PRESS STATEMENT
EX-COUNCILORS DEFEND PRESIDENT TINUBU’S PERFORMANCE, REFUTE CLAIMS OF NORTHERN MARGINALIZATION

The National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria, the apex body of all former councilors across the country, has publicly defended the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, from May 29, 2023, to date.

Speaking during a press conference held in Kaduna on Thursday, July 31, 2025, the Forum rated President Tinubu highly, following its participation in the recently concluded Government-Citizens Engagement Summit organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation at Arewa House, Kaduna, which held from July 28 to July 30, 2025.

Addressing the media, the National President of the Forum, Hon. Amb. Awal Kasim Hassan, stated that representatives of the Forum from the 19 Northern states and the FCT attended the two-day summit as observers. He noted that the Forum has been working tirelessly to ensure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

Hon. Hassan expressed satisfaction with the robust participation and presentations made by Northern appointees of the Tinubu administration at the summit, commending them for effectively showcasing the achievements of the government and disproving claims of Northern marginalization.

He particularly criticized the position of Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), who accused President Tinubu of neglecting the North in both infrastructure and appointments. According to Hon. Hassan, “Such statements are not only misleading but do not reflect the reality on the ground.”

The Forum commended President Tinubu for granting Northern appointees the freedom to attend and speak openly at the summit, describing it as a mark of transparency and a demonstration of the President’s love and respect for all Nigerians. “A clear conscience fears no accusation,” he added.

The Forum also acknowledged the outstanding presentations of key government officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, among others.

Hon. Hassan further highlighted that all federal ministers and heads of agencies who attended the summit traveled from Abuja to Kaduna by road—an affirmation of the improved security situation along the Abuja-Kaduna highway under President Tinubu’s leadership.

The National Forum of Ex-Councilors, with members across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria, reaffirmed its continued support for the Tinubu administration and its commitment to national unity, peace, and development.

Signed:
Hon. Amb. Awal Kasim Hassan
National President, National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria
08023444205

Yelewata Killings: Northern CAN Leaders visit Benue, pledge sustained advocacy

…Gov. Alia welcomes delegation, says ’Your Presence is Christ sitting with Us’

By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna

Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), 19 Northern States and the FCT, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has led a high-powered delegation of Christian leaders to Benue State to commiserate with the government and people over the recent attacks in Yelewata and other parts of the state, which claimed over 200 lives and displaced numerous families.

The delegation, received at the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, comprised CAN Chairmen, Secretaries, youth, and women leaders from across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking during the visit, Rev. Hayab expressed deep sorrow over the mass killings, describing them as a national tragedy that requires urgent attention and a truthful national conversation.

He rejected the widely used narrative that classifies the Benue crisis as a “herders-farmers clash,” insisting that such a label is misleading and obstructive to meaningful resolution.

“This is not a herders-farmers crisis, and we must stop describing it that way,” Hayab said. “If you don’t make the right diagnosis, you will never administer the right treatment. We must call these killings what they are, and face the situation with honesty and courage.”

He added that while Northern CAN had issued several press statements to condemned the attacks, it’s necessary to visit the food basket that the region holds dear, assured the people of Benue that beyond offering prayers, CAN would continue to speak truth to power and engage national leaders on sensitive matters affecting peace and justice in Nigeria.

“Beyond our prayers, we will continue to speak truth to power and engage national leaders on sensitive issues of national importance until meaningful change is achieved,” he added.

Responding to the visit, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia expressed deep appreciation to the Northern CAN leadership, noting that their presence brought warmth, comfort, and spiritual strength at a time of grief.

“As I was shaking hands with all of you and feeling your warmth, what ran through my mind was this: ‘I am because you are, and you are because I am.’ That is Christianity. That is the message Christ preached – love,” Governor Alia said.

The governor, who described the visit as a divine gesture, stated that the presence of the delegation symbolized Christ sitting with the people of Benue in their suffering.

“You are not just sitting here. It is Christ who is sitting on each of the chairs you occupy. That is how much this visit means to me and the good people of Benue,” he added.

Lamenting the repeated killings, Governor Alia said, “When one life is lost, it is one too many. And when the numbers keep rising, you wonder what is going on. But your visit, your prayers, and your presence are a complete interpretation of the good things that God is bringing out of a very bad situation.”

He urged the clergy to continue to serve as moral compasses for society and to uphold the state in their prayers, adding that “to whom much is given, much is expected.”

The visit concluded with special prayers for the victims, their families, and the peace of Benue State. The CAN delegation reaffirmed its unwavering support and commitment to the people and government of the state in the ongoing search for justice and national healing.

Northern Professionals, Academics Forum Back Uba Sani, Nuhu Ribadu on Tinubu’s Achievements

The Northern Professionals and Academics Forum (NPAF) has expressed strong support for recent remarks made by Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s developmental strides in Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day interactive forum on government-citizen engagement organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) at Arewa House in Kaduna, Governor Uba Sani did applaud President Tinubu’s unprecedented backing for state governments ,where he said,”No Nigerian President has supported governors like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Governor Sani stated. “No governor will oppose him.”

While the National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu highlighted significant improvements in the security architecture across Kaduna and neighboring states. He credited collaborative efforts between federal and state security task forces for the noticeable drop in incidents of banditry and kidnapping.

According to Ribadu, the enhanced security climate has restored confidence in road travel among government officials and citizens alike.

In a statement signed by its Head of Communications, Hajiya Fatima Bello, the NPAF lauded Governor Sani and NSA Ribadu for their “honest and factual” reflection of President Tinubu’s achievements.

The statement further read: “Those attacking them for speaking the truth are nothing but enemies of the North.

“We can see that our governors now have more resources to implement people-oriented projects and pay workers’ salaries on time.”

” It obvious that under Tinubu’s leadership, Northern Nigeria is experiencing sustained focus on critical areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.

“Governor Uba Sani and Malam Ribadu have rightly highlighted these achievements, which align with our own assessments as professionals and scholars dedicated to the region’s progress.

NPAF commended President Tinubu’s “multi-dimensional approach” to development, describing it as a “blueprint for inclusive governance.

“We salute Governor Sani and Adviser Ribadu for spotlighting these successes, which are translating into real improvements in livelihoods and safety across the North.” it added.

However, the group cautioned that some individuals within the region continue to undermine the President’s efforts due to what it described as “unnecessary sentiments.”

The Northern Professionals and Academics Forum is a non-partisan network of over 1,500 experts, educators, and practitioners committed to driving socio-economic advancement in Northern Nigeria through research, policy advocacy, and community engagement.

INDEPENDENT ENQUIRIES BY YOUTH REFORMATION AND LEADERSHIP SKILLS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION ON ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF

The Youth Reformation and Leadership Skills Development Foundation recently conducted independent enquiries regarding allegations levelled against the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, specifically focusing on personnel pay, allowances, and promotions. Our investigations aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Nigerian Army and the initiatives undertaken to enhance the welfare of its troops.

Commitment to Personnel Development

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has consistently demonstrated a robust commitment to uplifting the Nigerian Army through comprehensive training and retraining programs. These initiatives ensure that soldiers are adequately equipped to perform their duties and are prepared to meet future challenges. The focus on continuous professional development is essential for maintaining operational readiness and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Army.

Structured Promotion Procedures

Promotions within the Nigerian Army are strictly governed by well-defined guidelines that prioritize merit, performance, and available vacancies, as detailed in the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen 2024. The Chief of Army Staff has steadfastly upheld these standards, ensuring that promotions are awarded based on hard work, efficiency, and compliance with established criteria.

Improved Pay and Allowances

During General Oluyede’s leadership, significant strides have been made in ensuring the prompt payment of salaries and addressing any outstanding arrears. The recent increase in Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) exemplifies the Army’s commitment to adequately compensating its personnel for their dedicated service. This measure not only boosts morale but also reflects an understanding of the financial challenges that soldiers and their families face.

Enhanced Living Conditions

The Chief of Army Staff has prioritized the construction and renovation of soldiers’ accommodations, hospitals, schools, and recreational areas. Such improvements are vital for fostering a supportive environment that promotes the health and well-being of service members and their families. By investing in essential facilities and amenities, General Oluyede aims to enhance the quality of life for troops.

Findings from Our Independent Assessment

Our independent fact-finding mission allowed us to engage in discussions with personnel across various military formations. The feedback received during these interactions provided valuable insight into the current state of the Nigerian Army.

Commendations and Appreciation

The findings reveal widespread commendation and appreciation for the initiatives implemented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. Personnel expressed satisfaction with his leadership style and acknowledged the tangible improvements in their working conditions and quality of life. Many voiced their loyalty and commitment to the Army and the nation while also expressing hopes for ongoing enhancements to their well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, remains dedicated to the welfare of its personnel. The ongoing initiatives in training, promotion, pay adjustments, and facility improvements reflect a genuine commitment to excellence. The Army values the support and dedication of its personnel, and together, we will continue to pursue a more effective and prosperous service for the benefit of the nation.

E-Signed

Comrade Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu Director General

Farmer-herder Clashes: Northern Group Support CDS’s Comments On Fulani Ranches.

The Northern Nigeria Initiative for Good Governance (NNIGG), says that the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law Nigerian accusations against the Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, for been Bias In Benue Massacre, over his Comments On Fulani Ranches, are all baseless and meaningless.

The Northern group in a press statement issued to newsmen in Kaduna on Saturday, lamenting that the statement of INTERSOCIETY, which published by Sahara Reporters on Friday 25th July 2025, as hurtful, disrespectful, rude, crude and indifferent, lacked scientific merit and is a threat over national security.

The statement read:

“For INTERSOCIETY, to accused Gen. Musa’s comments on ranches as veiled endorsement of impunity and further islamisation of Nigeria’s Middle Belt region is wrong, how can a Christian faithful islamize one particular region, that’s why majority of the public disregard your statements which aim to tarnished the image, and blackmail the CDS”.

“The heavy criticism and knocking the CDS over his recent public remarks advocating nationwide Fulani cattle ranches will not stop him to lead the Nigeria military to the right direction”.

“We here by support General Musa comments, where he said that the only effective way to end herders-farmers clashes and killings in Nigeria was to establish ranches, which is true nothing but the truth”.

“It is very important for federal government of Nigeria to create ranches, which will do a great deal in securing our control and will prevent the conflict between the Farmer-Herders clashes”.

“Your unverified claims (allegations), lacked scientific merit and is a threat over national security”

“Creation of ranches as the CDS Said is a way of stemming the tide of farmer-herder clashes cross the country which majority supported”.

“The CDS we knew, hasTackled the Insecurity with the Right Blend of Kinetic, Non-kinetic Warfare”.

“Gen. Musa, is a square peg in a square hole. He has been leading the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the right mix of military intelligence and diligence. But perhaps, his best known selling point is how he has juxtaposed kinetic and non-kinetic warfare in tackling the broad spectrum of insecurity”.

“The CDS has has been able to build on intelligence gathering, restore confidence of troops and men, embraced teamwork and cooperation, restored harmony in counter-terror operations, professional conduct and discipline”.
“Also engineered discipline, cohesion and diligence in the whole gamut of the Armed Forces”.

“You should always deal in evidence, not impulse. In facts, not feelings”.

“So, all allegations, are ill motive, No documentation, No direct quote, No credible confirmation. Just a source with unimpeachable integrity, and it’s a tabloid behavior in a tweed jacket”.

“All statement we discovered are not true.
The allegations are too hurtful, disrespectful, rude, crude and indifferent to CDS”.

“The public should know that, ‘INTERSOCIETY’ want to used religion and nepotism and blackmail as a battering ram to push unverified opinions, he has confused eloquence for authority”.

Your publication are personal, unverifiable claims about Gen. Christopher Musa which you already buried under the very lies you refused to verify.

“As a group, you should be be truthful, even if it hurts, and deal with verifiable facts, not conjectures and interpretations of what someone or others has said”.

Therefore, public shouldn’t be Fooled, the issue is not about Blackmailed or spreading tissue of lies, It’s about discipline, restraint, and responsibility in “public commentary, disregard the false allegations against CDS Christopher Musa the hero of our time”, the statement added

… Laud  Appointment of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as APC Nat’l Chair 

EX-COUNCILORS BLAST KWANKWASO FOR CALLING TINUBU A TRIBALIST

… Laud  Appointment of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as APC Nat’l Chair 

Kaduna, Nigeria – July 25, 2025 – The National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria has taken a swipe at Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing him as a “deceitful and desperate politician” who only seeks to exploit political opportunities to advance his personal ambition.

Speaking at a media luncheon with select journalists in Kaduna on Friday, July 25, 2025, the National President of the Forum, Ambassador Hon. Awal Kasim Hassan, condemned Kwankwaso’s recent allegation that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is distributing the nation’s resources in favour of the Southern region.

Amb. Hassan said the accusation was nothing more than a “desperate attempt to curry Northern support ahead of the 2027 Presidential election.”

He faulted Kwankwaso for conveniently ignoring several landmark projects and initiatives of the Tinubu administration that directly benefit the North, including:

The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development Establishment of the Northwest and North Central Development Commissions .The Lagos-Kebbi Highway project Ongoing revival of the Northern railway lines.

The Forum also accused the former Kano State Governor of running a corrupt and tyrannical administration, citing the controversial demotion of Senator Ibrahim Shekarau from Permanent Secretary to classroom teacher during his tenure.

Amb. Hassan further stressed that the Forum, which consists of former councilors from all 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria, will embark on a nationwide enlightenment campaign to expose Kwankwaso and other “political opportunists” who, despite benefiting immensely from the North, allegedly contributed little or nothing in return.

He revealed that the Forum has mandated its legal team to approach the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen and investigate all pending corruption cases involving Senator Kwankwaso, stating:

 “It is time Nigerians, especially Northerners, know the true colours of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.”

In a similar development, the group  applauded the appointment of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The National President of the Forum, Hon. Amb. Auwal Kasim Hassan, described the appointment as a positive development for both the APC and the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Amb. Hassan hailed Professor Yilwatda as a “round peg in a round hole,” noting his remarkable achievements during his brief tenure as Minister of Humanitarian Services. He commended the APC leadership and President Tinubu for making what he called a strategic and visionary choice.

The Forum, which is actively mobilizing support for the Tinubu 2027 re-election campaign across the 774 local government areas of the country, pledged its full support to the new APC chairman. They also expressed readiness to work closely with his leadership to ensure victory for the party at all levels in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

Signed:

Hon. Amb. Awal Kasim Hassan

National President, National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria

📞 08023444205

Peter Obi: CSOs Urge U.S. to Ignore Visa Ban Petition Against Edo Governor

Abuja, Nigeria – July 24, 2025 – Civil society organizations under the aegis of the Coalition for Justice and Equity Forum have called on the United States Government to disregard a petition seeking a visa ban on the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Monday Okpebholo.

The petition, reportedly submitted by unidentified political actors, requests travel restrictions against Governor Okpebholo and members of his immediate family over his recent public criticism of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.

In a statement released on Wednesday, jointly signed by the Coalition’s Chairman, Comrade Peter Okafor, and Secretary, Comrade Musa Ndanusa, the group described the petition as politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing the governor’s reputation and developmental achievements in Edo State.

“It is important that foreign governments, including the United States, recognize the political undertones of such petitions. Otherwise, we risk encouraging undue external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs,” the statement read.

The coalition further cautioned that entertaining such petitions could set a dangerous precedent, where international diplomatic channels are exploited for partisan battles.

While reaffirming their commitment to global standards of justice and human rights, the group warned against the misuse of foreign policy instruments for political vendettas.

“We support global standards for justice and human rights, but those standards must not be manipulated for political witch-hunts,” the group stated.

The Coalition concluded by urging the U.S. Government to uphold the principles of fairness, neutrality, and due process in assessing politically sensitive matters.

National Assembly Service Commission Visits Kaduna, Vows to Strengthen Legislative Partnership

A delegation from the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), led by Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi, on Monday paid a working visit to the Kaduna State Assembly Service Commission.

The visit aimed at fostering institutional collaboration and enhancing administrative processes within Nigeria’s legislative framework.

During an interactive session, Senator Hunkuyi emphasized the importance of building synergy between federal and state legislative service commissions. He noted that the engagement provided a vital platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and addressing challenges in legislative service delivery.

“Our goal is to ensure a well-trained, effective workforce that can support legislative functions across the country. We are here to learn, share, and build lasting partnerships,” Hunkuyi stated.

The delegation commended the leadership of the Kaduna State Assembly Service Commission, chaired by Hon. Nuhu Goroh Shadalafiya, for its notable strides in institutional reform and capacity building. Senator Hunkuyi also praised the support of Speaker Yusuf Dahiru Liman and Governor Uba Sani for strengthening the legislative arm through enabling laws and infrastructural investments.

Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker Barr. Henry Danjuma Magaji (Kagarko Constituency) expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a significant step toward institutional collaboration and shared progress in legislative governance.

In his welcome address, Hon. Nuhu Goroh reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to professionalism, strategic recruitment, and continuous training of staff tailored to support the Assembly’s law-making and oversight responsibilities.

“This visit is a milestone in our journey towards institutional excellence. We are confident that the dialogue will deepen our capacity and inspire innovation in legislative support services,” Goroh remarked.

Both commissions pledged to sustain the collaboration, with plans for follow-up engagements to further operationalize the outcomes of the meeting.

Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

Subject: Call for Stability in APC Leadership and Our Condolence on the Passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Your Excellency,

With deep respect and patriotic concern, we, the members of the All Progressives Stakeholders Forum—an integral voice within the All Progressives Congress (APC) family—write this open letter to commend your leadership and to share our candid views on matters vital to the unity and progress of our great party.

First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt condolences to you, the APC family, and the entire nation on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a statesman whose disciplined leadership, integrity, and patriotism laid the foundation upon which the APC grew into a national force. His legacy will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

Your Excellency, as committed party loyalists who have labored at all levels to uphold the values and vision of the APC, we feel compelled to humbly advise against any sudden alteration or removal of members of the current National Working Committee (NWC) before the next National Convention

At this critical stage in your administration and in the life of the party, any reshuffling or tampering with the current leadership may ignite internal unrest weaken party cohesion and give political opportunists and so-called power scavengers the room to exploit the situation to the party’s detriment.

Your Excellency, the current NWC has shown considerable stability, and continuity at this time will not only strengthen internal trust but also give your administration the needed backing to deliver on the “Renewed Hope” agenda without distractions.

This is not a time for division or uncertainty. It is a time for consolidation, harmony, and focus—both in governance and within the party structure.

We urge you, as the father of the party and symbol of unity, to allow the current NWC leadership to continue its role until the next convention, where necessary changes can be democratically and strategically addressed.

The All Progressives Stakeholders Forum remains steadfast in our support for your administration and will continue to advocate for a party that is stable, inclusive, and forward-looking.

May God grant you continued strength and wisdom as you lead our nation through this historic moment.

Yours in service,

Hajia Dr. Maryam Danjaki
President
All Progressives Stakeholders Forum