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BREAKING NEWS: US Visa Ban on Kwankwaso ‘Ill-Informed, Politically Motivated’ — Group Fires Back

BREAKING NEWS: US Visa Ban on Kwankwaso ‘Ill-Informed, Politically Motivated’ — Group Fires Back

ABUJA — Outrage is boiling over as the Kwankwasiyya Ambassadors for Good Governance (KAGG) has detonated a political bombshell, fiercely rejecting the proposed United States visa ban targeting former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing it as “a calculated political attack dressed up as human rights advocacy.”

In what analysts are already calling a diplomatic flashpoint, the KAGG group accused certain U.S. lawmakers of advancing what it termed a “dangerously shallow and geopolitically reckless narrative” that misrepresents Nigeria’s internal realities.

In a blistering press release by the group’s Coordinator, Barrister Abubakar Kurawa, the group said “This is not about religious freedom. This is not about accountability,” the group thundered. “This is about power, perception, and an attempt to redraw Nigeria’s political map from Washington.”

KAGG warned that placing Kwankwaso’s name in a sanctions conversation alongside armed groups amounts to “international political defamation of the highest order,” insisting that no credible judicial findings or internationally recognized investigative outcomes justify such drastic action.

The group further alleged that the proposal reflects “external lobbying influence and partisan intelligence briefings,” arguing that the move risks weaponizing visa policy as a tool for political intimidation.

“Today it is Kwankwaso. Tomorrow it could be any Nigerian leader who refuses to align with external interests,” the statement read.

“Nigeria’s democracy cannot and must not be subcontracted to foreign legislatures”, it added.

In a dramatic escalation, KAGG warned that if pursued, the proposed measure could trigger diplomatic friction and provoke calls for a reassessment of bilateral engagements between Nigeria and the United States.

“This is a test of mutual respect between sovereign nations,” the group declared, urging U.S. lawmakers to retract this ill-advised move before it damages decades of “strategic partnership” between the two nations.

The controversy has now ignited fierce debate across political and diplomatic circles, with supporters describing the visa proposal as an “overreach,” while critics argue it reflects growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s governance challenges.

But for KAGG, the message is unmistakable: “Hands off Nigeria’s democracy.”

As reactions mount and pressure builds, what began as a legislative proposal in Washington is rapidly evolving into a full-blown geopolitical storm — with implications that could reverberate far beyond visa desks and diplomatic cables.

BREAKING NEWS: US Visa Ban on Kwankwaso ‘Ill-Informed, Politically Motivated’ — Group Fires Back

BREAKING NEWS: US Visa Ban on Kwankwaso ‘Ill-Informed, Politically Motivated’ — Group Fires Back

“Today it is Kwankwaso. Tomorrow it could be any Nigerian leader who refuses to align with external interests,” the statement read.

“Nigeria’s democracy cannot and must not be subcontracted to foreign legislatures”, it added.

But for KAGG, the message is unmistakable: “Hands off Nigeria’s democracy.”

Shehu Sani responds to Elrufai’s Attacks on Tinubu,Says As Governor you didn’t practice what you are preaching to Tinubu.

Shehu Sani responds to Elrufai’s Attacks on Tinubu,Says As Governor you didn’t practice what you are preaching to Tinubu.

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of criticising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu out of frustration and unmet personal expectations rather than genuine concern for democracy or citizens’ welfare.

Sani made the remarks during an interview with journalists, where he argued that El-Rufai ignored democratic principles and human rights while in office but only began championing them after leaving power.

According to him, El-Rufai’s eight-year administration in Kaduna State was characterised by repression, insecurity and deep division, leaving behind what he described as a troubling legacy.

“El-Rufai forgot democracy and human rights when he was in power and remembered them only when he left office,” Sani said. “He planted tyranny and insecurity and is now preaching democracy and security.”

While acknowledging that President Tinubu is not without flaws, the former lawmaker maintained that the president’s record does not compare with what he described as “years of tyranny” under El-Rufai’s leadership in Kaduna State.

“Asiwaju is not a perfect leader—there is no perfect leader anywhere in the world—but he did not leave behind a legacy of divisiveness, persecution, repression, violation of human rights and wholesale evil, as witnessed by the people of Kaduna State,” Sani stated.

He further alleged that El-Rufai’s administration treated parts of Kaduna State as though they were detention centres, claiming that Northern Kaduna was treated like Kuje Prison while Southern Kaduna resembled Kiri Kiri Prison.

Sani also warned Nigerians against embracing El-Rufai as a political alternative, urging caution over what he described as a dangerous misjudgment.
“Nigerians searching for an alternative to an eagle should not make the mistake of embracing a vulture,” he warned.

In his concluding remarks, Sani said that when measured by service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai falls far below President Tinubu.

“In the barometer of record of service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai is an apprentice to Tinubu,” he said.

Sani’s remarks were in response to El-Rufai’s recent statements in which the former governor claimed that he never had a personal relationship with President Tinubu comparable to the one he had with former President Muhammadu Buhari, of blessed memory.

‎“Yungur is Home to Me“, Dr Girei Hails Fintiri’s ‘Gift’ of Yungur Chiefdom, Pledges Govt Support

‎“Yungur is Home to Me“, Dr Girei Hails Fintiri’s ‘Gift’ of Yungur Chiefdom, Pledges Govt Support

By Tom Garba,Yola

‎The Yungur Chiefdom in Song Local Government Area of Adamawa State recently celebrated its one-year anniversary with a vibrant ceremony that highlighted cultural pride, community unity, and strong endorsements for state leadership.

‎The event, held at the chiefdom’s palace, drew traditional rulers, elders, youth and women groups, and residents from neighboring areas, featuring cultural performances, prayers for peace, and messages of goodwill.

‎Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, a senior representative of the Adamawa Emirate Council and a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape, delivered a keynote address that resonated deeply with attendees.

‎He praised Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for creating additional chiefdoms and kingdoms, including Yungur, calling the policy a “historic intervention” that has fostered unity, peace, and inclusion across diverse communities.

‎Dr. Girei described the establishment of the Yungur Chiefdom as one of the “greatest gifts” bestowed upon the people, bringing governance closer to the grassroots and restoring a sense of identity and belonging.

‎ In a personal touch that underscored his emotional connection, he declared, “Yungur is Home to Me,” citing his parents’ ancestral ties and long-standing relationship with the community. This statement amplified his deep-rooted affinity for the area, positioning him as someone intimately invested in its progress.

Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei emphasized that his deep-rooted affinity and sense of belonging extend far beyond Girei Local Government Area, his paternal homeland, encompassing broader maternal ties across Adamawa State.

He highlighted his maternal linkages to the Maiha Emirate, along with strong personal connections to the Kilba and Gombi communities, among others.

These familial and cultural bonds, according to Dr. Girei, have cultivated enduring relationships and fostered seamless cooperation, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to regional development and champion unity among the state’s diverse ethnic groups.

‎Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Girei acknowledged his former teacher, Mrs. Rejoice, for instilling values of culture, unity, and leadership that continue to guide him. He also highlighted his longstanding friendship and schoolmate bond with Governor Fintiri, which he said has enhanced cooperation in managing traditional affairs.

This revelation underscores his inclusive vision for Adamawa, positioning him as a bridge-builder capable of uniting various communities in pursuit of shared progress and harmony.

‎Emphasizing the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture, Dr. Girei stressed that sustainable peace and development depend on their active involvement.

‎He assured the Yungur traditional council of the state government’s ongoing support and protection, urging leaders to prioritize peace, unity, and community advancement. He commended the people for their cooperation, crediting it for the area’s peaceful coexistence.

‎While the anniversary focused on celebrating one year of the chiefdom’s achievements, Dr. Girei’s presence and remarks fueled speculation about his broader ambitions.

‎As a former commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Higher Education, Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board, and current Director of Research and Development at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Dr. Girei has built a reputation for impactful service in education and governance.

‎His gubernatorial aspiration for the 2027 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained significant momentum in recent months.

‎Grassroots movements, youth groups, and APC stakeholders across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas have endorsed him, with rallies and calls describing him as a visionary leader capable of transforming the state into a secure, educated, healthy, and economically vibrant entity.

‎Supporters highlight his track record of employment creation, educational reforms, and commitment to inclusive development, often framing him as the APC’s strongest contender to reclaim the governorship.

‎Dr. Girei has repeatedly expressed sincerity in responding to widespread calls to contest, vowing to lead with passion, leave an “unforgettable legacy,” and model servant leadership.

‎His appearance at the Yungur event, where he hyped grassroots empowerment through traditional institutions, aligns with his “Adamawa Transformation Mission,” reinforcing his image as a unifier with personal stakes in the state’s diverse communities.

‎The celebration concluded on a high note, with renewed optimism for continued progress in Yungur and broader implications for Adamawa’s political future as figures like Dr. Girei continue to engage communities ahead of 2027.

Southern Kaduna Activist Blasts El-Rufai Over Comments on Insecurity

Southern Kaduna Activist Blasts El-Rufai Over Comments on Insecurity

A Southern Kaduna activist, Steven Kefas, has launched a blistering attack on former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent comments on national security and citizens’ wellbeing.

El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023, had taken to his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), to share a commentary titled “National Security, Justice, and the People’s Wellbeing: Reclaiming the Purpose of Power.” In the post, the former governor reflected on governance, justice, and the need for leaders to prioritise the safety and welfare of citizens.

However, Kefas, a vocal rights advocate from Southern Kaduna, responded sharply, accusing El-Rufai of lacking the moral authority to speak on security matters.

“You, amongst all people, do not have the moral standing to talk about security and the people’s wellbeing,” Kefas wrote on his X handle. “You are one of the architects of the insecurity facing our dear country today.”

Kefas’ reaction has since sparked widespread debate on social media, reopening long-standing controversies surrounding El-Rufai’s handling of security challenges during his eight-year tenure as governor.

Kaduna State ,particularly Southern Kaduna, witnessed repeated incidents of banditry, communal clashes, and deadly attacks on rural communities during El-Rufai’s administration. Human rights organisations and community leaders frequently criticised his government over its response to violence, alleged insensitivity to victims, and policies which critics claimed exacerbated ethnic and religious tensions.

While El-Rufai consistently defended his security strategies, maintaining that his administration worked closely with federal authorities and security agencies, critics argue that many communities remained vulnerable, with thousands displaced and numerous lives lost.

Kefas’ remarks reflect the views of several Southern Kaduna activists who have long accused the former governor of downplaying attacks in the region and failing to adequately protect minority communities.

The exchange comes amid renewed national conversations on insecurity, governance accountability, and the role of past leaders in shaping Nigeria’s current security challenges.

It would be recalled that in 2019, Kefas—who has been a persistent critic of El-Rufai—was arrested and detained in Kaduna, reportedly on alleged “orders from above,” an incident that further heightened tensions between the activist and the former governor’s administration.

Paul Iza Urges Senate To Reconsider Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 …. Says rejecting the bill might make to people/voters doubt the electoral process integrity.”

The Senate of the National Assembly in passing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, generated controversy by removing or not making mandatory the clause for real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) result-viewing portal.

Political leaders and critics — including opposition parties, civil society groups, and activists — argue the move undermines electoral transparency and could erode trust ahead of the 2027 general elections. While some senators later clarified that electronic transmission remains permitted under the retained law and only the “real-time” wording was dropped, public outcry continues over fears of ambiguity and potential loopholes in the results process.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has not aligned fully with the Senate’s controversial adjustment on electronic transmission of election results. While the Senate’s version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 dropped the clause making real-time electronic transmission mandatory, the House had earlier passed its own version that explicitly endorsed real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) IREV portal to boost transparency.

To reconcile differences, both Chambers (the House of Representatives and Senate) have now set up a Conference committee to harmonize their differing positions — including on electronic transmission — ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Paul Iza, a political stalwart and former member of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, while speaking on the current political dispensation especially as it concerns the recent pronouncement by the “Senate rejecting real time electronic transmission of election results”, opined that, “the Senate rejecting the bill might make people/voters doubt the electoral process integrity, and voters might think their votes won’t count or be tampered with. The House already approved live transmission of results from polling units, so it’s confusing why the Senate isn’t on board with that.

He urged the Senate to listen to the people who voted them in and are accountable to, and reconsider the bill, warning that going contrary would affect voter’s confidence and empathy.

Reacting to concerns from electorates on the loss of confidence in the electoral body; INEC to conduct credible and free elections with their votes no longer coming to count, stressed that there is still for INEC to do the needful to encourage voter’s participation in the entire exercise as Nigerians truly deserve the best.

How INEC’s Refusal To Register New Political Parties May Be Frustrating Opposition Ahead Of 2027

How INEC’s Refusal To Register New Political Parties May Be Frustrating Opposition Ahead Of 2027

By Kings Ofurhe

As the 2027 elections draw near, electioneering activities and politicking are getting more intense, and part of what constitutes the crux of the electioneering and politicking processes are the activities of political parties many of which form the opposition against the ruling party. The ruling party naturally does everything within its power to frustrate the springing up of more opposition parties, and this has probably been the case in almost all climes of the world from time immemorial.

In the current case of Nigeria, the electoral umpire, being the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has demonstrated through very direct gestures that it is in cahoots with the political party in power towards frustrating the opposition; a clear case being the electoral body’s refusal to register a new political party for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his supporters, thus forcing them to pitch their tent with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The above-mentioned matter is currently pending before a competent court in Nigeria, and will be determined in due time.
When confronted with glaring proofs of its complicity in frustrating Nigeria’s opposition, INEC offers very flimsy excuses to save its face. For instance, how can INEC reject the application for registration of a political party on the grounds that the acronym ‘NSE’ is similar to that of the Nigerian Society of Engineers? INEC’s dismissal of applications on the basis of mere technicalities has been deemed totally unacceptable and unreasonable by critics.

Again, taking a good look at the 2027 vista, it becomes imperative to ask whether INEC is not deliberately stifling the efforts being made to synthesize a formidable opposition ahead of the general elections. There is no gainsaying the fact that INEC, as the body saddled with the constitutional responsibility of registering political parties and regulating their activities in Nigeria, is directly and indirectly frustrating the development of a superlative opposition that will give the government of the day a run for its money. We can consider the electoral commission’s disqualification of over 157 applications for registration of political parties as a major hit on the associations seeking to join forces with existing oppositions in ousting the APC in 2027.

Watchers of political activities in Nigeria have expressed dismay over INEC’s rejection of applications for registration of political parties for reasons such as a proposed name or acronym resembling a name INEC linked to gross domestic product. Concerns grew when after corrections had been made to the proposed name and acronym, INEC still hesitated in perfecting the registration process.

Critics of these anomalous tendencies of INEC have wondered why the Commission has allowed itself to be used as a pawn by the government in power. A legal practitioner, Patrick Okereke Nwajah, has given a good perspective on why INEC cannot truly be independent and fully exercise its constitutional powers towards effectively handling the affairs of political parties and delivering on expectations. The legal luminary averred that the Commission is never independent even though it is nomenclaturally an independent body because its head is appointed by the president and must thus compromise on standards to satisfy the interests and yearnings of the government in power.

Nwajah maintained that the law gives INEC the discretionary power to sometimes act arbitrarily in deciding what happens with political parties and how they can be registered and run. He then concluded by saying that unless the law is amended to clarify and simplify some ambiguous clauses attached to the discretionary powers of INEC, the Commission will continue to exhibit unacceptable heights of arbitrariness without any consequences.

Nwajah asked how for instance, INEC can justifiably and satisfactorily determine persons of upright character who as prescribed by the law, must comprise the composition of a proposed party’s executive officers. He argued that the phrase “person of upright character” is vague and cannot be determined based on INEC’s discretion, but can be relative to the person or persons forming an opinion. Nwajah asserted that the above-mentioned phrase would mean different things to different people, and should therefore not be part of the clauses enshrined in the guidelines for the registration of a political party.

Still dissecting the procedural flaws in INEC’s modus operandi pertaining to the registration of political parties, renowned political analyst and public affairs commentator, Kings Ofurhe, interrogated the rationale behind INEC’s decline of assent based merely on similarity of logos, symbols and names, and asked if the acronym ‘APC’ does not share resemblance with the Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) which is also an acronym for military communication.

Ofurhe further alluded to the fact that some burgeoning political parties or associations can spring a thunderous surprise in the coming elections if accorded the necessary support by INEC and peopled by political heavyweights. He referenced the unbelievable performance of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, whose first outing as a presidential standard bearer was greeted with staggering votes and widespread acceptance.

Other concerns raised by political pundits with regard to INEC’s subtle frustration of a formidable opposition border on the sundry requirements for the registration of a political party such as the setting up of structures in at least two-third of states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the length of time required for the consummation of the registration.

Ofurhe wondered if new political parties that need time to build their structures and get quality spread can achieve this with the slow pace at which INEC operates, and condemned the customary laxity of INEC staff who are usually seen idling away at the Commission’s headquarters when there is clearly a lot of work to be done.

Still looking at the role INEC has played in frustrating the development of a formidable opposition, it will be trite to say that the Commission, even though it is known and addressed as an independent body, does not operate independently but rather works to foster the aims and objectives of the party or government in power. INEC disqualified a large number of associations that applied to register as political parties on grounds of technicalities. It is not uncommon that mistakes and errors will be made while trying to actualize a task such as registering a political party, yet INEC looked at some of these dismissible oversights and used them to frustrate the efforts of the associations seeking its nod. In exercising its discretionary power, INEC can waive some of the unmet requirements and register the associations that have desperately sought its endorsement. INEC does not seem to appreciate the political consciousness and wokeness that appear to have taken over the collective psyche of Nigerians and which drive them to demand good governance and quality leadership.

INEC needs to attain true independence so that like the electoral bodies of other developed countries, it can bestow on the country quality leadership that is deserving of the people’s maximum support.

INEC needs to evolve into an invincible system that can function on auto-pilot without any external interference.

There are clamours that INEC, which is headed by a Chairman, is hamstrung by the excessive control exercised over it by the government in power, and that the Commission should therefore be subjected to a form of revolutionization so that it can function as a self-driving institution. With such a feat achieved, democracy will be fostered in Nigeria and will spark off the much needed economic and all-round transformation.

The Garo Factor: A Stabilizing Option in Kano’s Sensitive Political Moment

The Garo Factor: A Stabilizing Option in Kano’s Sensitive Political Moment

By Abdul-Kabir Yusuf

Kano State is once again at a familiar crossroads, one marked by political realignment, elite negotiations, and heightened public attention. At moments like this, the quality of leadership choices matters as much as the choices themselves.
The ongoing conversations around the deputy governorship of Kano State are not merely about succession or replacement; but also about stability, balance, and the long-term coherence of governance in one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states.
Against this backdrop, one name continues to surface quietly but consistently in serious political discussions: Hon. Murtala Sule Garo. Not as a loud claimant or aggressive aspirant, but as a factor, a political constant whose experience, temperament, and acceptability could help steady Kano’s political atmosphere at a delicate moment.
It is indisputable that Kano’s current political climate is shaped by transition rather than crisis, but transitions, which if poorly managed, can easily slide into instability.

The evolving relationship between party structures, elected officials, and long-standing political blocs has generated legitimate questions about alignment, loyalty, and institutional harmony within government. The deputy governorship, often treated as a ceremonial office in calmer times, assumes heightened strategic importance in such periods. It becomes a balancing tool: between party and government, between old and new allies, between ambition and restraint.

This is why the debate around who occupies, or could occupy, that office deserves careful, unemotional analysis rather than partisan excitement.
At sensitive political moments, Kano does not require firebrands or experimental leadership. What it needs is predictability, reassurance, and broad-based acceptability. Hon. Murtala Sule Garo’s political profile stands out precisely because he is widely regarded as calm, disciplined, and measured in conduct, attributes that rarely trend on social media but matter deeply in governance. His public interventions over the years have been notable for their restraint, even when political tensions were high.

This temperament is not accidental; it is the product of long engagement with grassroots politics and administrative responsibility.
One of Garo’s strongest but often understated credentials is his deep familiarity with local government administration, a critical layer of governance in Kano State. As a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, he worked closely with traditional institutions, council leaderships, and rural communities across the state.

Another dimension of the “Garo factor” is his bridging capacity. Kano politics, like Nigeria’s broader political landscape, is increasingly characterized by overlapping loyalties and shifting alliances. What the moment demands is not someone who deepens factional divides, but someone who can relate across them.
Garo enjoys a rare advantage in this regard. He is respected within established party structures, yet he is not seen as dismissive of new entrants or evolving political realities. His political relationships cut across local government lines and generational divides, making him a unifying rather than polarizing figure.
From an electoral standpoint, Hon. Murtala Sule Garo is not an unknown quantity. His role as a deputy governorship candidate in the 2023 elections means he has already been subjected to statewide political scrutiny. His name recognition, grassroots reach, and political organization have been tested under real electoral conditions.
This matters because Kano, at this point, cannot afford risky political experiments.

Stability is enhanced when leadership choices are familiar, credible, and widely understood by both the political class and the electorate. Importantly, Garo’s posture since the last election has not been that of a politician desperate to force relevance. Instead, he has maintained party loyalty, public restraint, and strategic patience, qualities that signal readiness for responsibility rather than hunger for office.

One delicate issue in deputy governorship considerations is the balance between loyalty and independence. Governors require deputies who are loyal enough to support policy direction but secure enough not to compete for the spotlight or undermine authority. Garo’s political history suggests such balance. He is widely perceived as loyal to party decisions and leadership consensus, yet not submissive or lacking initiative. This combination reassures both the governor and party stakeholders that cooperation, rather than rivalry, would define the working relationship.
Beyond elite calculations, public perception remains critical. Kano’s politically aware population responds quickly to signals of exclusion, imposition, or instability.
A deputy governor choice that appears rushed or overly factional could fuel unnecessary speculation and tension. By contrast, a figure like Garo, who carries no reputation for inflammatory rhetoric or political adventurism, offers psychological calm. His emergence as a stabilizing option would likely be interpreted by the public as a signal of continuity, moderation, and seriousness of purpose.
It is important to note that positioning Hon. Murtala Sule Garo as a stabilizing option does not imply the absence of other qualified figures. Rather, it highlights why, among possible options, his profile aligns especially well with the demands of the moment. Political maturity lies in choosing leaders based on context, not sentiment. And contextually, Kano requires someone who can reduce tension, consolidate trust, and allow governance to proceed without unnecessary distractions.
To sum it up, Kano’s deputy governorship should rise above personalities and focus on outcomes. The central question is simple: Who best contributes to stability, balance, and effective governance at this sensitive moment? Viewed through this lens, Hon. Murtala Sule Garo stands out as a credible, reassuring, and strategically sound option. His experience, temperament, political reach, and public perception combine to form a profile well suited to Kano’s current needs.

Yusuf contribute from Kano.

Poor Performance: Kaduna Elders Ask Senator Lawal Adamu to Account for Stewardship

Poor Performance: Kaduna Elders Ask Senator Lawal Adamu to Account for Stewardship

… Accuses of him of Being only Visible on Social media

The Kaduna Central Elders Forum has asked Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, to render an account of his stewardship at the National Assembly, citing what it described as poor performance and weak engagement with constituents since his election.

The elders accused the senator of being more visible on social media than in the communities he represents, saying his approach to representation has failed to address the pressing challenges facing Kaduna Central.

In a statement jointly issued and signed by Mal. Inuwa Rigachikun and Mr Moses Bulus Madami, the forum described Senator Lawal Adamu as a lawmaker who relies largely on Facebook posts to communicate with constituents, rather than regular physical engagement, consultations and constituency outreach.

“Our Kaduna senator appears to exist only on Facebook. Representation goes beyond online posts. The people need to see, feel and interact with their elected representative,” the forum stated.

The group, made up of traditional rulers, retired civil servants and community stakeholders across the senatorial district, said the senator’s poor physical presence had widened the gap between him and grassroots communities, especially at a time when Kaduna Central is grappling with insecurity, unemployment and deteriorating infrastructure.

According to the elders, several communities within the district have not had any direct engagement with the senator since he assumed office, either through town hall meetings, constituency visits or stakeholder consultations.

They also accused the senator of failing to take strong positions on critical local issues, including repeated security challenges affecting rural communities, economic hardship, youth unemployment and the poor state of roads and public facilities.

“The people of Kaduna Central are facing serious challenges. These problems cannot be addressed from Abuja or through Facebook posts alone,” the elders said, adding that constituents expect their representative to be vocal both on the floor of the Senate and within the district.

The forum further called on the senator to publicly outline constituency projects attracted so far and explain his legislative contributions in clear terms to the people he represents.

The elders who underscores the senator’s performance as underwhelming, said physical presence was critical to effective representation. “Even if motions are sponsored, people want to see their senator. Physical engagement builds trust,” they said.

80 Kurmin Wali Escapees Return Home Amid Tightened Security

80 Kurmin Wali Escapees Return Home Amid Tightened Security

No fewer than 80 residents who escaped abduction two weeks ago in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and sought refuge in neighbouring communities have now returned to their homes following the deployment of reinforced security personnel to the area.

Gurara Accord gathered that the return of the residents was made possible by sustained military operations targeting bandits’ hideouts in the surrounding communities.

Report by Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum, disclosed that last Sunday, churches previously affected by the attacks resumed their weekly services in Kurmin Wali, indicating improved security in the community.

However, 166 abductees are still being held in captivity, and their family members remain hopeful of their safe return following the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Army in the general area and beyond.

Security authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the operation.