Bye-Election: Stop Gov Lawal, Aides’ Assault on Zamfara’s Democracy – Group Tells INEC, Security Operatives

The Coalition of Zamfara Patriots (CZP) has accused Governor Dauda Lawal of orchestrating a “tyrannical assault” on democracy during the recent Kaura-Namoda South Constituency bye-election, which was declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a press statement, the group condemned Lawal’s alleged use of state-backed vigilantes and hired thugs to intimidate voters, describing his actions as a desperate bid to cling to power amid a failing tenure.

The bye-election, held on August 16, 2025, followed the death of Hon. Aminu Ibrahim Kasuwar Daji, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Hon. Kamilu Sa’idu Kasuwar Daji, securing 7,001 votes against the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 5,339.

The CZP hailed the result as a “resounding referendum” on Lawal’s leadership, which they branded as a “catastrophic tenure” marked by corruption, vindictive politics, and under-development.

The election was declared inconclusive due to irregularities in five polling units in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa wards, with a supplementary poll scheduled for August 21.

According to the CZP, Lawal’s administration resorted to thuggery and voter intimidation to manipulate the outcome, with reports circulating on social platforms about state-backed vigilantes terrorizing voters in the affected wards.

“This is not leadership—it is gangsterism,” the group declared in a statement signed by Comrade Yusuf Dayda accusing Lawal of treating Zamfara as his “personal fiefdom” through actions like the unlawful suspension of state assembly members and interference with the judiciary.

The coalition demanded that INEC declare the APC candidate the winner, arguing that the 1,662-vote margin clearly reflects the will of the people.

They warned against any attempts to use the supplementary election to distort the outcome, urging the electoral body to resist pressure from Lawal’s camp.

“The people of Kaura-Namoda South have rejected his oppressive rule, and he must accept defeat with dignity,” the statement read.

The CZP also called on security agencies, civil society, and the international community to closely monitor the August 21 supplementary election to ensure transparency.

They cautioned that any further attempts to undermine the electorate’s will could plunge Zamfara into chaos, emphasizing that the state’s citizens would resist any manipulation “with resolute resistance.”

FALEKE: Understanding Trust and Loyalty in Leadership

By William Ochonu

Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke stands as a towering figure of loyalty and transformative leadership, his name etched in the annals of Nigeria’s history for his unwavering commitment to public service. Faleke’s career radiates strategic brilliance and selfless dedication.

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s steadfast ally, his pivotal leadership in the 2023 presidential campaign and resolute embrace of the Renewed Hope Agenda have solidified his title as the “dependable ally.” Through his sharp legislative insight, profound humility, and remarkable ability to unite diverse stakeholders, Faleke not only drives Nigeria’s progress but also forges a lasting legacy of trust and sacrifice, paving the way for a united and prosperous future.

Born on December 25, 1959, in Ekinrin Adde, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Chief Faleke has built a remarkable career defined by dedication, integrity, and loyalty. Rt. Hon. Faleke’s political journey began with his appointment as the pioneer Executive Secretary of Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, a role he held from 2003 to 2004. His diligent service earned him the trust of the people, who subsequently elected him as the substantive chairman of the LCDA for two tenures, serving until 2011.

In 2011, Rt. Hon. Faleke was elected to represent Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, a position he has held with distinction. His legislative contributions, marked by insightful debates and impactful work, have been notable. He has served as Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, National Ethics and Values, and later as Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, earning widespread respect for his commitment to public service.

Rt. Hon. Faleke’s exemplary performance, patriotism, and steadfast support for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) culminated in his appointment as the National Secretary of the APC Presidential Campaign Council for the 2023 election. His strategic leadership and dedication were pivotal to the campaign’s success.

If a new word were to be added to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary as a synonym for loyalty, it would undoubtedly be Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke. His unwavering faithfulness to President Tinubu is legendary, comparable to few in Nigeria’s political history. For instance, the bond between Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria, and Alhaji Maitama Sule, a close associate, exemplified such loyalty.

Maitama Sule’s dedication to Bello’s vision for Northern Nigeria mirrors the commitment Faleke demonstrates. Similarly, Anthony Enahoro’s unwavering loyalty to Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s ideals reflects the same steadfast allegiance Faleke shows toward Tinubu’s vision.

In the complex dynamics of principal-agent relationships in politics, where loyalty can waver amid power and wealth, Rt. Hon. Faleke remains a beacon of trust and dependability. His loyalty to President Tinubu has been proven time and again, most notably through his strategic and decisive contributions to Tinubu’s emergence as president during the 2022–2023 campaign. Despite daunting challenges, criticism, and opposition, Faleke’s resolute support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has earned him the moniker “dependable ally” and “workhorse” from the President himself.

Faleke’s commitment is further reflected in his alignment with Tinubu’s governance priorities, including transparency, anti-corruption, and youth empowerment. As Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, he has consistently championed these ideals, demonstrating his belief in the President’s vision through his public stands and legislative efforts.

A man of integrity and reliability, Faleke has never taken his decades-long relationship with President Tinubu for granted. Instead, he has worked tirelessly as a servant of the President’s agenda, prioritizing empowerment, inclusivity, and teamwork. His leadership style mirrors Tinubu’s, reflecting a shared commitment to building a united and progressive team without pursuing personal political ambitions.

Faleke’s trustworthy demeanor has inspired confidence in others, who rely on his sense of responsibility, compassion, and understanding. His humility and approachable nature have become a source of strength, drawing many to President Tinubu’s camp. By valuing others’ input and consistently following through on commitments, Faleke has earned respect and built a strong track record as a leader.

Strategically aligned with President Tinubu’s vision, Faleke’s legislative contributions and innovative insights make him an effective confidant and advisor. His ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver results has solidified his reputation as a dependable leader. President Tinubu trusts Faleke’s judgment, often seeking his counsel on critical issues, leveraging his deep experience to shape policies and decisions.

Faleke’s emotional intelligence, humility, and collaborative spirit have positioned him as a vital bridge between President Tinubu and various stakeholders. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds has earned him recognition as a unifying force in Nigerian politics. His tireless work ethic and passion for results underscore his commitment to public service.

Indeed, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke has proven beyond doubt that he is willing to go to great lengths for President Tinubu. As a kingmaker in Abuja, he works relentlessly to achieve results, embodying the essence of trust and loyalty in leadership.

Ochonu is a public affairs analyst writing from Abuja.

Pro-Tinubu Group Demands Sack of Badaru, Other Ministers Who Lost Polling Units in Bye-Elections

The Asiwaju Network has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately disengage underperforming ministers who failed to deliver their polling units and wards during the just-concluded bye-elections.

The group also urged a cabinet reshuffle to inject fresh energy and ensure that only those who can add political and governance value remain in the Federal Executive Council.

In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by its president, Alhaji Musa Ibrahim Dandoka, the Asiwaju Network said the results of the elections were a litmus test that exposed the political weaknesses of some ministers entrusted with strategic national assignments.

At Babura Kofar Arewa Primary School in Jigawa State, where the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, cast his vote, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scored 308 votes to defeat the All Progressives Congress (APC), which managed only 112.

Badaru, a former governor of Jigawa and APC chieftain, left the venue without addressing journalists after casting his vote amid heavy security presence.

Dandoka said it was troubling that, despite his high office, the Defence Minister could not secure victory in his polling unit.

He argued that such political setbacks undermine the strength of the APC and the credibility of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope government.

“This defeat is both embarrassing and unacceptable. A minister who cannot win his polling unit cannot claim to possess the political capital required to defend the APC or promote the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. President Tinubu must act quickly to weed out weak links in his cabinet and replace them with men and women who have proven grassroots capacity,” Dandoka stated.

The group noted that Badaru was not alone in this failure, stressing that another minister from Jigawa and one from Enugu State also lost their wards and polling units.

According to the group, these developments point to a worrying trend of disconnect between certain ministers and their political bases.

“Ministers are not merely technocrats. They are political leaders of the party in their states and zones. If they cannot hold their homes together, then they do not deserve to hold on to strategic national offices. The bye-elections have sent a clear message, and it is that some ministers have lost relevance and electoral value,” the statement reads.

The Asiwaju Network maintained that the APC’s strength lies in grassroots mobilisation, and any minister unable to inspire loyalty within his immediate constituency is a liability.

Dandoka emphasised that President Tinubu’s success in governance must be matched with political consolidation, which requires capable and electorally grounded cabinet members.

“President Tinubu has been bold with tough decisions on subsidy reforms, the economy, and security. Nigerians are beginning to see the fruits of those reforms. But he must also be bold enough to reshuffle his cabinet. A government of results cannot afford ministers who are passengers. The President needs proven drivers of the Renewed Hope vision,” Dandoka said.

The group also commended loyal APC members and supporters who defied intimidation and attempts at rigging in Jigawa and Enugu, saying their resilience was the true strength of the ruling party.

“These members stood firm when those at the top failed to inspire confidence. They turned out in their numbers to defend the APC’s relevance even when some of their supposed leaders abandoned them. These grassroots soldiers of democracy must never be taken for granted,” Dandoka added.

The Asiwaju Network further urged President Tinubu to take the bye-election results as a warning, cautioning that retaining non-performing ministers would embolden the opposition and demoralise party loyalists.

“The message from Jigawa and Enugu is clear: the APC cannot continue to reward failure. A minister who cannot secure a few streets in his ward has no business in the Federal Executive Council. Mr President must urgently rejig his cabinet or risk carrying dead weight into future electoral contests,” the coalition warned.

Reaffirming the group’s loyalty to Tinubu’s leadership, Dandoka said Nigerians expect a government that rewards competence and accountability, not excuses and political failures.

“President Tinubu has the people’s mandate. He must not allow weak ministers to drag down his vision. A decisive cabinet reshuffle now will send a strong signal that the Renewed Hope government is serious about performance, delivery, and results,” he declared.