Ex-Lawmakers Laud Tinubu for Swift Rescue of Abducted Students, Worshippers

Ex-Lawmakers Laud Tinubu for Swift Rescue of Abducted Students, Worshippers

…Warn El-Rufai Against Baseless Allegations

The National Forum of Ex-Councillors has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as his swift and decisive intervention leading to the early release of abducted students in Niger State ,Kebbi State and church worshippers in Kwara State.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the National President of the Forum, Ambassador Auwal Kassim Hassan, said the President’s prompt action served as an “elixir” that ensured the victims regained their freedom sooner than expected.

The group urged security agencies to intensify efforts and complement the President’s interventions so that other Nigerians still held captive in different parts of the country could also be rescued without delay.

Addressing recent political tensions in Kaduna State, the former councillors dismissed the allegation by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai that the current administration under Senator Uba Sani paid billions of naira to bandits.

Ambassador Hassan described the claim as baseless and called on President Tinubu to “call El-Rufai to order.”

He cautioned that as grassroots stakeholders, they might be compelled to mobilize thousands of youths and women across Kaduna State against the former governor, his family, and his associates should he continue to “unjustifiably criticize” the Tinubu administration at the federal level and Governor Uba Sani’s government in Kaduna State.

The Forum reiterated its support for the current administrations, insisting that political actors must exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of undermining security efforts or destabilizing the state.

APGG Urges Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu to Contest Zamfara Governorship in 2027, Citing Track Record in Development, Empowerment 

APGG Urges Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu to Contest Zamfara Governorship in 2027, Citing Track Record in Development, Empowerment 

A northern socio-political group, Arewa Progressives for Good Governance (APGG), has called on the member representing Bungudu/Maru Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu (Zannan Bungudu) to contest the Zamfara State governorship election in 2027, citing what it described as his exceptional commitment to development, accountability, and the upliftment of the downtrodden.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group—whose membership cuts across the 19 northern states—said its unanimous endorsement of the lawmaker followed “a thorough assessment” of his performance in the National Assembly, particularly in the areas of education, youth empowerment, and grassroots development.

According to APGG, Hon. Zubairu has distinguished himself as one of the most development-focused legislators from the North-West, implementing sustainable programmes that have directly impacted vulnerable groups, rural communities, and unemployed youths.

The group noted that his educational support initiatives, including scholarships, vocational skills training, ICT programmes, and facilitation of learning materials for public schools, have contributed to reducing illiteracy and restoring hope among young people in Zamfara State.

Beyond education, APGG praised his empowerment programmes, which include agricultural support for rural farmers, business start-up grants for women and youths, and capacity-building interventions aimed at economic independence.

“As a lawmaker, Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu has gone beyond lawmaking by touching lives through projects and programmes deliberately designed to reduce poverty and build human capacity,” the statement read.

The group further highlighted his contributions to the National Assembly, including the sponsorship and co-sponsorship of bills and motions geared towards security reforms, rural infrastructure, social welfare, and economic inclusiveness.

“These legislative interventions have placed him among representatives who prioritise people-driven policies and long-term development,” APGG stated.

Expressing concern over what it described as years of stagnation, insecurity, and socio-economic decline in Zamfara State, the APGG said the 2027 governorship election presents “an opportunity for genuine rescue and renewal”.

“It is against this background that we are calling on him to heed our call and contest to rescue the good people of Zamfara State from the shackles of retrogression,” the group said.

The APGG added that the state, plagued by banditry, unemployment, collapsing public education, and deteriorating infrastructure, “needs a leader with competence, courage, and proven compassion for the people”.

The group insisted that Hon. Zubairu’s record makes him “best suited to provide the visionary and accountable leadership needed to reposition Zamfara”.

While the lawmaker is yet to officially respond to the call, political observers say APGG’s position signals the beginning of early mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections, with several northern groups already assessing potential candidates capable of stabilizing troubled states like Zamfara.

If Hon. Zubairu accepts the call, his candidacy is expected to reshape the political conversation in Zamfara, given his reputation, legislative performance, and growing grassroots support.

“THE UNBREAKABLE TORCH OF LEADERSHIP: Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu (Zannan Bungudu) — A Symbol of Integrity and Courage in Zamfara State”

“THE UNBREAKABLE TORCH OF LEADERSHIP: Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu (Zannan Bungudu) — A Symbol of Integrity and Courage in Zamfara State”

By Speaker Ibrahim Aliyu Mustapher

Truly, in every generation, there emerges a leader whose character speaks louder than titles—whose actions echo beyond political boundaries and whose courage becomes a guiding light for all.

In Zamfara State, Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu (Zannan Bungudu), the courageous and resilient APC pillar, stands tall as that leader. He is not merely a champion of the APC by position but a true custodian of integrity, ideology, and unwavering resilience—a leader worthy of emulation, admiration, and celebration.

Hon. Zannan Bungudu embodies the purest form of leadership: a blend of humility, strength, and unshakable conviction. Even in the midst of pressure, turbulence, and temptation, Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu has proven time and again that his conscience is not for sale, and his loyalty to truth cannot be compromised.

Among the projectors across Zone 3, no one has faced more difficult, heated, and demanding circumstances like Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu. Yet, in that fiery furnace of challenges, he emerged not weakened—but refined, strengthened, and more determined. His resilience shows that leadership built on integrity cannot be broken.

Despite trials, Hon. Zannan Bungudu has maintained a rare and admirable harmony within the party in the entire zones. His leadership style—calm, diplomatic, accommodating, and deeply respectful—has kept the party united, focused, and purpose-driven. He has built bridges, not walls; trust, not division; cooperation, not conflict.

At the core of his leadership are transparency, an open-door policy, collective decision-making, mutual respect, teamwork, and communication. He treats every party member with dignity, honors all stakeholders, and places the interest of the APC and the good people of Zamfara State above any personal or political ambition.

Hon. Abdul Malik Zubairu’s loyalty to the APC has created an atmosphere where members of the party work seamlessly without rivalry, suspicion, or misunderstanding. His maturity has stabilized the party; his humility has strengthened relationships; his courage has inspired the faithful.

Today, he stands as a symbol of exemplary leadership—a leader who does not seek applause or power but seeks progress, unity, and peace. His quiet efficiency continues to preserve harmony within the APC family in Zamfara State at large.

Through his stewardship, the APC in Zamfara has witnessed what many only talk about in theory: that true leadership is not just about holding office but about holding people together—with wisdom, respect, and unwavering integrity.

Hon. Abdul Malik remains deeply committed to serving the APC with honor, uplifting humanity with sincerity, protecting the interests of the good people of Zamfara State, and ensuring that unity always triumphs over division.

His courage today shines like a beacon for all of us in the APC family—not only in his local government or zone but across Zamfara State. His loyalty, his faith, and his resilience cannot be shaken by intimidation or pressure.

Sir, your bravery inspires us, your integrity uplifts us, and your leadership guides us. Indeed, you are a fantastic role model for every leader who seeks to make an impact rooted in truth, humility, and courage.

Therefore, we, your APC family, stand firmly with you—united, unbroken, and unstoppable. May your courage continue to lead us, may your wisdom continue to guide us, and may your resilience strengthen the APC today, tomorrow, and always.

Keep standing tall, sir. Your leadership is our pride.

Respectfully,
©️ Speaker Ibrahim Aliyu Mustapher
A Concerned Voice for the Future
Until Victory, Insha Allah

NSNCM Hails Federal Government, Judiciary Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Life Imprisonment

NSNCM Hails Federal Government, Judiciary Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Life Imprisonment

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM), an umbrella body comprising 598 registered associations across the 19 northern states as well as northern associations in the 17 southern states and the Federal Capital Territory, has commended the Federal Government and security agencies over the life imprisonment sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement issued on Monday, November 24, 2025, and signed by its National President, Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, the group said the conviction of Kanu was a “victory for justice and the rule of law.”

The NSNCM recalled that it had consistently demanded Kanu’s arrest, detention, and prosecution, accusing him of instigating violence, killings, and destruction of property belonging to northerners and security agencies in the South-East.

The movement expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and security agencies for what it described as “diligent investigation and prosecution,” and commended the judiciary for “standing firm and independent despite pressures.”

“We commend the Nigerian judiciary for allowing the law to take its natural course. The conviction of Nnamdi Kanu is a testament to our nation’s commitment to justice and the rule of law,” the statement read in part.

The group also lauded the previous administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari for resisting calls for Kanu’s unconditional release, stressing that doing so would have undermined national security.

While congratulating security agencies for presenting “facts and figures” that aided the court’s decision, the NSNCM urged Nigerians to embrace peace and unity.

“As a nation, we must continue to live in harmony, with love, understanding, and patriotism. We must shun all actions capable of threatening our unity or disintegrating the country,” the group added.

The NSNCM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, development, and national cohesion.

N1b Payments to Bandits : Elrufai lying about bandits payments- Shehu Sani

N1b Payments to Bandits : Elrufai lying about bandits payments- Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has dismissed as “false and ridiculous” the claim by ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai that the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani paid N1 billion to bandits.
In a strongly-worded statement issued and made available to Journalists today , Senator Sani said the allegation attributed to the former governor lacked credibility and amounted to “politically motivated falsehood.”

In the statement personally signed by Senator Shehu Sani accused the former governor of establishing what he described as a “culture of appeasement to terrorists” during his administration. According to him, El-Rufai had previously admitted to engaging in “conditional cash transfers” to bandits, a claim which, he noted, led to the arrest of journalist Luka Biniyat at the time.

The former lawmaker argued that Kaduna State witnessed some of its worst security incidents under El-Rufai’s leadership, citing several high-profile attacks including the Kaduna–Abuja train attack, the Greenfield University abductions, and the kidnapping and killing of students from the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, Bethel Baptist High School, and other institutions.

“Under his watch, bandits and terrorists operated freely like lords and kings,” Sani said, adding that large portions of Southern and Central Kaduna became “slaughterhouses where criminals operated unchallenged.” He noted that even the Kaduna airport was shut down at some point due to escalating insecurity.

Sani also referenced El-Rufai’s withdrawal of his son from a public school over safety concerns, arguing that such actions contradict the former governor’s present claims on security.

Challenging El-Rufai to present evidence of any alleged payment by the current administration, Sani said: “If he has images or videos showing cash being handed to bandits, he should make them public.”

The former senator further alleged that El-Rufai is driven by “envy” over what he described as Governor Uba Sani’s success in fostering unity between the predominantly Christian Southern Kaduna and the Muslim-majority Northern Kaduna.

He accused the former governor of presiding over an era marked by “religious and ethnic discrimination, division, persecution, torment and terror.”

While acknowledging that Kaduna, like other northern states, continues to grapple with security challenges, Senator Sani argued that Governor Uba Sani has made notable progress in “building bridges across religious divides and dismantling the structures of banditry allegedly inherited from his predecessor.”

“No sensible or responsible person conscious of history will give credence to the stream of lies that have become habitual in the life of a man in his mid-60s,” he added.

BREAKING: SEN YARI DONATES N500m AT ACF’s SILVER JUBILEE

BREAKING: SEN YARI DONATES N500m AT ACF’s SILVER JUBILEE

… As Sen Wamakko Gets Honored

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) marked its 25th anniversary in grand style on Wednesday, with Senator Abdulaziz Yari stealing the spotlight after announcing a monumental N500 million donation to support the Forum’s ongoing intervention programmes across Northern Nigeria.

The declaration, made inside the packed Musa Yar’Adua Conference Hall in Kaduna, instantly set the tone for an evening defined by generosity, statesmanship, and renewed commitment to tackling poverty and insecurity in the region.

Riding on the wave of Yari’s bold gesture, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko (Sarkin Yamman Sokoto) followed up with a N100 million donation, reinforcing his long-standing dedication to development efforts in the North. Four other eminent Nigerians very close to Senator Yari also took turns to donate N100 million each, pushing the total amount raised at that point to N1 billion.

The fundraising segment reached even greater heights as other major donors were acknowledged, including the Chief Launcher, Alhaji Abdussamad Isiaka Rabiu, and Alhaji Aliko Dangote, both of whom donated N2.5 billion each. They were followed by General T. Y. Danjuma and Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, who contributed N1 billion each, alongside many other supporters too numerous to mention, reflecting an overwhelming outpouring of solidarity for ACF’s mission.

The high-profile ceremony also saw Senator Wamakko conferred with the ACF Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to leadership, unity, and social development. Visibly touched, he described the honour as “a tribute to all who strive for the upliftment of our society.”

The event attracted the region’s most influential statesmen, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, followed by former Vice President Arc. Namadi Sambo, who both graced the celebration alongside Kaduna State Deputy Governor Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe.

Other national icons honoured at the gathering included Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Senator George Akume, and General T. Y. Danjuma, underscoring the calibre of personalities aligned with ACF’s mission.

By combining philanthropy, recognition, and renewed calls for service-driven leadership, ACF’s silver jubilee not only celebrated a milestone — it reignited a powerful conversation about responsibility, unity, and the future of Northern Nigeria.

Nigeria Shines At COP30 Brazil

Nigeria Shines At COP30 Brazil

Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing COP30 in Belēm, Brazil, witnessed a tremendous boost when Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), delivered a keynote address at the High-Level Buildings and Cooling Pavilion Side Event.

The DG ECN used the platform provided to highlight Nigeria’s commitment to a smarter, energy-efficient cooling transition aligned with global climate goals.

Dr. Mustapha, alongside global partners which included Daikin Industries, UNEP-U4E, and the International Energy Agency, explored practical solutions to expand access to cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

At the global event, discussions emphasized the role of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and modern cooling technologies in reducing emissions across emerging economies, with side discussions held with staff of the NNPC on how this initiative can be further promoted by the Government of Nigeria.

The ECN Director-General, an avowed and committed believer in the country’s solarization project, reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to harmonize standards, deepen collaboration, and accelerate sustainable cooling innovations under the Global Cooling Pledge.

He told listeners that “ECN remains focused on advancing technologies and policies that enhance comfort, boost productivity, and protect the environment”.

Similarly, the ECN DG engaged with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy and Climate Change, to discuss fostering a just and equitable energy transition for developing nations.

The conversation focused on responsibly harnessing natural resources to accelerate sustainable growth, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and a future where energy development benefits people while protecting the planet.

Dr. Mustapha at the global event who comes to an end today, joined other distinguished Nigerians at the Nigeria Pavilion to celebrate Nigeria Day at the ongoing COP30 in Brazil, where a brief remark was delivered.

The delegation included the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Adelegbe Emmanuel Oluwatimehin.

Several other eminent Nigerian representatives were also present, demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to climate action and sustainable development on the global stage.

WHEN DEMOCRACY GOES TO COURT BEFORE THE VOTER ARRIVES-By Barrister Aminu Hussaini

WHEN DEMOCRACY GOES TO COURT BEFORE THE VOTER ARRIVES

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Examines How Triple Threats of Money, Might, and Chaotic Litigations Sets Nigeria’s Democracy at Risk

As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, a familiar and troubling pattern is resurfacing: our democracy is being contested long before citizens approach the polling booths. Increasingly, political battles are fought not in town halls, rallies or debates, but in courtrooms, party secretariats, private villas and the shadows of unchecked financial influence.
When democracy goes to court before the voter arrives, the heart of electoral legitimacy is compromised; unless we confront this drift, 2027 risks becoming another election decided by judicial technicalities, power blocs and influence peddlers—not the will of the Nigerian people.
The Courtroom Is Not a Campaign Ground
Certainly, there is no democracy without an independent judiciary; but there is also no healthy democracy when litigation replaces voter persuasion and legal technicalities overshadow voter decisions. In this dispensation, pre-election court cases have mushroomed to unprecedented levels. Instead of focusing on policies, candidates invest in legal teams to disqualify opponents, overturn primaries or secure favorable interpretations of party rules, electoral law and election guidelines.
While the courts play a vital role in resolving disputes, their increasing involvement before and after elections weakens the mandate that should come from the electorate. When judges determine who appears on the ballot and who occupies position more than voters do, democracy becomes distorted.
Money: The Invisible Voter
Financial influence has become one of the most determining factors of Nigerian electoral process and outcomes. The monetization of the political process—from party forms that cost millions, to delegates’ primaries drenched in cash, to open vote-buying on election day—has made public office obviously purchasable.
In the buildup to 2027, there is already evidence of an arms race of money. But democracy should not and cannot be an auction. When the candidate with the deepest pockets surpasses the candidate with the best ideas and pedigree, the entire nation pays the price.
Might and Intimidation: The Dark Edge of Nigerian Politics
Nigeria’s elections are often marred by a subtle but powerful coercive force: the deployment of political thugs, the misuse of security agencies and the intimidation of both voters and electoral officials. If citizens cannot cast their votes freely, without fear of intimidation or manipulation of their votes, then we do not have elections—what we have are simply rituals of staged participation. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must insist that the ballot paper not the bully or manipulation, remains the instrument of choice. Stakeholders’ manipulative tendencies must be resisted and totally rejected. We must understand and believe that our destiny would not be served on a platter of gold. True freedom is always wrested not given!
Manipulation From Within
Manipulation does not only occur at polling units. It often begins much earlier—through compromised party primaries, doctored delegate lists, parallel congresses and last-minute candidate substitutions. These internal manipulations set the stage for disputed outcomes and post-election chaos.
Regrettably, when the foundations are shaky, the entire democratic structure trembles.
Why the Popular Vote Must Be Supreme in 2027
For Nigeria to move forward, the legitimacy of leaders must come from the people—not from court rulings, kingmakers or financial powerhouses. The 2027 season provide a crucial opportunity to reinforce the principles of free, fair and credible elections which require transparent and technology-backed electoral processes that prioritize voters over power brokers; political finance reforms to curb the corrupting force of money; internal party democracy that is credible, inclusive, and free from manipulation; judicial restraint and speedy processes ensuring courts do not become substitutes for elections as well as security neutrality to guarantee voter safety and trust.
To succeed, we must believe in being strong even when it seems to be impossible. It is said that if you really want to eat, keep climbing; the fruits are on the top of the tree; stretch your hands and keep stretching them; success is on the top. One cannot score a goal when sitting on the bench; to do so, one has to dress up and enter the game. Yes, WE CAN DO IT by securing our PVCs and getting set and determine to change the impossible with it! Democracy thrives when the ballot box speaks louder than any court order or political godfather.
2027: A Defining Moment
Nigeria is at a decisive crossroads.
Citizens are increasingly aware, vocal and determined to reclaim their democratic power. But the system must make space for their voices to matter. If the results of the 2027 elections are to enjoy national and international respect, they must reflect the true will of the Nigerian people—not the interests of a privileged minority.
Our democracy must not go to court before the voter arrives. This cherished democracy must go to the polling booth—where it truly belongs. The power to shape Nigeria’s future lies with its citizens. In 2027, the popular vote must not merely be counted; it MUST be respected, protected and allowed to decide.

This opinion was contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Justice & Constitutional Matters.

Adamawa Youths Endorse Dr. Girei as APC Flagbearer for ’27 Guber Election

Adamawa Youths Endorse Dr. Girei as APC Flagbearer for ’27 Guber Election

By Tom Garba, Yola

The Adamawa State Youths Forum has unanimously endorsed Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei as the preferred candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 governorship election in the state.

Addressing journalists in Yola on Monday, the Chairman of the forum, Hon. Umar B. Yakubu, declared that Dr. Girei remains the most competent, experienced, widely accepted, and electable personality to lead the APC to victory and reclaim the state from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Describing Dr. Girei as a tested and trusted leader who is already made and thoroughly prepared for the task of governance.

The youths said he possesses proven administrative competence, unmatched grassroots mobilization structures across the 21 local government areas, massive cross-sectional support that cuts across ethnic, religious, and political lines, an enviable track record of delivering results in public service and community development, unwavering loyalty to the APC since its inception, huge personal investments in sustainable youth development through education, skills acquisition, and employment, as well as being a rallying point for infrastructural projects in many communities and a respected figure among elder statesmen and critical stakeholders of the party.

The forum warned that the APC cannot afford to gamble with the 2027 election, stressing that internal disunity and the fielding of a weak candidate would hand victory to the opposition on a platter. It noted that the transformative policies of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration have seriously weakened the PDP in the state, with a growing wave of decampees trooping into the APC.

While commending President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, APC North-East Vice Chairman Comrade Mustapha Salihu, the state party chairman, and all stakeholders for their commitment to unity and progress, the youths urged party leaders to prioritize competence, experience, and electability in choosing the next gubernatorial candidate.

The forum concluded that Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei represents the surest bridge to APC victory in 2027 and called on all leaders, elders, women, youths, and supporters to rally behind him in the interest of the party and the state.

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