2027: Elrufai is a discredited politician, any that gives him a ticket loss election – Adamawa SDP stalwart

By Tom Garba,Yola

In a scathing yet optimistic assessment of Nigeria’s political landscape, Hon Yusuf Amos, a prominent figure in the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and former deputy governorship candidate in Adamawa State during the 2023 elections, has declared the SDP as the “new bride” of Nigerian politics.

Speaking exclusively to Tgnews correspondent, Amos emphasized the party’s growing appeal amid widespread disillusionment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

He also weighed in on the controversial inclusion of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, into the SDP fold, calling him both an asset and a liability as the party gears up for the 2027 elections.

Hon Amos painted a grim picture of the APC and PDP, accusing both parties of disenfranchising Nigerians and plunging the country into political turmoil.

“Under APC and PDP, Nigerians have been disenfranchised,” he stated. “But SDP is one of the oldest parties and remains the national party that Nigerians can be hopeful about again.”

Highlighting the internal crises plaguing the Labour Party, APC, and PDP, Amos positioned the SDP as a sanctuary for aggrieved politicians seeking a fresh start.

“It’s not a surprise people are trooping into the party as their last resort. It’s a welcome development—an alignment and realignment—and we expect more influx into our party.”

With thousands reportedly dissatisfied with the status quo, Amos predicted a seismic shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. “The battle for the 2027 election will be interesting,” he said. “SDP is the new bride people will be courting.”

The recent defection of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, a political heavyweight and former APC stalwart, to the SDP has sparked intense debate. Hon Amos did not mince words in his assessment of El-Rufai, describing him as “a discredited politician” desperate to cling to relevance after falling out with President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“My personal view on Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is that he is somebody who can’t survive outside the limelight of politics,” Amos remarked.

“Having lost out with Tinubu, he clutches at national relevance. Outside this, El-Rufai is a political nonentity. “Despite his harsh critique, Amos acknowledged El-Rufai’s value to the SDP. “He is, however, a good addition to the party,” he conceded.

“He is an asset, a known hustler, and an adamant fighter with so much courage.” Yet, he cautioned that El-Rufai’s tarnished reputation could hinder the party’s prospects. “He has lost so much credit and respect from Nigerians because of his past antecedents. Many people will not want to have too much to do with him because his negativity will rub off on them and affect public acceptance.”

Amos issued a stern warning to the SDP leadership against offering El-Rufai a ticket to contest in 2027. “The party can rely on his experience, but it will be a big mistake to give him any ticket,” he said.

“No Nigerian will vote for any party that gives El-Rufai a ticket. His years as Governor of Kaduna State revealed a lot about him. His past bosses—Obasanjo and Atiku—have called him a backstabber. A leopard can never change its spots.” Amos predicted electoral disaster for any party that gambles on El-Rufai’s candidacy, urging the SDP to prioritize credibility over clout.

El-Rufai is not the only high-profile figure eyeing the SDP. Hon Amos revealed that political giants like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Elisha Ishaku Abbo, and others are considering joining the party.

“The likes of Atiku, Senator Abbo, and others planning to join the party is a sign that SDP is ready to dislodge APC in 2027,” he said. “In the coming weeks and months, it’s going to be interesting as we anticipate more politicians coming to join us.”

However, Amos expressed skepticism about the motives of some of these aging politicians. Targeting Atiku Abubakar, former Governor Murta Nyako, and former Senator Abdul Aziz Nyako, he argued that their time in the spotlight has passed.

“Politics is not just about winning elections; it’s also about considering others to take the stage when your time is up,” he said.

“Atiku should be thinking of supporting his son, not himself. This is a man who, for the past thirty years, has wanted to be President of this country. One of the major problems of African politicians is that they don’t know when their time is up.”

Drawing a historical parallel, Amos lamented the dominance of elderly leaders in modern Nigerian politics. “Our past leaders like Yakubu Gowon and T.Y. Danjuma were in their late 20s and early 30s when they ruled this country. But now we have politicians in their 70s and 80s wanting to lead. It’s one of the reasons we are where we are as a nation.”

While optimistic about the SDP’s future, Amos warned that the party risks implosion if its leaders prioritize personal ambition over collective interest.

“If these politicians don’t subsume their personal interests and put the party first, honestly, what befalls APC and PDP will befall SDP,” he cautioned.

Turning to his home state of Adamawa, Amos expressed frustration with the political disunity in Adamawa Central, his zone. “Adamawa Northern and Southern zones have had their time, but we in the Central zone are not united,” he said.

“It’s shameful that we’re begging for people to allow us to produce the next governor.” Despite this, he remained confident in the SDP’s prospects. “In 2027, I see SDP doing better in Adamawa State, despite the funny judgments I witnessed when we took our matter to court.”

Looking ahead, Hon Amos vowed to play a pivotal role in the SDP’s 2027 campaign. “I’m going to play a very active role, consulting widely to either contest or play a magnificent role in the success of my party,” he declared.

He also offered rare praise for incumbent Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the PDP, crediting him for recent achievements.

“What gave Fintiri so much popularity in the last three weeks is the creation of chiefdoms and emirates—the happiness index,” Amos said.

“I also say well done to the governor for rural infrastructure in every part of the state.” However, he quickly added that the PDP in Adamawa is “empty,” and its national disarray provides an opening for the SDP to capitalize on in 2027.

Kaduna Shippers Association President, Achilike Hails Completion of Abandoned Kabala Coastain -Aliyu Makama Link Road

… Says it will ease traffic, boost business 

The President,  Kaduna State Shippers Association and Executive member of NACCIMA, Chief Augustine Achilike has commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for his resolve to flag off the completion of the abandoned Kabala Costain to Aliyu Makama Link Dual Carriage Road. 

According to Chairman of the Association in charge of importers and exporters, the flag – off no doubt marked a significant milestone that will boost  effective transportation of good and services in the State .

The Chairman, who made the commendation in a statement personally signed said, the new the Kabala Coastain -Aliyu Makama Road and Bridge will not only alleviate the suffering of residents, who face daily traffic jams on River Kaduna Bridge,but also ease transportation of goods and services because it linked  Kaduna south to Kaduna north.

The statement further reads :”We concur with the  Governor when he said the road “… Is more than a mere infrastructure project; it is a lifeline for our people, a channel for commerce, and a pathway to opportunity with hope that importers and Exporters will sigh of relief over challenges of road congestion and make up for delay in supply time .” 

While noting that the completion of the road will ease the pressure exerted on the road by heavy trucks and lorries on the Kaduna Bridge, he said the greatest advantage of new road is the enhancement of traveling from the northeastern and northwestern parts of the country to the Federal Capital Territory and beyond. 

“We are happy to identify with Governor Uba Sani’s  administration for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development since he assumed office 

“We in the business sector appreciate the Governor for revisiting the abandoned project. As business men ,we like to identify with this kind of laudable projects because it promote growth and development. 

“Shippers Association has commended Kaduna  State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for the bold move to flag off the completion of the abandoned Kabala Coastain to Aliyu Makama link dual carriage road .” he stated

Achilike however, urged the contractors to! adeliver on schedule considering the fact that the project is a very vital and of  benefit to all the Kaduna residents and environs .

Ramadan: Atiku Haske Organization Chair Felicitates With Muslims in Niger State

The Chairman , Niger State Chapter of Atiku Haske Organization, Aminu Sani Bello felicitates with Muslims in Nigeria State and across Nigeria for participating in this year’s Ramadan fasting.

He appealed to Muslims Muslim faithful to use the Ramadan period to pray relentlessly and specifically ask Almighty Allah to show mercy on the people of Niger State.

According to him, all Muslims must embrace the piety demanded of them during the Ramadan exercise.

In a statement personally signed, Alhaji Aminu Sani Bello enjoined Muslims in the State to not only use the month-long fasting period to pray for the peace,but seek face of Allah over issues of insecurity and harsh economy.

While admonishing Muslims to tune their minds to the messages of love, brotherliness, and peaceful co-existence inherent in the messages of the Holy Prophet, he urged them to also be their brothers’ keepers.

The statement further reads:” During this Ramadan period, we expect our Muslim brothers and sisters to adhere strictly to abstinence from food and other untoward things during the month of Ramadan.

” I call on our Muslim all over the world to extend their hands of fellowship to other fellow Muslims and non-Muslims alike, as it was precisely the way Prophet Mohammed (SAW) lived his life.”

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN: Governor Radda Constitutes 361 Community Learning Officers

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has emphasized the critical role of Community Learning Officers (CLOs) in reducing the number of out-of-school children across the state.

The Governor made these remarks during an interactive session with the newly constituted CLOs under the Katsina State Community Development Programme at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, today.

In his keynote address, Governor Radda outlined the educational responsibilities of the CLOs, stating, “Community Learning Officers will play a crucial role in monitoring and improving educational standards. They must track school attendance, ensure teacher accountability, and combat absenteeism. They must lead efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children, ensuring that every child has access to education. This work is critical in securing a brighter future for our state and ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.”

The Governor described the Community Development Programme as a vital pillar of the Building Your Future administration’s strategic mission, designed to transform the lives and livelihoods of the people of Katsina.

“Our vision is simple but profound—to implement community-driven development across the entire state, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, benefits from our policies,” the Governor stressed.

“Through the Community Development Programme, we have already achieved remarkable milestones: 18,000 farmers have received power tillers and modern farming equipment; 3,000 women have been empowered through business support initiatives; 361 large-scale farmers have benefited from agricultural programs, with over 32,490 small-scale farmers supported; 36,100 farmers have been provided with fertilizers,” the Governor impressively revealed.

He also mentioned the 300 widows who received N50,000 grants to start small businesses; 7,220 women are currently receiving financial support under our various empowerment programs; and over 90,000 individuals in 361 communities have been reached in two months.

Reflecting on the CDP role in enhancing security, Governor Radda asserted, “Our community-driven approach has played a critical role in addressing insecurity in Katsina State. A notable example is the Katsina Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), which has significantly reduced banditry and other security threats. This model has been studied and replicated in Zamfara and Sokoto facing similar challenges.”

Addressing the responsibilities of community leaders, Governor Radda charged them to ensure all empowerment efforts are inclusive, sustainable, and impactful. “Your leadership must be defined by integrity, honesty, and transparency. You must actively engage with your communities, listen to their concerns, and provide timely and effective solutions,” he added.

The Governor stated that the leadership of these committees will be rotational annually, ensuring that different voices are heard and diverse perspectives are represented.

On accountability, the Governor said, “Resources must be used effectively and transparently, ensuring they genuinely improve the quality of life in our communities. The CDP portal will serve as the platform for tracking and reporting all activities, ensuring that all programs remain inclusive and corruption-free. Any violation of the principles of the CDP will result in strict disciplinary action.”

Governor Radda appealed to all stakeholders, stating, “The success of the Katsina Community Development Program depends on your dedication, hard work, and resilience. Each of you has the power to transform your communities, bringing about lasting and meaningful change.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. Kamaludeen Kabir, State Coordinator of the Community Development Programme (CDP), said, “This meeting is crucial because it allows us to evaluate our progress and identify ways to improve the Community Development Program. Our work is diverse, covering various sectors, including agriculture, education, and women empowerment.”

The Coordinator commended the dedication of program implementers, noting, “The individuals involved in this program have remained committed, tirelessly working to identify and support beneficiaries, particularly women engaged in small-scale businesses.”

Dr. Kabir highlighted the interactive session focus on education, particularly how to improve student retention and overall educational outcomes in the communities.

Dr. Kabir noted the programme’s uniqueness, stating, “The CDP is a groundbreaking initiative that has never been implemented at this scale anywhere in Nigeria. It is our collective responsibility to ensure its success. If we execute our roles effectively, we will transform our communities and improve the lives of our people.”

On his part, the State Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, Professor Abdulhamid Ahmed Mani, stated, “Over time, we have seen increasing participation and interest in government-led development activities, which is a positive sign of progress. Our commitment remains strong in supporting these programs and ensuring their successful implementation across various communities.”

Other dignitaries who commended the initiatives are the Vice Chancellor, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Prof. Shehu Salihu Muhammad; State Secretary, Anti-Corruption Committee, Dr. Jamilu Abdulsalam; CLOs Representative, Malam Bello Idris among others.

The interactive session provided an opportunity for the newly constituted Community Learning Officers to understand their role in the educational component of the CDP, specifically in reducing the number of out-of-school children across Katsina State.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina

11th March, 2025

Day after Shehu Sani declared support for Uba Sani,Elrufai left APC for SDP

Less than 24 hours after the former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Senator Shehu openly declared support for Governor Uba’s reelection bid, the former Kaduna Governor, Mal. Nasir Elrufai out of alleged fears of the unknown,officially dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party(SDP).

Information gathered revealed that the return of Shehu Sani and other prominent politicians in the State such as Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi; Senator Danjuma Laah , Former Governor Ramalan Yero and others to APC recently unsettled the Elrufai.

Shehu Sani had said his major political interest in 2027 is to see Governor Uba Sani reelected as Kaduna State governor.

Unwilling to face the heat, Elrufai in a Facebook Post today formerly resigned from APC.

He declared: “Today, 10th March 2025, I have submitted a letter resigning my membership of the APC to my ward in Kaduna, effective immediately. Prior to this step, I had concluded consultations with my mentors, colleagues and loyalists across the country about the future. I have now decided to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and adopt it as the platform for our future political engagements and activities.

“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027 by the Grace of God.

“I therefore call on all our supporters and other persons concerned about our country’s future to join us in the SDP in the journey towards making Nigeria flourish as a beacon of pride for Africans and the Black Race.”

Meanwhile,in a reaction via telephone call , Shehu Sani said leaving APC for SDP wouldn’t make any difference for someone with no political relevance again. But one thing is sure , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu And Governor Uba Sani will be voted again.

Shadalafiya Hails Tinubu for Appointing Dr.Haruna Abubakar Shehu as CMD for Newly Established FMC,Kafanchan

The former Deputy Speaker, Kaduna State House of Assembly and current Chairman of Legislative Service Commission, Kaduna has expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Haruna Abubakar Shehu as the Chief Medical Director of newly established Federal Medical Centre ,Kafanchan, Kaduna State .

According to Shadalafiya, Dr. Shehu’s appointment is well-deserved, considering his exceptional contributions to medical growth and his quest for quality service delivery.

In a statement personally signed, Rt Hon Nuhu Goroh Shadalafiya urged Dr. Shehu to prioritize people’s needs and strive to make the Federal Medical Centre a hub for medical tourism.

Shadalafiya who appreciated Mr. President for his concern for Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state, commended Governor Uba Sani for always deposed to supporting the development and stability of Southern Kaduna and it’s people.

Dr. Shehu, a seasoned consultant family physician, has been appointed to lead the newly established hospital, which is expected to provide quality healthcare services to the people of Kaduna State and beyond .

Planned Protest: Nigerians in Diaspora Divided Over Akpabio, Natasha

Nigerians in Diaspora Forum (MDF) appeared divided about the planned protest against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the recent face-off with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

According to information gathered in the communique issued after a meeting held in London on Friday, some members insisted the protests scheduled for Monday 10,2025 in London and New York must be done and others disagreed.

The communique signed by Dr. Timothy Gabriel and made available via electronic mail to some journalists, revealed that some members of the Forum, backing Senator Natasha are of the view that the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio is using his office to silence and malign an innocent woman,thus he should resign immediately.

The members, who are angry about the suspension of Senator Natasha , described the action of the Akpabio led Senate as an assault on democracy and a deliberate attempt to silence women in leadership.

They insisted on the planned protests and vowed to mobilise members thinking along same line in United States of America and United Kingdom to come out for the protests and tell the world about the injustice meted out on Natasha.

However ,those supporting Akpabio described the planned protests against Akpabio as nothing, but mischief-makers who are exploiting the process to embark on the protests to cast aspersions on the Senate President’s image.

The communique captured that they appeal to the Nigerians in Diaspora to avoid any action that cast aspersions on the image of our country and leadership of the Senate over an issue that been resolved with the floor of the Senate.

We are not in support of any protest after the Senate has taken action to suspend Senator Natasha.And therefore urge members of the Forum to avoid being used for sponsored protests aimed at personal political mischief.

The Senate had taken a decision to suspend after referring the matter to the Ethics Committee for fair hearing and transparency and the ends the stirred up tension.

Muslim Clerics Caution Against Impeachment of Gov. Fubara

…Says Action Will Have Adverse Effects on Economy

In playing the role of an arbiter, Sheikh Usman Mohammed Musa and Sheikh Abbas Ibrahim have cautioned the Rivers State House of Assembly members against the widely rumoured move to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Recalled that recently at the plenary on Wednesday, the second after the Supreme Court restored the 27 Pro-Wike Lawmakers, in a letter profiled the constitutional infractions they claimed Fubara has committed.

But the Imams have expressed fears with a note of caution that any attempt to impeach Governor Fubara will not only breach the existing peace enjoyed by the good people of State ,but also have consequential effects on the growing economy of the state and country at Large.

In a seven paragraphs statement jointly signed by Sheikh Usman Mohammed Bawa and Sheikh Abbas Ibrahim on behalf of Concerned Muslim Imams (CMI),the Imams asked the lawmakers to avoid crisis that could lead to anarchy and wanton destruction of lives and property of our Muslim brothers and others citizens in the State.

According to the Imams,it appears the pro-Wike lawmakers have revived their earlier attempt to impeach Governor Fubara, whom they accused of violating the Constitution by appointing persons to serve as commissioners without their approval

But in the interest of peace , the clerics who called for peace and harmony between the executive arm and some members of the House of Assembly, said the need for robust relationship between the two arms of government is of paramount importance for growth and development.

The statement reads :” We are worried because we have lots of our Muslim brothers in Rivers State and it is our desire that they are protected and secured ,thus our resolve to appeal to Amawhule led House of Assembly to create an atmosphere of peace .”

On the economic implications of the impeachment, the Imams said ,”If the impeachment threat against Fubara is allowed to pull through, we fear the youths may carry out the threat to shut down all the flow stations in the Niger Delta. At this juncture,we are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene to safe our refineries

“By and large, it will equally heightened insecurity capable of scaring investors off the state. No investor is willing to put his investments where there is political instability. “

While wondering the motive behind the impeachment of a hardworking Governor such as Fubara, they queried ,” The rational behind the attempt by some members of the State House of Assembly to impeach a governor without any known reason and recourse to the Constitution by which they came into the House and which they swore to uphold.

“We therefore urged all political actors to sheath their swords and embrace dialogue. The state can only thrive and prosper in a peaceful and conducive atmosphere.

“We expect the political leaders amid the storm to be conscious of the fact that their actions have only succeeded in creating unnecessary tension and fear in the minds of residents and citizens.

“They however expressed concern that if the tension continues, it could plunge the state into an avoidable crisis with dire economic and social consequences.”

While urging Muslims in the state to support Governor Fubara during the critical period of the threat to impeach him, the Imams called on the warring parties to set aside their grudges and iron out their differences .

Suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ,Miscarriage of Justice 

–Fadojoe

The leader of the Rescue Movement for New Nigeria, Mr. Faduri Joseph popularly known as Fadojoe has described the suspension of the Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate as a miscarriage of justice.

Fadojoe in a statement today, Friday, said that the decision to suspend the Senator for six months has ignited intense debate and raised concerns about the fairness of the decision.

The suspension, handed down by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions, includes a ban from legislative activities, a written apology, and the locking of her office, among other penalties.

According to the statement, at the heart of the controversy is Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President, Mr. Godswill Akpabio. Despite her petition, the Senate dismissed her claims, citing a technicality that a senator cannot submit a petition signed by themselves.

“This decision has sparked outrage, with many questioning the Senate’s handling of the matter.” The statement said.

Critics argue that the suspension is a miscarriage of justice, highlighting concerns about due process and the lack of investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations.

“The swift decision to suspend her has also raised questions about the Senate’s commitment to fairness and accountability.

The suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan has also raised concerns about women’s representation in Nigerian politics. Many argue that the decision sends a chilling message to women who dare to speak out against harassment and abuse.

The Movements leader asked some pertinent questions:

“The question to the Nigerian Senate is how does a man who has been accused now be the judge and presided over his own case? How did the Senate come to a conclusion within a few days without any form of committee reports? No investigation gets to a point of suspension and apology without basis for such? When would Nigerians start rejecting and protesting against bad policies and bad governance like the one just been done by the Nigerian senate? When did women become inferior in crying out fowl when something happened to them?”

“All these questions are what I asked myself and want all Nigerians to ponder upon before if we are going to continue to allow our politicians to do whatever they like and run our nation like a jungle.”

He stated further that in a democratic nation, when such allegations are levied against anyone, such a person must rescue themselves from such investigations, step aside and let others conduct the investigations and when reports are out then any disciplinary actions taken base on reports and recommendations.

“We cannot be practicing democracy and we are operating a jungle justice: one-sided judgment. We are quick to judge and jump to conclusions in our nation without due process. We are so quick to cast blame on innocents.

“Senate treatment of Senator Natasha is a disgrace to Nigeria as a nation and a shame on our politics and governance as no nation would take us seriously if that’s how we treat human beings, especially women in our nation”.

He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to look into the case of Senator Natasha and prevail on Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from passing quick and baseless judgment on their colleague, without due process.

Fadojoe said that Nigerian lawmakers should not always jump to conclusions for political expediency, but following an adage that says, “Don’t be quick to judge”.

“Nigeria is the greatest nation in Africa, and we must show the lead in the way we treat human beings male and females alike. We must show the world that democracy can work in Africa with the way we showcase ourselves to the world and every little and big thing we do daily is a litmus test in our nation history to a stronger democracy in the future.” He concluded.

Fadojoe called for a more transparent and accountable investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations.