Yoruba Youths Urges EfCC To Beam Search Light Away From Yahaya Bello

The Yoruba Youth Council has advised the Economic and Finance Crimes Commission, EFCC, to leave the immediate former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello in peace in view of what it described as his outstanding performance in office.

The Kogi State Government had on Tuesday in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Femi Fanwo, cried out over an alleged attempt by the commission to tarnish Bello's image over his alleged diversion of state funds even before he assumed office.

In a statement on Wednesday by its National President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the Council said that in view of the state government's declarations, the anti-graft body should beam its searchlight elsewhere and leave Bello alone in its alleged desperation to nail the ex-governor, which it said the agency inherited from the administration of its former Head Muhammad Bawa.

Oluwole recalled the strings of outstanding achievements recorded by Bello, especially the newly established University in Okun Kingdom, the Yoruba-speaking part of Kogi State, the first of it's type in the state.

He said: "The immediate former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello  recorded strings of landmark achievements during his tenure, especially the new University that he established in Okun Kingdom among many others.

"Yoruba youths always watch and identify closely with our people in Okun who have a lot of good testimonials about the former Governor.

"In view of the testimonies of our people and the generality of the people of Kogi State, as regards the achievements he has recorded in that state, we strongly believe that Yahaya Bello deserves commendation, but not humiliation, for his brilliant performance while in office as the Governor of Kogi State. He deserves good reward, not molestation, harassment or being haunted by any body.

"We also urge that the Media people should fairly report his achievements in office without any bias, while performing their constitutional duties as watchmen of the society.

"Based on our findings as enumerated above, Yoruba youths advise the EFCC to leave Yahaya Bello alone, because his good record of remarkable achievements in Kogi State has contributed immensely to hastening the socioeconomic development of that state."

Stop The Witch Hunt, Arewa Network Caution EFCC Over Yahaya Bello ...

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what it calls a witch hunt against the former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. 

In a statement released today, NEN Chairman, Suleiman Abbah, expressed concern over the ongoing intimidation and harassment of Governor Bello, stating that such actions are unacceptable.

The group pointed out that the original charge against Yahaya Bello alleges his involvement in a conspiracy to convert funds belonging to the Kogi State Government. However, the NEN highlights that this offense is said to have occurred in September 2015, before Bello even assumed office as Governor. 

The group argues that accusing him of a crime that occurred before he held the position is illogical and baseless.

Furthermore, the NEN emphasizes that Governor Bello had no financial dealings with the Kogi State Government prior to his appointment, raising doubts about the validity of these allegations. 

The group questions the credibility of the EFCC and its leadership, stating that these ridiculous and indefensible accusations tarnish the agency's reputation and undermine public trust.

The NEN also warns political actors to refrain from interfering in Kogi State affairs and to cease their campaign of calumny. It highlights that the state government has not reported any missing funds and has been recognized for its transparency and accountability both locally and internationally.

 The group urges the appropriate authorities to conduct their investigations without undue political influence.

In light of these concerns, the NEN calls on President Tinubu to intervene and safeguard the integrity of the EFCC. The agency should not be manipulated or coerced into engaging in a fight that should be left to politicians. 

The President must ensure that the EFCC operates independently and upholds the principles of justice and fairness.

The NEN concludes by urging the EFCC to refocus on its core mandate of combating corruption rather than engaging in baseless pursuits of individuals without substantial evidence. It states that it is time to put an end to this witch hunt and restore faith in the justice system.

Abuja Kidnap:Group Condemns Payment of Ransom by Fmr Minister, Pantami , Says action encourages Banditry

... Commends FG Efforts So far in Tackling  Insecurity Challenges

Group under aegis of Coalition  for Peace and National Unity Condemns has condemned payment of ransom to kidnappers by the immediate past Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mal. Isa Pantami . 

Recalled that On Wednesday ,January 5, gunmen invaded  residence of a family in Bwari area council ,the Zuma 1 area of Abuja, abducting a father and his six girls with one girls reportedly died in captivity. 

The former Minister had made announcement, seeking donation to pay the N60 million ransom via his x social media handle for their rescue. According to Pantami, a friend of his has offered to pay N50 million ransom to the kidnappers to secure the release of the five remaining sisters,who were abducted in Abuja.

"It might appeared a good and humanitarian gesture. For us as group ,it will no doubt further encourage kidnapping business in the country "it emphasised . 

Reacting to issue of payment of ransom by the Minister,  Coalition for Peace and National Unity in a press statement made available to journalists in Kaduna 

said,"We have repeated advised and kicked against payment of ransom to criminals under any guise, because it is counter-productive to fight against banditry."

While recalling that Nigeria security agencies have also discouraged payment of ransom to kidnappers, the group reminded that, "The Nigerian Senate had in 2022 passed a bill imposing jail terms of at least 15 years for paying a ransom to free someone who has been kidnapped, and made the crime of abduction punishable by death in cases where victims die.

The group in the statement signed by the Secretary General ,Dr. Abdullahi Musa  Ringim queried Pantami's silence on heightened insecurity challenges under Buhari administration asked,"Where was Pantami's Voice, when under Former President Buhari, when half of Katsina State was under attack by bandits , 80 percent of Zamfara State was occupied by terrorists , Kaduna killings were done almost on daily basis in southern Kaduna with Bandits unleashing terror on innocent citizens in Niger state and  at birnin-Gwari Local Government area of Kaduna State .

"We also ask what happened to  his passion to rescue kidnapped victims, When 279 female students of GGSS , Jangebe were kidnapped  during a raid by armed bandits on 26 February 2021; when 11 students of FGC ,Yauri were kidnapped,  when bandits invaded the school on 17th June 2021, Several students of  Bethel Baptist School Kaduna , Greenfield University ,Kaduna , Students of Federal College of Forestry  Mechanisation, Kaduna were kidnapped? 

As measures to deter other persons from hurried payment of ransom to bandits, the coalition called on security agencies to invite Pantami for investigation for violating the law . 

According to the group, hundreds of Nigerians are in kidnappers dens owing because the immediate past government allowed kidnapping to become a thriving enterprise.

However, the group which urged security agencies to adopt proactive measures to fight against all forms of criminalities across the country, especially  banditry  and Insurgency, posited ,"Even though there still insecurity challenges, there are  relative and significant improvements on security issues, especially in northern Nigeria . 

"At this juncture, and from our comparative analysis as well as records obtained by our research unit,we are left with no option than to commend Federal government for efforts taken so far to tackle prolonged security challenges in country with the last eight months of Tinubu's administration. "It stated . 

Meanwhile,it advised the president to reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating poverty, terrorism and all forms of criminality nationwide and intensify efforts to implement tangible measures that will alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates.

NSCF Praises Matawalle's Global Partnership Drive To Combat Insecurity

...

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) commends the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, for his efforts in forging global partnerships to combat insecurity in Nigeria.

 In a statement issued by NSCF's spokesperson, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group recognized that since assuming office as minister of state for defence, Matawalle has demonstrated a unique approach to tackling the country's security challenges.

One noteworthy achievement highlighted by the NSCF is Matawalle's recent working visit to the United States of America. During this visit, the minister held meetings with members of the United States Congress at the Capitol on December 13th. 

The purpose of the tour was to explore innovative technologies that would enhance the Nigerian military's efficiency in addressing contemporary security threats.

The discussions concluded with an emphasis on the collaboration between the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and NEANY of the US. This partnership aims to establish assembly lines for the production of advanced military equipment, contributing to the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities in Nigeria.

The NSCF believes that this collaboration will enable Nigeria to learn from NEANY's expertise in military hardware production.

The NSCF also applauded Matawalle's attendance at the conference of Ministers of Defence from Africa, Europe, and Arab nations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The conference, which took place from February 2nd, 2024, in Riyadh, saw defence ministers discussing strategies and issues related to securing their respective regions. Matawalle's participation further demonstrates his commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's vision of modernizing Nigeria's armed forces to effectively address evolving security threats.

In addition, the NSCF commended Matawalle for his swift action in ordering an investigation into allegations of wrongdoing by a serving Chief of Naval Staff accused of engaging in corrupt practices. 

This commitment to ensuring accountability within the military is commendable and indicative of Matawalle's dedication to upholding integrity and transparency.

The NSCF believes that Matawalle's global partnerships and proactive approach to security challenges will significantly contribute to the overall improvement of Nigeria's security landscape. 

The group calls on all stakeholders to support these initiatives and collaborate towards a safer and more secured Nigeria.

Hon. Shehu Wadaji Congratulates Gov Bala Mohammed For Victory At Supreme Court

By: Ibrahim Tinja 

The Special Adviser On Pilgrim Affairs, Bauchi State, Hon. Shehu Alhaji Wadaji has congratulated the Executive Governor of Bauchi  state, His Excellency, Bala Mohammed, Kauran Bauchi,  Jagaban Katagum, Turakin Ningi, on his victory in the supreme court as the duly elected governor of the state

Alhaji Wadaji  while congratulating the Governor Mohammed also praised  the Supreme Court justices for doing the right thing by  restoring the confidence of  Nigerians on the judiciary 

On behalf of the good people of Jama'are,I wish to congratulate you on your victory at the Supreme Court today . Indeed this is a great day for democracy and a great day for the people of Bauchi  State 

"Your victory at the Supreme Court has justified the confidence that millions of Bauchi State indigenes and residents have in you .

"They voted you because of the enormous developmental projects that you brought to Bauchi .

"I wish to also commend the justices of the Supreme Court that took the right decision thereby restoring confidence of Bauchi  people and Nigerians back to the judiciary 

According to Shehu Wadaji, Governor Bala Mohammed would surpass his past four years record  by bringing more projects and employment opportunities to the State 

"I know that by this court victory, our amiable Governor would now be free to do more by generating employment opportunities while bring many more developmental projects to the people of the state .

Once again, I extend my heart congratulations to our father, the Kauran Bauchi.

Mariam Gendemeh from Sierra Leone Emerges Star Prize Winner Future Africa Leaders Awards Winner 2023

The Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2023 Grand Finale which held in Lagos, Nigeria, saw the emergence of 23-year-old Mariam Gendemeh from Sierra Leone as the star prize winner of the year. She came tops out of thousands of entries reviewed from all 54 countries on the continent.

The yearly event recognises and empowers young Africans between the ages of 16 and 23, who have effectively initiated multifaceted projects and initiatives, that have brought about positive change and innovative advancement in their communities throughout the continent.

The top 10 finalists for the year 2023 announced at the grand finale include Katleho Mojakisane Queen from Lesotho, Grace Lamane Fatime from Chad, Alieu Sasay from Liberia, Annick Bado from Burkina Faso, Clinton Arko Agyemang from Ghana, Emma Kwaje from South Sudan, Lyna Bossa Tchydre from Togo, Matilda Kahunde from Uganda, and Wissal Rida from Morocco.

The 10 finalists were awarded a grant of $10,000 each, while the Star Prize Winner, Mariam Gendemeh, was awarded an additional $25,000 for embodying the highest standards of visionary leadership in 2023.

Speaking on her emergence as the Star Prize winner, a thrilled Gendemeh declared that winning the award was not only a personal achievement but a testament to the greatness of her home country, Sierra Leone. "It means so much to me and my country because we have suffered so much", she stated.

Held under the distinguished chairmanship of Nigeria's former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, the event saw the likes of Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of National Legislative Assembly, Republic of South Sudan as a guest and former President Republic of Malawi, Dr Mrs Joyce Banda, as Special Guest of Honour.

At the grand finale, the President and Founder of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation (FALF), Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, D.Sc, D.Sc, D.D asserted that "Every nation has young people and investing in the young people is investing in the future. Every nation must recognise this. Our efforts in this regard have helped train, inspire, and motivate young people worldwide.”

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome also acknowledged the challenges and problems that Africa has faced in the past, stating: "If we will chart a new course for Africa, we must do something about Africa's young people. Our young people have done amazing things throughout the continent, inspiring others and contributing to their countries, communities, and generations. Tonight's award further serves to encourage our young people; we realise that they hold the future in their hands.”

He encouraged young people to intentionally live beyond themselves and make a difference in their world. "You can do a lot about your country, community, and the world. When you look beyond yourself and live a life beyond yourself, you really begin to experience your inner greatness because in each one of you is a seed of greatness.”

In his remarks, Nigeria's former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, emphasized the need for peace, stability, and security of lives in Africa and the world. He opined that Africa's future lies in the people of Africa, particularly the youths of Africa. Speaking on the ongoing wars in the world, he opined that "we must all embrace a world of peace, security, harmony, and love. Without peace, there can be no development; without development, there is no progress.” He charged all the award recipients to view the recognition as a challenge and a call to duty rather than a reason to rest of their oars. He encouraged all African youths to; "not be despondent about the situation on the continent, their countries, communities, or the world at large. Things are getting better. There are leadership qualities in each one of you, bring it out. That's what this award is all about. Inspiring and empowering you to bring out those leadership qualities to make Africa, the great continent God intended it to be – a land flowing with milk and honey".  

Similarly, Rt Hon Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, Republic of South Sudan, averred, "Africa has all the resources it needs to position itself positively on the global stage. We have the brains, the resources, and the knowledge of our situation. We need to continue praying, collaborating, and building the capacity of our young people, men and women, to take a lead in that. Only Africans can solve Africa's challenges because we are the only ones with a vested interest in making the continent the best it can be. Any other party claiming concern for Africa may have exploitative agendas. Therefore, we must learn to rely on ourselves and use our resources effectively to provide services to the African people. Thus, this award focuses on young people so they can have a different attitude towards development, providing services to the people and not self-centred leaders focused on lining their pockets.”

Dr. Joyce Banda, former Malawian president, opined that her years of leadership have taught her that "leadership is a love affair. You must love the people you serve, and do things that will make the people fall in love with you; this will make you serve, or work beyond status. Young people in Africa are suffering, and it's the duty of every one of us who finds ourselves in leadership positions to create opportunities for them to thrive. We are failing our children, and that is why this award is a unique programme.”

Addressing the young awardees, she declared, "there is hope for Africa; we need more young people involved in the peace processes." 

The Future Africa Leaders Foundation has been instrumental in identifying, honouring, empowering, and mentoring young Africans from all parts of the continent over the past 11 years. These individuals have voluntarily taken on leadership roles in their local communities and have successfully launched various grassroots initiatives to address some of Africa's most pressing challenges through innovative and indigenous solutions. 

Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $1.4 million to 123 youths from 30 African countries. The event, hosted by the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International, underscores the Foundation's unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of African leaders and accelerating Africa's systemic change by fostering a spirit of innovation, responsibility, and service among young leaders. 

ABOUT 2023 STAR PRIZE WINNER MARIAM GENDEMEH ACCOMPLISHMENTS. 

Mariam is a farmer, philanthropist, and the Executive Director of Fresh Veggies Agro Company Limited. A platform she founded when she was 19 years old, to be a powerhouse for her multifaceted initiatives focused on uplifting and enhancing the lives of women, children, and young girls. She secured funds through personal savings, donations, and grants from NGOs to fuel impactful projects spanning Agriculture for food and income, Advocacy, Capacity Building, Food Support to malnourished kids, and Scholarships for vulnerable school girls.

In its inaugural year, her company generated $1,200, created job opportunities for 15 young people, and directed 40% of the funds toward community feeding programmes during the Ebola outbreak. 

She has a 50-hectare rice farm and the largest vegetable farm in Kenema. In 2022 and 2023, Mariama's rice cultivation resulted in a harvest of 850 tons. Her company's Food Systems Resilience Programme  has impacted over 1,300 members, earning her the title of the YOUNGEST MASTER FARMER in her district and the entire country.

 Mariama's "Save the Malnourished Kids" project, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Community Health Centers, has helped over 10,000 malnourished children annually in the Kenema District. She also initiated the Orange Fresh Sweet Potatoes programme, which has benefited 12 women groups in six communities, providing a sustainable food source for school feeding programmes.

Mariama has also spearheaded several outreach programmes in 110 communities, providing essential sanitation materials, soap, and education on protective measures. Through her advocacy, she and other female leaders successfully championed a 30% inclusivity of women in governance in her country, resulting in crucial appointments and wins during the 2023 general elections. She also organized a SHE LEADS Summit in her country that empowered 500 girls with leadership skills and catalyzed mentorship platforms in six schools, reaching 400 girls. Mariama Gendemeh truly deserves her win and serves as a stellar example of the incredible potential of the African youth.

Social Register Scandal:Group Defends Tunji-Ojo , Says He Resigned Before Becoming Minister

Group under aegis of Forum for Transparency and Good Governance (FTGG) has come out strongly to defend the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over his involvement in an alleged N438.1 million consultancy contract between New Planet Project Limited and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under the suspended Minister, Betta Edu.

According to the group, since documents revealed that the Interior Minister resigned as a Director of New Planet Project Limited in 2019, it would amount to witch-hunting  to link him to the contract scandal. 

The group, which explained reasons for defending the Minister in a press statement signed by Dr. Mustapha Ahmed Malumfashi said it is unfair and ridiculous to link the Minister to the alleged contact scam, when he resigned from the company on 4th February,2019  after he won election into the House of Representatives  with a Certified True Copy of Corporate Affairs Commission as far back as 2019 to prove this.

The statement further reads : "But Tunji-Ojo, who reacted while appearing on Channels TV Politics Today on Monday night, agreed  he co-founded the company ten years ago, but resigned from directorship. 

 

"The Minister, who described the report as shocking, did say he was not involved in the day-to-day running of New Planet Project Limited and all that is expected is to confirm the veracity of his claim. 

"However, form our investigation, Tunji-Ojo ,who in our estimation has being doing well since appointed as minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu didn't benefited from Edu’s alleged fake N3 billion social register contract. 

"We have seen legitimate documents which showed that the interior minister resigned as a director at New Planet Project Limited nearly five years ago.

"Our investigation further revealed that New Planet Project Limited, with registration number 804833, was said to have been registered on March 3, 2009 with a Certified True Copy of the Corporate Affairs Commission documents  obtained ,dated August 8, the minister had alongside four others resigned as directors on February 1, 2019.

"Section A contained names of “directors ceasing to hold office” from February 1, 2019. They included Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Abimbola Tunji-Ojo, Okpanachi George Echiye, Idris Shuaibu, and Hassan Suleiman.

"The document was signed by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Akinmulewo Amos Oladapo as Director and Director/Secretary/Authorised officer, respectively and it  was further presented for filing at the CAC by one Abu Dennis, on February 6, 2019.

He confirmed during the interview with Channels that he co-founded the New Planet Project with his wife 15 years ago but resigned and  remained a shareholder in the company.

"Of course,  public service rules do not prohibit public officers from being shareholders. What public service rules say is that you cannot be a director of which I had resigned about five years ago." 

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspended Edu over corruption allegations on Monday.

Shortly after Edu’s suspension, reports emerged that the Minister paid a company owned by the Minister of Interior a total amount of N438.1 million for consultancy services. 

"We therefore urge the President to summon  the Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, over his alleged involvement of the controversial N438 million contract scandal involving the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu."