By Ibrahim Ammani

Northern Nigerian youth leaders has decried on the recent political violence erupted in some part of the state in North,
In a press statement issued to journalists by the Director media and public affairs of the group Muhammad Isah Imam, urges the security and intelligence community to called on political actors in the north into action to avoid the persistent of political violence in the North

The statement read in part; “Gentlemen of the media. We are saddened and greatly worried about recent violent political development in our polity, especiallyin Kebbi State,  a relativelypeaceful State. Hence the need to address you and raise this alarm before the situation worsen”

“Nigeria is a fledgling democracy. Though some would rather not call democracy, but civil rule. But by whatever name anyone may call it, Nigeria’s democracy as it is enjoyed today was not given on a platter of gold. Some people paid prices; some with their freedom and others ultimately with their lives”

“We are highly concerned and disturbed with these violent acts which require prompt attention and action from security agencies.”

“There is no gainsaying that our region has been plagued by various forms of insecurity such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder conflicts. While these issues are fueled by factors such as poverty, unemployment, corruption, and poor governance, in some places they gain political colouration”

“Most recent are the happenings in Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Kogi. In all these K-States, the opposition coalition ADC featured prominently with accusations and counteraccusations. But Kebbi stands out, especially with a key figure in the person of Abubakar Malami former Attorney General and Minister of Justice at the centre of it”

“He was material to the 2014 APC coalition, and also now in the ADC coalition. But this was not the way it was done in 2014. The violence thus far exhibited and the threatening languages call for concern” 

“In Kaduna the Police were proactive and issued a ban on political gatherings, but that cannot be said of Kebbi State. We are seriously concerned here. Even after petitioning the Police Service Commission and sending legal representatives, the Police insisted on the appearance of the former Governor in person”. 

“It is a common knowledge that the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC is yet to lift the embargo on campaigns. So why would unruly politicians heat up the polity with violence in the face of the myriad of challenges Northern Nigeria today faces?”

“So, we are therefore calling on the security and intelligence community to reassert their duty in Kebbi State like in Kaduna by calling especially Abubakar Malami to order. A state like Kebbi or any other state in the North, nay Nigeria can ill afford any political violence that would worsen already bad security situations with serious consequences for the country and beyond”. 

“Contrary to Malami’s claim, the video of his arrival at the airport, his language and the manner of the youth brandishing weapons that received and escorted him into the town, leading to a violent clash did not show a man on a condolence visit as he claimed”

“Ordinarily, as a former number one law officer of the Federation, Malami should have sought Police protection considering the crowd of youth that he mobilised to relieve him. But he rather relied on the weapon brandishing youth”

“Political actors like Malami need to be a focus of the security and intelligence community to avert anything untoward” 

“Much as we are not ignorant of any individual or group’s right to freedom of expression and association in line with democratic norms, it must not be at the cost of peace and stability of a state like Kebbi, our region or the country”.

“The escalation of political violence in Northern Nigeria as seen with actors like Malami, is a threat to democratic stability, with potential consequences for the nation’s fragile democracy”

“So, to the security and “intelligence community, the time to act to ensure a relatively peaceful state like Kebbi is not thrown into chaos by individuals like Malami is now,  to nip it in the bud” the statement concluded

By Nasiru Salisu

A legal practitioner, Barrister Dennis Gapsiso, has dismissed the rape allegations leveled against former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, by one Hadiza Baffa, describing her as a fraudster who had defrauded five of his clients of a total of ₦27 million.

Gapsiso, who addressed journalists in Abuja, said he felt a “civic responsibility to put the record straight” following the viral video in which Hadiza accused Turaki of raping her in 2014 and using his influence to intimidate her into silence.

“My clients – Taye Adewale, Areola Osho, Kolapo Hosieni, Solomon Adenuga, and Omotayo Ifapetu Adiri – were all duped by Hadiza, who paraded herself as the daughter of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki. She collected various sums of money, amounting to ₦27 million, under different false pretenses,” Gapsiso said.

According to him, a petition was lodged at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Area 10, Abuja, on August 30, 2021, and Hadiza was arrested with charms found in her possession. “Ironically, she didn’t want Kabiru Tanimu Turaki to know about her arrest, even though she claimed he was her father. This confirmed she was only using his name without his knowledge,” he added.

Gapsiso explained that his background checks revealed that Hadiza was initially admitted at the University of Maiduguri but was later transferred to Baze University after Turaki assisted her mother, who appealed for help due to insecurity in Maiduguri. However, she was withdrawn in her first year.

“She went around claiming to be a first-class law graduate of Baze University, but that is false. Even while she was in school, she kept extorting money from the former minister under the guise of registration and other expenses. But our concern is not about the minister; our concern is the money she collected from my clients,” the lawyer said.

Narrating one of the cases, Gapsiso revealed that Hadiza deceived his client, Mr. Taye Adewale, into a relationship by faking a pregnancy. “She was introduced to Adewale’s family, who accepted her in anticipation of marriage, only to later discover there was no pregnancy at all. She absconded after duping him,” he stated.

He further alleged that she defrauded another client, Kolapo Hosieni, of ₦7 million after promising him an appointment at ECOWAS. “On inquiry, we discovered she was never a staff of ECOWAS. She also collected ₦5 million from Areola Osho under a false apartment rent deal, while Adenuga and Omotayo lost money to her fake accommodation promises,” he added.

Gapsiso disclosed that Hadiza was in detention for weeks until Turaki intervened. “Barrister Turaki assured us that if the matter was withdrawn, he would pay the money. He did so because he didn’t want her to remain in detention. Unfortunately, Hadiza has remained ungrateful, turning around to scandalize him with false rape claims,” he said.

He concluded by warning the public against falling victim to Hadiza’s schemes. “People like her are ingrates, and their activities discourage others from helping those genuinely in need,” Gapsiso declared.

As of press time, efforts to reach Hadiza Baffa proved abortive as she neither responded to calls nor messages.

In her viral video dated August 17, 2025, Hadiza had vowed to provide evidence of her allegations against Turaki, but none has been made public or submitted to the police.

By Ahmed Ilallah

The Jigawa Northeast Senatorial position in the present democracy from 1999 witnessed the change of five senators.

Senator Ahmed Abdulhamid Malam-Madori is currently the serving senator and has delivered memorable eulogies that resonate with the populace in history.

Within a span of only two years of his tenure, he established a standard primary health center in the Dala region, which is currently lacking in medical facilities.

Tackling the healthcare challenges in this area represents a substantial advancement in the development of human capital.

The scholarship program for the Senator in various health institutions in the country, both in public and private schools, will boost and fill the human resource gap in Jigawa State.

Within a relatively short period, Ahmed has contributed significantly to saving numerous lives and improving the health outcomes of many individuals in the region by assuming full responsibility for their medical expenses.

A considerable number of these patients were diagnosed with critical health conditions and were subsequently referred to tertiary healthcare institutions for advanced treatment. This programme runs millions of naira, and it helped many poor families.

By Ibrahim Ammani

During a recent meeting held in Kaduna, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Education, Dr. Halliru Musa Soba, stated that the state government has made significant progress in improving and advancing education in the state.

Dr. Soba further mentioned that they have already developed plans to identify and support talented children in the state’s schools, to provide them with the necessary attention to achieve their goals.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Education Committee in the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Honorable Mahmud Lawal (Bola Ige), emphasized that the state government, under Governor Uba Sani, has taken a firm stance on improving education in the state, so that students from the state can compete and be recognized anywhere across the country.

In his speech, Mr. Ezra Angai, the Project Coordinator for the reaching out of school Children Kaduna State, noted that their agency has achieved significant success in bringing children back to school, as part of Governor Uba Sani’s efforts to ensure that every child in Kaduna State benefits from education.

This highlights the government’s strong commitment to addressing the educational challenges facing the state, aiming to ensure that all children have access to quality education that will benefit them in their lives.

By Abdullahi Musa

As Muslims all over the world observe and celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud marking the anniversary of the birth of the Holy Prophet Mohammad, the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Lawal Adamu Usman has charged Muslims to use this occasion to pray for the security, peace and economic prosperity of Nigeria.

Senator Usman lamented that Nigeria is in a critical state which requires the sincere and fervent prayers of all citizens to overcome the economic hardship and insecurity confronting the country.

He noted that this year’s Eid-el-Maulud provides an auspicious occasion for Muslims in his Kaduna Central constituency, Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole to emulate the exemplary leadership and exhibit the virtues of the Holy Prophet Mohammed by encouraging and promoting peaceful co-existence in their various locations.

Senator Usman stated these in a statement on Friday in Kaduna to mark this year’s Eid-el-Maulud.

The lawmaker enjoined all Muslim faithful in his constituency, Kaduna State and all over Nigeria to use the occasion of the 2025 Eid-el-Maulud to pray for continuous peace, end to the perennial insecurity, hardship and economic challenges confronting the people.

While congratulating Muslims in his constituency, Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole, and praying that Allah accepts their supplications and prayers for Nigeria, Senator Usman, who also doubles as the Senate Committee Chairman on Education (Basic and Secondary) and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Financial Matters, noted that offering prayers for the nation at this auspicious time had become imperative, given the enormity of the daunting economic and security challenges the nation is grappling with.

He stated, “On behalf of my family, I extend the warmest wishes to all Muslims celebrating Eid-el-Maulud in my Constituency, Kaduna Central, the entire Kaduna State, our dear country, Nigeria and the entire world.

“My hope and prayer is that we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud, we will also internalise the spiritual lessons inherent in the teachings of the Holy Prophet concerning piety, honesty, love, justice, fairness, equity and peaceful coexistence. If we all properly and faithfully apply all these teachings of the Holy Prophet, it will be for the overall good of our beloved country and will even bring our nation greater glory.

“Therefore, on this special occasion of the Eid-el-Maulud, let’s remember to pray sincerely and fervently for our dear country and all citizens to attain greater harmony and advancement, irrespective of our ethnicity and religion. We must all foster a stronger dedication to the peace, unity and stability of our dear fatherland. My sincere prayer is that this year’s Eid-el-Maulud brings utmost joy and peace to every citizen of Nigeria and the entire world. I extend warm greetings to the entire Muslim Ummah in Kaduna Central, Kaduna State, all over Nigeria and across the world.”

Senator Usman also assured his Kaduna Central constituents that he will continue to use their mandate in the 10th National Assembly to implement beneficial programmes and projects for the common good of all the people in the seven local government areas constituting the senatorial district and beyond.

He assured that he’ll not relent in his efforts to increase their access to the basic necessities of life and the real dividends of democracy.

The lawmaker, popularly called Senator LA by his teeming supporters, however, charged his constituents to continue to support him in his efforts to better their lot and take Kaduna Central to greater heights through the delivery of the real dividends of democracy.

He assured them that he’ll continue to prioritise their welfare and well-being and will not relent in his efforts and noble endeavours to continue to bring unprecedented socio-economic and infrastructural developments to all facets of their lives and throughout Kaduna Central Senatorial District.

“My pledge is to continue to work assiduously to make life better for all the good people of Kaduna Central Senatorial District and practically alleviate the suffering of
the less privileged, too. Happy Eid-el-Maulud, ” Senator Usman added.

By Ibrahim Ammani

Tension is building in Kaduna as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) disowned an event linked to former governor Nasir El-Rufai, while police began investigating reports of violence and gunshots at the gathering.

In a statement on Saturday, ADC’s Kaduna Publicity Secretary, Engr. Musa Idris, dismissed the so-called “inauguration ceremony” that attempted to introduce a transition committee into the party.

“The ADC in Kaduna State has no knowledge of, and is not part of this event,” the party said, accusing El-Rufai of trying to destabilize the party.

State Chairman, Elder Patrick Ambut, explained that while the former governor once promised to register with the ADC, he never completed the process. “Instead, he continues to parade himself as our leader and create structures that are not recognized in the ADC constitution. This is fraudulent and unacceptable,” he said.

The party stressed that its leadership remains intact and preparations for the 2027 elections will not be derailed.

Meanwhile, police confirmed an investigation into the event, which was allegedly marred by gunfire. Spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan said political thugs disrupted the meeting, warning that anyone involved, regardless of status, would face the law.

The command also cautioned hotels and event centres against hosting unauthorized political gatherings without notifying security agencies. The ADC urged its members and the public to disregard the event and called on its national leadership to step in to prevent further division.

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated the people of the state on the occasion of the 34th anniversary of the state’s creation, describing the milestone as a moment of sober reflection and renewed hope.

This was disclosed in a message personally signed by the Governor, who said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey since its creation in 1991, to assess present realities, and to chart a brighter course for the future.

Governor Ododo noted that from its humble beginnings, Kogi State has endured challenges while recording remarkable progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare and rural development.

The Governor affirmed that though the state is not yet where it aspires to be, significant strides have been made in line with the vision of purposeful governance and the aspirations of the founding fathers.

“At 34, we stand at a defining threshold. Roads are being built, schools remodeled, hospitals revitalized, and rural communities are beginning to feel the impact of good governance. We may not yet be where we desire to be, but we are certainly no longer where we used to be,” he stated.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to building a future where every child has access to quality education, healthcare is within the reach of all, industries thrive, and agriculture guarantees food security and prosperity for the people.

Governor Ododo also called on all citizens to take pride in the greatness of Kogi State, uphold peace, embrace hard work, and believe in the collective destiny of the Confluence State.

“As we celebrate 34 years of existence, let us renew our pledge to keep Kogi great. Together, we will strengthen our unity, deepen our progress, and hand over to future generations a state greater than the one we inherited,” he added.

The Governor wished all citizens a Happy 34th Anniversary and reaffirmed his resolve to spend every day working hard for the greatness of Kogi State.

Ismaila Isah

Special Adviser on Media to the Governor

August 27th, 2025

By Musa Mohammed

Following the arrest and detention of the Peoples Democratic Party candidate for the August 16 Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election, Princess Esther Asheu Velli Dawaki and the party’s Campaign Director General, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Patange, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Lawal Adamu Usman, on Tuesday, petitioned the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, requesting the issuance of an arrest warrant against Governor Uba Sani for alleged crimes against opposition politicians in the state.

Specifically, Senator Usman is praying the ICC to issue the warrant of arrest for Governor Uba Sani over his alleged attack on democracy, unlawful persecution, and abuse of state power in his dealings with opposition parties and political parties in the state.

Senator Usman, in his petition dated August 26, 2025, already sent to the Office of the ICC Prosecutor in The Hague, said he was acting on behalf of the party’s candidate in the August 16 by-election, who he also said remains in unlawful custody under the directive of Governor Uba Sani.

According to the lawmaker’s petition, in the early hours of the August 16 by-election, heavily armed operatives stormed the hotel accommodation of PDP officials, where they arrested the party’s House of Representatives candidate and several other chieftains, during which they also confiscated over ₦26 million meant for election logistics.

Senator Usman alleged that more than 25 PDP officials and chieftains, including the state secretary, zonal chairman, women leaders, and a House of Assembly member, were herded into detention in what he described as a “commando style” deliberate clampdown targeted at intimidating the opposition politicians and manipulating the by-election results.

The lawmaker’s petition claimed that the Kaduna Governor’s actions violated the Peace Accord signed by political parties in the state and amounted to politically motivated persecution.

Senator Usman further accused Governor Uba Sani of abusing and craftily usurping the functions and powers of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to “incapacitate the opposition and undermine free democratic participation” in Kaduna State.

The PDP Senator, who in his petition to the ICC quoted Article 7 of the Rome Statute, argued that the unlawful arrests and intimidation of the PDP House of Representatives candidate and other party top shots during the August 16 by-election fell within the jurisdiction of the ICC as crimes against humanity, particularly political persecution.

Senator Usman therefore urged the International Criminal Court to launch an investigation, establish liability, and issue an arrest warrant against Governor Sani to deter further abuse of state machinery in Kaduna State.

“The Governor of Kaduna State bears direct command responsibility for these acts, as security and anti-graft agencies acted under his political directive to unlawfully detain and persecute opposition figures,” the PDP lawmaker’s petition partly read.

The Kaduna Central Senator affirmed his petition under oath, stressing that the facts presented were true.

Affidavits, media reports, and alleged evidence linking the Kaduna Governor to the crackdown on the opposition candidate and other politicians were also attached to the petition by Senator Usman.

As of the time of filing this report, Governor Sani and his spokespersons had yet to respond to the PDP Senator’s petition.

Below is the full text of Senator Usman’s petition to the ICC:

PETITION TO THE OFFICE OF THE PROSECUTOR

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT (ICC), THE HAGUE

RE: REQUEST FOR THE ISSUANCE OF AN ARREST WARRANT AGAINST GOVERNOR UBA SANI OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA, FOR CRIMES AGAINST DEMOCRACY, UNLAWFUL PERSECUTION, AND ABUSE OF STATE MACHINERY DURING THE AUGUST 16, 2025 BY-ELECTIONS

1. Petitioner

This petition is presented by Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and stakeholder of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kaduna State Chapter, acting on behalf of the PDP Candidate in the August 16, 2025 by-elections, who was unlawfully arrested and is currently being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the influence and orders of Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State.

2. Jurisdiction of the Court

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction to prosecute individuals responsible for serious violations of international law, including persecution on political grounds, unlawful detention, and systematic attacks against democratic participation, which form part of crimes against humanity under Article 7 of the Rome Statute.

The actions of Governor Uba Sani, using the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and now the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to intimidate, arrest, and incapacitate opposition candidates, constitute an abuse of state power amounting to politically motivated persecution and suppression of democratic rights.

3. Statement of Facts

a. On the 16th of August, 2025, by-elections were conducted across Kaduna State, Nigeria. The PDP fully participated, deploying over 6,000 officials and over 5,000 agents across the State’s 169 wards, with election logistics duly funded (See Annexure H).

b. In the early hours of 16th August, 2025, at about 03:30 a.m., heavily armed state operatives, acting under the direction and influence of Governor Uba Sani, stormed the hotel accommodation of PDP officials in Kaduna (See Annexure B – photographic/video evidence).

c. The PDP’s duly nominated Candidate was unlawfully arrested without any justifiable cause. Over ₦26,000,000.00 (Twenty-Six Million Naira), earmarked strictly for election logistics, was confiscated (See Annexure C – sworn affidavits and financial records).

d. Over 25 senior PDP stakeholders were also arrested and harassed, including the State Party Secretary, Zonal Chairman, Women Leaders, a House of Assembly member, and other officials — all with the singular aim of intimidating the opposition and manipulating the outcome of the elections (See Annexure D – list of detained stakeholders and affidavits).

e. These actions were carried out despite the existence of a Peace Accord signed by political parties in Kaduna State (See Annexure A), which Governor Uba Sani violated by orchestrating unlawful arrests and intimidation.

f. Currently, the PDP Candidate remains in custody, being unlawfully held by the EFCC under political instructions of Governor Uba Sani (See Annexure F – EFCC detention notice/confirmation).

g. Independent media reports and election monitors documented these incidents of persecution and intimidation, confirming that the arrests and harassment were politically motivated (See Annexures E & G).

h. The Governor of Kaduna State bears direct command responsibility for these acts, as the Nigerian Police Force, DSS, and EFCC operatives acted under his political directives to unlawfully detain and persecute opposition figures (See Annexure J – any communications/recordings linking Governor Uba Sani to the arrests).

4. Legal Grounds
   • The unlawful arrest, detention, and persecution of opposition candidates and officials amounts to political persecution contrary to Article 7(1)(h) of the Rome Statute.
   • The systematic abuse of state apparatus to suppress democratic participation amounts to an attack against a civilian population in violation of international human rights and electoral freedoms.
   • Governor Uba Sani, as the sitting Chief Executive of Kaduna State, is personally criminally liable for these acts, both as an instigator and as one exercising command and superior responsibility.
5. Reliefs Sought

The Petitioner hereby prays the International Criminal Court to:

1. Open an investigation into the conduct of Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in relation to the August 16, 2025 by-elections.
2. Establish criminal liability for persecution, unlawful arrest, and abuse of state power.
3. Issue an arrest warrant against Governor Uba Sani to prevent further abuses, intimidation, and suppression of political opposition in Nigeria.
4. Take any other measures necessary to guarantee the protection of opposition figures, candidates, and the sanctity of democratic participation in Nigeria.
5. Verification and Oath

I, Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, do hereby verify on oath that the facts contained in this petition and the annexures attached hereto are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief, and that I depose to this petition in good faith and in pursuit of justice.

---

Senator Lawal Adamu Usman
Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
For and on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kaduna State

By Ibrahim Ammani

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other leaders across the country have commiserated with the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, over the death of his father, Alhaji Ahmed MomohSani Alabi.

In a condolence message, President Tinubu described the passing of the late patriarch as a painful loss, urging Governor Ododo and his family to take solace in the enduring legacy of humility, service, and discipline left behind.

The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and strength for the bereaved family.

Similarly, Vice President Kashim Shettima also expressed deep condolences to Governor Ododo over the passing of his father.

In his condolence message, Senator Shettima described the death as a profound loss that resonates beyond the Governor’s family to the nation at large.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Usman Ododo over the sad demise of his father,” he stated.

Shettima praised the late Alhaji Ahmed MomohSani as a devout Muslim and respected community figure whose values continue to manifest in Governor Ododo’s dedicated service to Kogi State.

“Alhaji Ahmed was a most committed family patriarch who endeared himself to many with his devotion to Islamic values and community service. His greatest legacy lies in the exemplary leadership qualities he instilled in Governor Ododo,” the Vice President said.

He acknowledged the particular challenge of losing a parent while in high public office and expressed confidence that the departed soul would find eternal rest.

Also, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, mourned the passing of Alhaji Ahmed MomohSani Alabi. The party described him as a devout Muslim, a community leader of repute, and a father who nurtured Governor Ododo in values of discipline, service, and integrity.

APC extended its heartfelt condolences to the Governor, the Ododo family, and the entire people of Kogi State, praying that Almighty Allah grant the soul of the departed Aljannah Firdaus and comfort those left behind.

Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the South-West Governors’ Forum also extended their sympathies to the Kogi State Governor.

In separate statements, both forums paid tribute to the late father of Governor Ododo as a man of honour whose life and values shaped his family and community positively.

In the same vein, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, Hon. Leke Abejide, Hon. Salman Idris, Rt. Hon. Matthew Kolawole, among other political leaders, traditional rulers, and associates, have equally conveyed their condolences to Governor Ododo.

They praised the late Ahmed Alabi for raising a son who has emerged as a leader dedicated to service and development.

Messages of sympathy have continued to pour in from across the country, reflecting the wide respect accorded the late father of the Governor.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, while acknowledging the outpouring of support, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, the Governors’ Forum, other leaders, and Nigerians at large for standing by his family in their moment of grief.

He noted that the prayers, visits, and words of encouragement from across the country have strengthened his family in this difficult period.

Governor Ododo assured that while the family mourns, they would remain grateful to God for the long and impactful life of their father.

He also pledged to honour his late father’s memory by upholding the values instilled in him, stressing that they would continue to serve as a guiding light in his leadership and service to the people of Kogi State.

Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani passed away on Monday at the age of 83.

By Ibrahim Ammani

The Arewa Consultative Forum has urged northern leaders and citizens to remain vigilant and united in the face of escalating insecurity, political treachery and environmental disasters threatening the stability of the region.

Chairman of the Forum, Chief Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), made the call on Thursday in Kaduna during the 78th National Executive Committee (meeting of the body, where he warned against complacency and misinformation within the ranks of the North’s socio-political leadership.

“This is not the time to sit on the fence or like the Ostrich, hide its head in the sand under the delusive pretext that it sees nothing. We must remain united and resolved against imperfections, avarice, misgivings, deceit, misinformation, misdirection and incongruities,” Osuman charged.

He noted that the North had continued to grapple with insecurity ranging from terrorism to banditry, alongside natural disasters such as flooding, insisting that the Forum was deeply concerned about the toll on human lives.

“We have lost children, middle-aged men and women, and the aged to natural causes, flood, drowning, and to evil criminals, psychopaths, gangsters, bandits, marauders and terrorists. Our pains as a region is therefore a major concern to ACF for which I ask for introspection and prayers,” he lamented.

The chairman also listed a number of prominent northern leaders and ACF stalwarts who recently passed away, including former Chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh; Deputy Secretary-General, Alhaji Umar Moriki; former Minister, Professor Jubril Aminu; elder statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata; former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Muhammad Uwais; and immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari.

“Just last week, the cruel hands of death snatched away our former Chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, We also lost Professor Jubril Aminu, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Justice Uwais, and Muhammadu Buhari. These are painful losses,” Osuman said.

Mamman Mike Osuman used the occasion to reaffirm the Forum’s non-partisan stance, stressing that while members were free to hold personal political beliefs, the ACF would not align with any political party.

“At this juncture, I must remind all members that ACF is not partisan.

While we each have our individual beliefs, ideologies and idiosyncrasies, ACF, to all intents and purposes, absolutely remains aloof and does not belong to any political party but is nonetheless, stoically, unapologetically, unreservedly and passionately attached to the mission of the salvation of the North and its people—without prejudice to the indivisibility and sovereignty of Nigeria,” he emphasised.

The Forum, he explained, would however continue to collaborate with organisations with similar objectives, disclosing that the “Forum for National Restoration” had been invited to address members during the NEC meeting.

Highlighting the Forum’s future plans, Mamman Mike Osuman announced that preparations had reached advanced stages for ACF’s 25th anniversary celebration slated tentatively for October 15–30, 2025.

“All hands are on deck towards this Jubilee celebration. Committees are already at work and I have been privileged to sit in on some of their meetings. The individual sacrifices of members, the discipline, consciousness, depth and scope of their preparations are amazing,” he revealed.
He assured members that the Secretary-General would provide further details on the anniversary programme during the deliberations.

The ACF Chairman further warned members against spreading unverified or radical views on its Rapid Response Platform, urging them to rely on state chapters and the headquarters for guidance.

“Those of you on the Rapid Response Platform of the ACF would have been reading some contributions, analysis, remarks and comments. Some are words of caution, some are informative, educational and enlightening, while some are radical views and can be misleading,” he cautioned.

Osuman disclosed that the 78th NEC meeting had 12 agenda items, which included updates on the Forum’s registered company, ARECON, as well as the recurring “ETTE issue.”
He said the popular “State of the Nation” segment, which is always the 10th item on the agenda, would be handled by the Forum’s Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Baba, culminating in the issuance of a communiqué at the end of the meeting.

The ACF boss ended his welcome address with a rallying call for resilience, law-abiding conduct and unity, describing the present period as a defining moment for the region.

“This is the time and space for us all to embrace brotherhood, truth and righteousness. We should always remain law abiding. When in doubt, please contact the leadership of your State Chapters or recourse to the headquarters at No. 11A Sokoto Road,” he advised.

He also led members in a solemn prayer for the repose of departed leaders and citizens, saying: “May Allah forgive their transgressions. And may their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

The NEC meeting was attended by prominent northern leaders, who later went into closed-door deliberations on regional unity, security challenges, and the planned silver jubilee of the Forum.