The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Aiyedatiwa backs Super Eagles’ official barber in Guinness World Record haircut marathon bid

    Aiyedatiwa backs Super Eagles’ official barber in Guinness World Record haircut marathon bid

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged his full support to Joshua Aiyenuro, popularly known as T-Jos, the official barber of the Super Eagles, as he prepares to attempt the Guinness World Record for the Longest Haircut Marathon.

    The governor made the commitment during a meeting with T-Jos at the Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, where he expressed excitement about the project and promised to back the initiative aimed at bringing global recognition to Ondo State.

    T-Jos was officially unveiled on Tuesday by his partners and promoters, the African Civil Society Forum (AFRICSOF).

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa hails Afenifere leader at 99

    In a statement, AFRICSOF highlighted that the record attempt goes beyond personal achievement, noting that T-Jos is also on a mission to empower thousands of young Nigerians with modern barbering skills and create employment opportunities through vocational training.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the initiative as a commendable effort to inspire youth and promote skill acquisition in Nigeria.

    The statement by AFRICSOF said, “His ambitious project aims to establish over 10,000 barbing points across the country, creating a vast network of jobs for young people.

    “This initiative promises to have a profound impact on the nation, not only by creating jobs but also by combating social vices and steering young people towards a brighter future. By engaging youth in meaningful activities, T-Jos’s project seeks to foster a more productive and positive society.

    “This phenomenal feat is set to showcase Joshua’s exceptional barbering skills and unwavering endurance.”

    AFRICSOF explained that with this attempt, Joshua aims to make history and inspire a “nation and Africa at large.”

    “His dedication to his craft and his passion for excellence make him the perfect candidate for this record-breaking endeavour,” the statement added. 

  • Clarify status of allegations against ex-chairman Bawa, Coalition urges EFCC

    Clarify status of allegations against ex-chairman Bawa, Coalition urges EFCC

    A civil society group, the Coalition of Activists Against Corruption in Nigeria (CAACIN), has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to provide clarity on the status of investigations involving its former chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, and to take appropriate legal action if the allegations against him are substantiated.

    In a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday and signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Ahmed Aliyu, the coalition also called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to release the findings of its investigation into Bawa’s 2023 detention, stressing the importance of public accountability.

    “It is important that Nigerians are informed about the outcome of the DSS investigation, especially considering the duration of Mr. Bawa’s detention,” the statement read. “Transparency in such matters reinforces public trust in anti-corruption institutions.”

    CAACIN emphasized that its call was not a presumption of guilt or innocence but a demand for due process and openness in matters of public interest.

    The coalition’s statement follows recent concerns raised by the Citizens Forum for Transparency and Integrity (CFTI), which had also advocated for institutional transparency and adherence to anti-corruption principles.

    CAACIN further recommended that the EFCC review appointments made during Bawa’s tenure to ensure alignment with ongoing reforms and to safeguard the integrity of the Commission’s operations.

    Read Also: EFCC arraigns businessman for alleged $680,622.65 fraud

    “For the sake of institutional credibility, it would be prudent to assess the influence of past leadership on current operations,” Aliyu noted.

    The coalition further expressed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda and encouraged federal agencies to strengthen their frameworks through openness and accountability.

     Bawa was suspended by President Tinubu in June 2023, just two weeks into the new administration. He was later detained by the DSS for over four months, during which no formal charges were publicly filed.

    CAACIN reaffirmed its respect for the rule of law and urging all stakeholders to allow due process to prevail.

  • Insecurity: Group demands minister’s resignation, urges Tinubu to rejig defence ministry 

    Insecurity: Group demands minister’s resignation, urges Tinubu to rejig defence ministry 

    Following a wave of coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP on military bases in Borno State, the Northern Patriots for Security and Development (NPSD) has called for the resignation of Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.

    In a statement issued in Kano, NPSD President, Alhaji Mansur Ibrahim Dantani, expressed alarm over the escalating insecurity in the region. 

    He blamed the situation on leadership failure at the ministry.

    “The recent attacks on military formations in Marte, Dikwa, Rann, and Gajiram within a 24-hour window, which led to the deaths of brave soldiers and the loss of military assets, reflect a grave failure in leadership at the top of our defence structure,” Dantani said.

    He alleged that the minister is more preoccupied with positioning himself for the 2027 presidential race than with tackling the persistent security threats.

    Read Also: Ribadu: FG committed to protecting Nigeria’s critical assets from emerging threats

    The group also raised concerns about poor funding and inadequate resource allocation to the armed forces, stating that despite budgetary provisions, troops remain under-equipped and under-supported.

    “Our findings show that our soldiers exposed and poorly equipped to combat insurgents,” Dantani noted.

    He urged President Bola Tinubu to act decisively by relieving the minister of his duties and appointing a more capable and focused individual to lead the defence ministry.

    “The security of our nation must not be sacrificed for personal political gains. We appeal to President Tinubu to appoint a new defence minister wholly committed to securing the country,” he added.

    The NPSD’s call came amid growing public outcry over the resurgence of insurgent activities in the northeast, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over poor handling of the security situation.

  • Tinubu hailed over appointment of Adodo at NCNC

    Tinubu hailed over appointment of Adodo at NCNC

    The Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steadfast commitment to youth empowerment following his appointment of Amb. Solomon Adodo as Board Member, North Central Development Commission (NCNC).

    The group also expressed satisfaction with the President’s cordial working relationship with civil society organisations especially by appointing civil right activists into strategic positions.

    The duo of Comrade Danesi Momoh and Comrade Igwe Ude-umanta; National Coordinator and

    National Secretary of EUYI respectively in a statement jointly signed expressed appreciation over the appointment.

    According to statement: “it is a great moment for us because on Thursday, May 8, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR approved the appointment of Comrade Solomon Adodo into the board of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC). 

    “In doing so, Mr. President did not only appoint a brilliant head and capable hand, he also once again demonstrated his love and faith in the youth. 

    Read Also: Nigeria needs $10b yearly to fix power sector

    “As you know, Comrade Adodo, before becoming the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), was a veteran in grassroots youth advocacy and mobilisation. He was the pioneer National Coordinator of Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI) where he made advocacy and made youth unemployment and underemployment a matter of frontline national discourse. 

    “With this appointment therefore, young people and the rural communities will surely feel the impact of the NCDC because the core values which Adodo represents is youth inclusion and the defence of the poor. This appointment gives him the opportunity to take his years-long work for humanity to a greater height through the NCDC.

    “We must equally acknowledge and thank His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON, President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not just for his role in making this appointment to materialise, but his mentorship to Adodo and numerous young leaders in Nigeria. Like Mr. President, Senator Akpabio is a firm believer in the abilities of young people. We appreciate him. 

    “We, therefore, congratulate our pioneer National Coordinator, the President of NYCN, our friend, colleague and comrade-in-arms, Comrade Solomon Adodo. His appointment is very well deserved”.

  • Civil society groups condemn allegations against SGF Akume

    Civil society groups condemn allegations against SGF Akume

    A coalition of 11 civil society organizations, led by Conscience Nigeria, has strongly condemned what it described as unfounded and malicious allegations linking Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), to an alleged N80 billion fraud scandal.

    In a joint statement signed by key representatives, including Micheal Stephen Babatunde (National Publicity Secretary, Conscience Nigeria), Joe Mesele (Executive Director, Policy Advocacy and Integrity), and Adekola James (Northern Patriotic Front), the coalition dismissed the claims as lacking in credible evidence and motivated by bad faith.

    “We consider the statement by the factional Afenifere group as repugnant, prejudicial, and in bad taste,” the statement read, adding that the group’s seven-day ultimatum and threat of a nationwide protest were attempts to intimidate the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    The coalition clarified that the suspect at the center of the controversy, Mr. Uchi, is neither a presidential appointee nor affiliated with the SGF’s office. 

    “He is merely an opportunist and name-dropper who is not on the SGF’s payroll and does not work in his office,” they stated.

    The groups further revealed that it was Senator Akume himself who alerted the EFCC to Uchi’s suspicious lifestyle, distancing himself publicly from the individual. 

    They accused the factional Afenifere group of trying to manipulate public opinion and interfere with the EFCC’s ongoing investigation.

    The coalition reaffirmed their support for due process and urged the public to disregard politically motivated attempts to tarnish the reputation of the SGF.

    Read Also: Akume urges religious leaders to champion national unity

    “The surreptitious coercive attempt by the factional Afenifere group to manipulate the EFCC’s findings or incite public opinion to cast aspersion on the character and person of the SGF with the intent to sway public opinion against him is a direct affront, discriminatory, offensive, obnoxious, distasteful, and disrespectful,” the statement read.

    The groups condemned in its entirety the call by the Afenifere group for the suspension of Chief George Akume from office and the threat to call for a nationwide protest. 

    “We urge the group not to stampede, blackmail, or intimidate the EFCC and allow it to do its job, as the investigation into the matter is still ongoing,” the statement added.

    The civil society groups view Senator George Akume as a capable and loyal ally of Mr. President, working assiduously for the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President. 

    They made it clear that they will resist any attempt by the factional Afenifere group and their cohorts, or any other group or individuals, to denigrate, smear, or deride any of their leaders.

    “This Coalition does not support, encourage, or aid any act of corruption or corrupt practices from any quarters, but will vehemently resist any attempt to coercively or manipulatively slander, smear, or surreptitiously assert our leaders with unprofessional conduct,” the statement emphasized.

    The groups called for a thorough, transparent investigation into the allegations, based on concrete evidence and guided by the principles of fairness and justice. 

    “We also urge the public to remain cautious of unfounded allegations and to demand evidence-based reporting,” the statement added.

    The groups reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, good governance, and transparency, and will continue to resist any attempts to undermine these values.

  • NSITF MD laments falsification of claims

    NSITF MD laments falsification of claims

    The managing director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Oluwaseun Faleye, has identified fraudulent claims as a core challenge facing the agency.

    Faleye said this during the West Africa Technical Workshop of the International Social Security Association(ISSA), in Conakry, the capital of Guinea.

    Speaking on the topic: “Strategic Role of Actuarial Work in Strengthening Social Insurance Delivery at NSITF,” Faleye lamented that falsification of claims exposes the agency to operational risks. 

    In a statement by the Deputy General Manager and Head Corporate Affairs Department at NSITF, Alexandria Mede the MD also stated that partial digitisation often affected turn-around time and limited partnership with other social security institutions, describing it as one of the factors militating against an effective social security system.

    The NSITF managing director decried the low enrollment under the Employee Compensation Scheme, which he stressed was designed to grant relief to workers who suffer workplace injuries or death. 

    He said the unstructured informal economic sector which makes up about 80% of Nigeria’s economy, limited enrollment and diminished the safety nets for those enrolled.

    “NSITF’s attendance at the gathering indicates Nigeria’s return to the table at ISSA and the safety international scene of the social security industry while Industrial watchers opined that this comes with plenty of benefits for the country.

    Read Also: NSITF calls for robust risk assessment through AI, digitalisation

    “The gathering affords Nigeria the opportunity to keep abreast of international developments and global best practices in the Social security sector to better reposition the Fund for growth and sustainability.

    “The workshop with the theme: ‘Actuarial work for good governance and financial resilience of social security in West Africa’”.

    “The words of the NSITF MD further underscores a giant strive by Nigeria to connect back to the international community through ISSA in order to reposition the fund through the required guidelines especially in valuations that produces sustainability of the scheme and good governance,” the statement added. 

  • Obi, Mbah, Ododo, others set for Kwararafa Reporters Award ceremony

    Obi, Mbah, Ododo, others set for Kwararafa Reporters Award ceremony

    Leading media platform Kwararafa Reporters is set to host its annual public lecture and award ceremony on June 6, 2025, in Abuja, drawing top political figures, thought leaders, and stakeholders from across Nigeria.

    According to a statement signed by Pastor Augustine Abel on behalf of Kwararafa Reporters, the event will focus on the theme: “The Role of the Judiciary, Legislature, and the Future of Elections in Nigeria.”

    The event promises to spark robust conversations around the nation’s democratic evolution and future prospects.

    Keynote speaker for the event is Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, with other featured speakers including Governors Dauda Lawal, Usman Ododo, and Agbu Kefas; legal luminary Sir Jibrin Samuel Okutepa (SAN); renowned human rights advocate Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu; Senator Ireti Kingibe; Hon. Philip Agbese; Senator David SU Jimkuta; and Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr.

    Also expected at the ceremony are former presidential candidate Peter Obi and the 16th Emir of Kano, HRH Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II.

    The event aims to spotlight Nigeria’s democratic journey, inspire positive narratives, and celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to national development through leadership, advocacy, and public service.

  • Why we rejected N200m bribe to stage protest against Tinubu, Matawalle – Group

    Why we rejected N200m bribe to stage protest against Tinubu, Matawalle – Group

    An advocacy group, the Northern Socio-Political Rights Network (NSPRN) said it turned down a N200 million bribe offered by proxies linked to the Zamfara state government to mobilise a protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

    In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, the group’s president, Mohammed Farouk Lawal, said the offer was made to them through third-party emissaries earlier this week, with clear instructions to publicly accuse President Tinubu’s administration of shielding Matawalle from corruption investigations.

    Lawal said the plot was part of a calculated campaign to weaken the federal government’s hold on the North-West by discrediting key appointees loyal to the president.

    “We were approached by individuals claiming to represent high-ranking officials in Zamfara. They offered us N200 million to organise a large-scale protest in Abuja, targeting President Tinubu and Dr. Matawalle,” Lawal said.

    “The aim was to give the impression that the North has turned against the president and that there is widespread outrage over perceived protection of certain ministers from investigation. We rejected the offer outright.”

    He alleged that the same network had already funded previous protests using other groups and was aggressively scouting for new voices to legitimise its campaign.

    “They are desperate for credibility. When they realised that our group has a clean record and strong grassroots following in the North, they thought buying us over would amplify their lies. But we are not for sale,” Lawal said.

    According to him, some of the terms of the deal included reading out pre-written scripts at press conferences, staging a protest at the EFCC headquarters, and creating viral videos calling for Matawalle’s arrest.

    Read Also: Jubril Tinubu invests in scholarship scheme

    The NSPR Network said the offer confirms that recent protests against the Minister of State for Defence were not grassroots-driven but part of a “state-funded blackmail operation”.

    “What is happening is an internal war against Tinubu’s appointees. We have it on good authority that these attacks are designed to cause disaffection ahead of 2027. But this group will not be part of it,” Lawal declared.

    The group commended President Tinubu for appointing northern leaders with capacity and defended Matawalle as one of the few former governors actively supporting military efforts to curb banditry and terrorism in the North.

    “While some are busy funding protests, the minister is helping to secure our region. Nigerians must see through this charade,” Lawal added.

    The group urged security agencies to probe the source of funds allegedly being used to sponsor political protests in the capital, warning that if unchecked, such actions could pose a threat to national stability.

  • You can’t shield state Assemblies from accountability, Group replies conference of speakers

    You can’t shield state Assemblies from accountability, Group replies conference of speakers

    The Citizens Coalition for Transparency and Accountability (CCTA) has strongly condemned the recent stance of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, who rejected the summons issued by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions to the Speakers of the Benue and Zamfara State Houses of Assembly.

    In a statement released on Saturday, the CCTA called out the speakers for attempting to shield state assemblies from scrutiny, asserting that no institution or arm of government should be above accountability, especially in the face of allegations that could affect public trust and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

    The CCTA described the response of the Conference of Speakers as an attempt to subvert the core principles of transparency and accountability that are fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic fabric. 

    According to the group, the Speakers’ objection to the National Assembly’s investigative powers is a flawed interpretation of the law designed to protect the interests of individuals, rather than the greater public good.

    “While we respect the autonomy of state legislatures, we must make it clear that no institution is beyond the reach of accountability. The people of Nigeria deserve to know how their representatives and leaders are conducting public affairs, whether at the federal or state level,” said Olufemi Adewale, President of the CCTA.

    The pro-democracy group argued that the National Assembly, under its constitutional mandate, has the power to intervene when there are clear allegations of misconduct, particularly when such allegations can tarnish the image of democratic institutions. 

    The CCTA emphasized that the checks and balances system is essential to uphold the rule of law and ensure that no individual or entity is able to undermine the trust placed in public offices.

    “The Conference of Speakers seems to forget that Nigeria’s democracy is not a system of unchecked autonomy for any of its parts. If state assemblies are exempted from public scrutiny, we risk creating a parallel system where state governors and legislators operate with impunity,” Adewale added.

    “The Constitution of Nigeria, under Sections 88 and 89, grants the National Assembly the authority to investigate any person or group involved in a matter of public concern. Section 88 empowers the National Assembly to conduct investigations into any issue of national interest, including those affecting the functioning of the government or the exercise of power. 

    “Section 89 further authorizes the National Assembly to issue summons and compel attendance, ensuring accountability across all levels of government. This power is not confined to federal matters alone but extends to issues affecting the broader democratic integrity of Nigeria.”

    In defense of the actions taken by the House of Representatives, the CCTA highlighted that the petitions in question were made by Guardians of Democracy and the Rule of Law, a civil society group, indicating that the issue was not a mere political ploy but a matter of public concern that warranted examination.

    The CCTA also pointed out that the National Assembly’s oversight role is not limited to federal issues alone, as established by the Constitution. 

    The group noted that the Federal Government has a vested interest in ensuring that all arms of government operate with the utmost integrity, particularly when matters of public interest and governance are at stake.

    “We cannot afford to ignore complaints from civil society or avoid investigating credible claims of wrongdoing. The people’s right to a transparent government cannot be trampled on by those who wish to shield corrupt practices,” the group asserted.

    The group’s called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to foster accountability, transparency, and good governance across Nigeria.

    It urged the Conference of Speakers to reconsider their position and allow the investigative process to unfold in the interest of the Nigerian people.

    “We challenge the Conference of Speakers to put aside political interests and support efforts to uncover the truth. Only through transparency and accountability can we safeguard the future of Nigeria’s democracy,” Adewale stated.

  • Gbenga Hashim meets Muftwang, condoles families of recent Plateau attack

    Gbenga Hashim meets Muftwang, condoles families of recent Plateau attack

    Ahead of the Middle Belt Worship Convention scheduled to hold in Jos, Plateau State, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to the state governor, Caleb Muftwang.

    The event, organised by the Covenant Altar of Worship, is expected to unite believers across the region in spiritual renewal and intercession for peace in Nigeria. 

    During the visit, Olawepo-Hashim prayed for the restoration of peace in Plateau State, which he described as a once-thriving centre of agriculture and hospitality.

    He expressed optimism about God’s plans for Plateau and Nigeria, urging citizens to return to worship as a path to healing and national transformation. 

    He also extended an invitation to the state government to participate in the convention, highlighting its potential to promote spiritual growth, unity, and faith in the Middle Belt.

    Governor Muftwang, who recently hosted the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, welcomed Olawepo-Hashim’s visit, describing it as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity ahead of the 2025 convention.

    Dr Hashim was accompanied by the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, in Plateau State, Dr Chris Hassan; Former Minority leader of the Senate Senator Simon Mwatkwom; Senator Napoleon Bali; Deputy Chairman Wase LGA Hon Natip Padur; former Youth CAN Plateau Mr Ezekiel Dumfa and Mr Dan Qada, Special Adviser to the Governor on Middle Belt and Ethnic Nationalities.

    He also took the opportunity to condone the families of people who lost their loved ones during the recent attacks in Plateau. 

    Read Also: Gbenga Hashim salutes Muslim Faithful at Eid-El-Fitri

    The governor equally thanked Dr Hashim and his delegation for their visit. 

    On the Governor’s team at the visit were Honourable Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Government; Hon Jerry Satmark; Chief of Staff in the Government House and Honourable Yari Kumchi.

    The governor and Dr Hashim later had a short closed door meeting.