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Northern Forum Urges Northern Senators to Confirm Reno Omokri as Ambassador

Northern Forum Urges Northern Senators to Confirm Reno Omokri as Ambassador

The Northern Forum for Good Governance has appealed to Northern Senators to support and ratify the nomination of Mr. Reno Omokri as one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominees.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Dr. Musa Mohammed ,the group said Omokri has demonstrated “the capacity to lead and represent Nigeria effectively at any level,” adding that his nomination is a welcome development deserving of national support.

President Tinubu recently forwarded 32 ambassadorial nominees— including Omokri — to the Senate for confirmation, just days after sending an initial list of three names. However, sources within the National Assembly revealed that the Senate is currently grappling with internal disagreements, largely triggered by Omokri’s inclusion on the list.

Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and a prominent social media commentator, had in the past been critical of President Tinubu, including allegations that he once referred to the President as a “drug baron.” These past comments have reportedly stirred controversy within Senate circles as lawmakers debate his suitability.

But the Northern Forum for Good Governance insists that ambassadorial appointments should be based solely on merit, competence, and the capacity to deliver, not on sentiments or past political disagreements.

“The issues of capacity and performance should be the yardstick for appointments, not flippant matters or emotional considerations,” the group stated.

The Forum urged Northern Senators to prioritize national cohesion and development by supporting Omokri’s confirmation. It argued that President Tinubu’s decision to nominate him despite previous criticisms shows statesmanship and an ability to recognize talent above personal differences.

“Tinubu must have seen a unique side of him despite his past attacks, and that is what is most important from a good leader,” the statement added.

The Senate is expected to begin screening the nominees in the coming days.

Atiku Haske Organization Mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, Describes Him as Pillar of Peace

Atiku Haske Organization Mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, Describes Him as Pillar of Peace

The Atiku Haske Organization has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the nation and the global Muslim community.

In a condolence message personally signed by the Chairman of the organization’s Niger State Chapter, Aminu Sani Bello, the group condoled with the family of the late cleric and all Nigerians, noting that Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi lived an exemplary life dedicated to knowledge, peace and the true essence of Islamic teachings.

Bello described the late scholar as “a father, a mentor, and a peace-loving religious leader who consistently embodied the noble values of Islam.” He recalled that throughout his lifetime, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi devoted himself to preaching unity, compassion and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

“Atiku Haske Organization calls on Nigerians to emulate the virtues of the late Sheikh,” the statement read. “He was peaceful, kind, tolerant and loving. His teachings and lifestyle provided a guide for harmonious living, especially at a time like this when our nation is confronted by escalating insecurity.”

The organization urged citizens to remain steadfast and committed to peace despite the current challenges facing the country.

Bello prayed for the repose of the soul of the revered Islamic leader, asking God to grant him eternal rest and give his family, followers and admirers the strength to bear the “irreparable loss.”

“Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s death has created an indelible mark in our hearts,” the statement added. “His good works, humility and contributions to Islamic scholarship will continue to speak for him.”

The late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, one of Nigeria’s most respected Islamic clerics, is remembered for his decades-long commitment to promoting peace, spiritual upliftment and unity across the nation.

NSNCM Urges FG to Fulfil Promise of Two Million Electric Tricycles

NSNCM Urges FG to Fulfil Promise of Two Million Electric Tricycles

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement (NSNCM) has called on the Federal Government to honour its campaign promise of providing two million electric tricycles to its members registered under the Community Transport Initiative of the Presidential Campaign Council.

Speaking at a news conference on Sunday in Kaduna, the National President of NSNCM, Dr. Auwal Abdullahi, said the commitment was made through the National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (NATOMORAS), an affiliate of the movement, during the 2023 campaign period.

According to him, the tricycles were expected to be distributed under the Community Transport Directorate, headed by the National President of NATOMORAS, Mr. Usman Gwoza, who also doubles as the Director of Contact and Mobilisation of NSNCM.

Abdullahi explained that members were instructed to pay registration fees after being informed that the Federal Government would fund 50 per cent of the unit cost, while beneficiaries would offset the remaining balance. He added that the payments were made through NATOMORAS to the Non-Governmental Association of Nigeria (NOGAS), a body said to be engaged in poverty alleviation, skills acquisition and educational support programmes.

The NSNCM president expressed concern that despite the recent launch of electric tricycles in Abuja, none of the two million units earmarked for their members had been delivered.

He noted that the prolonged delay had triggered agitation among members, resulting in arrests and alleged harassment of some leaders.

Abdullahi emphasised that the movement, which comprises 598 registered associations across the 19 Northern states, played a key role in mobilising votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general elections.

“We are supporters of President Tinubu. We campaigned and voted massively through the Community Transport Department of the Presidential Campaign Council. We are only asking that the promise made to our members be honoured,” he stated.

He urged President Tinubu to direct the immediate release of the electric tricycles to NATOMORAS for onward distribution to all verified beneficiaries.

Abdullahi further warned that if the government fails to take positive action by December 15, the movement would mobilise its more than two million registered

for a peaceful protest to demand the fulfilment of the campaign pledge.

“No politician will want to joke with two million votes in 2027,” he added.

Energy Commission Of Nigeria, DG Honoured By Confluence University of Science/Technology

Energy Commission Of Nigeria, DG Honoured By Confluence University of Science/Technology

Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, the Director General of Energy Commission Of Nigeria has been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Engineering (D.Eng., Honoris Causa
by the Confluence University of Science and Technology .

The honour was conferred on him by the reputable institution during its maiden joint convocation ceremony; a celebration of academic excellence that reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development through science, technology, and innovation.

Presenting the award to Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, in the presence of former Governor Yahaya Bello, the University Chancellor, and the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, Kogi state governor, Usman Ododo recognized Dr. Abdullahi’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector and his pioneering work in renewable energy solutions.

Dr. Abdullahi, accompanied by directors and staff of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, expressed profound appreciation for the honour.

This is as he also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing technology and innovation, particularly in renewable energy, and pledged to strengthen partnerships that support sustainable development across the country.

Speaking Dr Mustapha Abdullahi said, ‘ I am deeply honoured to receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Engineering (D.Eng., Honoris Causa) from Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, during its maiden joint convocation ceremony.

‘This recognition inspires me to continue advancing Nigeria’s energy sector and promoting sustainable development through science, technology, and innovation.

“I thank Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, the University Chancellor, and the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, for this esteemed award.

‘Together with my directors at the Energy Commission of Nigeria, I remain committed to driving technology and innovation, particularly in renewable energy, and strengthening partnerships that create lasting impact across our nation.

Ex-Councillors Laud Tinubu for Swift Rescue of Abducted Students, Worshippers

Ex-Lawmakers Laud Tinubu for Swift Rescue of Abducted Students, Worshippers

…Warn El-Rufai Against Baseless Allegations

The National Forum of Ex-Councillors has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as his swift and decisive intervention leading to the early release of abducted students in Niger State and church worshippers in Kwara State.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the National President of the Forum, Ambassador Auwal Kassim Hassan, said the President’s prompt action served as an “elixir” that ensured the victims regained their freedom sooner than expected.

The group urged security agencies to intensify efforts and complement the President’s interventions so that other Nigerians still held captive in different parts of the country could also be rescued without delay.

Addressing recent political tensions in Kaduna State, the former councillors dismissed the allegation by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai that the current administration under Senator Uba Sani paid billions of naira to bandits.

Ambassador Hassan described the claim as baseless and called on President Tinubu to “call El-Rufai to order.”

He cautioned that as grassroots stakeholders, they might be compelled to mobilize thousands of youths and women across Kaduna State against the former governor, his family, and his associates should he continue to “unjustifiably criticize” the Tinubu administration at the federal level and Governor Uba Sani’s government in Kaduna State.

The Forum reiterated its support for the current administrations, insisting that political actors must exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of undermining security efforts or destabilizing the state.

NSNCM Hails Federal Government, Judiciary Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Life Imprisonment

NSNCM Hails Federal Government, Judiciary Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Life Imprisonment

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM), an umbrella body comprising 598 registered associations across the 19 northern states as well as northern associations in the 17 southern states and the Federal Capital Territory, has commended the Federal Government and security agencies over the life imprisonment sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement issued on Monday, November 24, 2025, and signed by its National President, Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, the group said the conviction of Kanu was a “victory for justice and the rule of law.”

The NSNCM recalled that it had consistently demanded Kanu’s arrest, detention, and prosecution, accusing him of instigating violence, killings, and destruction of property belonging to northerners and security agencies in the South-East.

The movement expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and security agencies for what it described as “diligent investigation and prosecution,” and commended the judiciary for “standing firm and independent despite pressures.”

“We commend the Nigerian judiciary for allowing the law to take its natural course. The conviction of Nnamdi Kanu is a testament to our nation’s commitment to justice and the rule of law,” the statement read in part.

The group also lauded the previous administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari for resisting calls for Kanu’s unconditional release, stressing that doing so would have undermined national security.

While congratulating security agencies for presenting “facts and figures” that aided the court’s decision, the NSNCM urged Nigerians to embrace peace and unity.

“As a nation, we must continue to live in harmony, with love, understanding, and patriotism. We must shun all actions capable of threatening our unity or disintegrating the country,” the group added.

The NSNCM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, development, and national cohesion.

BREAKING: SEN YARI DONATES N500m AT ACF’s SILVER JUBILEE

BREAKING: SEN YARI DONATES N500m AT ACF’s SILVER JUBILEE

… As Sen Wamakko Gets Honored

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) marked its 25th anniversary in grand style on Wednesday, with Senator Abdulaziz Yari stealing the spotlight after announcing a monumental N500 million donation to support the Forum’s ongoing intervention programmes across Northern Nigeria.

The declaration, made inside the packed Musa Yar’Adua Conference Hall in Kaduna, instantly set the tone for an evening defined by generosity, statesmanship, and renewed commitment to tackling poverty and insecurity in the region.

Riding on the wave of Yari’s bold gesture, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko (Sarkin Yamman Sokoto) followed up with a N100 million donation, reinforcing his long-standing dedication to development efforts in the North. Four other eminent Nigerians very close to Senator Yari also took turns to donate N100 million each, pushing the total amount raised at that point to N1 billion.

The fundraising segment reached even greater heights as other major donors were acknowledged, including the Chief Launcher, Alhaji Abdussamad Isiaka Rabiu, and Alhaji Aliko Dangote, both of whom donated N2.5 billion each. They were followed by General T. Y. Danjuma and Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, who contributed N1 billion each, alongside many other supporters too numerous to mention, reflecting an overwhelming outpouring of solidarity for ACF’s mission.

The high-profile ceremony also saw Senator Wamakko conferred with the ACF Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to leadership, unity, and social development. Visibly touched, he described the honour as “a tribute to all who strive for the upliftment of our society.”

The event attracted the region’s most influential statesmen, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, followed by former Vice President Arc. Namadi Sambo, who both graced the celebration alongside Kaduna State Deputy Governor Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe.

Other national icons honoured at the gathering included Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Senator George Akume, and General T. Y. Danjuma, underscoring the calibre of personalities aligned with ACF’s mission.

By combining philanthropy, recognition, and renewed calls for service-driven leadership, ACF’s silver jubilee not only celebrated a milestone — it reignited a powerful conversation about responsibility, unity, and the future of Northern Nigeria.

Yari Roundtable Convenes Interfaith Summit to Proffer Lasting Solutions for Peace in the North

Former Governor of Zamfara State and serving Senator, Abdulaziz Yari, through his organisation — Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony — has convened a high-level interfaith summit bringing together Christian and Muslim leaders to discuss practical solutions to the persistent insecurity confronting Northern Nigeria.

The strategic meeting, held in Abuja, drew prominent religious leaders, security experts, community influencers, and dignitaries from across northern states, all united in their commitment to chart a new course for peace and stability in the region.

In his opening remarks, Senator Yari said the summit became necessary in view of the worsening security challenges in the North. He stressed that leaders must confront the realities fueling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

According to him, the roundtable was designed to listen directly to religious leaders and community stakeholders, gather credible insights, and produce a harmonised report for relevant authorities to act upon.

“We must stop being reactive as leaders,” Yari stated. “The bold step we are taking today is to seek solutions through a bottom-up approach. It is clear that the North cannot develop under the weight of insecurity. We must confront the issues honestly and find lasting solutions once and for all.”

He further noted that interfaith collaboration remains critical in promoting peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility in the fight against insecurity. He emphasised that Christian and Muslim leaders must work together to rebuild trust and mobilise communities against violent extremism.

Religious leaders at the event commended Senator Yari for initiating the maiden interfaith roundtable, describing it as timely and courageous. They underscored the pivotal role of clerics in shaping public opinion, promoting unity, and discouraging radicalisation within communities.

They expressed optimism that the robust discussions at the summit had uncovered key drivers of insecurity and stressed that if the recommendations are fully implemented by federal, state, and local governments, the region will witness significant improvement in the battle against insurgency and banditry.

The clerics also urged political leaders, security agencies, and citizens to support the resolutions and sustain interfaith engagements as a sustainable pathway to peace and development.

Prominent religious leaders present at the summit included Archbishop James Mafita, Sheikh Salisu Abdullahi Maibarota, Rev. Gideon Mutum, Dr. Umar Zaria, Dr. Sadiq Doka, Bishop Salisu Bala (JP), Bishop Livingston Achili, Bishop Obadiah Gideon Bako, and Sheikh Adam Binani, among several others.

Nigeria Shines At COP30 Brazil

Nigeria Shines At COP30 Brazil

Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing COP30 in Belēm, Brazil, witnessed a tremendous boost when Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), delivered a keynote address at the High-Level Buildings and Cooling Pavilion Side Event.

The DG ECN used the platform provided to highlight Nigeria’s commitment to a smarter, energy-efficient cooling transition aligned with global climate goals.

Dr. Mustapha, alongside global partners which included Daikin Industries, UNEP-U4E, and the International Energy Agency, explored practical solutions to expand access to cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

At the global event, discussions emphasized the role of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and modern cooling technologies in reducing emissions across emerging economies, with side discussions held with staff of the NNPC on how this initiative can be further promoted by the Government of Nigeria.

The ECN Director-General, an avowed and committed believer in the country’s solarization project, reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to harmonize standards, deepen collaboration, and accelerate sustainable cooling innovations under the Global Cooling Pledge.

He told listeners that “ECN remains focused on advancing technologies and policies that enhance comfort, boost productivity, and protect the environment”.

Similarly, the ECN DG engaged with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy and Climate Change, to discuss fostering a just and equitable energy transition for developing nations.

The conversation focused on responsibly harnessing natural resources to accelerate sustainable growth, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and a future where energy development benefits people while protecting the planet.

Dr. Mustapha at the global event who comes to an end today, joined other distinguished Nigerians at the Nigeria Pavilion to celebrate Nigeria Day at the ongoing COP30 in Brazil, where a brief remark was delivered.

The delegation included the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Adelegbe Emmanuel Oluwatimehin.

Several other eminent Nigerian representatives were also present, demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to climate action and sustainable development on the global stage.

WHEN DEMOCRACY GOES TO COURT BEFORE THE VOTER ARRIVES-By Barrister Aminu Hussaini

WHEN DEMOCRACY GOES TO COURT BEFORE THE VOTER ARRIVES

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Examines How Triple Threats of Money, Might, and Chaotic Litigations Sets Nigeria’s Democracy at Risk

As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, a familiar and troubling pattern is resurfacing: our democracy is being contested long before citizens approach the polling booths. Increasingly, political battles are fought not in town halls, rallies or debates, but in courtrooms, party secretariats, private villas and the shadows of unchecked financial influence.
When democracy goes to court before the voter arrives, the heart of electoral legitimacy is compromised; unless we confront this drift, 2027 risks becoming another election decided by judicial technicalities, power blocs and influence peddlers—not the will of the Nigerian people.
The Courtroom Is Not a Campaign Ground
Certainly, there is no democracy without an independent judiciary; but there is also no healthy democracy when litigation replaces voter persuasion and legal technicalities overshadow voter decisions. In this dispensation, pre-election court cases have mushroomed to unprecedented levels. Instead of focusing on policies, candidates invest in legal teams to disqualify opponents, overturn primaries or secure favorable interpretations of party rules, electoral law and election guidelines.
While the courts play a vital role in resolving disputes, their increasing involvement before and after elections weakens the mandate that should come from the electorate. When judges determine who appears on the ballot and who occupies position more than voters do, democracy becomes distorted.
Money: The Invisible Voter
Financial influence has become one of the most determining factors of Nigerian electoral process and outcomes. The monetization of the political process—from party forms that cost millions, to delegates’ primaries drenched in cash, to open vote-buying on election day—has made public office obviously purchasable.
In the buildup to 2027, there is already evidence of an arms race of money. But democracy should not and cannot be an auction. When the candidate with the deepest pockets surpasses the candidate with the best ideas and pedigree, the entire nation pays the price.
Might and Intimidation: The Dark Edge of Nigerian Politics
Nigeria’s elections are often marred by a subtle but powerful coercive force: the deployment of political thugs, the misuse of security agencies and the intimidation of both voters and electoral officials. If citizens cannot cast their votes freely, without fear of intimidation or manipulation of their votes, then we do not have elections—what we have are simply rituals of staged participation. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must insist that the ballot paper not the bully or manipulation, remains the instrument of choice. Stakeholders’ manipulative tendencies must be resisted and totally rejected. We must understand and believe that our destiny would not be served on a platter of gold. True freedom is always wrested not given!
Manipulation From Within
Manipulation does not only occur at polling units. It often begins much earlier—through compromised party primaries, doctored delegate lists, parallel congresses and last-minute candidate substitutions. These internal manipulations set the stage for disputed outcomes and post-election chaos.
Regrettably, when the foundations are shaky, the entire democratic structure trembles.
Why the Popular Vote Must Be Supreme in 2027
For Nigeria to move forward, the legitimacy of leaders must come from the people—not from court rulings, kingmakers or financial powerhouses. The 2027 season provide a crucial opportunity to reinforce the principles of free, fair and credible elections which require transparent and technology-backed electoral processes that prioritize voters over power brokers; political finance reforms to curb the corrupting force of money; internal party democracy that is credible, inclusive, and free from manipulation; judicial restraint and speedy processes ensuring courts do not become substitutes for elections as well as security neutrality to guarantee voter safety and trust.
To succeed, we must believe in being strong even when it seems to be impossible. It is said that if you really want to eat, keep climbing; the fruits are on the top of the tree; stretch your hands and keep stretching them; success is on the top. One cannot score a goal when sitting on the bench; to do so, one has to dress up and enter the game. Yes, WE CAN DO IT by securing our PVCs and getting set and determine to change the impossible with it! Democracy thrives when the ballot box speaks louder than any court order or political godfather.
2027: A Defining Moment
Nigeria is at a decisive crossroads.
Citizens are increasingly aware, vocal and determined to reclaim their democratic power. But the system must make space for their voices to matter. If the results of the 2027 elections are to enjoy national and international respect, they must reflect the true will of the Nigerian people—not the interests of a privileged minority.
Our democracy must not go to court before the voter arrives. This cherished democracy must go to the polling booth—where it truly belongs. The power to shape Nigeria’s future lies with its citizens. In 2027, the popular vote must not merely be counted; it MUST be respected, protected and allowed to decide.

This opinion was contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Justice & Constitutional Matters.