By Ibrahim Ammani

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on its members to remain politically neutral as the 2027 general elections approach. ACF Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Muhammad Dalhatu, emphasized the need for unity and a collective voice on issues affecting Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening of a meeting held at the ACF headquarters in Kaduna, Dalhatu noted that the forum must focus on its mandate of promoting regional development and cohesion rather than partisan politics. The meeting had in attendance all state chapter chairmen and secretaries.

The discussions centered on key issues, including preparations for the upcoming ACF Silver Jubilee and the establishment of clear communication protocols for officials, particularly in their interactions with the media and external bodies.

Scheduled for November 20–22, 2025, the ACF Silver Jubilee will serve as a fundraising event for the construction of the forum’s national headquarters and the launch of an Endowment Fund to support social and economic development initiatives across Northern Nigeria. The celebration will also feature the unveiling and presentation of several publications.

The forum strongly condemned the alleged sabotage of the Dangote Refinery, describing it as a vital national asset that has helped ease fuel shortages and stabilize foreign exchange.

It urged the Federal Government to take immediate measures to safeguard the refinery and protect other strategic national assets from similar threats.

Expressing deep concern over the rising insecurity across Northern Nigeria, the ACF also decried the proliferation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating with overlapping objectives.

It directed its state chapters to intensify membership drives and establish local government branches to strengthen grassroots engagement.

The ACF further appealed to Northerners who have formed parallel or splinter groups to reconsider their stance and rejoin the forum, stressing that the organization has ample room for all who share its vision for regional progress.

The forum concluded by commending the armed forces and other security agencies for their relentless sacrifices in combating insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges facing the nation.

By Ibrahim Ammani

No fewer than 10,000 less privileged persons across the 44 local government areas of Kano State are to receive N20,000 each from the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CFR, FCNA.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Deputy President of the Senate, Ismail Mudashir, in a statement, said the selection process for the programme will commence on Thursday, October 9, 2025, with the distribution of forms.

The cash disbursement is being carried out by the Barau I Jibrin Foundation (BIJF), established by the Deputy President of the Senate. The foundation has undertaken various programmes, including a foreign postgraduate scholarship for indigent students in Kano State.

He said the initiative is part of Senator Barau’s efforts to have a direct impact on the lives of the less privileged individuals in the state.

” A total of 6,500 persons would be selected from the Kano North Senatorial District, with each of the 13 LGAs set to produce 500 beneficiaries. One hundred twelve individuals (112) will be selected from each local government area in Kano Central and South Senatorial Districts.

“This is in addition to the numerous interventions of the Deputy President of the Senate in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, security and transportation, among others. The Deputy President of the Senate remains committed to empowering the people.

” Empowering women and youth is a central focus of His Excellency’s initiatives, which aim to foster development and growth in the North and the country at large,” he said.

Signed:
Ismail Mudashir
Special Adviser to the Deputy President of the Senate on Media and Publicity
October 5, 2025

By Sani Abubakar Garba

In a landmark development, the Talata Mafara Local Government Council in Zamfara State has rejuvenated the Independence Day celebration, which had been dormant for decades.

Honourable Yahaya Abubakar Yari, the council’s Executive Chairman, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to reviving the lost glory of education in the area.

During the 65th Independence Day celebration, Yari noted the significance of education as a fundamental right enshrined in the constitution.

He emphasized that his administration, in collaboration with His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal PhD, is “resolute in its pursuit to provide free and compulsory education to every child, thereby unlocking their innate potential and curiosity”

The council’s chairman urged parents to partner with the council in “achieving this vision, stressing that quality education is the bedrock of societal growth and development”

He added that “Zamfara State contributes a staggering 61.3% of its children out of school to Nigeria’s 18.3 million, the highest globally in 2024, according to UNICEF indices”

Mallam Aminu Mohammad Tukur, the Education Secretary, commended the council “chairman’s visionary leadership, stating that primary education has received unprecedented attention”

He further explained that “the council has taken a giant stride in providing educational materials to students, with each pupil receiving 10 exercise books, a ruler, a pencil, and an eraser”

The Emir of Talata Mafara, represented by Galadiman Mafara Alhaji Malami Galadima, expressed “gratitude to the council chairman for reviving this historic event, which has fostered unity, courage, and patriotism among citizens”

The Emir prayed for “increased security and peaceful coexistence in the local government, state, and country”

This initiative marks a significant milestone in the council’s efforts to prioritize education and promote national development.

By Sani Abubakar Garba

In a landmark development, the Talata Mafara Local Government Council in Zamfara State has rejuvenated the Independence Day celebration, which had been dormant for decades.

Honourable Yahaya Abubakar Yari, the council’s Executive Chairman, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to reviving the lost glory of education in the area.

During the 65th Independence Day celebration, Yari noted the significance of education as a fundamental right enshrined in the constitution.

He emphasized that his administration, in collaboration with His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal PhD, is “resolute in its pursuit to provide free and compulsory education to every child, thereby unlocking their innate potential and curiosity”

The council’s chairman urged parents to partner with the council in “achieving this vision, stressing that quality education is the bedrock of societal growth and development”

He added that “Zamfara State contributes a staggering 61.3% of its children out of school to Nigeria’s 18.3 million, the highest globally in 2024, according to UNICEF indices”

Mallam Aminu Mohammad Tukur, the Education Secretary, commended the council “chairman’s visionary leadership, stating that primary education has received unprecedented attention”

He further explained that “the council has taken a giant stride in providing educational materials to students, with each pupil receiving 10 exercise books, a ruler, a pencil, and an eraser”

The Emir of Talata Mafara, represented by Galadiman Mafara Alhaji Malami Galadima, expressed “gratitude to the council chairman for reviving this historic event, which has fostered unity, courage, and patriotism among citizens”

The Emir prayed for “increased security and peaceful coexistence in the local government, state, and country”

This initiative marks a significant milestone in the council’s efforts to prioritize education and promote national development.

By Musa Mohammed

The National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has emphasized the importance of unity and commitment as the cornerstone for ensuring democracy in Nigeria.

This statement was made at a rally held in Kaduna State to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.

Yerima Shettima, who is also among the candidates for the Senate seat from central Kaduna, stated that the time has come for Nigerians to embrace peace and unity in order to achieve progress in various areas. He said:

“I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians as we celebrate 65 years of independence. Our beloved country has suffered through sacrifice, endurance, and the determination of its people.”

Shettima further added:

“Only through unity and commitment can we guarantee democracy and build a better future for coming generations.”

Yerima Shettima called on every Nigerian to embrace peace, stability, and unity in their homes, communities, and across the nation. He expressed:

“Together, through unity and love, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams.”

Additionally, Shettima praised the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in providing national development opportunities, stating that if patience is exercised, things will improve in Nigeria. He noted:

“If we can be more patient, things will get better in Nigeria.”

The rally, organized by the “Capacity Movement” campaign group, the attendance of youths from various parts of Kaduna State, including associations of tricycle drivers and motorcyclists. This emphasis on unity and commitment highlighted at the event is crucial for ensuring lasting peace in Nigeria and building a brighter future for upcoming generations.

By Adamu Yusuf

A case has been filed at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Judicial Division, with suit number FCT/HJ/GAR/CV/383/2025, by Hon. Adamu Ahmad Dattijo and Alhaji Suleiman Abdullahi against Malam Ahmed Nasiru El-Rufai, Jafaru Sani, Bashir Saidu, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The case, filed on September 9, 2025, seeks an order restraining the National Chairman of the ADC from recognizing Malam Ahmed Nasiru El-Rufai, Jafaru Sani, and Bashir Saidu as members of the Party.

The plaintiffs are seeking the following reliefs:

1. AN ORDER, Setting aside the nomination/appointment of Jafaru Sani as National Vice Chairman, North West Zone of the ADC, citing non-compliance with the Party’s Constitution and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
2. AN ORDER, Setting aside actions taken by Jafaru Sani in his purported capacity as National Vice Chairman, North West Zone.
3. AN ORDER, Restraining Malam Nasiru Ahmed El-Rufai and Jafaru Sani from further parading themselves as Members/leaders of the ADC.

The case was heard on 25th September, 2025 before Honourable Justice N.C Nwabulu, and adjourned to 16th October, 2025, for continuation of hearing. All parties have been advised to maintain the status quo until the matter is determined.

RE: Loyal APC Stalwart Left in the Shadows

By: Mohammed Yusuf

The Coordinator,Social Media to Sen. Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba (Senator DBB) Mal Abdulhafeez Halliru has issued a firm response to a recent online article alleging that the Distinguished two times former lawmaker who represented Sokoto South Senatorial District in the 8th and 9th Assembly had been sidelined by the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration at both Sokoto State and the federal level as untrue and nonsensical.

This was contained in a press release signed by
Mal Abdulhafeez Halliru and made available to Newsmen.He categorically dismissed the claims as baseless and fictitious, describing the article as a fabrication borne out of the writer’s imagination, lacking any factual foundation.

He clarified that the publication is a personal opinion of the writer and did not originate from Senator Danbaba’s office or any of his associates, and therefore does not represent the Senator’s views, intentions, or political stance.

Reaffirming Senator Danbaba’s unwavering loyalty to the APC, Abdulhafeez emphasized the Senator’s continued support for the party’s leadership in Sokoto State, under the stewardship of Governor Ahmed Aliyu and HE Distinguished Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako CON.

Furthermore, the statement assured the public that Senator DBB remains fully aligned with the policies and vision of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration, and stands firmly behind Senator Wamako’s leadership of the party in the state. He is also deeply committed to the Renewed Hope agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level.

Senator Danbaba continues to play an active role in strengthening the APC’s mission and fostering unity within its ranks. His dedication to public service and the development of Sokoto State remains steadfast, and any suggestion to the contrary is not only misleading but a disservice to the truth.

Signed
Abdulhafeez Halliru Coordinator (Social Media to Sen Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba-DBB)

By Ahmed Hassan Ahmed, (International Award Winning Journalist, DFID/Kaduna State Ministry of Education, Educational Journalism Awards Competition)

In the political landscape of Sokoto State, few figures have demonstrated the level of commitment, sacrifice, and grassroots connection as Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba. A two-time senator representing Sokoto South, Danbaba has been a prominent voice in the National Assembly and a pillar of support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the region.

A Legacy of Service and Development

Senator Danbaba’s tenure in the Senate was marked by tangible development and philanthropic projects and legislative impact. From infrastructure upgrades to educational initiatives, his contributions to his constituency were widely acknowledged.

His efforts earned him admiration from the masses, who saw in him a rare blend of political experience and genuine public service.

Unlike many who rise through the ranks on party machinery alone, Danbaba built his reputation on results using his personal resources to bankroll the party. His performance in office is often favorably compared to that of other Sokoto politicians, including Senator Aliyu Wamako and Waziri Tambuwal, with many constituents asserting that Danbaba delivered more in terms of development, accessibility and human capacity building.

A Costly Commitment to APC

In the lead-up to the 2023 general elections, Danbaba threw his full weight behind the APC, both at the state and presidential levels. Reports suggest he spent billions of naira to sponsor campaigns, mobilize support, and strengthen the party’s presence in Sokoto State despite the State being in the hands of The People’s Democratic Party PDP at that time. His loyalty was not just rhetorical, it was financial, strategic, and deeply personal.

Yet, despite this unwavering support, Senator Danbaba and his political allies have found themselves sidelined. No appointments. No recognition. No reward.

Political Undercurrents and Alleged Sabotage

This conspicuous neglect has sparked speculation among political observers and constituents alike. Some believe that internal rivalries within the APC may have played a role. Danbaba’s rising influence and popularity could have unsettled certain power brokers in Sokoto State, leading to deliberate efforts to block his access to federal appointments.

The silence from both the state leadership and the presidency has only fueled these suspicions. For a man who gave so much to the party, the lack of acknowledgment feels not just unjust but politically calculated.

Still Loved by the People

Despite the political snub, Danbaba remains a beloved figure among the people of Sokoto State. His legacy of service continues to speak louder than any title or appointment. In the eyes of many, he embodies what a public servant should be: committed, effective, and accountable.

What Comes Next?

The question now is whether the APC leadership will recognize the value of loyalty and performance or continue to reward political maneuvering over merit. As the party looks ahead to the 2027 elections and governance challenges, sidelining figures like Danbaba may prove to be a costly mistake.

In the end, history tends to favor those who serve with integrity. And for Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba, the people’s verdict is already in because he is considered as a rare gem in Sokoto State politics.

Ahmed Hassan Ahmed writes from Kaduna, he is an international Award winning journalist, he won an award for a script on girl child Education and also a participant in the CNN African Journalism Awards Competition

By Ibrahim Ammani

While demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of Senator Shehu Umar Buba, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, a group, the Plateau Progressive Movement (PPM) has also tasked the Senate to.relief him of his position in the National Assembly.

This was contained in a statement signed by Publicity Secretary
Plateau Progressive Movement, Comrade Dachum Daniel Kajang, made available to.our correspondent in Kaduna on Monday.

“The Plateau Progressive Movement calls for the immediate relief of Senator Shehu Umar Buba from his chairmanship position on the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.

“His continued presence in this role is untenable, given the serious allegations against him. It is imperative that the Senate acts swiftly to restore public confidence in our institutions and demonstrate that no one is above the law.
Furthermore, we demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of Senator Buba,” the group said.

They argued that the allegations against him are grave and warrant thorough investigation.

“As citizens, we have a right to expect that our leaders act with integrity and accountability.

“Allowing Senator Buba to remain in a position of power while these serious accusations linger would send a dangerous message—that political connections can shield individuals from the consequences of their actions,” they pointed out.

According to the statement titled, “Urgent Call for the Arrest and Prosecution of Senator Shehu Umar Buba” PPM said that it stands resolute in its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting the sanctity of its communities, and ensuring that justice prevails in the face of rising insecurity.

“Today, we find ourselves compelled to reecho the urgent and numerous calls for the arrest and prosecution of Senator Shehu Umar Buba, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.

“The gravity of the allegations against him necessitates immediate action, as they threaten the very fabric of our society and the safety of our citizens.

“Recent revelations have shed light on Senator Buba’s alarming involvement with bandits and other criminal elements, casting a long shadow over his role as a leader entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding national security. In light of these revelations, we cannot remain silent,” they said.

The group explained that the Senator’s alleged incitement of violence in the Toro and Tafawa Balewa local government areas of Bauchi State has not only led to the loss of innocent lives, but has also instigated a climate of fear and unrest among our people.

“Such behavior is not only unbecoming of a public servant but also indicative of a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon him by the citizens of Plateau State.

“Eyewitness accounts and credible reports indicate that Senator Buba has actively engaged with armed groups, including bandits, who have wreaked havoc on our communities.

“Disturbingly, it has come to our attention that he has facilitated the transportation of injured bandit fighters for medical treatment.

“This shocking revelation raises serious ethical questions about his allegiance and underscores the urgent need for accountability. How can a senator, who is expected to champion the interests of his constituents, instead prioritize the welfare of those who perpetrate violence against them?” The statement queried.

They said that moreover, the emergence of a video clip depicting the movement of arms and motorcycles from Senator Buba’s residence to Zamfara has further exacerbated their concerns.

“This blatant disregard for the law and order is not only a direct affront to the citizens of Nigeria but also a stark reminder of the growing nexus between political power and criminal activity.

“The implications of such actions are dire; they embolden criminal elements and undermine the efforts of our security forces who are working tirelessly to restore peace and stability to our communities,” they warned.

In conclusion, the Plateau Progressive Movement reiterated its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of our communities.

“We urge all relevant authorities to take decisive action against Senator Shehu Umar Buba,” they stressed, warning that the time for complacency has passed.

“We must act now to safeguard our future and ensure that those who threaten our security are brought to justice. The citizens of Plateau State deserve nothing less,” they stressed.

In a reaction when contacted by newsmen, Special Adviser Media and Communications to the Senator, Comrade Sabo Muhammad said that the allegations against him remain unsubstantiated.

“The unsubstantiated allegation is part of the sponsored campaign to smear his rising political standing in his own state and country at large by some disgruntled elements.

“For this group, all the said allegations were not unfolded, malicious and lack insight into the happenings in Bauchi State and the ongoing non kinetic approach to end banditry,” he said.

He said that if they are truly patriots, genuinely concerned and scientific in the statement, one would have expected them to state one of the alleged person or persons that were hospitalized, the name of the hospital and nature of ailment to buttress the arguments.

“Secondly, in Toro and Tafawa Balewa, there is relative peace and if there is any problem, it has nothing to do with Senator Shehu Buba.

“They should go further to find out, since Plateau is our neighbouring State, insecurity have permeated Plateau State.

“Thus, this calumny will not deter his responsibility at the Senate, and discharging his responsibility as the only APC Senator In Bauchi State,” he said.

By Bature Suleman

A Federal Capital Territory Upper Area Court sitting in Kado, Abuja has perpetually restrained one Hadiza Musa Baffa from claiming a former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is the biological father of her child.

The Court also dismissed the result of a DNA test presented by Baffa, ruling that such a document cannot be used under Islamic law to determine the paternity of a child born outside wedlock.

This is just as the former Minister moved to clear his name of rape, ritual and fraud allegations made against him by Baffa, dismissing them as “falsehoods, contradictions, and unfounded blackmail attempts.”

According to the enrolled court order dated September 4, 2025 and obtained by our correspondent, the Presiding Judge, Hon Adamu Isah, in his ruling, determined the matter in favour of the former Minister Turaki, who is the plaintiff.

The court then ordered as follows: 1. “A perpetual injunction restraining the defendant ( Baffa), whether by herself, her agents, privies, servants or by any other person acting through her or for her from using or relying on any purported DNA in ascribing or attributing the paternity of her child to the plaintiff (Turaki). 2. “A perpetual injunction restraining the defendant (Baffa), whether by herself, her agents, privies, servants or by any other person acting through her or for her publishing in the social media or traditional media, any content, statement, image or material suggesting or ascribing the defendant’s child born outside wedlock to the plaintiff.”

Meanwhile, Turaki has debunked the rape, ritual and fraud allegations made against him by Hadiza Musa Baffa.

The former minister dismissed the allegations as “falsehoods, contradictions, and unfounded blackmail attempts.”

Turaki’s lawyer, Abdulaziz Ibrahim, SAN, at a press conference in his chamber in Abuja, said all facts presented in defence of his client were backed by verifiable court judgments, certified police records, and petitions lodged with relevant authorities.

Ibrahim, who addressed newsmen on behalf of his client, Turaki said contrary to Baffa’s recent social media campaign tagged “Justice for Hadiza Baffa,” official records revealed she had on several occasions withdrawn her own petitions, issued apologies, and contradicted earlier statements.

Citing certified police documents where Baffa named different drivers in separate accounts, Turaki’s lawyer noted that Hadiza Baffa’s new claims of confiding in friends never appeared in her original reports.

The ex-Minister’s lawyer further noted that a civil suit instituted by his client, Turaki to determine the paternity of Baffa’s daughter was decided in his favour, with the court ruling that the child does not belong to him, adding that the judgment has not been appealed.

He explained that while former minister once acted as Baffa’s guardian at the request of her mother, her repeated misconduct and fraudulent activities — including forgery, impersonation, and multiple scam operations, forced him to sever ties with her.

Turaki’s lawyer cited some of Hadiza Baffa’s documented infractions to include: forging ECOWAS and J.K. Gadzama law firm ID cards to defraud unsuspecting victims; operating fake forex and Instagram rental scams, one of which was reported by Sahara Reporters; forging a Baze University certificate after her withdrawal from the institution; and fraudulently obtaining an international passport bearing Turaki’s name while posing as his daughter.

Ibrahim said police investigations also disproved Baffa’s claims of rape, abortions, and rituals. Hospital records, instead, showed she had only been treated for drug misuse and miscarriages, with no evidence linking Turaki to her medical history.

“Her stories simply could not be substantiated,” Turaki’s lawyer said.

Turaki’s lawyer further disclosed that Baffa and her father admitted in writing that one Saidu Mohammed Mainasara orchestrated the blackmail campaign against Turaki. But inspite of this, she allegedly attempted to extort the former minister with demands for ₦850 million, ₦47 million to clear rent arrears, and a luxury house in Maitama or Asokoro.

Ibrahim said, “All these facts are documented. The truth is public, the courts have spoken, and the police records are clear.

“Her ongoing online smear campaign is nothing more than a desperate attempt to extort money from our client.”

Turaki, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former presidential aspirant, appealed to the public and the media to disregard Hadiza Musa Baffa’s baseless allegations and blackmail.