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Abia Labour Party Crises – Is Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu Among The Prophets?

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By Sunday Chigozie
Eziama Afara

… three weeks after his statement in a viral video, there is fire on the mountain.

There was a video interview wherein the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu made some political predictions and urged the Governor of Abia State Dr Alex Otti to cross over to APC for his reelection, considering the realities ahead in 2027. It was a friendly and harmless advice, which didn’t in anyway suggested directly or indirectly that the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu is harbouring any intension of contesting Abia Governorship against Governor Alex Otti.

Therefore, one wonders why Governor Alex Otti would take such a simple political invitation from a supposedly close friend to another level of animosity. Otti threw caution to the winds by spending Abia resources on social media e-rats to continuously attack the image of the Deputy Speaker; if he wasn’t behind it why hasn’t he made a public statement asking his brothers/friends/supporters, particularly Professor Chidi Odinkalu to desist from his unwarranted attacks on the person of distinguished Deputy Speaker?

. Is Gov Alex Otti really this callous as has been severally accused by his close allies and associates?

It is therefore unfathomable the extent Governor Alex Otti took the mere political advise from Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu when similar invitation was made to the immediate past Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu during his own time in office. Like the perfect and peaceful gentleman that he is; Dr. Ikpeazu laughed over the invite and simply and jokingly asked Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu to come over to his own party, the PDP. There was no drama, no bad-blood, rather they both laughed over it and still enjoyed robust relationship till date.

Again, same invitation was extended to former Governor T.A Orji, by the Deputy Speaker, Ochendo as he is fondly called simply replied by saying “…my family has joined APC, I have retired from active politics“; and the rest was history as both leaders laughed over it. Why has Governor Otti decided to make a mountain out of a harmless political invite, which other Governors before him didn’t consider as anything serious but has surprisingly triggered a very high level of bitterness in a Governor who pretends to be more Christian than others and follows renowned Pastors around to create a false impression on people.

However, it is pertinent to point out again and clearly too that in the said viral video, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu never said he was running for the office of governor against Governor Otti, but only merely invited him to crossover to APC to run for his reelection because, Rt. Hon Ben Kalu foresaw that the structure Governor Otti was standing on was not sustainable.

Surreptitiously, Governor Alex Otti hired tik-tokers all over the world and a certain pay-to-twit minion of a Law Professor to malign and make mockery of a simple invitation, instead of brush it aside jokingly like other Governors. Thousands and millions of Abia taxpayers money was spent on Lagos state and Abuja based journalists, skit makers, social media influencers to launch series of attacks on his supposed friend and brother, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu. Who does that to another, he calls friend for no just reason.?

The question begging for answer is why a Governor who is struggling to pay Seventy thousand minimum wage and didn’t pay wage award as at when other Governors were paying; could afford to be wasting billions of Naira on National Newspapers, TV stations, bloggers in Lagos and Abuja just to destroy someone he once called a friend?

Expectedly, the Deputy Speaker has remained calm without going to war on the media with a man he called friend, notwithstanding the provocative attacks on his integrity, howbeit his statement in the said viral video seems like a prophecy which is unfolding daily in Abia Labour Party. The structure Governor Otti is standing on now is shaking in line with Ben Kalu’s prediction, only the wise can read the handwriting on the wall. Governor Otti’s woes are compounded by the sack of many Abia workers, inability to show Abians where he built the N6.5billion recreational facilities, lack of transparency and accountability, the government’s penchant for propanganda, deception and lies.

Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu’s prophecy has come true in the sense that, If Abia Labour Party cannot deliver a simple Local Government elections peacefully without Governor Otti running around to secure platforms from Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) to Young People’s Party (YPP) for his nominated candidates to contest under, is it the INEC controlled Gubernatorial election that won’t give Otti even bigger stress?. Recall that the authentic Labour Party leadership just recently concluded to withdraw the automatic reelection ticket hitherto reserved for Otti.
Prophecies of those close to God usually come to pass, is Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu also among the prophets? It is even appearing to be so.

Consequently, these purveyors of political attacks on Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu took their media warfare against an important bill sponsored by the Deputy Speaker seeking to establish a UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIAN LANGUAGES at ABA, as can be seen in the National Assembly journal of 2nd October, 2024 and published by the clerk of National Assembly. There was nowhere in the said journal that “TINUBU UNIVERSITY” was ever mentioned. If not for mischief and wickedness why would these people fighting the Deputy Speaker mock a bill that will eventually upgrade the existing but moribund Nigerian Institute Of Nigerian Languages in Aba to a full university, and ultimately expose the decaying institution to better funding through accessing Tetfund and other federal government policies. Moreover, it will be at no cost on Federal government.

Apart from the many direct benefits to the host community like employment, infrastructural development etc that upgrading the institution to a full university will attract; Nigerian languages are daily eroded by lack of interest of the younger generation, teachers of these languages are diminishing by the day, parents are forgetting to speak it at home and in the process one of the core element of our identity ( language) fades away before our eyes in preference to the language of our colonial masters. We all should be worried as the representatives are worried.

Finally, it is high time, we all supported the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu to continue putting Igboland on the map.

Chief Sunday Chigozie
Eziama Afara wrote this piece.

Opinion, Politics

Appraising the Giant Legislative Strides of Rt. Hon. Makki

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By Ali Mohd 

Lawmakers are rated based on certain basic criteria. These include, but are not limited, to; the number of Bills sponsored, the effectiveness and efficiency in oversight functions, and the number of development projects attracted to the constituency; development being the function of the projects attracted.

Other indices are the number of projects executed, attitudes towards promoting peace and harmony, which is directly a reflection of the level of peace and unity brought to bear on his constituency based on his opinion and position on issues, and the community services rendered.

For RT. HON. MAKKI ABUBAKAR YALLEMAN, a Member of the 10th House of Representatives, and Member representing Mallam Madori/Kaugama Federal Constituency, and current Chairman House Committee on Police Affairs, performing these duties and also holding sway as the Committee Chairman has brought him a lot of opportunities for service to humanity.

His position as the Committee Chairman enabled him to oversee the affairs of the entire Police department in the country.

It was American Max Depree who was quoted as stating these timeless words: ‘ The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality’.

In Nigeria, finding a permanent solution to the challenges of insecurity and education, thereby securing the environment for life and property and finding a solution to the educational needs of our people is paramount sine quo non to prosperity and a viable national economy.

This has also proven to be the biggest constraint to the full manifestation of the ingenuity of the people of his constituency. He aggressively tackled the challenge using sometimes his resources and also the power of effective legislation.

For instance, Rt. Hon. Makki constructed level-3 Primary Health Centres for women and children in Yalleman Tijjani, Dakaiyawa Ward of Kangama Local Government Area.

He also distributed motorcycles in Mallam Madori/Kaugama Federal Constituency.

As part of his legislative duties, Rt. Hon. Abubakar sponsored three Bills, which include; the Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Kaugama (Est.) Bill, 2024, the Federal Vocational and Entrepreneurial Training Centre, Mallam Madori, Jigawa State (Est.) Bill, 2024, and the Nigeria Police Force College, Training School and Institution (Est.) Bill, 2024.

Rt. Hon. Makki in a bid to ensure an all-inclusive constituency as well as its general growth stood against narrow myopic interest by asserting the nobility of group aspirations above individual ambition.

His firm belief that a people must once in their lifetime, grind to a halt for self-assessment and evaluation, led him to convoke a series of meetings and one-on-one with his constituents. Sometimes compelling him to extricate himself from the easy life of comfort at Abuja.

As Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, he championed several reforms and innovative interventions leading to several amendments to the Police Act, to revolutionize and strengthen the delivery capabilities of the Force.

His adherence to principles and strategic alliances led to the adoption of best practices in the Force and a more sustainable volte-face.

There is no doubt that Rt. Hon. Nikki Abubakar has made giant legislative strides as the Chairman House Committee on Police Affairs, and have also justified the trust reposed on him both by his constituents and colleagues.

News, Politics

Group Hails Governor Bala Mohammed’s Commitment to Bauchi State Amid Opposition

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Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has been facing intense criticism from certain quarters, but strong supporters, led by Dr. Abubakar Suleiman Akko, the Chairman of the Democracy Watch Initiative, Gombe State Chapter, has come out in his defence, giving reasons why the Governor has been single out for attacks.

Dr. Akko expressed dismay at the “unpalatable reports” in the media, describing them as “sponsored hatchet jobs aimed at rubbishing the achievements of the Bauchi State Governor.”

He identified two main reasons for the attacks: Governor Mohammed’s principled stand against federal policies, such as increasing petrol prices, and his efforts to unite opposition parties.

“His principled stand against policies like increasing the price of petrol and associated oil resources in the last year and a half has put him in direct conflict with certain forces in the political space,” Dr. Akko noted.

The group observed that Governor Mohammed’s commitment to development has transformed Bauchi State.

“Bauchi State has been left behind in the provision of basic infrastructure across the state… But after Senator Bala Mohammed’s ascension to the office of Bauchi State Governor, it is clear that he has transformed the state, especially in the areas of urban and rural development, upgrading educational institutions and health care centres, and also providing farming inputs.”

Dr. Akko emphasized that Governor Mohammed’s achievements speak for themselves. “The facts on the ground speak for themselves… anyone who really wants to know the truth about the state of things in Bauchi can do so by simply visiting the state.”

He also highlighted the importance of a vibrant opposition in a democratic system. “Nigeria needs a vibrant opposition; because every democratic system thrives when the opposition parties play their part – a vital role that holds governments accountable for their actions.”

Dr. Akko urged Governor Mohammed to remain focused and not be distracted by the criticism. “My opinion is to tell the Bauchi State Governor not to get discouraged, not to relent in taking these laudable steps, and to continue down the path of selfless service to his people and to the people of Nigeria as a whole.”

In conclusion, Dr. Akko reiterated his support for Governor Mohammed, praising his dedication to the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria. “Senator Mohammed is being hounded for trying to bring the Nigerian political opposition parties together… Certain elements of the Nigerian government do not seem to want this to happen, hence the attacks on the governor of Bauchi State.”

As Governor Mohammed continues to face criticism, Dr. Akko’s words of encouragement serve as a reminder of the importance of staying committed to principled leadership and service to the people.

Breaking News, News, Sports

Nigeria Football Lovers Coalition Slams Proposed Tenure Extension for NFF General Secretary

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The Coalition of Nigeria Football Lovers has vehemently condemned the proposed tenure extension of Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). According to the Coalition’s National Secretary, Adegboyega Olaitan, “This move is unacceptable, considering Sanusi’s 10-year tenure has been marred by significant decline and underachievement in Nigeria’s football.”

Olaitan emphasized that despite Nigeria’s abundance of talented footballers, Sanusi’s leadership has failed to yield tangible success. “Football plays a critical role in harmonizing Nigerians, transcending ethnic, religious, and geographical divides. It is imperative that the NFF leadership prioritizes the development of the sport, rather than perpetuating mediocrity,” he stated.

The Coalition highlighted Sanusi’s tenure has been characterized by discriminatory staffing practices, contractual employment of unqualified individuals, and lack of transparency and accountability. Olaitan noted, “Sanusi’s leadership has failed to translate Nigeria’s potential into success, instead, Nigeria’s football has suffered.”

The Coalition demands immediate termination of Sanusi’s tenure, an investigation into NFF’s administrative practices, and implementation of merit-based recruitment and management. Olaitan urged, “It’s time for a new era of leadership, focused on revitalizing Nigeria’s football and harnessing its potential for national unity and pride.”

“The Federal Government, Sports Ministry, and NFF stakeholders should reject this proposed tenure extension,” Olaitan emphasized. “We need a leadership that will prioritize the development of football, not perpetuate mediocrity.”

In conclusion, Olaitan reiterated, “We demand a new era of leadership that will revitalize Nigeria’s football and harness its potential for national unity and pride.” The Coalition’s stance echoes the sentiments of many Nigerian football fans, calling for change and accountability in the NFF leadership.

News, Politics

Why FG Must Integrate AU’s 2063 Agenda – Deputy Speaker

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The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu has harped on the need for the Federal Government of Nigeria to intentionally integrate the African Union Agenda 2063 into the nation’s development strategy.

Kalu who led the Nigeria’s delegation to the recently concluded Conference of Speakers of African Parliament to Midrand, South Africa championed this cause as part of the communique issued to mark the end of the conference.

The Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State representative who stood in for the Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, stated by integrating the 2063 Agenda, Nigeria will set a model for other African countries to emulate.

The AU Agenda 2063 is an ambitious framework aimed at transforming Africa into a global powerhouse of the future. It envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

The agenda comprises seven aspirations, each focused on key areas such as economic growth, social inclusion, sustainable development, and good governance.Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu

In the words of the Deputy Speaker, Nigeria’s development aspiration has a nexus with the continent’s growth initiatives, even as he outlined that the President Bola Tinubu-led government is already implementing the goals of the AU Agenda 2063 across the broad themes of economic diversification, youth empowerment, economic diversification and good governance.

“As Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria holds a unique position on the continent. Although it has in the past faced multifaceted challenges, including economic volatility, infrastructural deficits, and social inequalities, the Nigeria’s future is bright given the focus of the current administration of President Tinubu,” Mr Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependency through investments in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, stressing that “By embarking on economic diversification, Nigeria aims to foster sustainable economic growth that reflects the aspirations of Agenda 2063.”

He emphasized the importance of infrastructure as a cornerstone for economic development and touted the efforts of Nigeria in actively pursuing regional connectivity projects, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aligns with Agenda 2063’s goal of an integrated Africa.

On the continent’s demography prospect, Kalu highlighted Also the initiatives by the Federal Government aimed at empowering Nigeria’s youth through education and job creation. This as he stated aligns with the Agenda’s focus on a people-driven development strategy that engages the continent’s largest demographic group.

He also called for a comprehensive review of existing policies by African States to support the continent’s development agenda.

In acknowledging that a critical component of the AU Agenda is infrastructure development, the Deputy Speaker advocated for “An increased investment in critical infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and digital connectivity. Such investments will not only enhance Africa’s competitiveness but also facilitate intra-African trade and economic integration.”

He also highlighted the importance of regional integration as outlined in Agenda 2063 and urged his colleagues to establish frameworks that strengthen partnerships amongst African nations, fostering trade and economic collaboration that can enhance regional stability and growth.

Emphasizing further the importance of technology and innovation, Kalu added that “To remain competitive in a rapidly changing global landscape, Africa must prioritize technological advancement and innovation,” even as he called attention to policies that support research and development.

The Deputy Speaker’s intervention at the Conference of Speakers of African Parliament reflects a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s future with the broader African agenda. Nigeria’s efforts at integrating the AU Agenda 2063 economic blueprint into Nigeria’s developmental strategies will not only enhance its own growth trajectory but also contribute meaningfully to the realization of a prosperous and united Africa. By integrating the African Union Agenda 2063 into its national framework, Nigeria also reinforces its role as a leader on the continent.

“The way forward requires a commitment from all stakeholders including the government, civil society, and the private sector working collaboratively towards achieving Agenda 2063 ambitious goals. As Nigeria embarks on this journey, it stands poised to become a beacon of hope and progress within the African continent, leading by example in the pursuit of sustainable development and shared prosperity.

“As Africa navigates the complexities of the 21st century, Nigeria’s proactive stance in aligning with the Agenda 2063 blueprint will be essential in shaping a prosperous and united Africa. Through collaborative efforts and a shared vision, the continent can achieve the transformative change envisioned for 2063 and beyond,” Mr Kalu added.

Breaking News

Security Wins: Court Throws Out Suit Against FG’s Efforts As Northern Committee Jubilates

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The Northern Committee for Defence of Human Rights (NCDHR) has expressed its unreserved support and appreciation for the recent ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which categorically dismissed the suit seeking to compel the Federal Government to investigate the alleged links between the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, and the operations of bandits in Zamfara State.

It called on Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State to desist from politicising the security situation and cooperate with the federal government.

The Convener of the group, Tijjani Hashimu, in a statement noted that “this decision is not only a reinforcement of the rule of law but also a significant affirmation of the commendable efforts made by the federal government in the fight against the alarming scourge of insecurity that has plagued Northern Nigeria.”

The group observed that in a time when the security situation in various parts of Nigeria remains a critical concern, “it is heartening to witness the judiciary standing firm against attempts to undermine the progress realized in countering the rampaging threats posed by banditry and related crimes.”

The Northern human rights body maintained that the ruling “aptly recognizes that continued legal challenges, particularly those lacking substantive evidence, may detract from the collective focus required to combat these menacing security issues.

“The court’s dismissal of the suit serves as a clarion call to all stakeholders to rally around the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security to our communities.”

The NCDHR acknowledged that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, had taken commendable strides toward addressing the multifaceted challenges of insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

“From strategic military operations targeting kidnapping kingpins to the enhanced collaboration with local vigilante groups, the government’s endeavours have laid a foundational framework for rebuilding the trust of the citizens and ameliorating the fear that has gripped our communities.”

According to them, under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, the ongoing successes in the fight against banditry — especially in states such as Zamfara, where the menace has been particularly acute — underscore the importance of a unified approach to solving security challenges.

“The recent successes of our security forces in apprehending notorious criminals and dismantling their networks buttress the necessity for all citizens to support the government’s initiatives aimed at restoring law and order.

“While we wholeheartedly welcome the court’s ruling, we also implore the citizens of Northern Nigeria to remain vigilant and resilient in the face of adversity. It is essential for us to collectively debunk any unfounded allegations that could distract from the real issues at hand.

“There must be a significant emphasis on fostering peace, engaging in constructive dialogue, and promoting the significant role of community participation in security measures.

“We also call upon all relevant stakeholders — traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organizations — to foster a united front in confronting insecurity.

“Together, we must forge avenues for dialogue that will aid in intelligence gathering and community resilience against criminal activities. The task of restoring peace in our communities cannot be left solely to the government; it requires a concerted effort that encompasses every facet of society.

“The NCDHR reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting the federal government in all endeavors to combat insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

“We call on Governor Dauda Lawal to desist politicising the security situation and cooperate with the federal government efforts.

“We also encourage citizens to maintain their faith in the judicial process and our security institutions, and we remain hopeful that through collective efforts, the dream of a peaceful and secure Northern Nigeria is within our grasp”, the group said.

News, Politics

Sustain Your Superlative Performances in Office, Groups Tell Ministers Utsev, Keyamo

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Some pro-government groups have praised Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev and Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development for their outstanding performances in office, urging them to sustain their efforts.

Under the auspices of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Network in Nigeria, they acknowledged the ministers’ dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In a statement signed by its President Dr William Abu, the groups said Ministers Utsev and Keyamo have demonstrated unwavering passion for Nigeria’s progress, inspiring hope and confidence among Nigerians.

“Professor Joseph Utsev has transformed the water resources sector through innovative approaches. His initiatives have improved access to clean water, enhanced sanitation infrastructure, and promoted sustainable water management practices,” Abu said.

“Utsev has introduced groundbreaking reforms, including sustainable river basin management, revitalizing ailing irrigation schemes, and promoting integrated water resources management. His water supply expansion projects have increased access to potable water in rural communities.

“The Minister’s leadership has also upgraded waste management facilities, promoting hygiene practices and implementing efficient water usage policies. His efforts have boosted the economy by increasing food production, creating jobs, and enhancing sanitation.”

In the aviation sector, Abu said Festus Keyamo has elevated Nigeria’s standing with strategic plans to make the country Africa’s leading aviation hub through local airline empowerment, international route expansion, and airport infrastructure upgrades.

“Keyamo’s reforms have enhanced airport infrastructure, improved air travel safety, and fostered innovation in the aerospace industry. His leadership promotes transparency, accountability, and a culture of excellence’” Abu added.

“Keyamo’s vision for Nigeria’s aviation sector has received widespread acclaim. His efforts have improved Nigeria’s global ranking and attractiveness to investors.

“The Renewed Hope Ambassadors Network in Nigeria commends Ministers Utsev and Keyamo for their remarkable achievements and urges them to continue their excellent work.”

The groups, however, urged them to maitain the momentum, continue delivering exceptional results, and remain steadfast in their commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

By doing so, Abu said Utsev and Keyamo will further cement their legacies, inspire hope among Nigerians, and significantly contribute to President Tinubu’s vision for a brighter future.

Breaking News, Law and Order, Politics

Do Not Destroy Democracy In Nigeria: CNPP Charges INEC to Stay Impartial in Edo Election

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The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality and ensure the sanctity of the electoral process in the Edo State Governorship Election.

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP emphasized that “As Edo State citizens have exercised their right to vote, it is crucial that INEC remains impartial and transparent during the collation of results.” It is worrisome and troubling that the feelers we are getting from Edo State confirm a deliberate ploy by one of the big parties who are mouthing the support of Mr President, and insisting on changing the results and the figures already on the INEC Portal. Mr President MUST call them to order.

The CNPP insists that INEC must safeguard the trust of Nigerians by prioritizing the integrity of the process, warning against manipulation or undermining democracy in the State.

“INEC must not allow itself to be used to scuttle democracy in Edo State under any circumstances” the CNPP cautioned.

With the Ondo State governorship election on the way, the CNPP stresses the importance of INEC demonstrating its commitment to conducting credible elections to restore confidence in the electoral process after the questionable 2023 general elections.

“We call on all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and security agencies, to prioritize peace and decorum during the collation process,” the CNPP said. “Let us work together to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders.”

The CNPP’s call to action comes as Nigerians watch closely to see if INEC will deliver on its promise of free, fair, and credible elections.

Law and Order, News

Banditry: Northern Christians Tell Tinubu to Sustain Recent Onslaught Against Terrorists

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The Northern Christian Forum for Peace (NCFP) has commended President Bola Tinubu for the recent successes recorded by the military in the fight against banditry in the NorthWest, particularly in Zamfara State.

In a press statement signed by its President, Bishop Sunday Audu Thomas, the NCFP praised the President for fulfilling his promise to combat banditry and terrorism in the region, and urged him to sustain the recent onslaught against the bandits.

The statement noted that the killing of one of the most dreaded bandits, Kachallah Buzu, by troops in Zamfara was a testament to the President’s commitment to combating banditry and terrorism in the region.

The NCFP also commended the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the security chiefs for taking the fight to the terrorists and bandits, and for their tireless efforts in protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians.

The group also praised the troops for their bravery and sacrifice, and urged them to remain committed to the fight against banditry and terrorism.

Bishop Thomas said: “The Northern Christian Forum for Peace (NCFP) wishes to commend President Bola Tinubu for the recent onslaught against bandits in the NorthWest region, particularly in Zamfara State.

“The killing of one of the most dreaded bandits, Kachallah Buzu, by troops in Zamfara is a testament to the President’s commitment to combating banditry and terrorism in the region.

“We praise the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his recent visit to the NorthWest region, where he reviewed the operations of the troops and harmonized their efforts to combat banditry.

“The renaming of Operations Hadrin Daiji and Whirl Stroke to Operation Kasar Yamma is a welcome development, as it will enhance the coordination and effectiveness of the troops in the region.

“The NCFP commends the security chiefs for taking the fight to the terrorists and bandits, and for their tireless efforts in protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians.

“We urge them to sustain the recent onslaught against the bandits, and to ensure that the momentum is not lost. We also commend President Tinubu for fulfilling his promise to combat banditry and terrorism in the region.

“The recent successes recorded by the troops are a proof that the President’s efforts are yielding results, and we urge him to sustain the tempo.”

The statement emphasised that the fight against banditry and terrorism requires a sustained effort, and urged the President and the security agencies to remain vigilant and focused.

The statement concluded by reiterating the NCFP’s commitment to supporting the government and the security agencies in the fight against banditry and terrorism.

“The NCFP wishes to state that the fight against banditry and terrorism requires a sustained effort, and we urge the President and the security agencies to remain vigilant and focused,” Thomas added.

“We also urge the communities in the affected regions to cooperate with the troops and provide them with the necessary support and information to enable them to succeed.

“We praise the troops for their bravery and sacrifice, and we urge them to remain committed to the fight against banditry and terrorism.

“We also urge the government to provide the troops with the necessary equipment and resources to enable them to succeed”.

Business, Law and Order, News

CNPP Calls for NNPC Boss to Step Down Over Subsidy Scam, Fuel Scarcity

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The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has called for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to be held accountable for Nigeria’s economic woes, citing allegations of subsidy scams, importation of substandard petroleum products, and mismanagement of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

According to the CNPP, in a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the NNPC’s failures have resulted in a nationwide shortage of petrol, causing immense hardship for Nigerians.

The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria demands the suspension of NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and a thorough public probe into the allegations.

The CNPP argues that the NNPC’s leadership has been marked by controversy and failure, and its inability to address these issues makes it unfit to continue in its role. The organization also quotes Emir Sanusi’s statement that “people in NNPC don’t want their lucrative subsidy scam to end” as a damning indictment of the company’s leadership.

The CNPP recalls the 2022 incident where NNPC imported and supplied adulterated Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency.

“We recall the 2022 incident where NNPC Limited, under Mele Kyari’s supervision, imported and supplied adulterated Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria.

“The company’s trading arm, Duke Oil, was involved in the importation of the substandard product, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency. MRS, one of the companies indicted in the alleged importation and supply of the petrol, revealed that NNPC Limited, through its trading arm, Duke Oil, supplied the cargoes of PMS purchased from international trader Litasco.

“The GCEO Mele Kyari said that NNPC investigation revealed the presence of Methanol and accused four companies: MRS, Emadeb/Hyde/AY Maikifi/Brittania-U Consortium, Oando, and Duke Oil of importing the four adulterated PMS cargoes.

“One of the companies Mele Kyari indicted in the alleged importation and supply of the bad petrol in 2022, is Duke Oil and none of the companies was prosecuted till date because Mele Kyari cannot probe and prosecute himself.

“Mele Kyari’s attempt to continue to play the victim, as displayed during his testimony before a Senate ad hoc committee investigating alleged economic sabotage in the petroleum industry, is unacceptable.

“His vow to reveal the truth about the company’s operations at the appropriate time rings hollow, given his history of controversy and failure”.

The political parties and political associations believe that there is no subsidy being paid by the NNPC and that Mele Kyari and the subsidy cartel are using petrol subsidy as a bait to sustain corruption.

The CNPP calls for a transparent, independent, and thorough probe into these allegations, with consequences for those found guilty of any wrongdoing.

The statement emphasizes that President Tinubu must act now to ensure that the Nigerian people get the truth and justice they deserve without further suffering and deprivation.

“We therefore demand that President Bola Tinubu takes immediate action to address these issues by suspending the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, and launching a thorough public probe into several allegations against the management of the NNPC Limited.

“One among many accusations, including incompetence, is subsidy scam allegations that are particularly egregious, and the reported statement by Emir Sanusi that “people in NNPC don’t want their lucrative subsidy scam to end” is a damning indictment of the company’s leadership.”

The CNPP added, “Mr President, it’s time to end the years of siege in the Nigeria’s oil industry and it’s time to hold NNPC Limited accountable by immediately suspending Mele Kyari and independently probing the subsidy scam and other allegations in the Nigeria’s upstream and downstream oil sectors to save the economy and minimise hunger.”