBV and SRHR Ambassador.

“To me, it’s not just an award but a call to do more. There’s a need to intensify sensitization, raise awareness, and push for enforcement of existing protective laws,” he stated.

The training marks a renewed phase of collaboration between international agencies, state institutions, and community leaders. With advocacy, education, and political will aligned, stakeholders are poised to deepen efforts to eradicate GBV, combat child marriage, and promote SRHR in Kaduna State.

By Grace Mark

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has accused the Zamfara State Government of allegedly funding a coordinated smear campaign worth over two billion naira, aimed at discrediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement issued over the weekend and signed by NSCF Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group alleged that the massive fund was released to sponsor groups to organize press conferences and media briefings, attacking the personalities and public records of both President Tinubu and Matawalle.

Comrade Paul described the campaign as a deliberate, politically motivated strategy to damage the reputation of the Defence Minister and to question the credibility of President Tinubu’s decision to include him in the federal cabinet.

“These are not genuine expressions of concern. They are orchestrated campaigns of calumny meant to create division and distract from the government’s security efforts,” Paul said. “The Defence Minister is being targeted because of his effectiveness and rising influence in national politics.”

According to NSCF, part of the strategy involves sponsored calls for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen old investigations into Matawalle’s tenure as Governor of Zamfara State. The forum dismissed these attempts as baseless and lacking in any fresh evidence.

“Months of relentless character assassination have not yielded any new facts, because there are none,” Paul stated. “These attacks are rooted in political rivalry, not accountability.”

Matawalle, who served as Governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023, has been credited with several efforts to combat banditry and insecurity during his tenure. His appointment as Minister of State for Defence was seen by many observers as a strategic move by the federal government to leverage his firsthand experience in addressing insecurity in the North.

However, the NSCF believes that Matawalle’s new role has made him a target of political elites within Zamfara who view his federal influence as a threat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The timing of these attacks is no coincidence,” Paul noted. “They are clearly tied to early political maneuverings. Certain elements want to control the narrative going into 2027, and they see Matawalle’s rising profile as an obstacle.”

The forum expressed concern that such campaigns could undermine national unity and destabilize government efforts to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges.

“At a time when Nigeria is facing unprecedented security threats, spreading lies and inciting division is irresponsible and dangerous,” the NSCF said. “We must not allow political interests to sabotage the fight against insecurity.”

The group warned that if these smear campaigns continue unchecked, they could erode public confidence in democratic institutions and embolden criminal actors who thrive in environments of political instability.

Comrade Paul called on law enforcement agencies, particularly the police and intelligence services, to investigate the origin and sponsors of the alleged smear campaign.

“Disinformation and political blackmail must not be treated lightly,” he said. “Those funding and coordinating these attacks must be exposed and prosecuted. This is political violence disguised as advocacy.”

The NSCF’s warning comes as Zamfara continues to grapple with security threats from armed bandits and other criminal groups. The state has been a flashpoint in the national conversation on insecurity, with both federal and state authorities often clashing over strategy and responsibility.

Despite the controversy, Matawalle has remained focused on his national role. In an earlier public response, he dismissed the attacks against him as baseless and politically driven.

“I remain committed to working with all stakeholders to bring peace to our country,” Matawalle said. “My loyalty is to Nigeria, and no amount of mudslinging will distract me from my duty.”

The NSCF concluded its statement with a call for unity and responsibility among political leaders, warning that Nigeria’s fragile security situation demands cooperation, not conflict.

“The real enemy is insecurity, not each other,” the forum said. “Only through collective action can we hope to secure our country and ensure a better future for all Nigerians.”

ENDS

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has called on Nigerians to ignore what it described as “sponsored groups” mobilized to discredit the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group said Kyari had served the nation with dedication and patriotism, and therefore did not deserve the wave of attacks being orchestrated against him.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service, as is the practice in most developed countries,” the group stated.

The FGGN expressed disappointment that the protesters had failed to acknowledge Kyari’s significant contributions, particularly his efforts to revive the country’s ailing refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

Describing Kyari as the most outstanding GCEO in the history of NNPCL, the group dismissed those behind the attacks as “jobless individuals with no vision for the future.”

The statement, signed by its Chairman, Comrade Bala Usman Sani, highlighted some of Kyari’s key achievements during his tenure. It noted that Kyari inherited a struggling NNPC but succeeded in transforming it into a more efficient and credible institution.

“He was recognized as the Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022 by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria,” the statement noted. “He maintained a national strategic fuel reserve that served the country effectively during fuel shortages and worked tirelessly to stem the smuggling of petroleum products across borders.”

The group also credited Kyari with encouraging private investments in refinery development—such as the Dangote Refinery and other modular refinery projects—and for pushing forward the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries.

It added that Kyari played a pivotal role in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which led to the successful incorporation of NNPC under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

“Under Kyari, the national oil company recorded significant progress, including increased domestic natural gas consumption, an oil production boost to 1.8 million barrels per day, and the revival of two major refineries,” the statement read.

The group also pointed to the introduction of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda under Kyari’s leadership, which it said helped address inefficiencies and restore public trust in the national oil firm.

FFGN concluded its statement by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not allow “politically motivated distractions” to undermine the achievements of those who have genuinely served the country.

By David Onyilokwu

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has extended its heartfelt commendation to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the state through the strategic partnership with the World Bank.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima said the collaboration, which encompasses a remarkable portfolio of eight major projects worth a total of $885 million, represents a significant step forward in addressing critical developmental challenges faced by our communities.

Shettima recalled that during a recent courtesy visit by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Governor Sani articulated a visionary roadmap aimed at enhancing the impact of these projects across various sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare.

“We applaud the governor’s recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state, particularly through initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls’ for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES).

Shettima averred that these projects have not only laid the groundwork for sustainable development but have also provided our youth with opportunities for empowerment and growth, adding that the governor’s commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project, is a testament to his dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.

“As stakeholders in the future of Kaduna, we recognize the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of these initiatives” he stated.

The AYCF urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government’s efforts in implementing these projects, stressing that it is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

“We also commend Mr. Ousmane Diagana for his recognition of Governor Sani’s strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna’s collaboration with the World Bank. Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership”.

The AYCF said it stands firmly behind Governor Uba Sani in his mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights. “We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State” he stressed.

ENDS

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

In the heart of Nigeria’s northern region lies Kaduna State, a melting pot of diverse cultures, ethnicities, and political ideologies. As the nation gears up for the 2027 elections, a palpable sense of urgency and enthusiasm can be felt, particularly among the youth. This demographic, which constitutes a significant portion of the population, is increasingly rallying around one figure: Yerima Shettima. A charismatic leader with a proven track record of youth engagement and advocacy, Shettima has become the focal point of a burgeoning movement urging him to declare his candidacy for the upcoming elections. The calls for his declaration are not merely a reflection of personal admiration; they signify a broader demand for a transformative leadership that resonates with the aspirations of the young populace.
In recent months, social media campaigns, grassroots mobilizations, and public demonstrations have surged in Kaduna State, all echoing a singular message: “We want Yerima Shettima to run!” This movement is fueled by a collective desire for representation that reflects the hopes and concerns of a generation often sidelined in political discourse. The youth, who are increasingly aware of their power as voters and change-makers, see Shettima as a leader who understands their struggles—be it unemployment, education, or social justice.
The youth in Kaduna State are not just passive supporters; they are active participants in shaping the political environment. Their engagement reflects a growing trend across Nigeria, where young people are asserting their rights and demanding accountability from their leaders. This shift is particularly significant in a state like Kaduna, which has experienced its share of socio-political challenges, including ethnic tensions and security issues. The youth’s demand for Shettima to declare his candidacy is, therefore, not just about individual preference; it is about a vision for a more inclusive and responsive governance that prioritizes their needs.
Yerima Shettima’s appeal lies in his charisma and his ability to connect with the youth on a personal level. As a prominent youth leader, he has championed various initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including skill acquisition programs, advocacy for education, and campaigns against youth unemployment. His commitment to these causes has earned him respect and admiration, positioning him as a relatable figure who embodies the aspirations of the youth.
Moreover, Shettima’s leadership style is characterized by inclusivity and engagement. He actively listens to the concerns of young people and incorporates their feedback into his initiatives. This participatory approach has fostered a sense of ownership among the youth, making them feel that their voices matter in the political arena. As he continues to consult and deliberate on his potential candidacy, the youth remain hopeful that he will ultimately choose to run, believing that his leadership could usher in a new era for Kaduna State.
For any political candidate, particularly one emerging from a grassroots movement, the guarantee of mass support is crucial. The youth in Kaduna State are not merely calling for Shettima to declare his candidacy; they are also demanding a commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. They want assurances that their interests will be prioritized and that their voices will be heard in the corridors of power.
This demand for a solid guarantee of mass support underscores the need for Shettima to engage in comprehensive consultations with various stakeholders, including youth groups, civil society organizations, and community leaders. By doing so, he can solidify his base and demonstrate that his candidacy is not just a personal ambition but a collective movement aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing the state.
As the 2027 elections approach, the pressure mounts for Yerima Shettima to declare his candidacy, fueled by the fervent support of the youth in Kaduna State. This movement represents a significant shift in the political landscape, highlighting the growing influence of young people in shaping Nigeria’s future. Shettima’s charisma and commitment to youth empowerment position him as a potential catalyst for change, but the path to candidacy requires careful consideration and engagement with the very constituents who rally behind him. The youth’s call for a solid guarantee of mass support is not just a demand for a leader; it is a clarion call for a new political paradigm that prioritizes the voices of the young and paves the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Kaduna State.

…Blasts Ndume for Not Appreciating FG Efforts, Attacking the Minister

Arewa Forum for Good Governance has come out to defend the media statement credited to Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris over the insecurity situation in Borno State after the recent Boko Haram attack in Damboa.

According to the group, the information Minister couldn’t have been ignorant or naive to speak flippantly about the loss of lives of the citizens in Maiduguri with levity.

The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum had criticised the the Minister he described as “naive” about the country’s security realities following a deadly Boko Haram attack on the Damboa-Maiduguri Road that left eight people dead , seven others injured, and 14 with minor injuries.

In a reaction to the Governor Zulum ‘s statement, Arewa Forum for Good Governance in a statement signed by the Secretary, Comrade Yushau Mahmood disclosed ,”The Minister of Information was not only misquoted by the media, but also misconstrued by Governor Zulum,who faulted the minister’s remarks based on media report and not position of the government about the incident

The statement further reads :”Governor Zulum reacted to the media report which quoted the information Minister to have said “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno.”

“And we have investigated and discovered that such a headline was not only sensational but deliberately crafted as a deliberate act of misinformation to distract the public from the serious work the Federal Government is doing to address security challenges.

“We have known Zulum to be one Governor that has always being passionate and committed about providing security and dividends of democracy for the good people of Borno,but we are worried about his recent reactions to the media headlines.

“There is no doubt that current wave of insecurity in the North needs serious attention, however ,there is a need for Borno Government and federal Government to work together to provide permanent solutions and not fault finding.

Most worrisome is the unnecessary statements of Senator Ali Ndume on the attack . We are surprised that Senator Ndume, a former Chairman ,House Committee on Army,who is expected to more knowledgeable about efforts put in to contain the security challenges in Borno and other past of the North in last twenty months could come out to criticise the Minister of Information , claiming he dismissed warnings from the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, about the resurgence of insurgency in the state.

For us ,as the voice of good governance in the North attributing a title such as ,” Minister of Misinformation” to a hardworking Minister like Mohammed Idris speaks volumes about him as a man with low character.

Angry at the recent relocation to Kaduna , Group under umbrella of Ungwar Sarki/Ungwar Rimi Youth Association have cried out over what they termed “Eight Years of Neglect” by Former Muhammadu Buhari’s to Kaduna.

The group comprising residents and organic supporters of within Buhari’s Kaduna residence said it is highly unfortunate that he never considered anyone of them for appointments or employment during his days as President.

In a statement signed by the leader of the group,Mal Musa Ibrahim Usman, Former President Buhari We are most saddened at manner he abandoned the Yahaya Road mosque he used to pray before becoming President.Not even a praying may was sent to support growth and development of the worship place

The group in the statement lamented, “We can’t believe that with all our support over the years ,there is none amongst the neighbors around Ungwar Rimi and Ungwar Sarki that can boast that Buhari either helped them via any appointment with federal government; empowerment programme or any business initiative .

“It is regrettably that Since Buhari won elections in 2015 and left for Abuja as President, he never looked back to same place that helped to be president until after he lost power and became jobless.

Since 2003 when joined politics and ran for President under ANPP Teeming youths followed and supported Buhari wholeheartedly without financial gains

“We were not only surprised,but dissapointed that When the former Governor of Kaduna,Mal .Nasir Elrufai demolished our shops and houses, Buhari never made any attempt to intervene or prevail over the governor.

“People were killed and injured because of Buhari ,but he got power on a platter of gold only to abandon those who supported him to be there.

“We are therefore telling him to go back to his Katsina hometown and forget about any support from us again.”

By Ada Akita

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has vehemently condemned the recent spate of rumors alleging the replacement of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

The Arewa group, in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, categorically described such claims as ‘fake and mischievous,’ aimed at sowing discord and confusion within the political landscape of our great nation.

Shettima stated that in a time when Nigeria is striving for unity and progress under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the dissemination of such baseless rumors serves no purpose other than to undermine the credibility of our democratic institutions.

The AYCF urged all citizens to recognize these fabrications for what they are: attempts by detractors to destabilize the current administration and distract from its agenda of governance and national development.

“It is crucial for the public to understand that the integrity of the electoral process is paramount to our democracy. The INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has been at the forefront of ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria. Any attempt to disrupt this process is an affront to the democratic principles we hold dear.

“We warn those behind these malicious rumors to desist immediately. Such actions are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to the collective aspirations of the Nigerian people. Instead of engaging in the politics of division, we implore all citizens and political actors to allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to function smoothly, focusing on policies and initiatives that will foster national growth and development.

“Furthermore, we urge the public to remain vigilant and discerning when it comes to information regarding government appointments and decisions. In this digital age, where misinformation spreads rapidly, it is essential to rely on official announcements from credible sources.

“Any news regarding changes in the leadership of INEC or other significant political developments should only be trusted if it comes from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) or other verified official channels.”

He posited that as we navigate this critical phase in our nation’s history, let us prioritize unity, progress, and the rule of law.

The AYCF called upon all Nigerians to stand together against the forces of misinformation and to support the efforts of our leaders in building a prosperous future for our country.

The President General said the forum remains committed to advocating for the interests of the youth and the broader Arewa community. “We will continue to monitor the political landscape and engage constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that the voices of our people are heard and respected.”

END