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By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

As they say, “Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown,” but Bello Matawalle, appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Minister for State Defence in 2023, has risen to the challenge. His tenure in office so far is marked by a blend of persistent controversies and significant achievements, with the latter shining a bright light on his leadership and the impact of his decisions.

As Governor of Zamfara state, Matawalle was reported to have taken stringent measures against banditry and insurgency, which led to some success in the fight against terrorism in the Northwestern region.

As such, it is not surprising that he and Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, another former governor of Jigawa State, were appointed Ministers to supervise the defence sector.

This feat was accomplished through military precision and a strategic, forward-thinking focus on infrastructure revitalisation. Their joint efforts led to the rehabilitation of military barracks nationwide, improving the living conditions for soldiers and their families—a clear demonstration of their commitment to the military’s welfare and the future of Nigeria’s defence sector.

A recent major highlight of Matawalle’s leadership was his role in revitalising Nigeria’s defence infrastructure. He worked closely with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to establish a domestic arms and ammunition production facility.

This initiative is projected to save Nigeria $60 million annually by reducing the need to import military hardware, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in defence production.

Matawalle’s focus on defence sector reforms to improve efficiency has also caught attention. His reforms are designed to build a more resilient military by streamlining procedures and holding the system accountable.

One of Matawalle’s standout initiatives was his hands-on approach to addressing the grievances of military personnel. His open engagement with soldiers about delayed allowances and welfare issues demonstrated a rare willingness to tackle the heart of the defence system’s morale, evoking empathy for the soldiers and their struggles.

Despite these accomplishments, Matawalle’s tenure has not been without its controversies. Allegations of corruption and mismanagement, along with disputes over his qualification to run the defence ministry, continue to cloud his leadership. Critics question whether these shadows will define his legacy or if his achievements will ultimately shine through.

Born on February 12, 1969, in Maradun, Zamfara State, Matawalle’s educational background includes studies at Yaba College of Technology and the University of West London. His journey from a teacher to a politician has been marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to public service.

After a successful stint in the Zamfara State House of Assembly during the Abacha regime, he served as a state commissioner before being elected to the House of Representatives in 2003. His political career reached new heights in 2019 when he became the Governor of Zamfara State following a Supreme Court ruling that disqualified the supposed winner.

During his tenure as governor, Matawalle made efforts to address the rampant insecurity in Zamfara State, a region plagued by banditry and violence. He initiated dialogue with various armed groups and made efforts to implement infrastructural projects across the state, including constructing governor’s lodges in all 14 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Zamfara.

Matawalle’s career reflects a blend of determined public service and significant scrutiny, particularly regarding his financial decisions as governor.

A fanatical loyalist of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle’s leadership in various capacities during this period laid the groundwork for his current role in national defence, where he continues to confront external threats and internal controversies.

Matawalle must prioritise transparency and communication to secure his legacy, ensuring the public understands his decisions and reforms. His continued focus on the welfare of soldiers and veterans, alongside his strategic defence initiatives, will be crucial in determining whether his story will be one of triumph or a missed opportunity.

The final chapter of Bello Matawalle’s legacy is still being written. The world watches as he walks the fine line between triumph and turmoil. Will he be remembered as a transformative leader, or will the crown’s weight prove too much?

His legacy teeters on the edge, and only time will reveal whether his story is one of greatness or missed opportunity.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a Mass Communication graduate and a corps member with PRNigeria Center, Abuja. He can be reached at exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

BUA Group, led by Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu, has responded to President Bola Tinubu’s call for private sector support by donating N2 billion to aid victims of the devastating floods in Maiduguri, Borno State.

This generous donation reflects the company’s commitment to supporting Nigerians in times of need. 

The recent flooding in Maiduguri has caused immense hardship for thousands of families, prompting BUA Group to act swiftly. Rabiu emphasized, “As an organisation deeply rooted in Nigerian society, we believe it is our responsibility to provide relief to those affected.” 

The donation comprises N1 billion in cash and N1 billion worth of essential food supplies, including flour, pasta, sugar, rice, and other vital commodities.

These items will be distributed to the hardest-hit areas to provide immediate relief.

The N1 billion cash donation was presented to the state government to ensure aid reaches those in need quickly. 

The Abdulsamad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), under BUA Group, will continue to monitor the situation and provide necessary resources to help Maiduguri’s residents recover and rebuild.

Rabiu urged other corporate organisations and individuals to join the effort, saying, “Our thoughts are with the affected families and individuals. As we extend our support, we seek to restore hope and rebuild lives.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The World Customs Organisation (WCO), in collaboration with the German Federation, has successfully conducted a five-day training program focused on the detection of small arms and light weapons for officers of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Police Force.

The training took place from September 16 to 20, 2024, at the Old Secretariat in Garki, Abuja, and involved 25 Customs officers along with personnel from the Nigerian Police Force and Nigerian Army.

The workshop was officially inaugurated by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) in charge of Strategy, Research, and Policy, Sulaiman Chiroma, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

ACG Chiroma stated the significance of the training in enhancing the participants’ ability to detect illegal arms, a vital component of the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) ongoing efforts to combat weapon smuggling into the country.

“This training has gone beyond what we see today. It’s not just about small arms and light weapons for Nigeria Customs Service personnel, but a national initiative, evidenced by the involvement of other agencies,” ACG Chiroma stated.

He further noted that the training is part of the broader West African Security Project (WASP), aimed at fostering collaboration among West African nations in light of shared borders and security challenges.

Chiroma praised the WCO and the German Federation for their ongoing support in organizing such vital training programs, which play a crucial role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Customs officers.

He urged participants to apply their newly acquired skills diligently.

He said, “You have learned the terminologies of arms detection, and the challenge now is to apply and expand upon what you have learned. To whom much is given, much is expected.”

Participants were encouraged to share their knowledge with colleagues in their respective commands.

“The facilitators and resource persons have provided you with invaluable insight. Now, it’s your responsibility to ensure that this knowledge doesn’t remain with you alone but is passed on to others in your field,” Chiroma added.

The training covered various critical topics, including the detection of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), understanding cultural chemicals, and mastering techniques to combat insecurity in the West African subregion.

Chiroma noted that this comprehensive approach to security training is expected to enhance efforts against illegal arms trafficking throughout the region.

By Sumayyah M. Auwal

In Kaduna State, over 10,000 supporters of Senator Shehu Sani have decamped to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)and pledged their support to Governor Uba Sani.

The party’s State Chairman, Emmanuel Jekada, applauded the decampees for returning to the APC. He promised to work with everyone to move the party forward for peace and the development of Kaduna State. He noted that the APC in Kaduna State is open to all, irrespective of any differences. 

It would be recalled that Shehu Sani’s withdrawal from the APC in 2019 resulted from the acrimonious relationship between him and the then-governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. Their disagreements eventually led to Sani and his supporters leaving the APC.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for his victory in the just-concluded Edo State governorship election.  

Okpebholo emerged victorious after a keenly contested race, defeating his main rivals—Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party. 

Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, noted that the APC candidate’s triumph underscores the growing popularity and confidence the people of Edo State have in the APC. 

He stated that the overwhelming support for Okpebholo reflects the party’s achievements and its commitment to governance rooted in the needs of the people. 

“It is with immense pleasure that I warmly congratulate our candidate in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo and indeed our great party for recording an emphatic victory. This success is a clear validation of the people’s trust in the APC-led administration and further solidifies the party’s influence across Nigeria, reaffirming its position as the party trusted by the people to drive national growth and transformation”. 

The Governor expressed confidence in Senator Okpebholo’s leadership capabilities, adding that his election represents an opportunity to rebuild and reposition Edo State towards sustainable development. 

He called on members of the opposition to graciously accept the olive branch extended by the Governor- elect, urging them to contribute positively to the future of Edo State. 

The NSGF Chairman also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a transparent and fair election that provided a level playing field for all contestants.  

He also applauded the nation’s security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the process, as well as the electorate for their peaceful and orderly participation in what was a highly anticipated election.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking the removal of Abdullahi Ganduje as All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman.

Justice Inyang Ekwo ruled that the plaintiff, North Central APC Forum, lacked standing to file the suit. 

The court held that the group was not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and therefore not a juristic person.

Justice Ekwo ruled that Ganduje’s appointment or removal requires a national convention. 

The plaintiff’s lawyer, Ayuba Abdul, and group leader Saleh Zazzaga vowed to appeal the judgement, expressing no surprise at the outcome. 

The suit challenged Ganduje’s appointment, citing the APC constitution’s Article 31.5(1) f, which requires the chairman to hail from the North Central geopolitical zone.

Ganduje is from Kano State in the North West zone.

By Uzair Adam

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has expressed confidence that attempts to silence the labour movement will not succeed.

Ajaero, who has recently faced scrutiny from security agencies such as the Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), stated that he will respond to a police summons on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

Addressing workers and union officials in Lagos, Ajaero recounted his recent experiences, including an arrest and detention, which he described as an effort to weaken the labour movement.

Despite these challenges, he urged workers to remain united and resolute.

“On August 29, we answered the state’s summons regarding certain allegations, and on the 25th of this month, we will again comply by attending the police headquarters in Abuja,” Ajaero said.

He revealed that the NLC’s strength is rooted in its integrity and collective determination. “Our hands must remain clean, our hearts pure. Even when they come for us, they will find nothing to use against us.

While they may try to imprison our bodies, they cannot imprison our spirit,” Ajaero stated.

As the NLC prepares for upcoming challenges, Ajaero urged members to stay vigilant and united.

He also expressed gratitude to international trade unions and organizations, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of the UK, for their support during the NLC’s recent struggles.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu congratulates Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in Saturday’s Edo State governorship election, on his victory at the polls. 

On Sunday, Senator Okpebholo was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), having defeated other contenders for the position.

President Tinubu commends APC national leaders, Edo State leaders, and party governors for working hard to achieve victory. He says the victory testified to the people’s support for the ruling party, its progressive ideals, its economic reengineering programme and its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians. 

He urges Senator Okpebholo not to gloat over his victory but to see it as a challenging call to service. He encourages him to demonstrate magnanimity by reaching out to his political rivals and uniting the people of Edo State to ensure its development. 

President Tinubu also praises other candidates who participated in the election for their contributions to advancing Nigeria’s democracy, saying peaceful political contests, such as the one on Saturday, portray Nigeria as a stable democracy. 

The President urges all those aggrieved by the election outcome to seek redress through the legal channels.  

In addition, the president commends the people of Edo State for their orderly and peaceful conduct during the election, underscoring the maturing of Nigeria’s democracy after 25 years. 

“I commend the INEC and our security agencies for working round the clock to conduct a successful, peaceful and largely hitch-free exercise. 

“INEC has once again demonstrated that it is committed to organising a free and fair election in our country”, President Tinubu says.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Bauchi State Police Command has arrested Dauda Saidu, a 21-year-old scavenger, for allegedly desecrating a grave at Yelwa Christian Cemetery in the metropolis and stealing iron rods.

Spokesman of the Command, Ahmed Wakil, revealed in a statement on Sunday that the suspect was apprehended on September 20, 2024, over trespassing, vandalism, and theft.

“Saidu unlawfully entered the Christian cemetery in the Yelwan Kagadama area of Bauchi, damaging several graves and stealing iron rods in broad daylight,” Wakil stated.

During interrogation, Saidu confessed to the crimes, admitting he had stolen multiple iron rods and sold them to scrap buyers for ₦9,500, ₦12,000, and ₦5,500 in separate transactions.

He was said to have disclosed that the money was used to purchase Indian hemp and food for personal consumption.

“The Commissioner of Police, Auwal Musa Muhammad, has directed that Saidu be prosecuted after investigations are concluded.”

“He also stressed the need for parental supervision and urged parents and guardians to be vigilant in monitoring their children and wards.”

By Anas Abbas

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun the state-level collation of results for the Edo State governorship election following the conclusion of voting yesterday.

According to INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, the commission has uploaded Polling Unit results onto the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal and has received collated results from 192 wards. Collation has also been concluded in most Local Government Areas.

However, Haruna expressed concern over a reported threat to the INEC office in Okpoba Okha Local Government Area, which resulted in a stampede and injured one official. Additionally, some political actors and supporters demonstrated overnight at the State Head Office, attempting to disrupt the collation process.

Haruna emphasised that the collation will proceed according to the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC regulations. He warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the process will not be tolerated and that the commission will invoke its powers to review results declared under duress.

The commission urged accredited party agents, observers, and media personnel to be granted unimpeded access to all collation centres and called on security agencies to maintain their vigilance and professionalism.