By: Isa Malami

The ethnic nationalities of Lere Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State have come down strongly on a Hausa/Fulani group resident in the LGA after the group convened a press conference recently protesting the inclusion of Lere LGA as being part of Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, Northwest Nigeria.

The natives of Lere who made their misgivings known throughout “Coalition of Concern Natives of Lere LGA” in a Press Statement made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday alleged that the Hausa/Fulani group was politically motivated with the sole aim of dividing the unity of Southern Kaduna.

Signed by Comrade Stephen Sale, Secretary of the Coalition and Comrade Engr. S.I Mori, acting Coordinator, Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) Lere LGA Branch and others the statement reads:

“Our attention has been drawn to a Press Conference addressed by a group said to be Lere Local Government Unity Association Forum. One Barrister Nasiru Bello Dembo and his secretary Mallam

Ahmed Idris were signatories to the text of the Press conference which centered on the organizers of Southern Kaduna Cultural  Festival (SKFEST) which ended on 28/12/2024 with a grand finale at the New Kafanchan Township Stadium 

The group was angry that some political office holders from Lere LGA were tagged as members of “Southern Kaduna” in the program of the event which was jointly organised by SOKAPU, saying that it contradicted section 8, 48 and 72 of Nigeria’s Constitution. According to them, and rightfully so,  Lere LGA is in Kaduna North Senatorial District. They therefore rejected the inclusion of Lere LGA in the  geographical classification of “Southern Kaduna” and warned the organizers of the event to refrain from such publications to avoid causing confusion. 

“They were obviously saying that our elected members mentioned in the text, who, ironically are not of Lere ethnicity, do not want to be associated with Southern Kaduna, and invariably us.

“We, the natives and owners of the land,  as a Coalition hereby state the facts as below.

 The term “Southern Kaduna” is made up of 12 LGAs. And that includes Lere (in Kaduna North Senatorial Zone).

Others are:  Kajuru, Chikun, Kaduna South LGAs (both in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone). The remaining are Kaura, Jemaa, Sanga, Zangon Kataf, Kagarko, Kachia, Kauru, Kachia LGAs (in Kaduna South Senatorial Zone).

 This is to stress that “Southern Kaduna” is bigger than “Kaduna South Senatorial Zone.”

“Southern Kaduna” is a Geo-Socio/cultural enclave that’s defined by ethnography and ethnicity and is as old as the Iron Civilization of the Nok Terracotta dating back B.C.

According to the coalition Southern Kaduna is is totally different from “Kaduna South Senatorial Zone,” which is a recent geo-political demarcation created for the convenience of administration and representative democracy. 

They added that the  present Lere and Kauru LGAs used to be part of Saminaka LGA up till 1989 and the old Saminaka LGA was part of the  Senatorial District of old Kachia LGA, comprising the present Kachia, Chikun, Kajuru and Kagarko LGAs (the 2nd largest in Gen. Gowon’s Nigeria of 1967) ans old Jema’a LGA comprising present Jema’a, Kaura, Sanga and Jaba LGAs represented by Senator Jacob Madaki, a great Bajju man from Zonkwa (now, Late) 1st October 1979 – 30th September 1983 and 1st October 1983 – 31st December 1983 (when Gen. Muhammadu Buhari ousted the Democratically elected administration of NPN/President Shehu Shagari.

“Present Lere LGA was extracted from the old Saminaka LGA. The boundaries were so manipulated to constitute  an electoral constituency, such that it favored the state’s northern power, which today constitutes the Northern Senatorial District,” alleged the natives of Lere.

“This was the same manipulation done to old Kachia LGA where Chikun and Kajuru LGAs were extracted and taken to Kaduna Central Senatorial District all  with the aim of “dismembering” the Southern Kaduna peoples as a voting block and a voice. We remain resolved that : 

“These have not, will not and cannot remove the Southern ‘Kadunaness’ from Southern Kaduna people whether in Lere, Kauru, Chikun, Kajuru, Kaduna South or ALL the other LGAs for that matter; it is a matter of the heart,” the coalition said.

“For the record, SOKAPU is a sociocultural association and the constitution of Nigeria guarantees freedom of association. We the ethnic nationalities of Lere LGAs have decided to join similar ethnicities of Southern Kaduna, what then is the headache of Lere Local Government Unity Association Forum, which does not have a single Lere native among it?” they observed.

“The leaderships of our various communities  in Lere LGA that have over the decades registered with SOKAPU and have been participating in her activities include Amo, Piti, Kinugu, Anir’Arahgu (Kahugu), Akurmi, Gure, Dingi, Janji, Lemoro and Jere. 

“We wonder why our membership to SOKAPU has made Barr. Idris’ group jittery, indeed, Southern Kaduna is our ancestry.

“For the record, we were the ones that elected these political leaders and since identifying with our kinsmen in Southern Kaduna is now an offense to a group, we now know better. Rewriting our history and or changing our ancestry is too late!” the statement said in conclusion.

Community Development Association Presidents from ten ethnic groups of lere also signed the statement.

By Chidi Obi

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed outrage and disappointment at the Northern Governors’ Forum’s sudden support for the controversial tax reform bills. The governors had initially opposed the reforms, but made a U-turn without explanation, sparking widespread criticism.

NAN has demanded a full and transparent explanation for the governors’ change of heart, including details of their decision-making process and any consultations they may have had. The organization has also called for the governors to apologize for their actions, which NAN describes as a betrayal of public trust.

The Northern Governors’ Forum’s support for the tax reforms has been widely criticized, with many accusing them of prioritizing their own interests over those of their constituents. The reforms have been touted as a way to increase revenue for state governments, but critics argue that they will disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable.

NAN’s Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, stated that the organization will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability in the Northern region. He called on all Northerners to demand accountability from their leaders and to participate in the fight for a more just and transparent governance system.

The controversy surrounding the tax reforms has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in government. The Northern Governors’ Forum’s actions have eroded public trust and undermined the legitimacy of their authority.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Northern Governors’ Forum will respond to NAN’s demands. One thing is clear, however: the people of the Northern region deserve answers and accountability from their leaders.

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

The NAN’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 Northern Governors’ Forum’s actions on the tax reforms have fallen short of expectations. Their reversal on the issue has betrayed the trust of the people and undermined their credibility. It is essential for them to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their actions and to prioritize the needs of their constituents.

By Abubakar Sadiq

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed profound disappointment and outrage at the recent actions of the Northern Governors’ Forum regarding the proposed tax reform bills. NAN condemned the governors’ blatant disregard for democratic principles of consultation and transparency.

The governors had initially opposed the reforms, but made a U-turn without explanation, sparking widespread criticism. NAN demands a full and transparent explanation of the governors’ decision-making process and a clear accounting of how they arrived at their conclusions without consulting the people they represent.

The Northern Governors’ Forum had initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, leveraging public sentiment and concerns to seemingly champion the interests of the Northern region. However, their recent shift in stance demonstrates a cynical manipulation of public opinion.

The subsequent adoption of the bills without prior notice or meaningful consultation reveals a disregard for democratic processes and a contempt for the will of the people. The Northern Governors’ Forum has failed to provide any credible evidence of consultation with relevant stakeholders before endorsing the tax reform bills.

NAN demands a comprehensive explanation for this lack of consultation, including the identification of all individuals and groups involved in the decision-making process. The organization also demands the release of all documentation relating to the decision to support the bills.

The governors’ attempt to justify their sudden change of heart lacks credibility and smacks of desperation. NAN challenges the governors to present compelling evidence to substantiate their claims.

NAN demands immediate and concrete action from the Northern Governors’ Forum, including a public apology for the deception and betrayal of public trust. The organization also calls for a thorough and independent review of the potential impact of the tax reforms on the Northern region.

The Northern Governors’ Forum’s actions represent a grave threat to democratic governance in the Northern region. Their blatant disregard for the principles of consultation, transparency, and accountability has eroded public trust and undermined the legitimacy of their authority.

NAN will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that the voices of the Northern people are heard and respected.

By Mike Odeh James

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 Aliyu Umar

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has thrown its weight behind the appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

In a press statement issued by the President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF expressed concern over what they described as a “mix-up” in the appointments announced on December 6, 2024. The AYCF acknowledged the contributions of Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi, who was reappointed to the role after Danfulani’s initial appointment was reversed.

However, they argued that the sector requires new leadership to achieve greater heights. They highlighted Danfulani’s background in banking, computing, and business administration, as well as his experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as Zamfara State Commissioner of Commerce and Industry.

According to the AYCF, Danfulani’s innovative approach and expertise make him an ideal candidate to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda for the solid minerals sector. They believe that his leadership would help revitalize the SMDF/PAGMI and drive reforms in the critical solid minerals sector.

The group urged President Tinubu to review the decision in favor of Danfulani’s leadership. The Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative are crucial components of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and boost non-oil revenue.

The AYCF’s call for reconsideration of Danfulani’s appointment comes at a time when the country is seeking to drive reforms in the solid minerals sector. The group highlights the importance of appointing a leader with the right expertise and vision to lead the SMDF/PAGMI.

They believe that the success of these initiatives hinges on the appointment of a leader with the right expertise and vision to drive them forward. In their view, Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is the ideal candidate for this role, and they are urging President Tinubu to reconsider his appointment in order to achieve the desired goals for the solid minerals sector.

The AYCF’s stance on this issue highlights the importance of leadership in driving the success of any organization or initiative. A leader with the right expertise and vision can inspire and motivate their team, set clear goals and objectives, and make strategic decisions that will lead to success.

In the case of the SMDF and PAGMI, the AYCF believes that Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani possesses the necessary qualities to lead these initiatives to success. Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the solid minerals sector.

He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and has a proven track record of delivering results in similar roles. His vision for the sector aligns with the goals of the SMDF and PAGMI, and his leadership style is one that inspires confidence and trust in those around him.

President Tinubu’s appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani would send a strong signal to the industry and the international community that Nigeria is serious about developing its solid minerals sector. It would also ensure that the SMDF and PAGMI have the leadership they need to succeed in achieving their goals of promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.

By Oyedele Adeyemi

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is deeply concerned about the upcoming nationwide protests led by the ReformINEC and SackYakubu Movement, scheduled to commence in Abuja on December 5, 2024, and subsequently spread to other major cities across Nigeria.

A statement issued by the Chairman Salihu Suleiman acknowledged the importance of peaceful expression and the right to voice dissent, but urged the youth and citizens of Nigeria to reconsider participation in these protests.

According to the statement, “The call for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, underlines a critical moment in our nation’s political landscape. However, we believe that these protests, framed by elements of division and unrest, are not the solution to the challenges we face.

Mobilizing our youth in such a manner could not only incite unnecessary tensions but also distract from constructive dialogue and engagement needed to pursue meaningful electoral reforms.

“We urge our young people to channel their energy and passion towards constructive initiatives that promote dialogue, peace, and unity within our communities. Rather than joining movements that may be influenced by ulterior motives and sponsored dissidence, let us work together towards solutions that foster a strong, credible electoral system.

“We commend the efforts of all civic organizations and individuals advocating for electoral reform, but we strongly believe that such advocacy must be rooted in dialogue and collaboration with the government and relevant stakeholders. The government, too, must be proactive in addressing the underlying concerns raised by citizens rather than allowing divisive protests to dominate the narrative.

“It is vital that we uphold the value of democracy and work collectively to strengthen our institutions. We call on the government to engage actively with the concerns of the populace and to address any grievances through appropriate, non-violent measures. Let us be vigilant against any attempts to disrupt the peace and stability of our beloved nation.

“We call upon the youth to stand for unity, peace, and constructive engagement. Let us be the generation that embraces dialogue and works towards the collective good of all Nigerians”.

Jayleen Abuh

…

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed its firm condemnation of the planned upcoming nationwide protests organized by the “ReformINEC and SackYakubu” Movement, scheduled to commence in Abuja on December 5, 2024.

AYCF in a statement by it’s President General Yerima Shettima said, the protest is viewed as attempts by saboteurs and enemies of the state to undermine the democratic process and destabilize our nation.

“It is disheartening to see a segment of the youth population being misled by groups that seek to further their own agendas under the guise of reform.

“The integrity of our electoral system is paramount, and attacking the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, without substantive evidence is not only unwarranted but also counterproductive to the democratic values we strive to uphold.

“We call upon the youth of Nigeria to disregard these divisive calls. Engaging in protests that threaten to incite chaos and instability serves only to undermine the progress we have made as a nation. Our focus should remain on constructive dialogue and collaboration to address any legitimate grievances, rather than resorting to actions that may lead to national discord.

“Furthermore, we urge the government and relevant authorities to take appropriate measures to dissuade dissent rooted in misinformation and to protect the country from any group seeking to exploit the youth for their own selfish motives. It is essential that we prioritize unity, peace, and progress, fostering an environment conducive to growth and development for all Nigerians.

“We, therefore, call on all stakeholders to champion a collective effort aimed at enhancing our electoral processes through meaningful engagement and dialogue, rather than through protests fueled by discontent and malice. Together, let us build a stronger, more united Nigeria” the statement stressed.

Musa Adamu

ABUJA, Dec 2 – A prominent Nigerian civil rights activist, Luka Binniyat, on Sunday called on the federal government to monitor and reassess the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Binnyat made this remark to journalists in Abuja on December 1st, 2024. while receiving delegates from the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria.

He noted that the Niger Delta region just like the Middle south-south have suffered long enough from marginalization and underdevelopment leading to the creation of the NDDC and so it is important for the Commission to perform its statutory role .

“I am urging the NDDC managing to as a matter of urgency do what it needs to be done by creating more jobs, stimulating the economy of the Niger Delta and carrying the Youths along .

“Everyday, we read in the news from the Youths about the high rate of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta region and I asked myself what is the NDDC doing .

“That is why I am calling on the Federal Government to reassess the activities of the commission and reprioritize Youths development goals

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria has criticized the commission, established in 2000 to develop the oil-rich Niger Delta region, had failed to deliver on its mandates despite receiving over 6 trillion naira ($14.7 billion) since its inception.

According to the Nigerian Delta State Coordinator for the UYAN, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye,

“The NDDC has been plagued by corruption, mismanagement and abandonment of projects since it’s inception

“It is imperative that the federal government takes decisive action to ensure the commission operates transparently and effectively.”

Fajoye expressed disappointment with the current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stating that he has fallen short of expectations. Specifically, Fajoye noted that the Managing Director has failed to create job opportunities and stimulate a conducive environment for the development of the Niger Delta region.

“I am in sync with my colleagues from Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and other areas that the NDDC has performed below par,” Fajoye said. “He has failed to carry the Niger Delta Youths along, he has not really created employment opportunities nor generated any meaningful development for the Nigerian Delta region.”

The Rivers State coordinator for the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro emphasized the need for fresh perspectives and new leadership in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

“The current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission is from Bayelsa and he has spent his four years?” Comrade osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro noted, highlighting the need for change.

She appealed to the Federal Government, saying, “I am appealing to the Federal Government to allow a sound technocrat and administrator from another state to come on board as the MD and inject new ideas.”

Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro stressed the importance of fairness and equity, stating, “We want to move forward and we want equity and fairness, let the MD position be rotated to another state.”

The Bayelsa state coordinator, Comrade Amadoma God-help, has announced that the group is consulting with human rights activists, civil society groups, and other related youth groups to stage a mass protest in Abuja and Port Harcourt. This move is aimed at pushing for their previously stated demands to be met.

“At this stage, we are still consulting as we are in talks with youth groups and civil society groups around the country. Then we shall proceed to the National Assembly with our demands,” the coordinator said.

He emphasized that failure to consider their demands would lead to mass action on the streets of Abuja and Port Harcourt.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

Renowned security experts converged at the HOJ Annual Summit/Banquet to brainstorm and proffer solutions to Nigeria’s lingering security challenges. Security experts, including Former Chief of Defense Staff, General Martin Luther Agwai, Major General Zamani Lekwot, and Group Captain Sadeeq Garba Shehu, all emphasized the need for sustained efforts to eliminate bandits and the Lukurawa groups, which are undermining the nation’s security.

In his presentation, Group Captain Sadeeq Garba Shehu, an African Union Security and Safety Expert, noted that since the advent of democracy in 1999, there has been an outcry for security overhaul towards a comprehensive address of the nation’s challenges, but to no avail. He emphasized the need for mass recruitment in the Police and Military personnel, citing the current meager ratio of security personnel to the population.

Shehu also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement the Security Sector Reform report, emphasizing that the report contains all the necessary recommendations to address Nigeria’s security problems. He advised the government to give more powers to the Minister of Defense, as the present arrangement does not provide for the minister to implement strong administrative instructions on security.

Former Chief of Defence Staff General Martin Luther Agwai, who chaired the summit, called for an overhaul of the recruitment process in the security architecture as part of steps towards tackling insecurity. General Agwai expressed concerns over the current recruitment process, where highly placed government officials decide who is recruited.

The Former Chief of Defense Staff noted that the current security challenges must be put to an end so that the country will be on the right track to achieving desired growth and development. In a presentation, former Director General National Orientation Agency Mr. Mike Omeri stated that the problems of justice, fairness, and equity have continued to escalate and heighten insecurity in the country.

He said the system has made it necessary for Nigerians to resort to non-conventional avenues, such as TV shows or prominent personalities, to seek justice. The Chief Executive Officer House of Justice, convener of the summit, Barrister Gloria Ballason, while speaking on dispensation of Justice, appealed for timely dispensation of Justice by the Judiciary.

Barrister Ballason emphasized that the Judiciary must ensure timely and efficient justice delivery. She noted that while there are judges and lawyers who serve with honor, ethical mistakes must be corrected, egregious violations must be penalized, and breaches of trust or crimes must be acknowledged and effectively redressed.

The Justice sector, according to her, cannot attract public confidence if it is not, like Caesar’s wife, above board. Barrister Ballason also called for national Re-Orientation and consistent reinforcement of values and behaviors that sufficiently mobilize citizens to act in ways that promote peace, harmony, and national development. The summit was well attended by security, economic, and social value experts within and outside the country.

Former lawmaker ,Senator Shehu Sani has commended the Eng Mele Kyari management of NNPCL for the commencement of crude oil and processing production.

According to him,the production will have impact on reducing the price of petroleum products and make life easier for the masses.

He however urged the management to expedite actions to ensure that the Kaduna Refining & Petrochemical Company Limited (KRPC) to come back to live after several years of non-production.

Senator Shehu Sani in a statement via a post on his X space said: “Glad to hear that Port Harcourt Refinery has commenced production.We hope this will impact on reducing the price of petroleum products and make life easier for the masses.

“We are anxiously waiting for similar gesture to Kaduna Refinery.A country that cannot process its natural resources is still a colony.Kudos to Kyaril.”

Port Harcourt Refinery, one of the oil refineries owned by the Nigerian state, has commenced processing crude oil production.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Femi Soneye, confirmed this on Tuesday.