Governor Yahaya Blames Alleged Marginalization Of Herdsmen For Insecurity

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December 6, 2025

Governor Muhammad Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe State

By Akinwale Kasali

Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has dropped a bombshell. He disclosed that the failure of the Federal Government to understand the grievance of Herdsmen and Bandits has led to the spate of insecurity in the nation.

The Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum added that the failure of the Federal Government to dialogue with Bandits led to the grievances that pushed them to take up weapons. He said it is one of the major factors worsening insecurity across northern Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC, Hausa Service, the Governor revealed that the 19 Northern Governors have agreed to establish a joint regional security coordination agency, with each state contributing ₦1 billion monthly to strengthen collective responses to kidnapping, banditry, and school closures.

The decision to donate N1 billion Monthly Security was reached during the Northern Governors’ meeting earlier in the week, following a surge in attacks that have led to mass abductions and the shutdown of schools in several states.

Speaking further, Governor Yahaya explained that part of the security deterioration stems from the unjust treatment and marginalisation of pastoralist communities, which created anger, frustration, and conditions exploited by criminal networks.

He emphasised that addressing the root causes—including exclusion, lack of justice, and economic hardship—remains central to ending the conflict.

The Governor further added that the new regional security framework will improve intelligence-sharing, joint operations, and preventive strategies across the affected states.

Ndume Asks President Tinubu To Withdraw Ambassadorial List

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Akinwale Kasali

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December 6, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

Senator Ali Ndume, former Senate Leader has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the list of Ambassadorial Nominees he sent to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

Senator Ndume said this in Abuja where he explained that his appeal was based on his observation that the list, as presently composed, breaches the Federal Character principle enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

Speaking further, Ndume said his argument stemmed from the fact that while certain States have three and four nominees each, Gombe, for example, has no representation.

It also noted that the only nominee from Yobe, Senator Adamu Garba Talba, died last July.

He added that the entire Northeast has Seven nominees on the list, while the Southwest zone alone has 15 nominees.

The Northwest and Southeast have 13 and 9, respectively.

North Central has 10 nominees in the list of career and non-career ambassadorial nominees, while South South accounts for 12 nominees.

The Borno South Senatorial District’s representative explained that the list of nominees contravened Section 14(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which states: “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few states or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that government or in any of its agencies.”

Ndume said: “My sincere appeal to President Tinubu is to withdraw this list. At this critical time in the life of his administration, he should avoid missteps that would endanger national unity and promote ethnic distrust.

“I know him to be a cosmopolitan leader who is at home with every segment and stakeholder in the country.

“He should withdraw that list and present a fresh set of nominees that will align with the spirit of the Constitution on the Federal Character Principle that the government’s structure and operations must represent the diverse states and peoples of Nigeria.”

Rivers Assembly Lawmakers Defection: PDP Vows To Seek Legal Redress

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Ayodele Oni

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December 6, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has threatened to seek legal action against the legislators at the Rivers state House of Assembly that defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), few days ago.

The party condemned the latest defection announced by some members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, describing the move as a “defection from APC to APC” and an assault on democratic integrity.

The Speaker of the assembly Martin Amaewhule, had on Friday led 15 other members of the House to announce their defection to the APC.

The House of Assembly is currently in session with the defectors blaming their departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the crisis in the PDP.

According to report monitored on Channels Television, the major reason for leaving the PDP is because of the division in the party.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Ini Ememobong, said the lawmakers had previously defected from the party, recanted their action, and have now “announced the same defection for the second time.

”We have seen on various media platforms news of the redefection of some members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who, for a second time, announced their defection from our party.

“We recall that they had done so earlier and later recanted. These are people whom the world is aware are doing the bidding of their paymaster and demigod.”

He accused the legislators of undermining the sanctity of the legislature and acting as instruments of destabilization.

“The members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have, by their actions since they assumed office, shown that they are political puppets and a clog in the wheels of democratic progress.

“They will go down in history as enemies of democracy and those who made mockery of the legislature.”

The PDP Spokesperson added that the lawmakers’ conduct fits a pattern of political absurdity.

“So the easiest way to describe their action is a defection from APC to APC,” he said.

Ememobong announced that the party will deploy constitutional provisions to reclaim its mandate from those who have “ignobly and surreptitiously” abandoned the platform on which they were elected.

“Consequently, the PDP will take legal steps to activate the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended) to recover the mandate gained under the banner of our party which these people have now switched to another platform.”

He urged party members in Rivers State to remain calm and steadfast.

“We urge all party members in Rivers State to remain faithful and resolute, as efforts are underway to rebuild the party along the path of inclusiveness, fairness and equity,” Ememobong assured.

How Police Inspector Was Shot Dead – Edo Command

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Ayodele Oni

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December 6, 2025

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Monday Agbonika - Commissioner of Police Edo State

By Ayodele Oni

The Edo State Police Command has launched a manhunt for those responsible for the death of a Police Inspector during a routine stop-and-search operation.

In a statement, the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Command, Moses Yamu, disclosed that all available intelligence and operational resources have been deployed to apprehend the perpetrators.

According to the statement, “The Edo State Police Command regrets to inform the general public of the unfortunate loss of a serving Police Inspector attached to the Ekiadolor Area Command, who died in the line of duty while carrying out a legitimate routine stop-and-search operation

“The incident occurred today at about 1200hrs when an unregistered, black, heavily-tinted Lexus SUV approached the checkpoint and refused to stop when flagged down by the Police team.

“The suspicious conduct of the occupants prompted the operatives to make further efforts to subject the vehicle to standard security checks.

“Tragically, in the course of this lawful engagement, one of the occupants of the vehicle suddenly opened fire on the Inspector at close range and zoomed off.

“The Command has since commenced a full-scale investigation and intensive manhunt to track down the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

“All available intelligence and operational assets have been deployed to ensure that the assailants are apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law.”

The State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of a vehicle matching the description to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency hotlines.

He also called on residents to cooperate with security agencies.

“The Edo State Police Command remains committed to its constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives and property, and will not relent until the criminals behind this attack are brought to justice,” the CP promised.

CP Agbonika reassured the public that the command is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all residents, especially during the yuletide season.

Akwa Ibom House Of Assembly Rejects Motion To Ban Consumption Of Dog Meat

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Ayodele Oni

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December 6, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

A move to prohibit one of the delicacies of the people of Akwa Ibom has been frustrated by the state House of Assembly.

The House of Assembly dismissed a motion seeking to prohibit the sale and consumption of dog meat in the state.

People from the state are known for their preference for dog meat and are ready to go to any length to satisfy their desire for the consumption of the domestic animal, whose friendship with human beings is unequal with other animals

The motion for the ban sponsored by Uduak Ekpoufot, who represents Etinan State Constituency, failed to proceed during plenary after it received no seconder, a mandatory procedural requirement for legislative debate.

According to Essien Nduese, media aide to Governor Umo Eno, the details of the plenary session were shared on the Governor’s official Facebook page.

Mr. Ekpoufot had highlighted the public health risks associated with dog meat consumption, warning that unhygienic slaughter practices could expose consumers to serious pathogens such as rabies, salmonella, and trichinella.

The lawmaker also raised concerns about the inhumane treatment of animals in the dog meat trade, urging colleagues to consider both ethical and health implications.

Despite these warnings, no other member of the Assembly supported the motion, prompting the Speaker to officially declare it rejected.

With the motion’s dismissal, the sale and consumption of dog meat in Akwa Ibom State remained unregulated, continuing a practice that has long sparked debate among public health advocates and animal welfare campaigners.

“For Doing The Right Thing, President Tinubu Withdrew My Nomination To FCC” – Obinna Oriaku

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The Source

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December 6, 2025

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By Charles Igbo

Mr. Obinna Oriaku, a former Commissioner for Finance, Abia State, has never been more embarrassed. A couple of days ago, he was full of joy, full of happiness. A politician from Abia State, on October 9, President Bola Tinubu had nominated him as a Commissioner on the Federal Character Commission as Abia State’s representative. His name, along with the others, had been sent to the Senate. Like others, the Senate Committee on Federal Character had screened him and cleared him. He was waiting for the announcement from the Senate. But just while he was waiting for that, his name was dropped, and another- Victor Ikeji – announced in his place on Thursday.

He was shocked. He said nobody told him anything. He said nobody accorded him the simple courtesy of informing him he has been dropped. He was treated crudely.

But he says he knows why he was replaced and treated shabbily. He said it is a product of his insistence on transparency in public service. And that he was aware that some people from the Abia State Government had written a petition against him for standing by the truth. To tell his story to the public, Oriaku took to his Facebook page. He wrote:

“For clarity, I had already undergone the full rigour of the confirmation process, which concluded with my successful approval by the Senate last week.

“This latest development, therefore, speaks to a deeper reality about public service: defending democratic ethics often comes with a cost.

“When you choose to speak the truth, uphold fairness, and challenge entrenched interests, resistance is inevitable. Corruption never retreats quietly; it always fights back.

“Nonetheless, I fully acknowledge that appointments are at the discretion of the President, and it is our duty as democrats to respect and align with his decisions.

“I am also aware that the state government or one of its agencies submitted a petition opposing my nomination. Even so, this will not alter my stance on issues affecting Abia.

“My interventions have always been issue-based, guided by facts, integrity, and the collective good.”

Ologbondiyan, Former PDP, National Publicity Secretary, Dumps Party

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Adesina Soyooye

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December 6, 2025

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By Adesina Soyooye

A former National Publicity Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan has dumped it. Ologbndiyan, in dumping the PDP, joins a long list of other high profile members of the party who had dropped it like hot potatoes.

In a post on his X handle on Saturday, Ologbondiyan disclosed that he had already told the Chairman of PDP in his Okekoko ward 09 in Kabba\Bunu Local government of Kogi State of his decision to dump the PDP.

He put out personal reasons for his reason to dump the PDP.

The letter which she shared on his X, and titled: “NOTIFICATION OF MEMBERS HIS WITHDRAWAL,” reads in part: “Let me start by thanking you as well as other levels of leadership in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the opportunities provided for me to serve the party as well as our fatherland, Nigeria.

“It is now imperative to bring your attention to the fact that I have reviewed my participation in the PDP and came to the conclusion that for personal reasons, I need to make my exit.

“I have, therefore, come to a decision to formally withdraw my membership of the PDP, henceforth.”

Even though he did not indicate his next destination, speculations are strong that he would declare for the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Gov Aliyu Was Not Part Of Abia Gov’s Team That Visited Kanu At Sokoto Prisons – Govt Clarifies

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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December 6, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Sokoto State Government has vehemently rejected claims suggesting that Governor Ahmed Aliyu accompanied his Abia State counterpart, Dr Alex Otti, on his visit to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra IPOB, at the Sokoto Custodial Centre.

The Source reports that Otti had, on November 30, 2025, paid a solidarity visit to Kanu, barely a week after the IPOB’S leader was convicted, sentenced to life in jail and relocated from the detention facility of the Department of State Service DSS in Abuja to the Sokoto Correctional Service facility.

Reports of the visit claimed that some Sokoto State Government officials, including the Governor, were among those who accompanied the Abia State Governor.

A statement from Abubakar Bawa, Media aide to the Sokoto State Governor on Friday, December 5, 2025, while dismissing the claims, informed that Governor Aliyu was not even in the country as at the time Governor Otti came calling.

“For the avoidance doubt, Governor Ahmed Aliyu was in the Holy Land performing the lesser Hajj as of 30th November 2025, the day Dr Otti privately visited Sokoto state”, Bawa stated.

Alex Otti - Abia State Governor — Governor Alex Otti of Abia State

The statement further noted that on the day of the visit, Governor Otti was only received at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport by some Commissioners and Special Advisers who brought him to the Sokoto State Government House in line with protocols.

Besides, the Governor’s spokesperson emphasized that the visiting Abia State Governor was also feted with the traditional hospitality of the Sokoto people.

“As you all know, the people of Sokoto State are hospitable. We treat our visitors with utmost respect, irrespective of tribe or religion”, the statement added.

This is as the Sokoto State Government reaffirmed Governor Aliyu’s unflinching commitment to the “Nigerian project, and deep respect for constituted authorities.

“The Sokoto State Government reiterates that Governor Ahmed Aliyu holds deep respect for constituted authorities, remains committed to the Nigerian project and continues to be a peace loving and law-abiding citizen”, Bawa stated.

The State Government’s reaction is coming against the backdrop of a plethora of both open and subdued agitations from some Federal Government officials and local stakeholders against claims that the Sokoto State Governor was part of the visit to Kanu, which they perceive as having the potential to undermine constituted authorities.

Kano Alleges Intimidation, As IGP Special Squad Whisks Away Fmr. Anti-corruption Commission Chairman

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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December 6, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kano State Government Friday evening December 5 , 2025 strongly condemned the arrest of the former Chairman of the State’s Public Complaints and Anti-corruption commission, Barr. Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado. The Government described the action of the police as politically motivated.

The Source reports that Rimin-Gado was on Friday whisked away by heavily armed police personnel who stormed his law firm on Zaria road Kano.

The former anti-corruption commission boss, on arrest, was first taken to the Kano State Police Command in Bompai, before he moved to Force Headquarters in Abuja.

At a Media briefing, Kano State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabir Maude, SAN, alleged that Rimin-Gado’s travails might not be unconnected with the investigations he is conducting into some high profile cases involving equally highly placed politically exposed persons in the state

It will be recalled that Rimin-Gado, during, and after his tenure at the Kano state Anti-corruption commission was, and still involved in the investigation and prosecution of the immediate past Governor of the State and former National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress APC, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, his wife Prof Hafsat Ganduje, some of his immediate family members, and political associates on issues bordering on alleged diversion of public funds properties, and corrupt enrichment.

He was, earlier, in the year arrested and detained by operatives from the Inspector General of Police IGP Special Squad, over the confiscation of some properties said to belong to some highly influencial APC stalwarts in Kano.

According to the Kano State authorities , Rimin-Gado was arrested by well over 40 security personnel,who they alleged invaded his law firm at about 5.30 pm on Friday.

” Up to this moment, as I stand here, the Kano State police Command has failed to provide us with a clear explanation regarding the reason(s) for Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado’s arrest, or his current condition” the Kano State AG and Commissioner for Justice stated.

Maude emphasized that this is not the first time , Rimin-Gado will be subjected to undue harassment and politically motivated arrest and detention by the police, obviously acting on the directives of some higher authorities.

The Commissioner noted that the police had, severally, in the past, invited Rimin-Gado as the Head of the Anti-corruption Commission in connection with investigations he was conducting on certain firms , including one known as Lamash.

“The powers-that-be have severally, used the police in their attempts to stop him from investigating some companies suspected of involvement in shaddy transactions.

“On that basis, he (Rimin-Gado) approached the Court seeking a restraining order against his further arrest, or harassment.

“But despite the restraining Court order, they have again gone ahead to arrest him” Maude lamented.

The State Government expressed serious concern over the tendency by some vested interests to resort to the use of security agencies and personnel in obstructing legitimate investigation processes ,and the wheel of justice in Kano.

While insisting that the travails of Rimin-Gado is politically motivated ,the Kano state Government urged the Police and those suspected to be behind his ordeal to refrain from undermining legitimate efforts to recover state funds and properties believed to have been looted by past state officials.

APC NWC Intervenes In Cross River Chapter Leadership Crisis

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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December 5, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The National leadership of the All Progressive Congress, APC, has waded into the leadership crisis bedeviling the Cross Rivers state chapter.

The Source reports that the festering squabble on Thursday December 4 climaxed with the removal from office of the State Chairman Alphonsus Ogar Eba by the state Executive Committee of the party.

About 30 of the 32-member State Working Committee, SWC, including local council chairmen, had voted to remove Eba as the chairman after many months of open disagreement, accusations and counter-accusations by the two groups.

Eba’s traducers had accused him of high-handedness, diversion of party’s funds and failure to remit stipends to wards and local council chapters of the party.

Reacting late on Thursday evening, Eba described his impeachment as a “joke taken too far.”

He also alleged financial malfeasance by his opponents to the tune of over N60 million.

According to him, the party, after several complaints of diversion of funds meant for wards and local Government Area officials, decided to adopt a direct payment system which he said never went well with some entrenched forces now claiming to be fighting him.

Eba similarly accused the local council chairmen who are involved in the plot to remove him ,of shortchanging other party officials after receiving several millions of naira from political office holders in the state .

The National Working Committee, NWC, in a letter through the National Legal Adviser, Murtala Aliyu Kankia, dated December 4, 2025 while describing the impeachment of the chairman as illegal and unconstitutional, called for restrain by all parties.

The NWC also invited Eba to appear at the national headquarters on Monday December 8, 2025 to respond to the situation.

According to the national leadership, the meeting will afford the embattled chairman the opportunity to defend himself ,and enable the party to hear his own side of the matter.