The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has defended John Cardinal Onaiyekan and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), insisting that their criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration reflects the everyday experiences of millions of Nigerians rather than partisan politics.

In a statement issued Tuesday by its National Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the Forum condemned what it described as attempts by presidential aides and political allies to discredit the former Archbishop of Abuja after he questioned the government’s handling of the economy and national security.

The MBF said Cardinal Onaiyekan’s comments were consistent with concerns earlier presented by Catholic bishops during their July 24 meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, where they warned that economic reforms had increased hardship and that insecurity remained widespread across the country.

According to the Forum, dismissing the Cardinal’s views amounts to ignoring the daily struggles of Nigerians battling rising food prices, inflation, unemployment and persistent violence.

The organization also rejected allegations that the senior cleric was engaging in partisan politics, describing him as a respected religious leader whose public interventions have consistently focused on justice, peace and national unity.

Turning to security, the MBF argued that despite the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces, large parts of the Middle Belt continue to experience deadly attacks that have displaced millions, destroyed farming communities and worsened the humanitarian crisis.

The Forum cited Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Niger and parts of Borno among areas where residents continue to face violence, resulting in abandoned farmlands, destroyed homes and thousands of internally displaced persons with limited government assistance.

It maintained that while security personnel continue to make significant sacrifices, government efforts have yet to halt the persistent attacks on rural communities or enable displaced families to return safely to their ancestral homes.

On the economy, the MBF maintained that official claims of improvement do not reflect realities on the ground. It argued that although the national minimum wage has increased from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, soaring inflation, rising fuel prices and the sharp depreciation of the naira have significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power, leaving many households worse off than before the reforms.

The Forum said the administration should welcome constructive criticism from respected national figures instead of allowing political allies to attack those raising legitimate concerns about governance.

“The Cardinal merely echoed what millions of Nigerians experience every day. He spoke neither as a politician nor as an opposition figure. He spoke as a patriotic Nigerian and a respected religious leader committed to justice, peace and the welfare of all citizens,” the statement said.

The MBF urged the Tinubu administration to focus on reversing the country’s economic hardship, restoring security across troubled regions and addressing the plight of millions of displaced Nigerians, rather than engaging in public disputes with religious leaders who speak on behalf of suffering citizens.

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has called on Catholic Bishops in Nigeria to acknowledge the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration while continuing to offer constructive criticism in the interest of the nation.

Sani, in a statement on Sunday, said the Catholic Church has historically played a significant role in shaping public discourse and providing moral guidance, a contribution he said is widely appreciated.

He noted that while it is important for religious leaders to hold government accountable, they should also objectively assess the current situation against what obtained in previous administrations.

“We appreciate that Tinubu has achieved in infrastructure, security and the economy,” Sani said. “Catholic leaders are men of honour and integrity. They should encourage the President to achieve more.”

The former lawmaker stressed that comparing the present realities with the past would give Nigerians a clearer perspective on the progress made so far, particularly in road construction, efforts to curb insecurity, and ongoing economic reforms.

“The role the Catholic leaders are playing in the past is appreciated, but they should compare the situation of the country before the present administration,” he added.

Sani urged the bishops to continue engaging government with facts and recommendations, saying such engagement would help strengthen governance and ensure more dividends of democracy for citizens.

The comment comes amid heightened public debate on the performance of the Tinubu administration, with various stakeholders calling for collaboration between government and civil society to address national challenges.

Veteran journalist and Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mallam Yusuf Dingyadi, has paid tribute to the late former Finance Minister, elder statesman and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, describing him as a trusted brother who lived a fulfilled life of integrity, service and compassion.

In a condolence message, Dingyadi said the late statesman was a gentle, humble and deeply religious man who devoted his life to serving humanity, supporting the less privileged and promoting community development.

He recalled that their relationship blossomed during their journalism careers, particularly through writing, publishing and their involvement with the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

“It will be recalled that late Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji organised a reception in his residence to honour three of us—Altine Shehu Kajiji, Kabir Assada and myself. That occasion cemented our relationship for life,” Dingyadi said.

He also reminisced about how the late statesman hosted a delegation of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) journalists during the turbaning of the late Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido.

“During the dinner, we all benefited from Alhaji’s wealth of experience. Even the leader of the delegation, Hilary Anderson, publicly acknowledged the gesture and said she had learnt many things she never knew despite living in London,” he added.

Dingyadi described the late Sardaunan Sokoto as a man who loved and helped people without discrimination, shunned propaganda, rejected selfishness and remained courageous throughout his life.

“Since the demise of Sarkin Yakin Gwandu, Alhaji Abubakar Koko, Tsoho Mafara and Muhammadu Bature, I have not seen a man who carried the burden of his people with such sincerity as late Sardaunan Sokoto.

“He opened his doors to everyone. On one occasion, he instructed his aide to grant me unrestricted access to him at all times. Anyone who was not close to him could never fully appreciate the depth of his character,” Dingyadi said.

He noted that the late elder statesman fondly called him “Yusufu,” a name he always used affectionately, reflecting his cheerful disposition, humility and respect for others.

Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji served as Minister of National Planning and later Minister of Finance during the administration of former military President Ibrahim Babangida.

Before his ministerial appointments, he built a distinguished career in the federal civil service, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary and serving in key ministries, including Trade, Finance and National Planning.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost technocrats, he played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economic policies and managing relations with international financial institutions during a challenging period in Nigeria’s economic history.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service and the Sokoto Caliphate, he was conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Sardauna of Sokoto in 1990, succeeding the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of the defunct Northern Region.

Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders, traditional rulers and associates, who described him as a disciplined administrator, accomplished economist and patriotic Nigerian whose legacy of integrity and selfless service will endure for generations.

His funeral prayer, held at the Sultan Bello Mosque in Sokoto, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki, Sambo Dasuki, Abubakar Dasuki and several serving and former ministers, members of the National Assembly, senior government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries from across the country.

By Philip Sule

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has honoured the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, for what it described as his outstanding leadership, commitment to national development and support for youth empowerment.

In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by its president, Alhaji Danbature Abdul, the youth group said the recognition was in appreciation of Faleke’s contributions to nation-building, exemplary public service and people-centred leadership.

According to the Assembly, the lawmaker has consistently demonstrated commitment to the principles of good governance, inclusive development and national unity through his leadership and service to the country.

The group noted that Faleke’s support for youth development and his leadership style had inspired many young people, particularly in Northern Nigeria, to embrace the values of integrity, excellence and responsible leadership.

AYAGL also commended the federal lawmaker for what it described as his role in encouraging Northern youths to pursue quality leadership, promote national cohesion and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

It stated that Faleke’s style of leadership continues to serve as an example for public office holders and emerging leaders across the country.

Describing him as a statesman whose influence transcends ethnic, religious and regional divides, the Assembly said his record of selfless service and commitment to the welfare of the people had earned him widespread respect and admiration.

The group further praised the lawmaker for his contributions to youth empowerment and national progress, urging him to remain committed to serving the nation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting credible leadership, youth inclusion, peace, unity and sustainable development across Nigeria.

ENDS

By Luka Modele

The 2026 executive election of the Plateau State Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has suffered a major setback following the collapse of its electoral process, with the reconstituted Credentials Committee resigning en masse and several aspirants withdrawing from the race.

The latest twist has created uncertainty over the conduct of the election, as the Chapel is now without a functioning electoral committee to supervise the exercise scheduled to produce a new leadership.

The crisis is believed to have been triggered by allegations of undue interference in the electoral process, with some contestants reportedly opting out after expressing concerns over the fairness, transparency and credibility of the exercise.

Barely had the withdrawals become public than members of the reconstituted Credentials Committee also announced their resignation, a development that has effectively grounded preparations for the election and left members questioning the future of the poll.

The unfolding situation has generated widespread concern within the Chapel, with several members expressing fears that external interests may have compromised the independence of a process traditionally driven by journalists themselves.

Observers say the current impasse marks one of the most challenging moments for the Plateau Correspondents’ Chapel in recent years, warning that prolonged uncertainty could affect the unity and institutional credibility of the body.

For decades, Correspondents’ Chapels across Nigeria have been recognised for conducting elections based on democratic principles, transparency and the collective will of members, with little or no external influence.

Stakeholders insist that preserving those values is essential to protecting the professional integrity of the Chapel, stressing that any attempt to manipulate its electoral process could erode confidence in its leadership and governance structure.

Amid the growing tension, calls have intensified for an urgent intervention to restore normalcy, reconstitute the electoral committee and establish a process that enjoys the confidence of all contestants and members.
Many members are now urging the Chapel’s leadership and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the election is conducted in an atmosphere of fairness, openness and independence, insisting that only a transparent and member-driven process can guarantee a credible outcome and safeguard the democratic tradition of the Correspondents’ Chapel.

---

Ogbebe Anya

…Warns Peddlers of Falsehood to Desist from Distracting Security Efforts

---

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has dismissed reports alleging that the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) has resigned from office, describing the claims as false, misleading and the handiwork of individuals seeking to undermine ongoing efforts to improve national security.

---

In a statement issued by its president, Amb.Danbature Abdul, the group reaffirmed its confidence in the Defence Minister, commending his leadership and commitment to strengthening the country’s security architecture.

---

AYAGL said General Musa’s operational approach has continued to produce positive outcomes in the fight against insecurity, alleging that those behind the rumoured resignation were individuals opposed to the progress being recorded in the sector.

---

The group also praised the minister for his contributions to youth development, noting that his support for empowerment programmes, capacity-building initiatives and engagement with young people reflects his commitment to Nigeria’s future.

---

According to the group, the continued confidence reposed in the minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, underscores his competence, professionalism and dedication to national service.

---

AYAGL urged Nigerians to disregard the resignation reports and avoid circulating unverified information capable of creating unnecessary tension or distracting government officials from their responsibilities.

---

The organisation reaffirmed its support for the Defence Minister and other public officials working towards ensuring peace, security and national development.

---

ENDS

The Igbo Youth League (IYL) has accused the media adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Paul Ibe, of placing personal political interests above the collective aspirations of the Igbo people, alleging that he has chosen “Atiku’s crumbs” over the interests of the South-East.

The group, in a statement issued on Thursday, alleged that Ibe’s recent political engagements and public comments were inconsistent with the quest for greater political inclusion and equity for the Igbo nation.

According to the league, Ibe’s continued defence of Atiku Abubakar and his political agenda amounts to a betrayal of the aspirations of many Igbos who believe the South-East deserves stronger representation in Nigeria’s leadership.

The youth organisation claimed that political appointments and personal benefits should not take precedence over the broader interests of the region, urging Igbo political actors to remain committed to advancing the collective cause of the South-East rather than individual ambitions.

The league further warned that history would judge public figures who, in its view, sacrifice regional interests for personal political gain.

It called on Igbo leaders, professionals and youths to remain united in pursuing justice, fairness and political inclusion, insisting that no individual should undermine the region’s collective voice for temporary political advantage.

Paul Ibe, a long-time spokesman and media adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has consistently defended his principal’s political positions and recently criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over issues of governance, security and the economy.

As of the time of filing this report, Paul Ibe had not publicly responded to the allegations made by the Igbo Youth League.

By Our Correspondent

A Northern Christian Progressive group has called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) to appoint a Northern Christian as Director-General of the presidential campaign to ensure the overwhelming success of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

The Group Secretary, Rev. Hayap Musa Danladi, made the appeal on behalf of the group in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

Danladi stressed that it is the right time for Northern Christians to demonstrate their loyalty and political weight in the forthcoming 2027 general election.

“We appeal to President Bola Tinubu to consider appointing a Christian politician from Northern Nigeria, especially prominent ones, as was done in the 2023 election by appointing the former Plateau State Governor, Mr. Simon Lalong, to steer the election ship,” Danladi said.

“We are optimistic that Lalong, with his widespread support and experience, contributed to securing victory for President Bola Tinubu’s election.”

According to him, giving such a position to a Northern Christian will further strengthen the campaign and clear all miscommunications, misconceptions and false claims of presidential bias being spread by political opponents.

The group secretary emphasised that the inclusion of Northern Christians will further highlight political acceptance, mutual respect and understanding among citizens.

He stressed that Christian politicians will surely work tirelessly to campaign for Tinubu’s victory in recognition of his achievements and landmark transformations in the country.

“We must shun religious hatred, ethnic differences and work toward national development, as well as overcoming challenges at all levels,” Danladi added.

“Christians mean well for all Nigerians. We consider all people equal and focus on nation-building without considering Muslims as opponents or critics of ideas.

“We must respect individuals, as demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu, through his style of leadership that works in the interest of all Nigerians.”

Earlier, the Leader of the Northern Christians Youth, Mr. Zakaria Bitrus Gwasshi, commended Tinubu on his administration’s achievements, fairness and for uniting the nation despite some pockets of challenges across the country.

Gwasshi said his blueprint for fighting insecurity, economic development and ensuring peaceful coexistence is glaringly evident in the country, particularly bringing an end to religious crises bedevilling some states of Bauchi, Kaduna, Plateau and Benue, without witch-hunts or other biases.

---

Tags: 2027 Election, APC, Bola Tinubu, Northern Christians, Campaign Director-General, Simon Lalong, Religious Inclusion

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has condemned the engagement of a Washington-based lobbying firm by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to circulate documents relating to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to officials in the United States.

Sani described the move as unnecessary and capable of undermining Nigeria’s image abroad, urging political actors to resolve their differences within the country’s democratic and legal institutions rather than seeking to influence foreign governments.

His reaction followed reports that the Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., retained by Atiku Abubakar under a reported 12-month contract, had begun distributing documents relating to a long-running U.S. civil forfeiture case involving President Tinubu to officials in the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, members of Congress and congressional staff.

According to reports, the firm said it was sharing records from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) concerning a 1993 civil forfeiture proceeding involving funds allegedly linked to Tinubu. The lobbying contract, reportedly valued at $1.2 million, covers advocacy, diplomatic outreach and the presentation of Atiku’s positions to U.S. policymakers.

Reacting to the development, Sani maintained that disagreements arising from Nigeria’s political process should not be exported to foreign capitals.

He argued that Nigeria’s sovereignty and international reputation should take precedence over partisan interests, warning that attempts to lobby foreign governments against the country’s leadership could have unintended consequences for Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and national interest.

The former lawmaker called on politicians across party lines to conduct their political engagements responsibly, stressing that elections and governance issues should be addressed through constitutional means and established democratic institutions.

Sani further urged all stakeholders to place national unity and the country’s global image above political rivalry, noting that healthy opposition remains an essential part of democracy but should not come at the expense of Nigeria’s reputation on the international stage.

Defending champions, Kada Queens of Kaduna State, on Saturday successfully retained their women’s title at the 2026 National Hockey Championship after defeating Plateau State 2-0 in the final played at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The victory reaffirmed Kaduna State’s dominance in Nigerian women’s hockey, as the Kada Queens produced a disciplined and commanding performance to overcome a determined Plateau side and lift the championship trophy for another year.

The Kaduna team controlled the pace of the match with impressive tactical organisation, converting two scoring opportunities while keeping their opponents at bay to seal a deserved victory before an enthusiastic crowd of hockey enthusiasts and officials.

Former Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani as the Guest of Honour, attended the final and congratulated both teams for their outstanding display of sportsmanship and competitiveness.

He commended the Kaduna State Government for its sustained commitment to sports development, describing the team’s success as a reflection of deliberate investment in youth and athletic excellence.

The triumph further strengthens Kaduna State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading hockey centres. Prior to the championship, officials of the Kada Queens had expressed confidence in the team’s readiness to defend its title, citing months of intensive preparations, quality coaching and participation in international competitions.

Team officials also attributed the successful title defence to the support of Governor Uba Sani’s administration, noting that increased funding for sports, improved welfare for athletes and continuous investment in hockey development have played a significant role in the team’s consistent achievements at national competitions.

With the latest triumph, Kada Queens have added another remarkable chapter to their illustrious history, further cementing their status as one of Nigeria’s most successful and formidable women’s hockey teams while setting the benchmark for excellence in the sport.