The Nation Newspaper

Tag: ACF

  • June 12: Abiola’s rival Tofa kicks as ACF backs Buhari

    • Akinyemi: Opposition to declaration can’t stand
    • It’s political opportunism says Ango Abdullahi
    • Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ogun declare public holiday
    • Abiola’s daughter: FG’s action politically, morally correct

    The controversy sparked by President Muhammadu Buhari’s declaration of June 12 as Nigeria’s authentic Democracy Day, continued yesterday with the candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC) in that election Alhaji Bashir Tofa objecting to the decision of the federal government.

    He asked government to reconsider its position on the matter and claimed that conferment of national honour on anyone should be beyond some cold political calculations.

    A former Foreign Affairs Minister, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, dismissed as untenable and a red herring, questions over the legality of the national honour of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) which Buhari plans to confer posthumously on the late Chief M.K.O.Abiola, the winner of the election.

    Akinyemi, a chieftain of the pro-democracy group –the national Democratic Coalition (NADECO) -in its heyday, said there is no basis for such opposition to the conferment of the honour as there is already some precedence.

    Tofa , who placed second behind Abiola, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the election, said although he had been inundated with calls on why he was not listed for honour, it was not the most important thing to him.

    He spoke in a statement, saying: “Following the decision by President Muhammadu Buhari to honour my late friend, Alhaji Mashood K. Abiola (may Allah grant him peace) and officially recognise him as the winner of the inconclusive 12th June 1993 presidential election in which I was a candidate, I have been inundated by calls from friends, well-wishers, former political associates and journalists.

    “While some worry about the brazen one-sidedness of this curious presidential action, especially given the list of invitees to Tuesday’s event at the Villa supposedly to mark ‘Democracy Day’, there are also those who canvass that I be so honoured with a similar award of GCFR, if the motive indeed was noble and meant to serve the end of justice.

    “As much as I appreciate the goodwill, in this circumstance, however, I have to say that I would not accept it as it is, even if given.

    “While I do not begrudge the President his power to bestow favour on whomsoever he pleases, it is also important, especially for history, for all actions from the highest authority in the country to be based on fair play and law.

    “Needless to say, being one of the two presidential candidates in that election does not in any way define me or my achievements in life; it was not even the most important one.”

    “However, as I have reiterated many times in the past, I am grateful to the numerous Nigerians from across the length and breadth of the country who made enormous sacrifices in the National Republican Convention (NRC) as well as the millions of our citizens who voted for both the late Abiola and myself in that historic election.

    “Much more importantly, I am most grateful to Almighty God for the several honours He has bestowed on me; all of which have enriched my life.

    “As for my friend, M. K. O. Abiola, what he needs most is our sincere prayers for Allah’s mercy and the gift of Paradise for him. While some of us cherish his memory as a departed friend and compatriot, there are many who will continue to exploit it and to glory in it for their own benefits.

    “For those who may have forgotten or never knew, the late Abiola was a close personal friend of mine, a relationship dating back to the Second Republic when I was the National Financial Secretary of the then ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and he was the Ogun State Chairman of the party. So, I do not in any way begrudge him the post-humous honour, even when I insist that the right thing must be done at all times.

    “Meanwhile, whatever may be the prevailing sentiment and politics in Abuja, the idea that June 12 should be the new Democracy Day is also a matter that deserves serious reconsideration. Such decisions should be beyond some political cold calculations.

    “Finally, like all, I am also travelling on the path prepared for me by God Almighty. He controls my destiny and I pray He will continue to favour and to guide me. All power belongs to Him alone. He gives it to whom He pleases and He has power over all things, including every ambition.”

    Why opposition to declaration of June 12 as  Democracy Day can’t stand –Akinyemi

    Akinyemi, in a statement in Lagos, advocated what he called a Dennington approach  “where determination is based on the need to achieve justice.”

    He was reacting to federal government’s decision to honour Abiola, his running mate in the much acclaimed June 12, 1993 presidential election, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, and the late human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

    He hailed Buhari for recognizing the validity of the election.

    He said: “As a member of NADECO in its heydays when it was most dangerous to be a member, June 6 marked the fulfilment of dreams, and the achievement of visions.

    “On that day, President Mohammed Buhari recognised the validity of the June 12 1993 Presidential elections, declared Chief MKO Abiola as the winner of that election, conferred national honours on MKO Abiola, his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, the human rights activist Gani Fawehinmi and declared June 12 democracy day.

    “I recognise how momentous that decision was and I not only welcome the decision, I thank President Buhari for the decision,

    “President Buhari has addressed some of the wounds inflicted on this nation and applied healing balm on these wounds.

    “Only those who lost family members, those imprisoned and detained or who had family members imprisoned and detained, those tortured and those driven into exile had felt the need for some measure of closure. That closure was achieved on January 6 by the executive order issued by President Buhari.”

    He appealed to President to remember other Nigerians who “also played active roles in the struggle.”

    These, according to him, include Dan Suleiman, Ndubisi Kanu, Frank Kokori, John Oyegun, Dr. Akingba, Bagauda Kaltho.

    He said they all deserve national honours in future exercises.

    Continuing, Akinyemi said: “the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day is a victory for all Nigerians and not just for those who voted for MKO Abiola.

    “The voting pattern on June 12 1993 sealed the cleavages that have bedevilled Nigeria since the unification by Lugard.

    “The annulment of the election results reopened and deepened those cleavages. I recognise and accept that the June 6 Presidential Executive Order has applied some balm on these cleavages and therefore should be welcomed as a national rather than a sectional victory.

    “The courage of the President in tackling this issue should be acknowledged.

    “As the Deputy Chairman of the 2014 National Conference, I recall that when the issue of June 12 was raised, it almost tore the Conference apart.

    “I also recall that the issue of June 12 had been raised in different sessions of the National Assembly without resolution. That it took President Buhari to resolve this issue is a manifestation of what social scientists call the Nixon-China syndrome.

    “It took a rabid anti-communist like Richard Nixon to extend diplomatic relations to China without the fear of being labelled a communist. It has taken a Buhari, who nobody can accuse of pandering to the South and who is trusted by the North to do justice to June 12.

    “The legality of the executive order which has been raised is not tenable and is a red herring. First is the issue of precedence. President Shagari awarded a national honour posthumously to Chief Israel Adebajo and his son collected it on his behalf.

    “Secondly, the award cannot be subject to strict legal interpretation. I would rather suggest a Dennington approach where determination is based on the need to achieve justice. MKO Abiola was elected in 1993 when he was still alive and remained alive for six more years.

    “That is when he earned the GCFR. Acts of illegality prevented him from being decorated with it. Those acts of illegality have just been annulled.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    The spirit of June 12 is national. Let us build on it. Thank you, President Buhari for taking the first of the many steps you will need to take to heal the wounds that afflict us.”

     

    ACF gives kudos to Buhari

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) however applauded   the President for the move.

    National Publicity Secretary of the forum, Alhaji Muhammad Ibrahim Biu told The Nation that the President’s decision is apt, arguing that June 12 is truly more relevant to Nigeria’s democracy than May 29.

    One time Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Ango Abdullahi does not agree with him.

    For him, Buhari’s action is nothing short of political opportunism, and the planned honour for Abiola belated, while a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Soni Ajala warned against muddling “the politics of the issue of the posthumous award of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) with the core legal issue of the politics of the award.”

    Another senior advocate, Mr. Femi Falana, said the president’s action is in order.

    One of the late Chief Abiola’s daughter, Rinsola, said justice has been done at last.

    “What the president has done is what justice demands. It is politically correct. And it is morally alright too,” Rinsola, an aide to House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara, told The Nation.

    Biu said: “The decision of Mr. President is a good development that would put to rest any ill feeling generated by the annulment of elections of June 12, 1993.

    “Besides putting aside the feelings, June 12 is more relevant to democracy than May 29, considering the likely victory of Chief M K O Abiola and Ambassador  Baba Gana Kingibe in the June 12, 1993 election considered by many Nigerians to have been the most free, fair, credible and peaceful ever held.”

    Asked about those linking the President’s decision to 2019 general elections, the ACF chieftain said: “people can criticize anything they like, but the honour done to MKO and others, is well deserved.

    “The posthumous award of GCFR to late Chief Abiola, and GCON to Amb. Kingibe would certainly heal the wounds inflicted by the annulment, including the posthumous GCON for the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, for his tireless fight for human rights and actualization of the June 12 election of 1993.

    “So, this as far as we are concerned is good for the democracy and also for the unity of Nigeria.”

    Honour for MKO is belated –Ango Abdullahi

    Professor Abdullahi in his own opinion said: “If the President’s declaration is intended to honour Chief MKO Abiola, I think, it is belated.

    “So, I consider it to be political opportunism. If there is any Democracy Day Nigerians should worry about, it should be 1st of October, which marks our Independence Day.

    “So, I think it is political opportunism because it is belated. If not, why didn’t Obasanjo do it, why didn’t Yar’Adua do it or even Jonathan?

    “We have had three regimes since MKO’s death and nobody had the right thinking cap to remember the man? Or to honour him or remember the circumstances of his death until now? That is why I said it is first of all belated and in my own thinking a political opportunism,” he said.

    Speaking on the declaration of  June 12 as Democracy Day, Professor Abdullahi  said, even May 29 ought not to be Nigeria’s democracy day.

    His words:”why was May 29 Democracy Day in the first place? It was a creation of Obasanjo. Because that was the day power was handed over to him.

    “But, must that be Democracy Day, when we already have October 1st? But, because Nigerians always like to go on holiday, that is why they accepted Obasanjo’s May 29, which as far as I am concerned is the marking of his own history in the political development of Nigeria.”

    Ajala: FG must first resolve existing legal hurdles, reverse the annulment

    In a separate interview, Dr Ajala said: “Much as all patriotic Nigerians applaud Mr. President, for the bold step of recognising the supreme sacrifice of Chief MKO Abiola as the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, there are landmine legal puzzles that cannot even be cured by administrative publication in the Federal Government Gazette by the Attorney General of the Federation as directed by President Buhari.

    “I seriously share the sentiments expressed by Senator Ike Ekweremadu on the floor of the Senate on Thursday, June 7, 2018 when he attempted to sensitize the hallowed chambers on the complex legal issues intertwined in the gesture of Mr. President in bestowing posthumous award of GCFR on Chief MKO Abiola and the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day.

    “Lest we forget, the presidential election conducted by the National Electoral Commission under the leadership of Professor Humphrey Nwosu on June 12, 1993 was annulled by a decree, duly promulgated by the National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) presided over by the Military President Ibrahim Babaginda on June 26, 1993. This historical legal instrument is very well to the knowledge of the presidency of today as it is  an open secret that the presidency of the day has one of the finest minds in the legal firmament of contemporary Nigeria.

    “Therefore, the unsettling question to dispassionate legal analysts  of the web of legal issues thrown up by the gesture of President Buhari in bestowing posthumous award of GCFR on Chief MKO Abiola and the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day is thus; ‘Can something be placed on nothing and it’ll be expected to stand?”

    It’s validation of the integrity of the election -Falana

    Human rights activist, Femi Falana (SAN) said: “By declaring June 12 Democracy Day, the federal government has officially validated the integrity of the fair and free election that was criminally annulled by the Ibrahim Babangida junta.

    “By recognising June 12 as Democracy Day, the federal government has put an end to the hypocrisy of May 29, which was proclaimed by the Olusegun Obasanjo regime.

    “By conferring the post-humous award of national award of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) the federal government has officially endorsed his enormous contributions to the titanic battle against military dictatorship and promotion of human rights in Nigeria.

    “In addition to the historic gesture, the federal government should proceed to adopt Abiola’s Programme of Welfare to Poverty and respect the human rights of all Nigerian people, which Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN defended in his life time.

    “In particular, the federal government should mark the first national Democracy Day on June 12, 2018 with the release of all citizens being detained illegally all over the country and immediate compliance with all valid and subsisting court orders.”

    On legality of the national honours, Falana said: “The Honourable Justice Alfa Belgore, a retired Chief Justice of Nigeria was reported to have questioned the legality of the decision of President Buhari to confer posthumous awards on Chief M. K. O. Abiola and Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN.

    “Curiously, his lordship did not refer to any section of the National Honours Act or any other law that has been violated by the President. In like manner, some persons have alleged that the June 12 holiday declared by the President is illegal on the grounds that the approval of the National Assembly was not sought and obtained.

    “With profound respect to the Honourable Justice Alfa Belgore, the National Honours Act has not prohibited or restricted the powers of the President to confer national honours on deserving Nigerian citizens, dead or alive.

    “No doubt, paragraph 2 of the Honours Warrant made pursuant to the National Honours Act provides that “a person shall be appointed to a particular rank of an Order when he receives from the President in person, at an investiture held for the purpose…”

    “But paragraph 3 thereof has given the President the unqualified discretion “to dispense with the requirement of paragraph 2 in such manner as may be specified in the direction.”

    “Therefore, since the national awards conferred on Chief Abiola and Chief Fawehinmi cannot be received by them in person the President may permit their family members to receive same on their behalf.

    “Furthermore, section 2 (1) of the Public Holidays Act stipulates that in addition to the holidays mentioned in the Schedule to the Act, the President may appoint a special day to be kept as a public holiday either throughout Nigeria or in any part thereof.

    “It is crystal clear that the President is not required by law to seek and obtain the approval of the National Assembly before declaring a public holiday in the country.”

    “In view of the combined effect of the National Honours Act and the Public Holidays Act the legal validity of the well deserved awards and the historic holiday has not been impugned in any manner whatsoever.”

    A lecturer in the Department of Law University of Lagos (UNILAG), Mr.Wahab Shittu, is in agreement with Falana on the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day and conferment of Post-Humous honours on Abiola and Gani Fawehinmi, saying: “both actions are legal because the Honour Acts and Holiday Acts say the President has the prerogative to declare any day as public holiday and give national honours to whoever he deems fit.

    “The honourees can also send representations to receive the awards on their behalves. The declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day is a result of popular clamour over the years. It is consistent with people’s yearnings and agitation for years.

    “We all know Abiola made huge sacrifices for the democracy we all enjoy today and is a fitting awardee. I think we should all commend the administration for taking the measures, which are clearly in order.”

    On whether the moves could have been politically-motivated, he said: “Whatever motivation is inconsequential and immaterial because people will always read motives to whatever action one takes.

    “What is important is to find it the actions were in response to public agitations and in the interest of all. Once that has been proven, whatever motivation people want to read into it is immaterial.”

    Buhari’s action is polically, morally correct, says Rinsola Abiola

    Rinsola Abiola  hailed Buhari for doing the right thing at long last.

    “It’s not just a political matter, it’s a moral issue,” she said.

    She added: “my father laid down his life for the freedom of this country and her citizens and what the president has done is what justice demands. It is politically correct.

    “And it is morally alright too. We are happy that he has been recognised at last for laying down his life for democracy in Nigeria.

    “It’s going to be 20 years since daddy passed away in July; two whole decades. This is coming really late but better late than never.

    “The fact that some people refused to acknowledge the truth doesn’t mean others won’t do the right thing. For whatever reason you think it is, it took 20 years and others could have done this but they didn’t.”

     

     

  • ACF, Northern Yoruba community mourn Akanbi

    Northern group, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Yoruba community in  the 19 northern states and Abuja have joined others to mourn former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Mustapha Akanbi.

    ACF and Northern Yoruba community, in their separate condolence messages, said Nigeria has lost one of its finest elder statesmen and an incorruptible judge.

    In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, Arewa said: “The late Justice Akanbi was a renowned legal luminary, who reached the pinnacle of his career as the President of the Federal Court of Appeal and also served as pioneer Chairman of ICPC.

    “He was an embodiment of hard work, diligence, selfless service, accountability and above all loyalty to the cause of nation-building. He was a great public servant, who left an indelible mark, especially in shaping the judiciary and fight against corruption.

    “The late elder statesman was a man of great vision and intellect who was a strong pillar that continues to support the unity and stability of Nigeria. Justice Akanbi was also one a great pillars that formed and nurtured ACF to its present position as the voice of the North.

    “The late elder statesman would be remembered for his commitment to national unity, transparency, philanthropic works and selfless service to his father land.

    “Nigeria has lost one of its fineness elder statesman, a bridge builder and a leader who lived a simple and humble life. He needs no thumb stone to remind us of his legacies. Yet the best remembrance is for those he has left behind to live up what he stood for.”

    Similarly, leader of the Yoruba community, Alhaji Mohammed Arigbabuwo, described the late Justice Akanbi as an illustrious son of Nigeria, who has contributed immensely to its growth and development.

    “We pray for the repose of his soul and ask Allah (SWT) to grant Justice Mustapha Akanbi eternal rest and Aljanna Firdaus. We also pray that Allah gives his immediate family, Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • How to end herdsmen’s killings, by ACF, Iwuanyanwu, Niger Delta leaders, others

    From many quarters yesterday came kudos for the federal government  over  its latest initiative to stem the spate of killings by herdsmen across the country.

    But it was also told to be more pro-active in dealing with threats ,real and otherwise,to the lives and property of Nigerians.

    Government,on Thursday,adopted the recommendation of the committee set up by the National Economic Council (NEC) to stop movements  by nomadic  herdsmen starting with Adamawa,Benue,Kaduna,Plateau and Taraba –states worst hit  by herdsmen-farmers clashes.

    It said focus will now be on the creation of ranches where cows and their owners can have access to all they require.

    An Igbo leader and entrepreneur,Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Secretary General of  the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Mr. Anthony N. Z Sani,Senior Advocate of Nigeria Niyi Akintola, chairman of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT), Chief Edward Ekpoko, and an Urhobo opinion leader, Chief Victor Otomiewo,all agreed that Nigeria has had enough of the recent bloodletting.

    They  spoke on a day the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) accused President Muhammadu Buhari of playing the ostrich by the way his government is handling the herdsmen issue.

    But Buhari for the umpteenth time declared that unity has always been his objective  and pledged to  “ continue to do everything within my powers to unite Nigeria.’’

    Chief Iwuanyanwu speaking to The Nation said: “”It is a very strange experience. Nigeria is at war considering the number of people we are losing every day.

    “I think the security agencies  need to tell Nigerians the truth about what is happening, starting from the Boko Haram menace to the issue of herdsmen.

    “Up till now, we don’t know who they are  and where they come from.  I don’t have any doubt in my mind that the problem has internal collusion .

    “I am not even sure that the people who are arrested are the perpetrators of the crime. It looks to me like a well planned operation. Many people believe there is internal collusion and Gen. T.Y. Danjuma was bold enough to say this.

    “This is a war situation and we need  to do something to help those who are suffering.

    “If we continue this way, we are going to destroy this country. The country is on the brink of collapse.

    The case of Benue is very serious  and it has suffered more than Bornu. We have the North East Development Commission that is taking  care of  Bornu. The  same should be done to Benue, Taraba, Nassarawa and Plateau.”

    In a separate interview ,the Secretary General of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Mr. Anthony N. Z Sani advised the  federal government to  meet with all the state governors , chairmen of local governments and all stake holders “with a view to coming out with how best the mindless killings could be stopped and give way for the economic activities to thrive.

    “Because of the overwhelming challenges posed by these clashes, any plans and programs of stopping the killings should include short, medium and long terms.

    “Surely, ranches are the best practices in the world, but because of the limited resources and capacity on the part of not only the pastoralists but also on the part of governments at all level, it may be necessary to approach the introduction of the ranches gradually as resources and capacity permit.

    “That is why I commend the decision by the National Economic Council to start the process of introduction of ranches in some five states now with clear understanding by governors and all the stake holders that they need to work together ensure the plans and the programs succeed for the good of all concerned.

    “This is very important because peaceful coexistence is sine qua non for any meaningful socioeconomic development.

    “All Nigerians need peace to be able to sublimate their time and energy in order for both the country and the individuals to thrive.”

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Niyi Akintola warned: “This problem is speeding gradually  and we don’t know where it will spread to  tomorrow.I foresee a situation where people  will confront the security agencies  weapon for weapon. We need to increase the strength of the security agencies  and build the  confidence in the people.

    “What is happening in Benue is a confirmation of the postulation of TY Danjuma.  The old man was right.

    “I am worried about the loss of confidence of the people in our security agencies. Tthe mantra now is self defence. The self defence as propagated by Gen  TY Danjuma is now getting  a wider acceptance and approval across the country. The country will need to do more on enlightenment than appealing to the people.  The government has to be proactive.”

    The youth wing of  the Igbo apex socio cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo called for “security screening, registration, and regulation of herdsmen’s activities.”

    It also asked to  herdsmen to “always allow the rule of law to prevail since we are in a democracy and the military, Police, SSS et al; should be given enough logistics and equipment to eradicate the  herdsmen menace.”

    The chairman of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT), Chief Edward Ekpoko, and an Urhobo opinion leader, Chief Victor Otomiewo, said government should tighten internal security.

    “I think the whole herdsmen problem goes beyond dispute over grazing areas, it’s beyond that. The killings in Benue in the last three days, in which they had to go into churches, shooting people, what has that got to do with grazing? I think the thing is just pure insecurity; our  borders are too porous, especially in the north,” Otomiewo told The Nation.

    “It is unfortunate that rather than face the real issues, people are playing politics with the lives of Nigerians. You want Buhari to solve every security problem in every corner of Nigeria, but in the meantime you have governors who are pocketing security vote every month. You have council chairmen who are pocketing security vote, nobody is asking questions about that one.

  • ACF, PDP, Mark, Suswam, others decry killings

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has described   Tuesday  killings in Benue State as “unfortunate”.

    In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, the ACF said:  ”The spate of attacks on innocent people, including clergy men and worshippers in their places of worship, is most callous and unfortunate.

    ”ACF therefore calls on the security agencies to be more proactive and re-strategise their security operations in order to nip these avoidable bloodlettings in the bud.

    “Perpetrators of these heineous crimes should be fished out and be brought to book to serve as deterrence to others.

    ”Furthermore, ACF urges the Federal Government to set up a panel of inquiry into these incessant killings that have continued to bedevil most of the Northern states, with the hope that amicable solution would be found for common good.

    ”ACF consoles the government, people and families of those killed and wounded and hope that God would provide them with what it takes to bear the losses. May their souls Rest In Peace.”

    Former Senate President David Mark condemned the killings.

    In a statement on Wednesday by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, Mark said: “I am saddened by this unabating carnage. The people of Benue State are accommodating and law-abiding but it seems this gesture has been misconstrued to be cowardice.

    “Our people are known for their bravery. We are not cowards. Something must be done to stop this carnage. Enough is enough.”

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described it as sacrilegious and callous.

    Spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan said: “More worrisome is that the Federal Government has continued to allow these killings without any decisive steps to stem the ugly trend.

    “President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) Federal Government must live up to its basic responsibility of protection of lives and our national territorial integrity. Indeed, our citizens cannot continue to daily fall victims to attacks by marauders while the government fails to exert itself to guarantee their safety.”

    “The PDP commiserates with the Catholic Church, the government and people of Benue State as well as the families of the victims of these horrendous killings.

    “We pray God to heal our land and enthrone a national leadership that would restore peace, unity and harmonious living in our country,” the statement added.

    Former Governor Gabriel Suswam and former Assembly Speaker Terhile Ayua condemned the killings.

    They also sent their condolences to the Catholic Church and the people of the state over the killings of two priests and 14 other worshippers by alleged herdsmen during mass on Tuesday.

    Suswam, in a statement he personally signed said: “Words fail me to convey my feelings of grief at this sad occurrence, neither can another mere condemnation of such a dastardly heinous act suffice.

    “It is becoming a tragic routine to witness those killings and issue condemnation to them, after which they continue.”

  • ACF demands arrest, trial of perpetrators

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) yesterday condemned the  invasion of the Senate Chamber and the carting away of the mace.

    In a statement, the ACF said:  “The invasion of the Senate Chambers today by some hoodlums is most unfortunate and an embarrassment to Nigeria’s hard earned democracy.

    “The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) condemns such attack on the citadel of democracy. It is the height of irresponsibility on the part of the perpetrators of this unruly behavior, to say the least.

    “ACF, therefore, urges the security agencies to, not only protect the seat of democracy, the National Assembly, but also to institute a thorough investigations into the immediate and remote causes of this ugly incident.

    “Furthermore, all those involved, no matter their status in the society, should be arrested and made to face the wrath of the law.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to treat enemies of democracy with kids gloves.”

  • Offa robbery: ACF calls for proper equipping of Police

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) said on Friday that it was shocked by the recent armed robbery attacks on banks in Offa, Kwara, and called on the Federal Government to equip the police to carry out its responsibilities more effectively.

    A statement issued by ACF National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, made available to newsmen in Kaduna, said however that the quick response of the police in arresting some of the suspects was commendable.

    “ACF is shocked and grieved by the callous and dastardly attacks on some Banks in Offa town in Kwara state by some armed and vicious robbers last week.

    “It was most unfortunate that innocent persons and security personnel were killed by the armed robbers while some persons sustained injuries.

    “ACF was, however, heartened by the prompt action of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) in deploying Units of Mobile Police which led to arrest of some of the perpetrators of this heinous crime and the following restoration of normalcy in Offa town.

    “We, therefore, commend the action of the Police Command and urge the officers not to be deterred by the cowardly act of the criminals.

    Read Also: Offa killings: APC caucus decries carnage

    “While ACF urges the Security Agencies to always be proactive by constantly reviewing their security and intelligence gathering strategy to avert such ugly incidence, we equally appeal to the Federal Government to provide the Nigerian Police Force with adequate trained police personnel, equipment and motivation in order to enhance their performance.

    “The communities should also play their role by providing useful information on suspected persons to the Security Agencies in order to help track down perpetrators and bring them to justice.

    “ ACF extends its condolences to the bereaved families of victims, the Government and people of Kwara State over this unfortunate robbery and killings of innocent souls.’’

  • ACF to Boko Haram: surrender arms, embrace FG amnesty offer 

    THE apex northern socio-cultural group, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has asked the Boko Haram insurgents to lay down their arms and embrace federal government’s amnesty offer.

    ACF said the offer of unconditional amnesty by the federal government to Boko Haram terrorists and other groups was a welcome development considering the insecurity posed by the insurgence in the last nine years.

    A statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu yesterday recalled Biafran rebels and Niger Delta militants who denounced their rebellion and militancy against the state were not only granted amnesty but also empowered with skills and re-integrated into the society to contribute to its socioeconomic development.

    According to ACF, the spirit of amnesty is therefore to stop the killings, destruction of property and also denounce further rebellion and militancy.

    “So, any step taken by the Government to end the current security challenges in the country cannot be too costly as long as it is done in accordance with worldwide best practices.

    “ACF therefore urges the insurgents and other militia groups to lay down their arms and embrace the Federal Government’s offer of amnesty as the only means to peaceful coexistence and development,” the statement explained.

    The forum argued the amnesty offer by the federal government will also pave way for Nigeria to pursue order, justice, liberty, peace and prosperity for all.

  • ACF to Boko Haram: Surrender arms, embrace FG’s amnesty offer

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) on Saturday asked the Boko Haram insurgents to lay down their arms and embrace the Federal Government’s amnesty offer.

    ACF said the offer of unconditional amnesty by the federal government to Boko Haram terrorists and other groups who surrender their arms, denounce militancy and then pledge their loyalty to the government is a welcome development considering the insecurity posed by the insurgents in the last nine years.

    In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, and made available to journalists, ACF recalled that the Biafran agitators and Niger Delta militants who denounced their rebellion and militancy against the state were not only granted amnesty but also empowered with skills and re-integrated into the society.

    According to ACF, the amnesty is to stop the killings, destruction of property and rebellion against the state.

    It said: “So, any step taken by the government to end the current security challenges in the country cannot be too costly as long as it is done in accordance with worldwide best practices.

    “ACF therefore urges the insurgents and other militia groups to lay down their arms and embrace the federal government’s offer of amnesty as the only means to peaceful coexistence and development.”

     

     

  • APC, ACF welcome abducted girls

    THE All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) have hailed the safe return of girls abducted from the Government Girls Secondary School, Dapchi, Yobe State.

    APC said it was a demonstration of the political will by the Buhari administration to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

    It assured the citizens that the APC-led Buhari administration was doing everything humanly possible to ensure the safe return of the remaining Chibok girls.

    A statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, in Abuja said if the last administration had demonstrated the same commitment when the Chibok school girls were adopted, they would have been rescued on time rather than allow them pass through several months of torture.

    The statement said the party was confident that reforms embarked upon by the present government would improve the capacity and efficiency of the nation’s security agencies to prevent the kidnap of children by terrorists and diminish their ability to carry out attacks on soft targets.

    The statement reads: “The APC is extremely delighted with the news of the return of the school girls abducted from Government Girls Science Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State by Boko Haram.

    “The prompt release of the Dapchi school girls is another solid demonstration of the political will of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led APC administration to secure the lives of all Nigerians.

    “With this prompt release of the Dapchi girls, the APC government has demonstrated how government should respond to such situations. If the immediate-past Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration had responded with the similar alacrity, the Chibok school girls would have been released or rescued. Instead, the PDP wasted several weeks wallowing in denial and conspiracy theories such that it was now left for the APC government to rescue many of the girls and rehabilitate them.

    “We assure Nigerians that the current administration remains committed to securing the release of the remaining Chibok schoolgirl still held in captivity by Boko Haram and ultimately rehabilitate and reunite them with their families and loved ones.

    “The party is confident that reforms that the government has embarked on would improve the capacity and efficiency of our security agencies to prevent the kidnap of children by terrorists and diminish their ability to carry out attacks on soft targets.”

    The ACF equally called on the military and other security agencies to sustain the synergy and fast-track the search and rescue of the remaining Chibok girls kidnapped four years ago that are still in captivity.

    A statement issued yesterday and signed by the forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, said: “The good news from the Federal Government that the kidnapped female students of Government Girls Science Technical College, Dapchi in Yobe State that were abducted early this year by some Boko Haram terrorists have been released by their abductors is a welcome and reassuring development.

    “ACF, therefore, commends the Federal Government for its commitment and determination to the rescue and release of the Dapchi girls. The release of the Dapchi girls has certainly gladdened the hearts of the affected parents, relations, the Yobe State government and other Nigerians.”

  • Nigeria can never survive without North, says ACF

    Afenifere insists on restructuring

    The debate on Nigeria’s future continued yesterday, with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) declaring that this country cannot survive without the North.

    ACF is the North’s apex socio-cultural group. It is seen as its voice.

    ACF Chairman Ibrahim Coomassie stated this when the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Forum received leaders of the foremost northern women socio-cultural organisation, Jam’iyya Matan Arewa (JMA), in Kaduna.

    The one-time Inspector General of Police said: “We all know that without the North, Nigeria can never survive. We still stand by it. But now is the time to walk the talk in the interest of our people.

    “Chibok girls are still missing. Now it has gone to Dapchi in Yobe State. What happened? Are we always going to be the victims? Boko Haram; see what they did to the Northeast. They have spread over to the Northcentral and even to the southern part of the country.

    “Should we continue to be regarded in the negative side? No. We are leaders in our own right and we must exercise this responsibility for our people”.

    “Whenever there is crisis, women and children are always the major victims. Enough is enough. Enough of killings of our women and children, enough of kidnapping of our daughters and enough of destruction of our property. We are proud that you have come forward to meet us to discuss this issue.”

    Coomassie urged President Muhammadu Buhari to end the killings and kidnappings.

    JMA Chairperson Aishatu Pamela Sadauki, who was represented by Hajiya Aliko Muhammed, said their visit was to discuss how to protect children and women from incessant attacks.

    She said, as mothers, they had been alarmed by continued abduction of children and unwarranted killings, particularly in the region. She stressed the need to address it now, saying it was imperative.

    Also yesterday, some prominent Yoruba leaders under the umbrella of  Afenifere gathered in Ibadan to restate their stand on restructuring and true federalism  to preserve Nigeria’s unity.

    To the socio-cultural group, led by its National Chairman Chief Reuben Fasoranti, the only solution to the country’s challenges is restructuring.

    Eminent speakers at the Afenifere Oyo State Summit include Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa , Mrs Bukola Oni, Dr. Adebisi Busari, Dr. Gbola Adetunji , Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, and  Chief Sehinde Arogbofa.

    Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Gbade Ojo.

    Others at the meeting are: Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu , Dr. Olutoyosi Omotoso , Hon. Kehinde Ayoola, Mr. Nureni Adeniran , Mr. Akin Oke , Otunba Deji Osibogun and Mr. Seyi Makinde. There were many others.

    Oyo State Afenifere Chairman Adetunji, pleaded for cohesion and unity of purpose among the Yoruba.

    Ajimobi said the “Yoruba nation must strive to continually be relevant in Nigeria’s political matrix and federal arrangement. We must not relent in networking with other ethnic groups. This has become imperative in view of the fact that in the tripod called the North, the Southwest, and Southeast, no ethnic group can go it alone without the support of others .

    “We must struggle to register our presence at the centre. Any ethnic group that allows itself to be left behind will continue to be at the mercy of others . The Yoruba nation must continue to have voice in the project called Nigeria. This is in the overall interest of our kith and kin. “

    Delivering a lecture titled: “The Yoruba Nation : For better today and tomorrow”, Rev. Ladigbolu called for immediate restructuring of the country to fast rack development .

    He said: “Having been a beneficiary of regional autonomy in my younger days, and having participated as an observer of regional politics, I still have strong feelings that regional autonomy ought to be returned to the Yoruba nation and other states in Nigeria.”

    Rev. Ladigbolu who called for the preservation of Yoruba culture and heritage, said the idea of restructuring is that each component unit or ethnic nationality, no matter how big or small, desires the strength in the number provided by the union with others , but not a uniformity that can retard it’s growth or swallow it up.