NEN Threatens United Nigerians In Diaspora Over Call For INEC Chair Resignation

Juliette Adoja

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The recent call for the resignation of Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), by the United Nigerians in the Diaspora (UND) has sparked a strong reaction from the Northern Emancipation Network (NEN).

In a statement released by its chairman Suleiman Abbah, the NEN condemned the UND’s threat of street protests in major cities around the world as outrageous, unpatriotic, and lacking in substance.

The NEN strongly condemned the attacks on Professor Yakubu, who led INEC to conduct credible elections in 2023 and highlighted the importance of these elections in ensuring the victory of popular will over desperate attempts to subvert it.

The elections, under Yakubu’s leadership, offered hope for a better future for Nigeria- one without the threat of Boko Haram and bandits, where the youth have access to education, skills, and job opportunities, and where corruption is tackled head-on.

The NEN expressed concern that the targeting of Professor Yakubu and the disrespect shown towards him could potentially lead to national crisis and even the breakup of the country. It is crucial to recognize and appreciate the efforts of individuals like Professor Yakubu who work tirelessly to uphold democracy and ensure free and fair elections.

Attacking those who are dedicated to serving the country and its people is not only unjust but also poses a serious threat to the stability and unity of the nation.

It is imperative that we support and protect individuals like Professor Yakubu who are committed to promoting democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

It is important to note that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and should not be influenced by the empty threats of individuals who seek to undermine its democratic institutions. The NEN has labelled the members of the UND as fugitives who have little to no interest in the progress and development of Nigeria.

It is clear that these individuals are not contributing constructively to the political landscape of Nigeria and are instead hiding behind the veil of international diplomacy to further their own agenda.

Abbah’s statement highlights the need for these so-called fugitives to return to Nigeria and actively participate in the political process in order to effect positive change.

It is easy to criticize from afar, but true patriotism involves actively engaging in the democratic process and working towards the betterment of one’s country. The NEN is calling on these individuals to put their words into action and work towards building a better Nigeria, rather than resorting to empty threats and protests.

Furthermore, the NEN emphasizes the importance of unity among Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora. Divisive actions and rhetoric only serve to further polarize the nation and hinder progress. It is imperative that all Nigerians come together in a spirit of cooperation and solidarity in order to overcome the challenges facing the country.

The NEN’s reaction to the UND’s renewed calls for the resignation of the INEC Chairman sends a clear message that such actions are not in the best interest of Nigeria. Constructive engagement and dialogue are key to resolving differences and building a better future for the nation. It is time for all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to work together towards a common goal of national unity and progress.

The NEN’s warning about the repercussions of undermining such individuals should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to prioritize the preservation of peace and unity in the country. It is only by working together and respecting the rule of law that Nigeria can truly progress and fulfill its immense potential.

Top Group From Northern Nigeria Faults Calls For Street Protest Seeking INEC Chair Resignation

Abdullahi Zurmi

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The recent threats of street protests in major cities around the world by the United Nigerians in the Diaspora (UND) to call for the resignation of Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), have agitated the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum.


AYCF president general Yerima Shettima said in a statement that the threat  is nothing but a sponsored heinous plot to undermine the gains recorded by INEC and the democratic stability attained by Nigeria, saying this malicious attempt must be vehemently resisted.

This orchestrated campaign also appears to be part of a wider clandestine plot to discredit Nigerian institutions and reverse the populist tendencies of the Bola Tinubu administration. It is imperative that we stand against any efforts to destabilize our democracy and tarnish the reputation of those working tirelessly to ensure free and fair elections..

It is also concerning that certain individuals in the Diaspora are using the platform provided by foreign countries to propagate hate and incite discontent against Nigeria.

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum condemns this behavior and calls on the international community not to allow their spaces to be used for such nefarious purposes. Countries like the United Kingdom and the United States have laws in place to prohibit hate speech and incitement of violence, and it is surprising that they have not taken action against the threats made by UND.


As a sovereign country, Nigeria has always maintained friendly and supportive relationships with its international partners. However, the actions of UND are seen as unpatriotic and aimed at destabilizing the peace and unity of Nigeria.

In the UK, the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 clearly prohibits anyone from causing alarm or distress by using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behavior. Similarly, the US laws, as seen in the case of Brandenburg v. Ohio, forbid speech that incites imminent lawless action.

The actions of UND clearly fall within the purview of these laws, yet no action has been taken by the authorities in these countries.If the tables were turned, and a US citizen were to call for mass protests against the US on Nigerian soil, the outrage would be palpable. Nigeria would not tolerate such behavior, and the US would vehemently react.

It is therefore disappointing that Nigeria’s international partners have allowed their territories to be used as a launching pad for such a campaign against Nigeria.

It is imperative that the international community upholds the principles of friendship and mutual respect between nations. Allowing hate speech and incitement against a sovereign country like Nigeria goes against the spirit of diplomacy and international cooperation. Nigeria has always been a loyal friend to its partners, and it is disheartening to see this loyalty not reciprocated in times of need.
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum calls on the international community to take a stand against the threats made by UND and to uphold the principles of peace, unity, and mutual respect. Nigeria deserves the support and protection of its international partners, and it is essential that they take action to prevent the spread of hate speech and incitement of violence on their territories.
Therefore, it is crucial for all Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, to remain vigilant and united in denouncing such malicious acts that seek to undermine the progress of our nation. We must uphold the values of democracy, transparency, and accountability, and reject any attempts to sow division and chaos within our society.

It is imperative that we stand firm in our support of INEC and the democratic process, and not allow such insidious plots to succeed. We must continue to strive for a Nigeria that is built on integrity, fairness, and justice for all.

Before Senator Solomon Adeola Destroys Nigeria’s Fragile Unity for His Vaunting Political Ambition – A Note for President Tinubu

Press Statement

Our civil society organisation, Patriots for Nigeria’s Development, PND, hereby sends her greetings of true solidarity and sincere best wishes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at this historic chapter of our national life.

Though our dear nation is passing through grave socio-economic challenges, our absolute faith and abiding trust in President Tinubu’s exceptional leadership sagacity to bring Nigeria out of the woods, in no distant time, are unwavering.

However, we have deem it necessary to draw Mr. President’s attention to the unpatriotic actions and sinister moves of some supposed leaders in the country – who should be in the vanguard of promoting national unity and togetherness of the masses in a bid to foster national integration.

Without mincing words, Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, who currently represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, is one of such persons our CSO has identified to be working against Nigeria’s progress.

Adeola, a three-term Senator, among several of his nauseating personality traits, cares less about how to help entrench good leadership, especially in the civil and public service, that will fast-track good governance, our investigation has shown.

It is in the habit of most Nigerian elite and godfather politicians to influence the appointments of Heads and staff of various government agencies. And we have no qualms with that, insofar it helps in tackling the country’s unemployment crisis.

However, it is apt to state that the way and manner Sen. Adeola goes about exercising this rare privilege he and other elite enjoy, indeed leaves much to be desired from him, as a so-called distinguished Senator. For the Ogun West Senator, his fronting for other people’s appointments is at the altar of capacity, merit and track record of good performance.

Most times, Sen. Adeola is only concerned about everything but what will foster unity and give marginalized groups/citizens a sense of belonging, in line with the principles of federal character, morality, fairness and equity.

At the moment, our CSO has uncovered a subterranean move by Sen. Adeola, to perversely influence the nomination of the next Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation, as the tenure of the incumbent Ben Akabueze winds down.

The Ogun Senator, according to credible sources, is on the verge of hoodwinking President to appoint an indigene of Ogun State to succeed Akabueze, in flagrant disregard to extant public service rules, fueled by his vaulting political ambition.

It is no longer a secret that Senator Adeola fondly called Yayi by his political associates, has been in the Senate since 2015. Between 2015 and 2023 he represented Lagos West Senatorial District in the Senate. However, he switched allegiance to his native Ogun State, and luckily became a Senator again after the 2023 general elections.

The reason Senator Adeola returned to his ancestral root is not far-fetched. He is bidding to become the next Governor of Ogun in 2027, and he is not showing any pretence about it. But Nigerians, and particularly, the people of Ogun must be wary of politicians with domineering postures, like Adeola. Theirs is to lord their whims and caprices over others.

As an inconsiderate leader, Sen. Adeola wants everything for himself and his people, only. Small wonder, he is said to be responsible for the many federal appointments President Tinubu gave to Ogun indigenes, between May 29, 2023 and now.

But if Ogun is not the only state of the Nigerian federation with competent people, why is Sen. Adeola bent on grabbing every available job for them at the federal level? Apparently, it is for him to feather his 2027 gubernatorial project.

President Tinubu indeed must not allow characters like Sen. Adeola dictates for him, whenever it comes to making critical political appointments which may affect the smooth running of his administration, and also, vital institutions of his government.

The President must ensure that a technocrat with a peerless track record of service and capacity to deliver on the job is appointed as helmsman of the Budget Office. If necessary, another qualified Yoruba or Nigerian could be appointed to consolidate Akabueze’s legacies.

But certainly, that person must, and should not come from Ogun, for reasons which are obvious to even President Tinubu. Barely three months after assuming, several groups and eminent Nigerian, in August last year, accused Mr. President of Yorubanisation and Lagoslation of some key political appointments.

It will be rational if President Tinubu, at this period when his administration is being scored low in terms of performance, avoid unnecessary distractions by the likes of Sen. Adeola and others, who appear to be ethnic champions politicians and promoters of impunity.

Mr. President should concentrate squarely on the job he was elected to do, and avoid the booby traps of politicians pursuing their vested interests. Their antics do nothing good, but further polarize citizens and fragments the country’s delicate social cohesion.

Once again, we call on President Tinubu not to cave in to the pressure of Sen. Adeola and others pushing for their candidates to succeed Akabueze at the Budget Office. Only someone who is eminently qualified and has paid his or dues, should takeover from Mr. Akabueze. That is the only way we can strengthen our institutions, and prevent their abuse by self-centered politicians.

Signed:
Mr. Desmond Njoku
National Coordinator,
Patriots for Nigeria’s Development.

Northern Muslim Clerics Organize National Prayers for INEC Chair, Says Laying Curse on Him after Conducting Fair, Credible elections Unacceptable

In a counter prayer session against the group that recently organized pray session to curse the INEC Chairman , Professor Mahmood Yakubu,Northern based Muslim Clerics under aegis of  Pray for Nigeria Forum (PNF) today  organised a prayer session to reverse the curse and commended the him for  over fair conduct and credible  general elections

A group , Nigeria Youths National Prayer Day recently organized a prayer session with titled: “Curse be unto Prof Mahmood Yakubu” .

But in a counter reaction, the Muslim Clerics held that  it will amount to great  disserve to the nation for any group to lay curse on the same election umpire that presided over an relatively rated elections considered as the first successful and credible elections in Nigeria.

The Clerics during the prayer session held at Tafawa Balewa Guest Inn , Kaduna today prayed  against the curse and  urged God to grant Prof . Yakubu the wisdom and knowledge to conduct more credible and acceptable elections.

The clerics ,who recited various verses of Quran, also passed  a vote of confidence on the INEC Chairman for his unwavering efforts and invaluable contributions to ensure a United Nigeria, despite threats and predictions of break-up.

While kicking  against the claim that INEC allegedly sold the 2023 election to the highest bidder, President of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the clerics appealed to Christian Clerics across Nigeria to preach messages of peace and unity always.

In chat with journalists shortly after the event ,Imam Mohammed Awal Adam, the Coordinator of the Prayer session, said ,”It will be unfair not to acknowledge the record of performance of INEC during the concluded 2023 general elections and subsequent staggered elections across  the country.

He further said ,”For a man that organized an election,where opposition parties won seats and states that were originally  strong holds of the ruling party is enough reasons to commend Prof. Yakubu instead of the subjective condemnations in some quarters.

“Before we arrived this venue for the prayer , we did a review of the 2023 general elections and observed that the electoral process has improved tremendously compared to what was obtainable in past.” He added .

While noting that no religion permits anyone to curse a leader, but rather pray for leaders always for directions and guidance, he said , “It is the responsibility of religious leaders , irrespective faith and ethic backgrounds to ensure the messages they preach at our various worship places are such that promote love and unity amongst adherents .

He therefore urged Nigerians to shun the  divisive tendencies  and engage government via constructive criticism that could help to identify gray areas that require adjustments.We are appealing to Nigerians to look beyond 2023 elections and jettison of idea of retrogressive growth and development .

“In our view, Prof Yakubu has conducted  most peaceful election in Nigeria, especially on the account of rancour free process and people not killed during the elections with considerations that opposition parties won some critical states,thus our decision to pray for him . ” Imam Adam stated .

NDIC Introduce measure to protect depositors in case of banks liquidation

By Gambo Abubakar Kaduna

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) Alhaji Bello Hassan has announced the introduction of Single Customer View (SCV) for the speed payment of depositors in the course of bank failure or banks closed.

Bello Hassan made the announcement through the organisation Deputy Director of Communications department, Hajiya Hauwau Gambo, at the NDIC’s special day on 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, organised by the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA), held at the trade fair complex recently in Kaduna.

The executive Chairman, however revealed that, “the corporation have also enhanced the collaboration with the judiciary for speedy prosecution of failed insured institutions, is the concerted efforts resulted in resolving long drawn cases of closed banks, such as Fortune and Triumph Banks liquidation.
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” I warmly welcomed and heartfelt appreciation to the distinguished guests; royal fathers, government officials, representatives of financial institutions, members of the private sector, academia, civil society groups, and other stakeholders.”
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The managing Director further commended the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce President and the entire team for hosting the 45th edition of the Kaduna International Trade Fair.

“the this year’s theme, “Sustaining Economic Recovery through Deepening Local Content Value Chain”, falls in line with the Corporation’s mandate and public policy objective of ensuring the stability of the financial system in order to provide the necessary support to economic recovery efforts of governments business entities and concerns.”

He maintained that, “NDIC is the protection of Nigerian depositors. We are dedicated to safeguarding depositors’ funds from the adverse effects of bank failure and complementing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“in effectively supervising insured deposit-taking financial institutions and formulating sound banking policies.”

Mr Bello Hassan,also reiterated the NDIC commitment in “protecting your bank deposits” for ensuring stability and inclusion Nigerian that their money is safe and accessible.

This aligns with our commitment to deliver on our mandate with renewed passion and greater vigour.

The executive Chairman, further noted that, the Corporation have utilised Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms and out-of-court settlements,.revitalising our liquidation activities.

“These efforts have significantly improved the debt recovery rate, enabling us to declare 100 per cent liquidation dividends to uninsured depositors of more than 20 deposit money banks in liquidation.”

“in continue strengthen the systems, processes, and procedures to enhance transparency and accountability across the operations.”

“the Corporation achieved remarkable success in reimbursing depositors during the recent closure of 179 Microfinance Banks (MFBs) and 4 Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs), and ensured timely payment of insured sums.”

He also expressed that, the corporation deployed digital remote payment strategies to facilitate electronic funds transfers to verified depositors’ alternate bank accounts.

“It is essential to emphasise that payments are ongoing, with depositors holding funds exceeding the insured limit set to receive liquidation dividends following debt recovery and asset sales.”In other addressed apathy among depositors with small balances, NDIC launched the "Deposit Tracer" initiative in partnership with a Mobile Money Operator, (MMO), which enabling depositors to access their unpaid balances through mobile accounts.

NDIC also ,have deployed a mobile application and updated our website for online claims processing, offering depositors the option of virtual verification during payout exercises.

The Managing director however, urged the depositors of banks in liquidation to utilise these initiatives to claim their funds trapped in closed banks.

ZSHA Saga : Lawmakers Urge FG, NASS to wade in

Suspended members of Zamfara State House of Assembly has urged President Bola Tinubu and the National assembly to wade into the crisis bedeviling the legislative chamber.

At a press briefing organized by the suspended legislators in Zaria, the Pro tempo speaker of the assembly, Bashir Aliyu Gumi representing Gumi 1 also called on US and British embassies as well as the ECOWAS “to save democracy from danger”.

Gumi who was flanked by 11 legislators (both suspended and not suspended) during the press conference said their aim was devoid of any political liening but an attempt to save democracy and security situation bedeviling the state.

The Speaker pro tempo recalled that ” last week Thursday, the honourable house under my leadership and 18 members resolved that the Zamfara state House of assembly be closed on recess untill security situation is addressed.”

He added that “Our action was in line with our standing rules which provided that where the speaker and the deputy speaker are absent, members can among themselves appoint what is called “Speaker pro tempo” and any action made by that speaker at that material time stands valid.” He said.

The lawmakers however expressed dismay on how the state governor, alledgedly ordered the house to reopened under the leadership of Bilyamin Ismail Moriki who subsequently held a sitting at the chamber.

“It was at that null and void sitting that 8 out of 18 members who appointed the speaker pro tempo were suspended on the alledged order of the state Governor.” He said.

Gumi therefore submitted that all actions
taken by speaker Bilyamin Ismail Moriki was null and void and has no effect whatsoever including the suspension of 8 members, describing it as “unconstitutional, abuse of rules of law, clear infraction and violation of fundamental human right as captured in chapter 4 and section 35 and 36 of the 1999 constitution”.

The speaker pro tempo added that the directive given to the DSS to investigate the matter is also an abuse of provision of legislative privilege Act 1954 which barred any law enforce agency from investigating any resolution of a legislator either at National or state assembly.

“We therefore call on the National assembly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, US embassy, British embassy and the ECOWAS to look into the matter of Zamfara state house of assembly as democracy is in danger.” He urged.

Member representing Kauran Namoda north who was not among the suspended members, Nasir Mukhtar said the recent development at the Zamfara legislative chamber has taken a bad toll and will truncate the enrichment of democracy in the state.

He called for quick intervention from above to strengthen democratic rule and democracy in the state.

2023 Elections Anniversary: Muslim,Christian Clerics Pray for Prof Mahmood Yakubu Over Peaceful, Hitch-Free Exercises

For conducting relatively a peaceful and hitch free general elections across the country, Muslim and Christian clerics under the umbrella of the Interfaith Mission for Unity and Progress of Nigeria (IMUPN), have held Interdenominational prayer sessions in honour of of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

According to the clerics,the decision to mark the one year anniversary of conducting the 2023 elections with prayers is basically thank God for keeping Nigeria as a united country after going through an election year.

The prayers held simultaneously across the six geo-political zones was held at Kano,Ibadan,Porthacourt,Yobe,Plateau, Enugu was to encourage the INEC Chairman ,Prof Mahmood Yakubu to do more in future elections.

“As clerics we are duty bound to pray for for the peaceful coexistence of our dear country and leaders as well , thus we singled out the Chairman for conducting the election against all odds.” They stated.

In a five-point communique issued after the conclusion of the two-day prayers with the theme: ” Let’s Work Together to Make Nigeria a Better Country”,
the Interfaith Mission for Unity and Progress of Nigeria said ,”At this critical period of dearth leadership,we have reached a point where we must seek God’s intervention and guidance for a solid sustainable electoral process that will produce visionary and credible political leaders across all tiers of government.”

The clerics in the communique jointly signed by Mallam Uzairu Bamalli;Sheikh Sabiu Jaafar, Sheikh Mohammed Musa and Reverend Pius Garba;Pastor John Anekwe,Pastor Lazarus Adesami respectively also underscored the need for Muslims and Christians as well as people of other religions to pray for the country’s leaders, saying that since only God puts leaders in their positions, they need to be supported always, especially with prayers.

While commending INEC boss for conducting one the most peaceful election in recent time, especially on the account that the process was rancour free with live loss reduced to barest minimum before; during and after the elections exercises, the clerics scored the 2023 election process high because of the good number of opposition parties that won some critical seats and states.

“It is our joy that all the threats and predictions against our unity didn’t come to pass. Instead we are waxing stronger as an independent nation.” They added.

However they prayed to God to grant Nigeria economic buoyancy and offered the prayer for peace and tranquility during the future elections.

65 CSOs Pull out of NLC,TUC Planned Strike to Avoid Anarchy

… Wants Labour Unions to do more of Dialogue with FG

Ahead of the commencement of planned nationwide strike by Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC)and the Trade Union Congress, (TUC) ,65 Civil Society Organisations have pulled out with considerations that the strike might stir up anarchy and cause more hardship on citizens.

The Civil Society Organisations under aegis of Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Forum also warned against going the Sudan’s way.

“Any attempt to embark on a nationwide strike during these critical periods of hunger and harsh economy could be hijacked by hoodlums and criminal elements, who have been waiting for the slightest opportunity to unleash terror; disrupt public peace, loot business premises and markets .

On February 16, the NLC had announced a nationwide protest scheduled for February 27 and 28, over the failure to implement the agreements reached on October 2, following the removal of the fuel subsidy.

This decision followed the conclusion of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the federal government regarding the widespread hardship.

The Coalition of the CSOs which disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by Comrade Buba Ibrahim Mohammed and Comrade George Phillips, the Coordinator and Secretary insisted that the strike action will only stir up civil unrest and further worsen the already bad security situation as well as damage the fragile economy.

According the Coalition,the views gathered from some of their members and citizens across the country are that the labour unions are trying to undermine the current Tinubu led administration and create a process for break down of law and order to score cheap political points.

“As Civil Society Organisations,we do understand the depth of economic challenges facing the ordinary citizens, especially the workers, but we cannot fold our arms and support a move that will further damage and threaten our peaceful coexistence.

While stating that it’s not unaware that the labour unions had the constitutional right to make demands and embark on strike to drive home their demands ,it maintained that NLC and TUC should know that Nigeria is already sitting on keg of gun powder that must not be allowed to explode.

“Part of reasons we have refused to join forces with labour unions to create anarchy and cause more hardship for the people . Instead, we are making frantic efforts to meet with federal government to discuss how to amicably resolve the issues at stake.

“We recognise the importance of addressing labour-related concerns and advocating for workers’ rights, we kindly urge the labour unions to explore alternative means of dialogue and negotiation with the relevant authorities.” It further stated .

The group which accused NLC President, Joe Ajaero of pursuing a political agenda, appealed to NLC and TUC members to give the federal government time to implement the minimum wage issue and other demands.

2023 Elections: CSOs to Organize National Prayers in Honour of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu

Civil Society Organisations under aegis of Coalition for Great Nigeria (CGN)said arrangements have been concluded to organize National Prayers in honour of the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) , Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

According to the group , it will be unfair not to acknowledge the record of performance of the INEC during the 2023 general elections.

The group,which come out strongly against some persons, who claimed they want to organize prayers to Curse the INEC Chairman for allegedly selling the 2023 election to the highest bidder, President of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said the prayers would be conducted across 6 geo-political zones .

The group in a statement signed by the Chairman, Dr. Umar Shehu said the idea of laying a curse on the INEC boss,Prof. Mahmood Yakubu is nothing, but a sponsored and deliberate attempt to ridicule the election umpire for no just reason .

“We did a review of the whole process of the 2023 general elections and discovered that they were relatively better then previous elections conducted in the country, thus our decision to pray for more improvement ahead of the 2027 general elections.” It Stated .

It however,urged Nigerians to shun the detractors parading themselves as prayer warriors in the face of an improved performance electoral process under the able and exemplary leadership of Prof. Yakubu.

The statement further reads: Instead of gathering together to lay curse on Professor Yakub , we expect constructive criticism that could help to identify gray areas that require adjustments.We are appealing to Nigerians to look beyond 2023 elections and jettison of idea of retrogressive growth and development .

“In fact, we have concluded arrangements to organize a National Prayer of Gratitude and Appreciation for INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood.”

” We considered it Apt to pass a vote of confidence on the INEC boss, because he his achievements recorded during the 2023 polls”.

While praising him for conducting the most peaceful election in Nigeria, especially on the account of rancour free process and people not killed during the elections with considerations that opposition parties won some critical states, it said there is a need to consolidate on the gains rather pains .

“For us as members of Civil Society Organisations, it will amount to mere distractions and attention seeking for anyone to consider laying a curse on INEC boss . What we expect is a kudos for the painstaking efforts in the conduct of 2023 elections across the country with remarkable achievements.”

Meanwhile the group said, ” It is totally unfortunate and unfounded for those characters “Prayer warriors “to accuse INEC of selling elections to the highest bidder .It is a total falsehood and Should be disregarded.”

We Won’t Allow NLC, Collaborators To Plunge Nigeria Into Anarchy, CSO Forum Warns

Youths under the platforms of Nigeria Civil Society Forum (NCSF), Friday trouped out in large numbers in Abuja, in a solidarity rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.

The youths in their thousands, carrying various anti-Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) placards, urged Nigerians to ignore call by the Labour Union leaders for a nationwide protest against hunger.

Speaking with newsmen at the Unity Fountain, a Co-convener of the forum, Comrade Sunday Attah, said Nigerian youths won’t allow the NLC and their collaborators to plunge Nigeria into anarchy.

Attah said: “We must understand the trajectory of how the NLC has operated over time. Remember in this same country when fuel subsidy was removed they got up and claim to be standing for Nigerians. They fought and said fuel subsidy should not be removed but after series of meetings, which of course today they are saying didn’t yield any fruit, we know how these ‘colour’ paper exchanged hands and matters died on the ground.

“We are not going to allow the NLC to plunge Nigeria into anarchy. Calling for protest against an eight months old government is uncalled for.

“The President is doing all his best, he is not a magician, all that Nigerians need at the moment is to be patient with president. When a woman gets pregnant it takes nine months for her to deliver and when the child is born it takes another one to two years for the child to walk. Why don’t NLC support Mr President to deliver dividends of democracy and to fulfill all his campaign promises.

“What the NLC is doing is to play the normal card of get the sympathy of Nigeria, go behind negotiate and collect money. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not that kind of president. He wants to work for all Nigerians and this is the reason why the president said give me time. My policies may take a little time for us to adjust. These things happened even in civilised societies where government policies do not start manifesting and yielding fruits over night it takes a little process of time and that is the process we are at the moment.

“Today we heard that State governors are not finding it difficult to pay salaries. For example my state where I come from, the governor pays on 25th of the month. That is because the allocations going to states has been increased by Mr President, courtesy of all the reforms that he has brought.”

Also speaking, the Convener of the CSO forum, Comrade Terrence Kuanum, gave the Union leaders 24 hours to rescind the decision of the protest and go back to the negociating table with the government.

According to Kaunum, Nigerians are truly hungry but it is not by sabotaging the system or antagonising the system that we can resolve this issue.

He said: “So we are suspecting that for NLC that within the ranks of government, because if you call a strike today you will expect government to sit with you on the table and negotiate. You are already at the table with the government, all of us want you to bring solution from that negotiation table so that Nigerians will cushion the effects of what they’re going through and we want this process to be properly done so that nobody will go anywhere sabotaging the system. We are against sabotage in the system.

“I am hungry, you are hungry but is not by sabotaging the system or antagonising the system that we can resolve this issue. We can only resolve this issue as patriotic Nigerians that are concerned that we need to resolve this problem and the generation next to us doesn’t face it.

“We are giving them 24 hours to rescind the decision of the protest and go back to the table that we have agreed that they should be on it. If they come out we are calling on Nigerians not to respect any decision that will come from NLC and TUC because we are going to mobilise the masses to stay back and work for this country. No strike can solve this problem. You go on strike to get the attention of policy makers, you are already with the policy makers so what is the essence of the strike if not that someone is sponsoring a sabotage.”