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  • Arewa berates Kano Gov over alleged involvement in purported sack of Ganduje as APC National chair

    Arewa berates Kano Gov over alleged involvement in purported sack of Ganduje as APC National chair

    The Arewa Peace and Development Initiative (APDI) has blamed Governor Abba Yusuf for the purported plot to sack national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Umar Ganduje.

    The group further raised the alarm over looming crisis in Kano State and the north over Yusuf’s perceived political vendetta and witch-hunt of his predecessor. 

    The Arewa group, which made this known at a briefing on Tuesday, also alleged that Governor Yusuf has diverted taxpayer’s to sponsor a series of protests, rallies and press conferences against Ganduje. 

    The group’s convener, Yakubu Dauda, claimed that the goal is to taint the personality of the APC National Chairman to a point where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is forced to remove him from office.

    “We have pondered the incentives that would make grown men behave in such an irresponsible manner but could only come to the conclusion that these men are desperate to eliminate Ganduje from the equation to pave the way for them to defect to the APC. 

    “Some of their associates have hinted that even though they see no future for the NNPP in the 2027 General Elections both men are uncomfortable with being  Ganduje’s underlings in the APC.For us in the Arewa Peace and Development Initiative, our concerns are many. 

    “First, we are worried about the implications of this kind of nefarious tactics for our polity, a situation where a political party, in this case, the NNPP, is allowed to criminally impersonate another party, the APC, to torpedo the latter’s leadership is utterly dangerous, condemnable, irresponsible and must not be allowed. 

    “Secondly, we are worried about what Governor Yusuf and Kwankwaso plotted in planning violent crisis and unrest in Kano state is dangerous for the very reason that the violence they were bringing to the streets would most likely get out of control and spill to other Arewa states. 

    “Given the other security threats and issues confronting Arewa such despicable desperation has no place in our current socio-political configuration such that the north must rise as one to exact consequences from Governor Yusuf and Kwankwaso for daring to undermine our collective wellbeing in such a manner.

    Read Also: Arewa youths, ThinkTank back Tinubu

    “Furthermore, it is our firm belief that the people of Kano State deserve better. The money from their taxes and the commonwealth should not be converted into a war chest from which some people, including those without any business with the state’s coffers, deploy to pursue their ambitions.”

    The group called on the APC at the state and national level to diligently pursue the investigation and prosecution of those who purportedly acted as the executives of the party’s Ganduje Ward to discourage the repeat of such by any other political bloc in Nigeria. 

    It further demanded a comprehensive probe to unravel other people involved in the sham pulled by the Ganduje Ward executives with a view to getting them to provide law enforcement agencies with information to stop the planned crisis.

  • Aba power project: Arewa Think Tank commends Kalu, Nnaji, Ribadu

    Aba power project: Arewa Think Tank commends Kalu, Nnaji, Ribadu

    A Northern group, Arewa Think Tank, has commended the former governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the President/CEO of Geometric Power Plant (GPP), Aba, Prof. Barth Nnaji, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu for their respective roles in making the establishment and operations of the GPP a reality.

    Aba power plant, with the capacity to produce 188 MWT electricity, was started 20 years ago, and it’s expected to supply power to Aba metropolis and eight other local government areas within the Aba ring-fenced area.

    Senator Kalu, representing Abia North at the upper legislative chamber, was said to have granted a waiver to the company while in office as the governor, which made it become attractive to investors.

    In a statement on Saturday, the Chief Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, recalled the important role the former governor played in bringing the plant to fruition.

    Arewa Think Tank also commended the proponent of the Geometric Power plant, Prof. Barth Nnaji, who is the former Minister of Power during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

    “We have been following progressive events in this country, and we consider it appropriate to appreciate the efforts of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, who gave the initial waivers to Geometric Power Plant, thereby reducing risk of the transaction.

    “We are sure that if those waivers were not in place, no investor would have taken the risk to invest in such gigantic power generating business.

    Read Also: Emefiele moves out of CBN Gov’s quarters in Lagos

    “We want to commend Kalu’s dedication to the Geometric Power Plant and his role at the early stage of the establishment of the plant, because without Kalu granting the company waiver at her formative stage, investors wouldn’t have showed interest.

    “We also want to commend Prof. Barth Nnaji, the proponent of Geometric Power, Aba, who resigned as Minister of Power during the Jonathan administration because of lack of technical expertise in the privatisation process.

    “Prof. Nnaji had insisted that all DISCOS must have two things- technical expertise and financial independence to operate, so as to weed out those who wanted to use privatisation to make quick money.

    “We noted that after he left, many of the DISCOS eventually failed due to lack of technical expertise, and the banks they borrowed money from took over the assets.

  • Arewa: states doing little despite more cash

    Arewa: states doing little despite more cash

    AREWA Economic Forum (AEF) has said states are doing little to reduce suffering despite increase in allocations after fuel subsidy removal.

    Chairman, Ibrahim Dandakata, yesterday told the media in Abuja that a check showed some states had their allocations increased by 90 per cent.

    Dandakata noted that the increase is huge with little or no impact on the people.

    He called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse removal of fuel subsidy, as he lamented the hardship Nigerians face.

     The forum, which also spoke on the forex crisis, said the Federal Government must arrest fall of the naira.

     Noting dollar is not a legal tender in Nigeria, Dandakata urged the government to ban the keeping of dollars at home or in offices, and clampdown on hoarders of the currency.

     He noted government should probe why dollars go up after every FAAC meeting.

     “Government should stop the payment for goods and services online in dollars. Everything must be in naira.

     “If we don’t stop our obsession with the dollar, our naira will never rise”.

    Speaking on agriculture, he noted states are not doing enough in irrigation and provision of land for farming.

    Read Also: FG, States, Councils share N1.149tr for January 2024

     “States have to do better. Federal Government should stress semi-mechanised farming which creates jobs …”

    On mining, he said the sector is on the exclusive list as Federal Government has the powers, but the present administration is yet to come up with plan on artisanal mining- an untapped area for real, massive jobs.

     The Arewa chair, who spoke on education, said the country should focus on teaching young ones hard and soft skills to give them real sustenance.

    He, however, said there is a need to revert to use of local languages in teaching, adding skills rather than mere certificates should be priority.

  • Northern elders to discuss economic, security agenda with Fed Govt

    Northern elders to discuss economic, security agenda with Fed Govt

    Northern elite under the aegis of Arewa New Agenda (ANA) are set to engage the Federal Government with a set of proposals on how to stem insecurity and poverty, especially in the North and the country in general.

    According to the elders, the proposals, if considered and implemented, would pave the way for lasting prosperity for the entire country.

    Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Yayale Ahmed, revealed this at the opening of the  “Follow-on Conference on  Tackling Poverty in Northern Nigeria” in Abuja at the weekend.

    In Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State capital yesterday, elder statesman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria(SAN) Afe Babalola admonished President Bola Tinubu to adopt solution-driven interventions for the economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.

    ANA Convener,   Ahmad MoAllahyidi,   presented the proposals to the elders that included former governors- Isa Yuguda and Sani Yerima-;  Jonathan Zwingina,   Babangida Ngoruje, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Danladi Kifasi;   Fatima Adams and Chairman, National Hajj Commission, Jalal Arabi.

    Ahmed said:  “As elders, we agreed and submitted to the service of Nigeria and to the upliftment of the northern part of Nigeria, not because we are broken but it’s because we are realists.

    “We want to change our style and strategies in dealing with the issues and problems of northern Nigeria.

    “Our responsibility is not to just say the Government is not working, government must work through our contributions, the government must be responsible through our being responsible, the government must be committed through our commitment.

    “We are a patriotic group of Nigerians, the outcomes of these efforts will be communicated to the people that are in power for improvement of the generality of the people.”

    ANA also emphasised the need for the  Federal Government to actively support the North in leveraging the Nigerian Start-Up for Businesses Act of 2022. This, it said,  would enable companies in the region to conduct research, provide training, and develop globally impactful products.

    The proposals, according to  ANA Convener Ahmad MoAllahyidi, are  Pathway to Prosperity Approach, Farming and Agriculture as well as the establishment of Integrated Enterprising Productivity Inclusion Platforms in each of the 19 Northern states.

    The Pathway to Prosperity Approach involves matching vulnerable households and communities with the necessary skills to participate in the local economy actively. It will in the first instance support 100,000 vulnerable households per state to increase production and productivity within 15 months.

    On Farming and Agriculture, ANA  proposes the expansion of arable land in the country to 65 percent within four years.

    ANA also plans to see  10 million jobs created for youth and other demographics through the  Integrated Enterprising Productivity Inclusion Platforms.

    MoAllahyidi said: “The model has the potential to generate over N50 trillion cumulative per capital income annually, while insurgency, banditry and other social vices will be reduced drastically.

    “It will also boost our foreign reserve earnings and stabilize our economy

    “Training of youths on renewable energy systems  (solar, wind and biomass) as a component of livelihoods enhancement and a response to climate change.

    “Passing on the gift is a social intervention concept and the anticipated result from the scheme is to service up to 1,000 households per state for the 19 States.

    “Another proposal is the tissue culture for propagation of seedlings which is a simplified neglected intervention. This is a concept that builds an average of  two  million seedlings a year using micro-propagation.” 

    ANA  also appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider some policy measures, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sanctions on Niger Republic, particularly the closure of borders.

    It noted that the reconsideration was necessary due to the negative implications for the economy of the states in the North.

    Babalola seeks urgent solution to inflation, naira devaluation

    Elder statesman  Babalola listed inflation, naira depreciation and kidnapping as issues that have put Nigerians in pain.

    Babalola, at the sixth induction of  161 Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) medical doctors,  said the surge in inflation and the “worthless” value of the naira had further imposed hardship on Nigerians and eroded the production capacities of small and medium-scale enterprises.

    Read Also: Fed govt begins social intervention to alleviate suffering of Nigerians

    The ABUAD founder added that the economic pressure propels some frustrated Nigerians into criminal activities, including kidnapping.

    Describing the recent killing of some monarchs by kidnappers as “an unusual development,” the elder statesman said, “something has to be urgently done about the issue of kidnapping.”

    Babalola also stressed the urgent need for the Federal Government to boost local food production and for the migration of Nigerians, otherwise known as  Japa syndrome, to be checked.   

    He specifically enjoined the inducted medical doctors to shun the urge to ply their trade abroad.

    His words: “The Japa syndrome is a development in the country. This syndrome has to stop and the only way to stop it is to increase the salaries and wages of workers, which in my case I did by increasing the salary of my workers by 35 percent.

    “Many farmers have left their farmland now because of kidnappers, something has to be urgently done about the issue of kidnapping. Farmers have to be encouraged to go back to their farms.

    “It is saddening that monarchs are killed, it is an unusual development. what is behind all these is that we have no money, our money has no value and our currency is as worthless as toilet paper. Something has to be done about the naira and productivity. “I have seen people, especially, in the North agitating because the naira is getting worse, food prices are high, no employment, and those who get it are not paid. Something has to be done about it.”

  • Fifth columnists leaked presidential memos, says Arewa Think Tank

    Fifth columnists leaked presidential memos, says Arewa Think Tank

    Following recent leakage of some secret memos at the Presidency, Arewa Think Tank said it has been proved right that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must ensure fifth columnists do not embarrass his administration. 

    Penultimate Thursday, an internal memo was leaked, indicating that President Tinubu allegedly approved the disbursement of N500m from N1bn to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. 

    The allocated funds were intended for the inauguration of a 37-member Tripartite Committee responsible for discussing the New National Minimum Wage.  

    The Presidency has since requested an investigation into the civil service framework in order to eliminate individuals it refers to as “moles” who are loyal to the main opposition, People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

    However, the Chief Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu in a statement on Saturday recalled warning Tinubu last November when some critics descended heavily for his trio to  Saudi Arabia.

    Read Also: Moving depts of CBN, FAAN does not harm Arewa in any way – Reno Omokri 

    “This fifth columnists are within Nigeria, they are not in Saudi Arabia because if you see the kind of warm reception Saudi Arabia gave President Tinubu you wouldn’t say the fifth columnists are in Saudi Arabia. In some quarters, they said President Tinubu did not have one-on-one discussion with the crown Prince, Salman. 

    “But they told a different story. The picture showed that President Tinubu had a meeting with Prince Salman. So, Tinubu should probe deeper to ensure that the fifth columnists do not embarrass his government at any of his international visit again”.

    Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasised the need for the Federal Government to take action in identifying and removing individuals leaking classified documents and are believed to have allegiance to the opposition.

    Onanuga said: “What is worrisome is, how come a memo written by SGF to the President and bearing the President’s signature leaked out? It means that there are some fifth columnists-within the government.

    “It’s not the first time a memo will leak. There was a memo leak when the President went to UNGA, about a request for money to pay for his hotel bills and you wonder where it is leaking from.

    “There are so many moles around who are probably doing the bid of the opposition. They are not respecting the civil service rule for handling official secrets. And it shows that the government should look inwards to probe how memos between officials are getting into the public space. Memos that are supposed to be secret are not supposed to be flying all over the place.”  

  • Arewa Forum rejects planned WAEC CBT exams

    Arewa Forum rejects planned WAEC CBT exams

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called for the cancellation of the planned Computer-Based Test (CBT) format in the forthcoming West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.

    The forum believes that the introduction of such mode of examination will result in massive failure of students, particularly in rural states where computer skills are scarce or completely absent.

    The AYCF in a statement by its President-General, Yerima Shettima, firmly asserts that the CBT exams should have been optional, allowing candidates to choose between the traditional pen and paper format and the computer-based approach.

    According to him, this would have given students the opportunity to opt for the format they are most comfortable with and capable of attempting successfully.

    Shettima averred that research conducted by the Forum in selected northern states such as Zamfara, Jigawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Nasarawa, and Plateau revealed that the CBT exams have consistently led to misleading failure rates among students attending public schools, where computer skills are often not taught.

    Read Also: Military neutralises 43 terrorists, arrests 115

    “Even the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) CBT exams have placed underprivileged students in a predicament, as they struggle to answer questions in a format they are unfamiliar with.

    “Many students who failed the CBT-based JAMB exams last year argued that their failures were a result of systemic failures, including insufficient facilities or network failures during the exams. Additionally, a lack of proper and adequate computer skills, coupled with outdated desktop computers that are not properly maintained by CBT centers further exacerbate the situation.

    “As the exams are timed, these delays significantly hinder the performance of students who otherwise possess sufficient knowledge of the content”.

    In light of these findings, the AYCF urgently called upon the Ministry of Education, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and other relevant Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to unite and reject the planned CBT exams.

    The President-General state that: “The AYCF remains committed to promoting quality education, equitable examination processes, and the overall advancement of education in Nigeria. We stand ready to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find suitable alternatives that ensure a level playing field for all students,” he stressed.

  • Arewa Think Tank tackles US over travel advice

    Arewa Think Tank tackles US over travel advice

    A Northern group under the umbrella of Arewa Think Tank has tackled the United States (US) and other foreign missions on security advice to their citizens residing in Nigeria and those visiting the country.

    The Convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu in a statement expressed displeasure with the US and other foreign missions in the country against “needless security advisories”.

    The US government had penultimate week advised her citizens to avoid staying in  hotels and visiting certain states in Nigeria for security reasons.

    However, the statement said such alarming advice has far-reaching negative implications on the general polity as well as the country’s socio-economic status.

    Read Also: Certificate racketeering: LASU dismisses Dean of Student Affairs

    Yakubu said: “We are aware that the Federal Government was not resting on its oars to ensure that every inch of land and every citizen, both local and foreign, resident and visitor in the country is secured… Such alerts were “needless” as President Bola Tinubu was eager to get the country back on track.

     “We also support the law being proposed by the National Assembly banning  the use of US dollars to pay for transactions in Nigeria, this law will help in strengthening the Naira.

    “We want to encourage the CBN governor for the Naira gains against the dollar and the tempo should be maintained or strengthening further gains.”

  • Those attacking Wike want to destroy Nigeria and run away – Arewa Think Tank

    Those attacking Wike want to destroy Nigeria and run away – Arewa Think Tank

    A northern coalition, represented by the Arewa Think Tank, and in conjunction with various Islamic clerics from the region, has asserted that individuals criticizing Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, may have concealed intentions aimed at undermining Nigeria and relocating to another nation.

    Some Islamic leaders from the northern region recently voiced their disapproval of the Minister’s position in the FCT, contending that it should be restricted to a single faith and region.

    The Islamic leaders have called for Wike’s removal from his post, citing his Southern origin and different religious affiliation as grounds for their demand.

    However, in a communique after an emergency meeting in Kaduna with patriotic religious leaders, Arewa Think Tank noted that those calling for the removal of Wike have dual citizenship of other countries, hence the mission to plunge Nigeria into anarchy and chaos in order to run away.

    The Communique which was signed by the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu said amongst the Clerics that were in the meeting to ensure peace and unity were Sheikh Ibrahim Karatu Mando and Ustaz Bello Sani Bida who took turns to blast unrepentant inciting Islamic preachers.

    The communique read in part: “We condemned in strongest terms the unwarranted verbal attacks by some Islamic Clerics on the person of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike because any attack on the Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a direct attack on the entire country and entire Nigerians.

    “Those who attacked Wike want to destroy Nigeria because they have dual citizenship, and so they have a choice of belonging to other countries of the world and leave Nigeria in crisis and confusion because of their selfish interests.

    “We will not allow some few Clerics in collaboration with some foreigners who want to destroy this country because we will fight them with the last drop of our blood. If they have other country that they can run to, or if they have dual citizenship, most of us in the country don’t have dual citizenship and we have no other country to run to, so we will not accept that. So they should be prepared to face us.

    “We can only have one President at a given time. If some people are not happy with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, they should work towards the 2027 general elections and take a stand to vote for the President of their choice. So the attack on Wike was uncalled for because it had a divisive motive.

    “What is most worrisome is the divisive comment on the security of the nation by these religious bigots who said that it is dangerous to leave national security in the hands of the Southerners. This is uncalled for in a democratic republic like Nigeria.

    “Be reminded that Wike was a governor of a State known for development and peace. This prompted the President to call him to replicate the same feat in the FCT.

    “While he was governor of Rivers State, Wike contained cultism, lawlessness, and insecurity generally. His records are well documented and are there for everybody to see.

    “We also condemned those who faulted Wike’s meeting with the Israelite Ambassador to Nigeria. Such an attack was unnecessary because it is also on record that Nigeria and Israel have a diplomatic relationship as well as an economic partnership, which will benefit Nigeria tremendously. We therefore join millions of well-meaning Nigerians in condemning that comment.

    “We should not forget that we are a secular nation, and as such, every religion or nation is free to hold a stake, as long as our peace and security are not jeopardized. These recent utterances by some of our northern religious elite on the status of the Minister of FCT that it should belong to only one faith, and calling for the removal of the Minister, are totally uncalled for and we condemn it as such because these unpatriotic utterances are capable of fanning flames of disunity among peace-loving Nigerians.

    “Nigeria is a democratic republic with each citizen having equal rights as the other; as such, the seat of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory belongs to any qualified Nigerian, irrespective of tribe or religion, as Mr President may deem it fit to appoint.

    “Nigeria is going through a healing process under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a Muslim. It is important that Muslim clerics support his administration to ensure that justice and good governance are served to the Nigerian populace, which is one of the tenets of Islam.

    “This is the time for each and every Nigerian to embrace one another and overcome these difficult times. We should shun ethno-religious jingoism, as it is capable of setting our dear country ablaze.

    It further stated: “We are also appealing to Nigerians to shun rumour mongers because recently, a section of unpatriotic people went on social media, alleging that the FCT Minister, Wike, has concluded plans to demolish part of the Abuja Central Mosque, which was later confirmed by the same Abuja Central Mosque Authority, that it was false. This is very unfortunate and highly condemnable.

    Read Also: Wike: we prioritise vulnerable for palliatives

    “To the best of our knowledge, the FCT Minister is tirelessly doing his best to reposition the Federal Capital City with a benefiting status that we will all be proud of. We should therefore encourage him to continue with the good works, which, in the end, will benefit all Nigerians.

    “We want to use this opportunity to call on Nigerians to disregard any call against the FCT Minister, who is busy uniting both religions for a better country. We must not allow a few people to distract us from a working government that the majority of Nigerians voted for.

    “We make bold to say that already, various reforms are in progress to give Nigerians the best; let’s unite, therefore, to protect this God-given mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and pray to God to unite us more. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and her unity should not be traded for any personal reason.”

  • Arewa think tank tackles Niger Delta group over planned protest in Abuja

    Arewa think tank tackles Niger Delta group over planned protest in Abuja

    Northern group under the auspices of Arewa Think Tank (ATTAK) has tackled a coalition of oil producing states/ex-agitators in Niger Delta over planned mass protest against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engineer Gbenga Komolafe over allegations of shady deals at the Commission.

    The Arewa Think Tank said the planned protest was ill-timed and did not intend to encourage citizens to be patient with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration at its early stage of governance.

    In a statement after its emergency meeting in Kaduna, the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, who is also a chieftain of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) on behalf of its members, noted that the threat of mass protest by the Niger Delta group could generate severe unrest across the country, which according to him is not good for the nation’s democracy.

    Yakubu, however, warned that no region has the monopoly of violence, adding that the Niger Delta group should rather tow the path of peace and guide their grievances in accordance with the rules and laws of the land.

    The Arewa group expressed worry over what the coalition of ex-agitators from the Niger Delta region actually wanted at a time the government of President Tinubu has done almost everything for them.

    “The Niger Delta region under President Tinubu has produced the Senate President, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), one of the most juicy ministries in the country.

    “The region is also blessed with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) with their own son overseeing the affairs of the Commission for the rapid development of the region.

    “We want to point out to this coalition that the era of one section of Nigeria claiming to be feeding the whole country is gone, thanks to the blue economy introduced by President Tinubu to boost economic values of our waterways across the country under the newly appointed Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

    Read Also: Niger coup leader rallies Burkina Faso, Mali against ECOWAS

    “It is our candid submission that the coalition of oil producing states/ex-agitators in Niger Delta should put a stop to their plan protest in order to allow every segment of development under this government to remain focused in delivering dividends of democracy to all Nigerians irrespective of ethno-religious and regional differences,” the statement said.

    The Arewa Think Tank had stumbled on a letter by the Coalition of Oil Producing States/Ex-agitators in Niger Delta jointly signed by its Coordinator, Comrade Vincent Omoko, and the Secretary, Hon. Afe Samson.

    Part of the letter said that there would be “Mass protests and legitimate actions against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engineer Gbenga Komolafe by the Niger Delta people.

    “The primary obligation of the coalition is to checkmate illegal operations of individuals and corporate establishments in our region, protect our people against all forms of exploitations, above all is to ensure accountability by government and its agencies.

    “We wish therefore to hereby inform you of our planned world press conference involving local and international traditional and social media platforms and a massive protest at the NNPC Towers and other locations within the Federal Capital Territory by hundreds of our members from the Niger Delta region.

    “The planned world press conference and mass protest as indicated above will be conducted sequentially on Monday, 28 August, 2023 and will be followed by other outlined actions within the ambit of due and legitimate processes in their execution.

    “Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission under the supervision Engineer Gbenga Komolafe engaged in several secret deals running into over N175 billion involving the allocation of oil Wells in the region.

    “Engineer Gbenga Komolafe should publicly account for the over N175 billion released from the sales and other deals secretly conducted with oil Wells in the Niger Delta.”

  • Arewa, others preach unity, love at Easter

    THE Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged Nigerians to help the government to win the war against insecurity.

    In its Easter message by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, ACF argued that the task of overcoming kidnapping, insurgency, cattle rustling, banditry and the ethnic clashes could not be left to government alone.

    The statement reads: “Christians all over the world celebrate Easter with prayers and activities of self-sacrifice for the common good of the society. The period commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ which gives Christians the opportunity to reflect on the exemplary life and good teachings of Jesus Christ that include his tolerance, forgiveness, love and self-sacrifice for the good of humanity and strive to live up His legacies at all time.

    “The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ have united Christians to be one people through the promotion of core value of humanity that comes with sacred inviolability of the individual. We are now equal before God.

    “ACF, therefore, wishes Nigerians, especially Christians, happy celebration and also urges all Nigerians, no matter their status to practice the virtue of tolerance, forgiveness, self-sacrifice, good neighbourliness and love for one another, and continue to pray for peaceful coexistence, harmony, stability and prosperity for all.

    “It is against such backdrop that ACF wishes to submit that the task of overcoming security challenges posed by kidnapping, insurgency, cattle rustling, banditry and the unnecessary clashes between various ethnic groups cannot be left to government alone.

    “All leaders and Nigerians should come together and live up the synergistic potential against collective challenges for common good. Specifically, ACF calls on the governments at all levels and Security Agencies to intensify their operations and also maintain surveillance in the red alert states until peace and normalcy are restored.

    “But for the needed normalcy to return, all Nigerians must also play their roles of providing support by way of intelligence to the security agencies which would enable them to succeed.

    “Now that the 2019 general elections are over with winners declared at both the Federal and State levels, the Forum wishes to appeal to our leaders to note that no society thrives on the victory of its faction but through ultimate reconciliation and inclusiveness. Victory and defeat are never final.

    “The governments should, therefore, hit the ground running by making Nigerians become one in favour of good governance needed for the good of all.”

     

    Air Chief celebrates Easter with frontline troops

     

    Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar has celebrated Easter with troops deployed in the Northwest to flush out bandits, kidnappers and other criminals.

    According to the spokesman of the Air Force, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the troops were called upon to remain resolute in their commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and properties in the zone.

    He explained, in a statement, that the Air Chief also expressed satisfaction with the performance of the troops so far.

    Air Commodore Daramola said: “The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, has hosted officers, airmen and airwomen of the Air Task Force (ATF), Operation DIRAN MIKIYA, to a luncheon to mark the 2019 Easter Celebration.

    “The occasion, which held at the ATF Headquarters in Katsina, provided an opportunity for the CAS to interact with the troops who have been working tirelessly to restore peace and stability in the Northwest of Nigeria.

    “Addressing the troops, the Air Officer Commanding, Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Napoleon Bali, who represented the CAS at the event, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the ATF.

    “He extended the good wishes of the CAS and encouraged the personnel to remain resolute while sustaining their efforts towards eliminating the activities of armed bandits in Zamfara and surrounding States with a view to ensuring peace in the Country.

    “AVM Bali lauded the magnanimity of the CAS in ensuring that the personnel have a few hours to unwind in celebration of the holy season. He said this would no doubt boost their morale and assuage the pains of their inability to celebrate the season with their families.

    “He also commended the Commander 213 Forward Operations Base Katsina, Group Captain Hadi Ahmed, for providing necessary base services support to ensure the smooth operations of the ATF.

    “Also present at the luncheon were the Commander 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Colonel Buhari Madaki, as well as officials and staff of civil agencies operating at the Musa Yar’Adua International Airport.”

     

    Lagos Speaker asks Nigerians to emulate Jesus

     

    Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has urged Nigerians to emulate the spirit of love, sacrifice and forgiveness displayed by Jesus Christ during his lifetime.

    Obasa added that these qualities were essential in nation-building and socio-economic growth and development of any society.

    The Lagos Assembly Speaker’s message was contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Musbau Rasak.

    “Jesus Christ was an embodiment of love throughout his lifetime. He preached forgiveness throughout and even displayed such on the cross. To cap it all, he eventually sacrificed his life for his people. These are essential qualities for us to imbibe and practise for us to grow as a nation and achieve greatness,” said Obasa, who is also the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.

    He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their support and prayers for the All Progressives Congress (APC) government at national and state level, saying the party would not relent in reciprocating the support and prayers by putting in place programmes and projects that will enhance their standard of living and improve their welfare.

    “We, in the APC, appreciate the prayers and support of Nigerians for our administration at all levels. I want to assure you that we will continue to reciprocate the prayers and support by putting in place programmes and projects that will improve the standard of living of our people and enhance their welfare,” he said.

    “On behalf of my colleagues in the Lagos State Assembly, I wish Nigerians, especially, Christians, a happy Easter celebration,” the Lagos Assembly Speaker said.

     

    NUPENG: learn from the lessons of Easter

     

    The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has urged Nigerians to learn from the pain, love and caring which define the Easter celebrations.

    Its statement reads: “The National Executive Council (NEC) of National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) join all our members, staff and the entire Christian community during the celebrations of Easter in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

    “These celebrations are worthy finale to the sacred period of fasting, prayer and self-denial which Christians had gone through in the past 40 consecutive days of Lent.

    “It is the belief of NUPENG that such fundamental values would go a long way in promoting and strengthening the foundation of love, peace and harmony in our country, and that the season would serve as a reminder to all of the selflessness, love, sacrifice and tolerance of Jesus Christ throughout His earthly sojourn, his death and his subsequent resurrection.

    “We, therefore, admonish all Nigerians to learn from the pain, joy, love and caring which define the Easter celebrations and allow these laudable virtues to continually guide us as a people in our individual, industrial and community relationships.

    “We also urge those in positions of authority to strive to encourage the citizens to make a virile and purposeful sacrifice and show love especially when the country is facing challenges by making their own lives, in public and private, something transparent, and worthy of emulation for the overall good of our country.

    “Whilst still in the euphoria of Easter, NUPENG prays for peace and prosperity for all Nigerians and crave them to enjoy a stress-free and violence-free celebration.”

     

    Clerics preach sacrifice

     

    The pastor of ECWA Good News Church, Kuje, Abuja, Jibrin Lakutto and the founder of Faith Revival Chapel, Bauchi chapter, Archbishop Charles Yohanna, have urged Christians to imbibe the culture of sacrifice as demonstrated by Jesus Christ in the spirit of Easter.

    Lakutto made the call in his Easter message at ECWA Good News Church in Kuje, FCT, yesterday.

    According to him, Easter celebration is the greatest feast of the Church because, without the resurrection of Christ, there would be no hope for Christians.

    He said the sacrifice by Christ was worthy of emulation, therefore, Christians should follow His footsteps through love, unity, tolerance, forgiveness and sacrifice.

    “There is hope and Christ showed us there is hope on the cross; He went through suffering and at the end of the day, His resurrection brought us life.

    “My message is that there is still hope because we know that Christ has risen and is alive so that we may live with Him again.

    “We must live a sacrificial life just as Jesus Christ laid down His life on the Cross and on the third day He rose again,” he said.

    The cleric read the book of Mark Chapter 16: 1 – 8, to remind Christians of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the significance of Easter celebration by showing love and tolerance.

    He said that Christians must adhere to the commandments of God while reflecting on the virtues of Christ as they celebrate Easter.

    Archbishop Yohanna, while responding to questions on Easter by reporters in Bauchi yesterday, said: “On this day, I call on every Christian to wake up and give love to humanity, irrespective of where they come from, their religion, tribe, faith and language.

    “Let’s learn to be one and united, we should know that like Jesus who loves us so much, whoever we meet deserves our love and sympathy.

    “Christians should emulate Christ; He paid the price for humanity with his life, not because we deserve his love and death on our behalf.

    ‘’However, He still paid the price because God so much loves the world that He gave His only begotten son,” he said.

    On banditry in the country, Yohanna said the issue was beyond a simple approach; hence, a serious spiritual intervention was needed.

    “The issue of banditry in the country is beyond a simple approach. As a cleric, I look at Nigeria as a country that has failed to receive the mercy of God.

    “We need to go to God in prayers. I believe all our leaders believe in God and in prayers.

    “If our leaders can encourage Nigerians to gather together, pray and turn to God, confess our sins and turn away from our unrighteousness, everything will be fine with us once again,” he said.

    The archbishop also called on all Nigerians to be wary of the last day where everybody would be held accountable for his or her actions while in this world.

    “Let every Nigerian remember that on the last day, everybody will give an account of his or her own life.

    ‘’All our leaders should also know that they are going to be held accountable for whatever they are doing now on earth,’’ he said.

     

    Senator-elect: be ready to pay development price

     

    Kwara South Senator-elect Lola Ashiru has urged Nigerians to be ready to pay the price for the development of the country.

    Ashiru, in his Easter message to Christians, said: “In our sober reflection, I enjoin us all to imbibe the teaching of Christ to love our neighbours as yourself, to remain united in peace and be willing to pay the price needed for the development of our community and nation at large.

    “I commemorate with the Christian faithful in remembrance of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

    “Jesus Christ, who is an embodiment of peace, love and sacrifice laid down his life for the restitution of mankind.

    Even at a time of inconvenience, he paid the ultimate price for the redemption of humanity. His sacrifice marks the victory of life over death.”

     

    Why govt can’t cater for the needy, by Bishop

     

    The Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, Anambra State, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has blamed corruption for the inability of government at all levels to make provisions for the less privileged.

    The cleric spoke yesterday in Awka while donating relief materials, including food items and clothing as well as a cash gift to over 500 less privileged persons in the state.

    He explained that it was the responsibility of the government to cater for the poor and the needy in the society and would only be failing if those provisions were not made.

    Ezeokafor said he was among those who believe that God blessed Nigeria with lots of natural and material resources and if well harnessed would be more than enough to cater for the less privileged.

    He regretted that while some developed countries have provisions for the poor, the reverse was the case in Nigeria, where those who work hard receive their salaries.

    He said: “It is good to provide welfare packages for the less privileged. But how can this be possible where those who work hard receive their salaries, not to talk of those who are not working?

    According to him, the cost of running the government in the country had been very expensive, saying: “If these things are cut down, there will be enough to take care of these people.”

    He went on: “Government must do something, otherwise they will be failing in their responsibility and if they are with regards to these poor people, I wonder what they will tell God at the end of the day?” he added.

    The Catholic prelate explained that the gesture was not predicated on religious sentiments, stressing that religious beliefs were of no consequence while showing charity.

    He said: “Today’s act of love is special. We call it Easter Celebration with the poor. There’s no how you’ll be sharing things and be looking at people’s faces. That will be ridiculous and funny.

    “Any human being that is poor is poor and should be catered for irrespective of his religious affiliations. We’re doing this for humanity and not for religious sentiments.

    “God has commanded us to show charity and that’s exactly what we’re doing. As a pastor, people give to us and from what they give to us we share with others.

    “It makes us participate in their poverty just as we’re participating in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. You can see from their faces that they are happy and I wish they will be happier.

    “We pray that other privileged persons in the society will see the need to also do something to ameliorate the suffering of the poor and needy.”

     

    Lawan urges Nigerians to use Easter to heal wounds, reunite

     

    Senate Leader Ahmad Lawan yesterday asked Nigerians to use the Easter period to heal wounds and reunite across the board.

    He also assured that a greater tomorrow awaits the nation.

    Lawan, who made the plea in a statement in Abuja, urged Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of hope.

    The statement said: “As our Christian brothers and sisters mark the Easter celebration, I urge all Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of hope, forbearance and reconciliation it offers as we seek to build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.

    “We should also take advantage of this period to heal wounds and reunite across the board so that the prosperity promised by this administration, which is well within our capacity as a people, will be actualised.