Group Rally Against Sponsored Anti Mutawalle Protests, Calls APC To Act Now

Kabir Mando

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a strong demand for action from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in addressing and eradicating the concerning rise of sponsored protests aimed at ridiculing the party and President Bola Tinubu. The NAN has expressed deep concern over the troubling trend of financing unruly crowds to engage in misconduct under the guise of protest, which serves hidden agendas rather than genuine grievances.
The recent orchestrated protest, sponsored from Zamfara State, was a blatant example of this alarming trend,” stated Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman. The NAN firmly believes that this protest, which aimed to belittle President Bola Tinubu and his loyal allies, was not an authentic expression of discontent but rather a calculated attempt to undermine the presidency and embarrass the government.
The deliberate targeting of Minister of State Defence Bello Matawalle, a dedicated supporter of President Tinubu, clearly demonstrates that this protest was driven by political motives, seeking to sow division and discord within the ruling party. The use of the APC’s name as a platform for such misconduct is unacceptable and demands swift and decisive action.
While protests play a vital role in any democratic society, the NAN emphasizes that when these protests are hijacked by external forces with ulterior motives, they lose their legitimacy and become tools for manipulation and deception. It is crucial for the leaders of the APC to take a firm stance against sponsored dissent and ensure that the party remains a symbol of integrity and transparency.
The NAN calls for the sponsors of such protests to be exposed and appropriately sanctioned, as this is a necessary step in rooting out this insidious practice. Those who seek to manipulate public opinion for personal gain must be held accountable for their actions, and the APC leadership must demonstrate that they will not tolerate such behavior within their ranks.
Sponsored dissent represents a dangerous trend that threatens the integrity of the political system and undermines the trust of the people in their leaders. The APC must heed the call of the Northern Awareness Network and take decisive action to address and eradicate this practice. By standing firm against manipulation and deceit, the party can uphold its commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that Nigeria’s democracy remains strong and vibrant.

Hardship:CSOs To Embark on Protest over Electricity Tariff Hike, Say Power Minister Insensitive

Angry over proposed hike in electricity Tariff, Civil Society Organisations under umbrella of Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria( FGGN) said it has concluded arrangements to Embark on Protest on Thursday against the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu for insisting on electricity tariff hike, despite economic hardship facing Nigerians.

The CSOs, which described the position of the Minister as “Insensitive” said his claim that there would be total blackout in the country in the next three months if the proposed tariff hike is not implemented is wicked .

According to the CSOs, the excuse he also gave that “if the Federal government Continue To Pay Electricity Subsidy For Nigerians, Investors Will Not Come” is illusionary and unacceptable.

In a press statement jointly signed by National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara, the FGGN that stated this, said rather talk about hike in tariff during this dwindling period of dearth of development in the country, the Minister is expected to work on measures to restore constant power supply that help to attract investors to establish sustainable business and boost the economy.

While supporting the Senate Committee on Power, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe on concerns over the suffering of Nigerians, the CSOs however joined the Senate committee to rejected the new tariff regime.

The statement further reads: “We are standing as a voice for Nigerians to continue to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack the Minister of Power, Chief Adelabu Adebayo citing alleged ineptitude.

“Nigerians know that the Ministry of Power under Chief Adebayo Adelabu is ‘powerless’ and has no value addition either to Nigerians in general or the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in particular.

“The level of cluelessness within the ministry is nauseating and embarrassing as our national electricity grid keeps collapsing like a pack of cards.

“Adelabu has no business remaining in the critical offices he occupies .For failing Nigerians he should just take the honourable path and resign, or be faced with a frequent civil society mass actions, because Nigerians are sick and tired of his weakness and lack or capacity to deliver on Tinubu’s campaign promise .

“Just imagine,within a quarter of a year, Nigeria has experienced six incidents of electricity grid collapse with an agonising reality of the poorest and most epileptic power supply in many years with attendant impact on businesses and the economy at large”.

Fuel Queues: CSOs Confirm NNPC Has Enough Products, Praise Kyari’s Swift Efforts to resolve it

…Call for Patience while problems are addressed

Group under aegis of Coalition for Civil Society Organisations, said it has confirmed the availability of products at Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and called for patience while the National oil company address the problem.

Recalled that on Thursday many filling stations were closed in Abuja and some other states on Wednesday as the scarcity of PMS caused heavy queues at the few outlets that dispensed the product.

But the Coalition of the CSOs in its reaction over the development, said it has confirmed availability of products from the NNPCL management,which attributed the development to logistics issues, which have been resolved.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations which disclosed this in a press statement made available to journalist in Kaduna said the fact that NNPC gave reasons of logistics problem as the major cause of the queues, should be enough to calm nerves over issue of panic buying.

The statement signed by Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim Gimba, the CSOs appealed to motorists to avoid panic buying, because NNPCL as sole importer of petrol had enough products, it commended the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mal Mele Kyari for the swift efforts to address the problem and the measures taken so far to revive the national oil company and resume full production .

It however described as unfortunate ,the situation, where the black marketers capitalised on the glitch to exploit motorists and other residents that jostled to buy at prices ranging between N1000 and N1200 per litre.

While stating that it is unhealthy that this happened when many Nigerians are anticipating a crash in prices of PMS, the Coalition frowned at the idea of increase in cost of the product to an average of N700/litre at stations owned by independent marketers.

The statement further reads: “We read the reaction of NNPCL on fuel scarcity problem via the Press Statement issued by Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC, Olufemi Soneye,who also confirmed that the scarcity was due to issues around logistics that have been resolved.

” We strongly the clarifications made on the tightness in the supply of petrol currently being experienced in some areas across the country shouldn’t stir up tension that will take us back to the days of recurring long queues at filling stations.

” We are not unaware that the queues for petrol grew worse in Abuja and neighbouring Nasarawa and Niger states recently,but the good news according to NNPCL has now been resolved.

” We are ready to draft our Monitoring and evaluation unit to help the federal government to bring sanity to the oil sector.”

Senator Marafa’s Political Future in Jeopardy After Attacks on Matawalle

By Salihu Suleiman

In a recent turn of events, Senator Kabiru Marafa of Zamfara State has found himself in hot water after launching harsh criticisms against Defence Minister Bello Matawalle. This ill-advised move has not only damaged Marafa’s own reputation but also put his political future on shaky ground.
It is truly the peak of recklessness, carelessness, shamelessness, indecorum, and indecency for Marafa, the Judas, to speak of loyalty after the hypocritical betrayal and ingratitude he showed to Matawalle. Marafa’s actions are a clear demonstration of his lack of integrity and moral compass.
Matawalle, in an act of kindness and generosity, gave Marafa a lease of life when his political career seemed to be permanently sealed. He extended a hand of friendship and trust to Marafa, only to be repaid with treachery and deceit. His betrayal of Matawalle is not only a betrayal of trust but also a betrayal of the values of honesty, integrity, and loyalty that should guide the actions of all public servants.
Marafa’s actions are a clear indication of his true character – a character marked by selfishness, opportunism, and a complete lack of loyalty. His words of loyalty ring hollow in the face of his actions, which speak volumes about his true intentions and motivations.
He made a grave mistake by launching scathing attacks against Bello Matawalle which serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of turning against those who have supported you.
Ultimately, Marafa’s misstep serves as a reminder of the old adage, “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” In the cutthroat world of politics, it is essential to remember the importance of maintaining alliances and relationships with key figures in order to ensure long-term success. By turning against Matawalle, Marafa has not only damaged his own reputation but has also put his political future at risk. This cautionary tale should serve as a lesson for aspiring politicians on the consequences of alienating those who have supported them..
Marafa’s decision to publicly criticize Matawalle is a risky move that has backfired on him. By attacking the minister, he has alienated himself from a powerful ally who has played a significant role in his political career. Matawalle’s support was crucial in Marafa’s rise to power, and by turning against him, Marafa has effectively sabotaged his own success.
Furthermore, Marafa’s attacks on Matawalle have damaged his own reputation in the eyes of the public. Instead of focusing on his own strengths and accomplishments, Marafa has chosen to engage in petty politics that only serve to undermine his credibility. This kind of behavior does not reflect well on his leadership abilities and may harm his chances of gaining support from the electorate in the future.
Marafa’s actions have also sparked vehement opposition from Matawalle’s supporters, who are fiercely loyal to their leader. By going against Matawalle, Marafa has not only lost the support of a powerful ally but has also alienated himself from the very people who helped him in the past. This has weakened his position and strengthened that of his opponents, making his political future uncertain.
Turning against those who have supported you in the past is a risky move that can have serious consequences. Marafa’s actions should serve as a warning to others who may be tempted to betray their allies for personal gain.
Kabiru Marafa’s decision to attack Matawalle has proven to be a costly mistake. His actions have not only damaged his own reputation but have also jeopardized his political future. It is essential for politicians to remember the value of loyalty and gratitude in politics and to think carefully before turning against those who have supported them.
Marafa, a politician with a tainted reputation and a track record of failure, is undoubtedly a liability in the political arena. His inability to deliver his local constituency to President Tinubu in the 2023 elections speaks volumes about his lack of electoral value. On the other hand, Matawalle has proven himself to be a strong and reliable leader, securing majority support in the North-West for Tinubu and delivering Zamfara as the only state in the zone that Tinubu won.
Marafa’s desperation to return to the Peoples Democratic Party and his cowardly attack on Matawalle are clear indicators of his lack of integrity and political opportunism. His actions, aiming to undermine Tinubu’s chances in the North have further highlighted his own shortcomings as a politician.
In contrast, Matawalle’s leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the interests of the people of Northern Nigeria and the nation as a whole set him apart as a true statesman. His ability to connect with the youth and serve as a mentor and guardian demonstrates his dedication to building a better future for the next generation.
It is clear that Marafa’s actions are driven by self-interest and a lack of principles, while Matawalle’s integrity and dedication to serving the people make him a true asset to the President Tinubu. As Marafa continues to flounder in his attempts to regain relevance, it is evident that his efforts will ultimately fail in the face of Matawalle’s strong leadership and unwavering support from the people.
Marafa’s actions should serve as a cautionary tale of the consequences that can arise from turning against those who have supported you. It is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining strong alliances in the realm of politics. Senator Marafa’s misstep should serve as a lesson for all politicians in understanding the potential ramifications of alienating key supporters.

Yahaya Bello; Respect Rule of Law,NEN Urges EFCC

Theresa Obekwu

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) would like to address the recent declaration of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello as wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

We believe that upholding the rule of law is essential in any democracy, and the circumstances surrounding Yahaya Bello’s case demand a fair and just approach.

The NEN expresses deep concern over the actions taken by the EFCC in declaring Yahaya Bello wanted. While we acknowledge the EFCC’s authority to declare someone wanted, we believe that the unique circumstances of Yahaya Bello’s case warrant a more cautious and respectful approach to the rule of law.

It is important to note that Yahaya Bello sought legal recourse by going to court to prevent the EFCC from arresting him. A high court granted an interim order which restrained the EFCC from taking any further action. Subsequently, the EFCC appealed this decision to the Court of Appeal, resulting in a scheduled judgment set for Monday.

Given the pending judgment from the Court of Appeal, it is perplexing why the EFCC would proceed to declare Yahaya Bello wanted. This action raises questions about the integrity of the legal process and the adherence to due process.

While the arrest and interrogation are crucial steps in the investigative process, the filing of charges and subsequent court proceedings mark a significant shift in the legal journey of Yahaha Bello.
Once charges were filed, his interactions with the investigating authorities come to an end, as focus shifts to the court proceedings.

This marks the formal beginning of the legal process, where the accused has the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations brought forth by the prosecuting authorities.

Therefore, the arrest and interrogation of Yahaya Bello served as initial steps in the investigative process, while the filing of charges and court proceedings constitute a more structured and legalistic approach to addressing the allegations.

It is in the courtroom where his fate will be decided, and where his innocence or guilt will be determined based on the evidence presented and the arguments made by both sides.

The NEN calls on the EFCC to respect the rule of law and await the judgment from the Court of Appeal before taking any further action against Yahaya Bello. Upholding the principles of justice and fairness is essential to maintaining the credibility of our legal system and ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.

We urge the EFCC to exercise restraint and adhere to the legal process in dealing with the case of Yahaya Bello. It is imperative that we uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their status or position. Let us work together to ensure that justice is served and that our democracy remains strong and resilient.

Stop Harassing Ex Gov.Bello, Respect Rule of Law- AYCF to EFCC

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to respect the rule of law and halt the persecution, harassment and public embarrassment of the former governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello.

Reacting to the recent declaration of Yahaya Bello as wanted by the EFCC, the AYCF President General Yerima Shettima noted that the fact that the EFCC has already charged Bello to court warrants that they show restraint and allow the law to take its due course as it presumes the conclusion of investigations.

According to Shettima, with this development, Bello no longer has anything to do with the EFCC and he only needs to appear in court on the next adjourned date or when he is served with the court processes.

“if EFCC actually believes in injustice, and in the judiciary and in the court system, this is not the way to handle the matter.

“Besides, the charge sheet was from 2015, and was amended to 2016. Three weeks when Bello came into the office, you can see that something is fishing, which no one can say exactly what is happening,” Shettima said.

The AYCF said it is indeed curious that the EFCC is presenting Yahaya Bello as someone who is running from investigation and prosecution, especially considering the lack of concrete evidence to support such claims.

Bello’s residence has been invaded, he has been declared wanted, and he has been placed on a watchlist, all without any indication as to whether or not he was ever invited by the EFCC for questioning.

“In the interest of transparency and fairness, it is imperative that the EFCC provide the public with the necessary information regarding Bello’s alleged evasion of investigation. This includes releasing the invitation letter sent to Bello, detailing the date it was received and who received it. By doing so, the EFCC can ensure that all parties involved are aware of the facts and can make informed judgments based on concrete evidence.

“It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to operate with the utmost integrity and accountability. This includes providing accurate and timely information to the public, especially in high-profile cases such as this. By releasing the invitation letter to Yahaya Bello, the EFCC can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting transparency in its investigations,” Shettima said.

The AYCF is calling on the EFCC to respect the principles of justice, fairness, and due process. Targeting individuals for political reasons or personal vendettas undermines the credibility of the anti-corruption fight in Nigeria. Shettima stressed that if the EFCC truly believes in the judiciary and the court system, they must allow the legal process to unfold without unnecessary interference or intimidation.

The AYCF is urging the EFCC to reconsider their approach in handling the case of Yahaya Bello. The continued harassment and persecution of individuals, especially those in positions of authority, erode public trust in the fight against corruption.

It is essential that the EFCC operates within the confines of the law and respects the rights of all individuals, including those under investigation. Let us uphold the rule of law and ensure that justice is served without bias or prejudice.

South West Group Blast EFCC, Says Action On Yahaya Bello Could Truncate Democracy

Bwala Musawa

…

The Yoruba Youth Council has cautioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to jeopardize Nigeria’s hard-earned democracy in its attempt to arrest the immediate former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello over allegations of money laundering.

It gave the caution against the background of threat by the commission on Thursday to involve the military in the planned arrest following the ex-governor’s absence at his arraignment before a Federal High Court in Abuja on N80 billion money laundering charges.

In a statement by its National President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the Council, which is an umbrella organisation of Yoruba youths, said that drafting the military to resolve civil, criminal, or whatever cases between Nigerians and government agencies in a democracy would be sending wrong signals about the nation’s commitment to the rule of law as applied in a Democracy.

Also, it cautioned the agency against taking the laws into its own hand in a case that was already in court awaiting determination.

It noted that an order of the Kogi State High Court granted on February 9, restraining the EFCC or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting the ex-governor pending the determination by the court, was still pending while the anti-graft body invaded his Abuja home, threatened to involve the military in arresting him, and declared him wanted

Earlier on Wednesday, the commission’s attempt to arrest Bello in his Abuja home failed due to the presence of the incumbent Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo in the vicinity, who allegedly sneaked Bello

However, Bello’s counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammed, told the court on Thursday that his client was in Kogi State when EFCC operatives besieged his Abuja residence on Wednesday.

This was during the hearing of the alleged money laundering case against Alli Bello, chief of staff to Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi; Yahaya Bello, and one Daudu Suleiman

He said Bello was awaiting the judgment of a high court in the state, which restrained the anti-graft agency from arresting him when he learned that his Abuja residence had been invaded.

Oluwole said that whatever the circumstances, the EFCC or any other government agencies should never be tempted to in on the military in effecting the arrest of Nigerians under whatever guise, more so in a democracy

According to the statement: “As a responsible body, the EFCC, being a creation of the law under the Nigerian Constitution, is in order to invite or arrest any Nigerian for questioning in the course of performing its duties not in a hard way

“However, we do not support the threat on Thursday by the anti-graft agency to draft in the military in its effort to arrest Yahaya Bello, a former Governor of Kogi State, on a court order, over allegations of money laundering.

“While we urge the EFCC agency, should not on the template bringing in the military to arrest Nigerians no matter the provocation.

“The consequences of drafting in the military to handle ordinary civil, and even criminal cases in a democratic setting are unhealthy for our Democracy.

“The labours of our Country’s Democracy heroes and forefathers, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should not be jeopardised.

“We call upon EFCC to handle the matter in a peaceful way as part of democracy. it should be a ministry of understanding in handling things, not in a war or hard way. “Oluwole, in its statement, said,”While we acknowledge the EFCC’s mandate to combat corruption,”call upon them to uphold the rule of law throughout the entire process.”

The Yoruba Youth group emphasized the importance of due process and a fair trial for Yahaya Bello not to be intimated

The statement further recognizes the role of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as a champion of Nigerian democracy, expressing hope that Mr. Tinubu’s experience can contribute to a peaceful resolution.

“We urged the EFCC to maintain a peaceful approach, open communication and understanding should guide this process, not forceful tactics.”

Comrade Oluwole, therefore, called for a swift and transparent resolution that upholds the law and strengthens Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

AYCF Defends Embattled Yahaya Bello, Says Bello Not Guilty Till Court Says

Suleiman Aboki

Worried by the current situation of unconfirmed allegations of corruption against the immediate past Governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called on the anti graft agency, Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to thread with caution.

The forum averred that, the fact that the case is already in court awaiting determination, the anti graft agency should not take the laws into their hands, making all efforts to tarnish the image of the ex governor despite not being convicted of any offence.

“We are worried on whose authority or interest the anti graft agency is carrying out their actions despite the disclosure by the Kogi State government that no money is missing” the forum stressed.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum Alhaji Yerima Shettima said, the invasion of the former Governor’s Abuja residence by the operatives was contrary to a subsisting court order granted February 9, 2024 by the Kogi State High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division, in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Alhaji Yahaya Bello Vs. EFCC, restraining the Commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting him, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.

The forum further noted that, despite a subsisting Order of injunction granted on 9th February 2024 by the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Alhaji Yahaya Bello v. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, restraining the Commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting Alhaji Yahaya Bello, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.

It stressed that the EFCC was duly served with that Order on 12th February 2024 and on 26th February 2024; the EFCC filed an Appeal (Appeal No.: CA/ABJ/CV/175/2024: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission v. Alhaji Yahaya Bello) against the said Order to the Court of Appeal Abuja division. The Appeal was accompanied by a Motion for Stay of Execution of the Order of the High Court which the Court of Appeal adjourned for hearing till the 22nd day of April 2024.

AYCF said, it is unfair that Contrary to all of the above, the EFCC decided to lay siege at the home of the former Governor seeking to arrest him in contravention of the extant orders!

“We perceive the desperation of the anti-graft agency to embarrass and harass the former Governor by all means through spurious allegations, especially the latest one dating back to September 2015, way before he assumed office.

“We are aware that there are clandestine moves to correct the error, but with even more questionable allegations, which would embarrass the Commission and Nigeria more than the initial one”.

Shettima described as unfortunate that an agency that is supposed to enforce the law is now the first culprit with respect to disobedience of court orders, adding that, “this is a big dent on the fight against corruption. He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.

“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the EFCC to order in the interest of legal sanity because we are not in banana Republic where anything goes.

AYCF further called on the EFCC to ensure that the fundamental right of the ex Governor is respected to the later, stressing “we are watching with keen interest”.

ENDS

Northern Group Backs Defence Minister, Matallawe for Blasting NEF over Attack on Tinubu

Apparently dissatisfied over recent attack by Northern Elders Forum on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ,the Progressive Northern Elements have come out strongly to back the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Mohammed Matawalle for lambasting the Northern Elders Forum.

The Northern Elders Forum came under fire for saying it regretted supporting President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 general election and will not support him in 2027 if he decides to contest.

Reacting to the comment , the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle had  described NEF as political burden on the North.

However, the Progressive Northern Elements in a press statement signed by the Chairman ,Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Modibbo and made available to journalists in Kaduna today, the group said it’s too early for Northern  Elders Forum to start finding fault lines in a President it supported to win election .

According to the group, President is doing well in our estimation and there is no reason for this attack from NEF.

The statement further reads :”Rather than stirring unnecessary up tension and over heating the polity without recourse to the sustained efforts to make Nigeria, especially the north ,a more economically vibrant region ,we expect the north to rally round President Tinubu led administration to succeed .

“We have noticed Tinubu’s sincerity and commitment to tackling the prolonged security challenges facing the north and frantic  efforts towards revamping the economy the entire country .

“So,we were worried to hear our northern elders speaking too early when former President Buhari from the northern extraction, exhausted 8 years in office  with several unresolved challenges ranging from severe insecurity, high unemployment , collapsed of agriculture activities due banditry,and bad economy, yet the voice of the Northern Elders was not heard.

“At this point,we have no option than to join  Matawalle to say members of NEF lack the authority to speak for the entire region as they have become  political burden to Northerners.

“We also agreed with Matawalle when he said the so-called Northern Elders Forum are a group of political paperweights and selfish individuals,who cared less about  development of the region.We vow that any destructive journey that will bring the North to disrepute by NEF for personal and selfish gains will be met with stuff resistance.

“The former Zamfara Governor was equally right, when he said NEF is just a group seeking to erode other people’s rights in order to be recognised or made relevant in the scheme of things despite the failure of their sponsored candidates in the 2023 general elections.”

While stating that the Northern Elders Forum should know that an average  northerner is wiser now and can’t be cajoled to fight any southerner in power as President, the group said, “Our position is clear , we believe in any government or leader that will the north and every other region better. Nothing less”

” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu won the February 2023 presidential election convincingly and has a four-year tenure to execute his campaign Promises to Nigerians, until  then , he must be allowed to work without distractions.”

Count Matawalle Out Of Your Desperate Attempt to undermine democracy, Yoruba youths warn corrupt politicians

Olu Obasa

….

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has warned against alleged desperate attempts by some unscrupulous and corrupt politicians to undermine Nigeria’s present democratic dispensation for selfish ends.

The Council, which is an umbrella body of Yoruba youths nationwide, gave the warning on Thursday in a statement by it’s National President, Comrade Eric Oluwole.

Particularly, the Council condemned perceived desperate efforts by the group of allegedly corrupt and unscrupulous politicians to instigate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

According to the statement: “We the Yoruba Youth Council, YYC, observe that some elements and corrupt politicians want to jeopardize Matawalle’s efforts as a minister in the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We note with concern the desperation with which these discredited politicians have been pushing their narrow, and selfish agenda to undermine Nigeria’s hard-earned democracy by attempting to instigate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against his supportive and loyal Minister of Defence and celebrated former Governor of Zamfara State, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

“We also note that these selfish politicians are unhappy with the cordial relationship of deep trust existing between Mr President and his Minister of Defence, a relationship that is further lubricated and cemented by the impressive performance of the Minister of Defence in managing his portfolio bordering on the nation’s security, which is the most sensitive ministry.

“Despite the antics and failed efforts of these selfish politicians to put a wedge between the President and the Minister, YYC shall continue to support the former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle because of his genuine plans he has in supporting Mr President.

“We note that the efforts by these selfish and corrupt politicians are part of their game plan for the 2027 Presidential Election, which is to cause a division among his core loyalists and supporters in the North as to weaken the support base of President Tinubu in that region even before the 2027 Presidential Election.

“We assure these corrupt politicians that their unpopular and unpatriotic plan, and whatever other new plans will fail in view of the exemplary performance of the Tinubu Administration and the overwhelming popularity that the administration enjoys across the six Geo political regions of our dear Country the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We warned those might have bad plans against the Minister to desist.”