ZAILANI REITERATES COMMITMENT TO SUPPORT PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AND MALAM UBA SANI’S SECOND TERM AGENDA

The Rt Hon Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani, 9th Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Uba Sani, as they prepare for their respective second terms in office. Zailani’s remarks came during an empowerment program organized by the Igabi Local Government, led by Hon Sani Abdul, where over 150 less privileged individuals received a monthly allowance of 30,000 naira.

This was contained in a statement signed by the SA Media and Publicity to the 9th Assembly Speaker and made available to the Press.

In his address, Zailani emphasized the importance of unity in supporting the current administration, stating, “Everyone that is not supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration does not mean well for this country.” He called on all Nigerians to rally behind the President and the Governor to ensure continuity and progress.

Zailani also addressed recent political shifts, urging those decamping to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to refrain from celebrating, as he firmly believes they cannot hinder President Tinubu’s path to re-election in 2027. “Uba Sani remains our candidate for a second term as Governor in Kaduna State,” he declared, reinforcing his commitment to the continuity of leadership.

In a show of solidarity, Zailani expressed his full support for Hon Muhammad Abubakar Mamadi as the National Assembly Representative for Igabi Local Government. He stated, “We are only waiting for INEC to give room for campaigns. On that day, we will organize a march of hundreds of thousands in support of President Tinubu’s second term and Malam Uba Sani’s re-election as Governor in 2027.”

The event also witnessed a strong endorsement from Igabi stakeholders, who rallied around Zailani’s potential candidacy for the Senate to represent Kaduna Central in the 11th Assembly in 2027. This endorsement was articulated by the Chairman of Igabi Stakeholders, Alh Muazu Abubakar Ruma Tafidan Afaka, Sardaunan Nagarta, Majidadin Ruma, highlighting the collective desire for Zailani to serve at a higher legislative capacity.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Zailani’s resolute commitment to supporting President Tinubu and Governor Sani underscores a broader call for unity and progress within Kaduna State and Nigeria at large. The upcoming election cycle promises to be a pivotal moment for the region, with Zailani and his allies poised to lead the charge for continued development and democratic governance.

National Honour: Ex-Councilors Congratulate Shehu Sani, Say Honour Is Well Deserved

The National Forum of Ex-Councilors has congratulated Senator Shehu Sani on the conferment of a national honour by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement signed by the National President,Hon. Awal Kasim Hassan, the group described the recognition as a well-deserved and long-overdue honour, given Senator Sani’s contributions to the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.

According to the Forum, Senator Sani was one of the true heroes who endured untold hardship, torture, and imprisonment under successive military regimes due to his activism and fight for democratic governance.

“We are happy that our President has recognized the role played by our democratic heroes, both living and deceased. Senator Shehu Sani is a symbol of courage and sacrifice. His recognition at this time reaffirms our nation’s commitment to honouring those who fought for our freedom,” the statement read.

The Forum also commended President Tinubu for bestowing national honours on individuals who risked their lives to challenge military dictatorship and pave the way for civilian rule.

Democracy Day: Tinubu Confers Honours on Uba Sani, Shehu Sani, Others

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured prominent Nigerians, including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani and former lawmaker and rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, for their pivotal roles in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking during the 2025 Democracy Day celebration on June 12, President Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by several pro-democracy advocates during Nigeria’s years under military rule. In a speech delivered before a joint session of the National Assembly, the President commended the bravery and enduring commitment of individuals like Uba Sani and Shehu Sani in advancing democratic ideals.

“These patriots stood firm when it mattered most,” Tinubu said. “Their courage helped shape the democratic foundation we stand on today.”

As part of the commemorations, President Tinubu conferred national honours on several distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to the democratic journey. The list includes academics, journalists, politicians, civil society leaders, and posthumous awardees.

Key honourees include:

Prof. Wole Soyinka – Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON)
Senator Shehu Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Governor Uba Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah – CON
Barrister Femi Falana, SAN – CON
Dapo Olorunyomi (Publisher, Premium Times) – Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
Bayo Onanuga (Presidential spokesman) – CON
Ken Saro-Wiwa (Posthumous) – CON
Alhaja Sawaba Gambo – CON
Chief Bola Ige – CFR
Mobolaji Akinyemi – CFR
Others honoured include rights activists, lawmakers, journalists, and late pro-democracy campaigners such as Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Balarabe Musa, Chief Frank Kokori, and Odia Ofeimun.

The recognition, Tinubu said, is part of a broader effort by the federal government to memorialize the efforts and legacies of those who played vital roles in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

Broken Promises, Stolen Futures: The Call for a New Nigeria on Democracy Day
June 12: A Wake-Up Call to Real Democracy in Nigeria
By Faduri Oluwadare Joseph (FADOJOE)
Founder, Rescue Movement for a New Nigeria | Former Presidential Aspirant, Labour Party

Today, June 12, we commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day — a day not only to honor the memory of Chief MKO Abiola and the historic 1993 elections, widely acclaimed as the freest and fairest in our history — but also to confront the hard truth of where we stand as a nation.

We are called to celebrate democracy, yet we have not truly practiced it.

What is democracy if not a government by the people, for the people, and with the people?
Sadly, what we witness today in Nigeria is a far cry from that ideal. Instead of genuine democracy, we are burdened with corruption, injustice, insecurity, and a political system that fails the very people it claims to serve.

We cannot continue to call this democracy when:

Votes are bought with rice and naira, not earned through trust.

Electoral victories are decided by rigging, not the will of the people.

The same recycled elite hold us hostage while the masses suffer in silence.

Our judiciary shields the rich and powerful while oppressing the poor.

Law enforcement serves those in power, not the people.

Insecurity, kidnappings, and fear have become part of everyday life.

Whistleblowers are silenced while looters walk free.

This is not democracy. This is betrayal — of our heroes past, our youths present, and our children’s future.

But amid the darkness, there is hope.

There is still time to rewrite the story of our nation — to build a New Nigeria defined by justice, equity, opportunity, and peace. But the journey begins with us.

How do we build real democracy?

1. Vote Wisely:
   Your vote is your voice. Stop exchanging it for peanuts while they steal your tomorrow. Vote for people of character, competence, and compassion — not for names, parties, or tribes.
2. Unite Beyond Religion and Tribe:
   Until we begin to see ourselves as Nigerians first — not Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, or any other ethnic group — we will remain divided and weak. Our real enemies are not each other, but the corrupt leaders who exploit our divisions to maintain power.
3. Participate Actively:
   Whether you are in Nigeria or abroad, your voice, your skills, your resources matter. We need all hands on deck. Change is not a solo effort. Not by me. Not by you. But by all of us — together.

Imagine This Nigeria:

Where a roadside hawker’s child has the same quality education as a senator’s child.

Where a police officer knows that breaking the law comes with consequences.

Where elections are contests of ideas, not intimidation.

Where governance is a sacred trust, not a personal business.

That Nigeria is possible. That Nigeria is necessary. That Nigeria is our duty.

So this Democracy Day, let’s do more than celebrate — let’s reflect, recommit, and rise.

Let us raise one voice and one purpose — to rescue Nigeria from failed leadership and broken promises, and usher in the era of true democracy.

It starts with you. It starts with me. It starts with all of us.

Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.
Let’s make it real.

PRESS RELEASE

EX-COUNCILORS HAIL NUHU RIBADU FOR CHECKMATING

INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

As the Nation celebrates the 2025 edition of the annual Democracy Day anniversary, Former Councilors in Nigeria Operating under the aegis of National Forum of Ex-councilors has applauded the achievements of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in taming insecurity across the six geo-graphical zones of Nigeria.

The Ex-councilors spoke through their·National President Hon.Amb.Auwal

Kasim Hassan who addressed a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday,June

12,2025 to commemorate the June 12 Democracy Day celebrations.

The grassroot politician who was accompanied by top officials of the association enumerated the achievements recorded by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as follows:-

He said when Nuhu Ribadu assumed office as Nigeria’s National Security Adviser on June 26,2023,he inherited a nation besieged by multifaceted security

threats:terrorism in the   Northeast,rampant banditry in the Northwest,separatist violence in the Southeast,and a kidnapping economy flourishing nationwide.

Against this backdrop,Ribadu a former police officer and pioneer chairman of

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)brought a paradigm

shift to Nigeria’s security architecture.His doctrine,articulated early in his tenure,rejected orthodox solutions in favor of a tripartite strategy merging

military precision,political dialogue,and socio-economic initiatives.With an emphasis on interagency coordination,intelligence-driven operations,and regional partnerships, Ribadu’s first two years have redefined leadership at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

He added that Mallam Nuhu Ribadu also ensured the implementation of the

following:

1.   Curbing Oil Theft &Economic Sabotage

·Achievement:Coordinated aggressive operations against illegal refining

sites and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

Impact: Nigeria’s oil production rose from 1.1 million barrels/day (mid-2023)to 1.6 million barrels/day(Q12024)boosting revenue by N1.3 trillion monthly (NNPC data).

·Over 5,000 illegal refineries dismantled;1,800 suspects arrested.

·Restored investor confidence in the energy sector.

2.  Degrading Terrorism &Banditry

·Achievement:Revamped inter-agency coordination(military,police,

DSS)and intelligence sharing.

Impact:Bandit/kidnapping incidents fell by 40%in Northwest Nigeria(Q42023-

Q12024).

·Key terrorist leaders neutralized e.g.,Boko Haram’s Abu Illiya and many

others.

·Over 2,000 hostages rescued since 2023.

3.  Tech-Driven Security Modernization

·Achievement:Launched the National Security Data Fusion Centre

(December 2023).

Impact:

·Real-time threat analysis via AI and satellite monitoring.

·Faster response times to kidnappings e.g.,Kaduna school abduction

resolved in 48 hours.

4.  Regional Security Diplomacy

·Achievement:Strengthened partnerships with Niger,Chad,and Cameroon

for cross-border operations.

Impact:

·Reduced terrorist/bandit migration across borders.

·Joint operations neutralized 300+insurgents (Lake Chad Basin).

5. Addressing Farmer-Herder Conflicts

·Achievement:Mediation and rapid-response deployments in hotspots like

Plateau,Benue,etc.

Impact:

·60%reduction in fatal clashes in 2024 vs.2023(SBM Intelligence).

● Enhanced community-policing frameworks.

Similarly,he disclosed that the National Security Adviser milestones as National

Security Adviser(2023-Present)underscores that effective security leadership

hinges on strategic coordination,unflinching political backing,and silent,result-

oriented action.His decimation of terror kingpins from Boderi to Kachalla

Damina has disrupted criminal ecosystems that once operated with impunity.His revitalization of ONSA’s specialized centers (NCTC,NCCC)has

institutionalized resilience against emerging threats.Yet,Ribadu’s legacy

extends beyond statistics:it lies in rebuilding trust between security agencies, across borders,and among citizens.Challenges persist,as noted in isolated clashes in Plateau or the 2024 resurgence of Lakurawa terrorists.

However, Ribadu’s insistence that ‘security is the foundation of national development’has set Nigeria on a trajectory where stability is increasingly conceivable.As he declared in his 2025 New Year address,the path forward demands ‘vigilance, collaboration,and unwavering unity’.With continued presidential support and public solidarity,the groundwork laid under Ribadu offers a template for a safer,

more sovereign Nigeria.

Concluding,Hon.Amb.Auwal Hassan Kasim affirmed the solidarity of National

Forum of Ex-councilors with Mallam Nuhu Ribadu vision for a safer,prosperous Nigeria.

Signed:

Hon.Amb. Auwal Kasim Hassan

National President.

08023444205

Uba Sani Deserves This National Honour – SA on Lands, Zakari Lawal* 

Zakari Lawal, the Special Assistant on Lands to Governor Uba Sani, has congratulated his principal on being awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), calling it “a crowning moment for one of Nigeria’s most consistent champions of democratic and social justice.”

In a press statement issued in Kaduna, Lawal noted that the governor’s track record as a rights activist, legislator, and now transformational governor made him a deserving recipient of the prestigious honour.

“For those of us privileged to work with him, this award is no surprise. Governor Uba Sani lives and breathes the ideals of equity, access, and reform,” Lawal said.

He highlighted the governor’s interventions in the land sector, which have prioritised fairness in allocation, expanded access to titles for ordinary citizens, and enhanced land value for public good.

“The governor understands that land is more than property — it is a means of empowerment. His reforms are helping thousands secure their rights and livelihoods,” Lawal stated.

He also praised President Tinubu for recognizing a sitting governor whose style of leadership continues to blend democratic credentials with practical reforms.

“On behalf of all of us in the Lands Directorate, I say congratulations, Your Excellency. You have made Kaduna proud, and your name will be written in gold,” Lawal concluded.

Blame Yourself, Not Others, for Labour Party’s Failure — A Message to Mr. Peter Obi

By Faduri Oluwadare Joseph (FADOJOE)

Former Presidential Aspirant, Labour Party founder, Rescue Movement for New Nigeria

My attention has been drawn to numerous comments and videos where Mr. Peter Obi continues to blame everyone but himself for the deepening crisis in the Labour Party. From blaming the current president to party leadership and even external forces, Obi seems to be pointing fingers everywhere except at the man in the mirror.

This is both disappointing and disingenuous.

It is laughable that a man who prides himself on competence, capacity, and production — the core vision of the Labour Party — is today a symbol of division, confusion, and underperformance. I recently watched a video where he accused the president of being responsible for the party’s woes. In another, he blamed the party leadership. The blame game is endless.

Let us call a spade what it is: the only person to be held responsible for the Labour Party’s downward spiral is Mr. Peter Obi himself.

When Obi joined the party in 2022, Labour Party was united. The house was in order. But since his arrival, crisis has rocked the party from top to bottom. The center could no longer hold. This division contributed heavily to our loss in the 2023 general election. A house divided against itself cannot stand.

How can a man who claims he wants to govern a complex nation like Nigeria not even manage a small political party?

To all Obi supporters, I ask you to think critically: If Peter Obi cannot resolve party-level crises, how will he manage inter-state conflicts, economic restructuring, security turmoil, and national reconciliation?

Let us not forget, Obi did not build APGA — the platform that gave him his first opportunity. He deserted it when he should have grown it into a national party, like Nnamdi Azikiwe did with NCNC or Awolowo with UPN. Compare that to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who turned a regional party into a national powerhouse that now governs Nigeria.

Instead of strengthening APGA, Obi ran to PDP for another political meal, then moved again to Labour Party for a third helping — always looking for the easiest path, not the one requiring true leadership and sacrifice.

After the 2023 elections, instead of returning to rebuild Labour Party and unify aggrieved members, he further distanced himself from Barr. Julius Abure — the very man he used during the campaign. Now that the party is in ruins, he blames Abure for the dirt, forgetting he was the one who walked into a clean house and messed it up.

Let me be clear: I am no fan of Julius Abure, but the shady deals now under scrutiny were made for Obi’s political ambition. Leadership requires loyalty, responsibility, and the will to lead — especially in difficult times.

Instead, Obi is fixated on joining coalitions — seeking shortcuts to power again. But let me boldly state: Mr. Obi is not qualified to be a coalition candidate for 2027. That position must be earned through proven leadership, party unity, and capacity — not mere popularity or public sympathy.

In 2022, Labour Party was dead asleep. I, Fadojoe, with the Rescue Movement, helped wake it up and gave Nigerians an option. The people were already disillusioned with APC and PDP. Obi benefitted from this public frustration — not because he was a political messiah, but because he was a lesser-known alternative.

Now, the reality has dawned on many. People are beginning to see beyond the media image. They ask — what does Peter Obi actually stand for?

Where does he stand on Nnamdi Kanu’s detention?

What is his position on the Sit-at-Home economic shutdown in the Southeast?

What has he said about oil theft in the Niger Delta?

What is his solution to insecurity — Boko Haram, unknown gunmen, and armed herders?

On all these pressing national matters, Peter Obi remains silent. But on universally agreeable issues like unemployment and poverty, he speaks loudly — because they are “safe zones.”

Leadership is not about where you stand during peace and applause, but where you stand in crisis and reproach.

Would Tinubu blame Labour Party for APC’s problems? Would PDP shift blame to the ruling party for its internal fights? No. So why should Obi not own up after two years in LP?

If you cannot lead, step aside.

Let those of us who have the vision, the capacity, and the courage to build a united and purpose-driven Labour Party take over. Reorganizing this party is not rocket science. Fixing Nigeria starts from fixing ourselves, our political parties, and our communities.

In 2027, Nigerians must choose a leader not based on sentiments or moral branding, but on vision, capacity, and competence.

We must bring about a generational shift in power. It’s time for a new leadership that doesn’t exploit tribal sentiments but promotes unity, development, and progress.

Many Nigerians in the diaspora have lost hope. Some have sworn never to return. But I say to you — don’t give up. There is still hope. Nigeria will rise again.

We will rebuild. We will recover. We will overtake.

Let’s not wait for a savior. Let’s become the saviors our country needs. The fight for Nigeria’s future begins with you and me. Together, let’s work for a better nation — starting now.

God bless you.

God bless me.

And may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Int’l Day For Dialogue: Sustained Community-Based Engagement Key to National Unity – Global Peace

By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna

Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN) has emphasised the need for sustained community-based dialogue as a cornerstone for fostering national unity, especially in a country as diverse as Nigeria.

This call was made in Kaduna on Wednesday during a high-level roundtable convened to commemorate the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations.

The event brought together religious leaders, women advocates, youth groups, and civil society actors to deliberate on the role of grassroots engagement in promoting peace and mutual understanding.

In his opening remarks, the Country Director of GPFN, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, described dialogue as more than just a tool for resolving conflict, stressing that it must become a way of life in communities historically divided along religious, ethnic, and political lines.

“Dialogue is the bridge that connects people, dispels fear, and builds trust,” he said. “In places like Kaduna, where identity is often politicised, we must intentionally create platforms for ongoing conversation at the grassroots. Peace cannot be imposed; it must be nurtured from the community level upward.”

Themed “One Family Under God: Advancing Peace through Dialogue in Local Communities,” the roundtable featured presentations and experience-sharing sessions on faith-based mediation, youth engagement, and intercultural understanding.

Speaking on “Fostering Mutual Respect Through Dialogue and Shared Values“, Hayab reiterated the foundation’s vision of building a united society through the principle of shared humanity.

He urged Nigerians to shift from reactive peace talks to proactive, structured dialogue that empowers faith leaders, amplifies women’s voices, and channels youthful energy towards national cohesion.

“As we mark another Democracy Day season in 2025, it is time to reflect on how inclusive dialogue can deepen our democratic culture and strengthen national unity,” he added.

Commending local peace actors across Kaduna and beyond, Hayab acknowledged their tireless efforts despite limited resources and called for increased support for community dialogue structures.

The programme also featured goodwill messages from key stakeholders. Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State, Rev. Caleb Ma’aji, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) Secretary General, Ibrahim Kufena, who lauded GPFN’s interventions in communities such as Hayin Bankin.

They noted that the foundation had invested significant time, resources, and compassion in building peace, urging residents of the area to sustain the gains by living peacefully and embracing shared values that promote unity. “You have the responsibility to drive development by living as one family under one God,” the clerics stated.

On his part, the Village Head of Hayin Banki, Alhaji Mahmud Shehu Galadima, emphasised the power of dialogue in building consensus. “What you cannot achieve through force, you can achieve through dialogue. I call on other communities to adopt this approach,” he said.

One the participants, Adama Ibrahim, praised the transformation in Hayin Bankin, describing it as a model for other communities. “We have seen positive change here because of GPFN’s efforts. I encourage others to replicate this example by fostering mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” she said.

The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations is observed globally to promote peaceful resolution of conflicts and deepen understanding across social, cultural, and religious divides.

Rev. Hayab closed the session with a charge: “Let us take the message of dialogue into our homes, markets, schools, and places of worship. When dialogue thrives, peace follows.”