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Re: Students Knock Zamfara Governor For Breaking Campaign Promise To Give Scholarships – A Rejoinder to Saharareporters.

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MATAWALLE: WHERE ARE THE MERCHANTS OF DISCORD? By Abdulkadir Sulaiman

 

Re: Students Knock Zamfara Governor For Breaking Campaign Promise To Give Scholarships – A Rejoinder to Saharareporters.

By Aminu lecturer Kaura
SSA to Governor Bello Muhammed Mutawallen Maradun of Zamfara state.

We the members of the defunct APC Social Media Forum, who collectively and unanimously agreed to decamp to PDP and formed the new PDP Social Media Forum in honour of the wonderful achievements of the present administration of Gov Bello Muhammed Mutawallen Maradun, particularly in tackling the security challenges bedivelling the state, have noticed with desmay, some fictitious reports being concocted and published on social media platforms by an online medium, the Saharareporters against the Gov.

Let me use this medium to expose the sinister arrangements between those sponsoring the online medium to publish such fictitious reports and the social media handles who are being used to first initiate and cooked such fictitious and fake news for the Saharareporters to publish, as well draw the attention of the general public, particularly those who are unaware of this game.

It is woth exposing here that, the paymasters who had been using social media handles to cook stories for such online media like Saharareporters to publish in order to cause mischiefs and mayhem for governments, had been using this crude method for a long time to perform such assignments.

The recent fictitious report concocted and published by the foreign studge online medium, Saharareporters who were contracted to destabilise and disintegrate Nigeria, particularly the north, was nothing but carrying out a paid job fir some people who bent on destabilising the successes recorded by the government of Hon Bello Mohammed Matawallen Maradun.

I have been in the last administration of former Governor Abdulaziz Yari foe eight years and I know how security was during the period.

Every honest and
responsible person knows that there has been remarkable progress and achievements in terms of peace and security in the state.

The Saharareporters, after failing in its numerous attempts to destabilise Nigeria’s democracy through all forms of subversive moves and reportage, the online medium which is implementing a foreign agenda, now resorted to
alliance with some people who are enemies of Zamfara and unhappy with the Gov ‘s achievements in this regard, to cause mayhem and upheavals in the state.

The arm-chair journalism online media outfit is now making itself to these frustrated persons to unleash their frustrations and anger on Zamfara state government to serve the paymasters by dissiminating false information about the state.

Last week, it published an unverified cooked story against the Gov of Zamfara state, Bello Matawalle who has been excellently doing well and is successful in the fight against armed banditry in the state since the inception of his administration, that “the Gov purchased and distributed Hilux vehicles to bandits and dished out large amounts of money to the bandits,” an allegation that was reputed by the Nigerian Army itself, the repentant bandits themselves and other stakeholders in the fight against the rural banditry.

If not for the foolishness of the Saharareporters, how can a Gov who has been fighting the bandits to the knowledge of the world, be purchasing and distributing Hilux vehicles to the bandits he is fighting.

This is nonsense and an act of violence, terrorism and corruption of the highest order that calls for sanctioning.

If the online medium is genuine, unbiased, objective, balanced and fair in its journalism practice and reportage, Saharareporters
should have cross checked and verified that story before publishing it.

However, being an online medium executing a contract for the implementation of its clients agenda, it went ahead to publish the report which unfortunately turned against it, as the online medium is now facing legal challenges in several courtsof law by security agencies and other stakeholders in the country.

As if that is not enough, the online medium this time around published yet another story against the Gov.

In their latest episode, the online medium quoted a
final-year student of engineering in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, who said he had to defer an academic session because of Matawalle’s failure to fund the scholarship board.

According to the Saharareporters, “The leadership of the National Union of Zamfara State Students, NUZAMSS, has criticised the state governor, Bello Matawalle, over his failure to provide scholarship funds for indigent students.

“Matawalle had during his campaign promised to give scholarships to students before his 100 days in office.

“But according to the students, he has broken the promise.”

For the avoidance of doubt, Gov Bello Muhammed Mutawallen Maradun has never made such pledge as claimed by the Saharareporters’ fake news.

To make it categorically clear to those who are unaware of the fact, in order not to be deceived and misled by the online medium

The students were not given their scholarships allowances since 6 years before the coming of Gov Matawalle’s government about two years ago.

When the Gov assumed office exactly on May 29th 2019, about two years ago, he received complaints about the none payment of the scholarship allowances to the students.

To demonstrate his government commitment and determination to develop the education sector in the state, he ordered for an investigation into the reasons why the allowances were not paid to the students and ordered for a comprehensive verification of the affected students.

Presently, the Gov is studying the verified reports and assessments of the cost implications which is normal in governance, only for the Saharareporters to culled a false information from social media platforms without referring to the authorities concerned to verify and know the reality, before the publication, which is a clear indication and testimony that the online medium has violated the codes and ethics of journalism practice both within and outside Nigeria and is clear indication that it is implementing someone’s agenda.

Let me make it clear to Saharareporters that His Excellency Gov Bello Muhammed Mutawallen Maradun sponsored 200 Zamfara indigent students to study abroad and are currently studying various degree courses in various parts of the world under his government’s special scholarship program.

A Gov who has done this excellent job can not deny the indigent students who are studying in institutions of high learning within Nigeria.

Let the Saharareporters and its paymasters know that their agenda can not be implemented on Gov Matawalle’s government, as the people of the state and indeed all peace loving and well meaning Nigerians are behind the Gov in his efforts to restore peace and security in the state, with a view to developing the state.

One doesn’t need to be told that the terrible security situation and the mayhem the people of the state went through before his assumption in office as the Executive Governor of Zamfara state has greatly improved for the better.

People are now going to their farms to produce food and cash crops. People are now going to various markets all the parts of the state to buy and sell their goods.
Cattle breeders are now moving with their cattle throughout the state.

Visitors are now coming to Zamfara state, including foreign investors to do businesses andvisit their loved ones.
The Gov is not claiming 100 percent success in the fight against the armed banditry in the state, but at least normalcy been restored in the state, just within less than two years of his government.

Shame on you, a Nigerian who is expected to be peace loving, peace maker and patriotic citizen of his great nation, the Saharareporters has turned himself to a studge, one who relegated himself to background, making himself so low, so cheap to be used against his country for money.

Is there any other form of corruption that surfaces this irresponsible behaviour and act of silliness?

Yet, you are seeking election into the office of the president of the country you are trying to disintegrate.

Be careful, as you will one day regret your acts of foolishness.

Aminu lecturer Kaura is a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Bello Muhammed Mutawallen Maradun of Zamfara state.

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Political Crisis Deepens in Rivers State as Lawmakers Move to Impeach Governor Fubara

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Political Crisis Deepens in Rivers State as Lawmakers Move to Impeach Governor Fubara

Political Crisis Deepens in Rivers State as Lawmakers Move to Impeach Governor Fubara

Tension and apprehension have reached a boiling point in Rivers State following the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu by the state House of Assembly. The latest development has further intensified political uncertainty, sparking widespread outrage and fears of unrest.

 

The impeachment process, spearheaded by the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly, loyal to former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is based on allegations of gross misconduct. A formal notice detailing the accusations was sent to the Speaker of the House after being endorsed by 26 lawmakers in a letter dated March 14, 2025.

 

On Monday, March 17, Speaker Amaewhule formally served the governor and his deputy with the impeachment notice, citing 19 constitutional breaches. Among the accusations against Fubara are alleged reckless expenditure of public funds, obstruction of legislative functions, and appointment of officials without Assembly approval. The lawmakers also accused the deputy governor of complicity in unconstitutional financial withdrawals and supporting the governor’s defiance of a court order mandating a legitimate budget presentation.

Rising Tensions and Threats of Crisis

The impeachment threat has prompted strong reactions from various political and ethnic groups. The Ijaw National Congress, the Ijaw Youth Council, and other regional stakeholders have warned that any attempt to remove Fubara could destabilize the state and negatively impact oil production. They have vowed to resist any move that undermines the governor’s mandate, emphasizing that his removal could spark widespread unrest in the Niger Delta.

President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, convened a high-level meeting with leaders of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by former Akwa Ibom Governor Victor Attah and King Alfred Diete-Spiff. During the meeting, Tinubu underscored the importance of stability in the Niger Delta, stating, “Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg.” He urged the PANDEF leaders to mediate and ensure peace prevails.

Following this, PANDEF met with Governor Fubara in an attempt to broker peace, but efforts to engage Wike have so far been unsuccessful.

Legislative Power Struggle and Fubara’s Challenges

Governor Fubara has been facing stiff opposition from the Amaewhule-led Assembly, which recently refused to recognize his attempt to present the 2025 budget, despite a Supreme Court ruling affirming the lawmakers’ legitimacy. During a recent media interview, Wike dismissed concerns over the rising tensions and publicly encouraged lawmakers loyal to him to proceed with the impeachment if necessary.

The impeachment notice, citing Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), alleges that Fubara has persistently obstructed the Assembly’s constitutional duties. It also accuses him of withholding funds meant for legislative operations and illegally appointing officials.

The notice to the deputy governor similarly accuses her of failing to act in accordance with her constitutional duties, particularly in matters concerning the state’s budget and financial administration.

In response, Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joseph Johnson, denounced the Assembly’s actions, warning that their obstructionism could paralyze the state’s economy. “With the current actions of the Assembly, civil servants, retirees, and the general populace will suffer economic hardship as the government will be unable to meet its financial obligations,” he stated. He also revealed that both the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant-General of the Federation had been instructed to withhold Rivers State’s revenue allocations until the political crisis is resolved.

Factions Within the APC Deepen the Divide

The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains deeply divided over the impeachment proceedings. The faction led by Tony Okocha has insisted that due process must be followed, while the Emeka Beke-led faction, loyal to former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, has criticized the lawmakers’ actions as unjust and politically motivated.

Beke’s faction questioned the legitimacy of the impeachment process, pointing out that the Assembly had previously adjourned indefinitely but mysteriously managed to issue a notice without an official sitting. “The House has failed the people. They did not convene, yet they are issuing letters. This is blackmail,” Chief of Staff Chizi Enyi argued.

Legal Battle Looms

Meanwhile, a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has reserved its ruling in a suit filed by the Labour Party challenging the alleged defection of Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers. Justice Emmanuel Obile has scheduled the ruling for April 16, 2025, amid heightened legal and political maneuvering.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ken Njemanze, representing the 27 lawmakers, has requested that the case be dismissed in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the lawmakers’ legitimacy. However, the Labour Party’s counsel has insisted that the issue of defection remains unresolved and should be determined independently.

Police Deny Reports of Unrest

In the midst of escalating tensions, the Rivers State Police Command has dismissed reports of riots and alleged attacks on Wike’s residence as false. Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko described the claims as “malicious and misleading,” urging residents to remain calm and disregard social media misinformation.

“The state remains peaceful, and no violence has been recorded. These reports are intended to incite fear and unrest,” the statement read.

What Next for Rivers State?

As the political crisis deepens, Rivers State stands at a crossroads. With an impeachment process underway, growing regional discontent, and an escalating legal battle, the coming weeks will be critical in determining the future of the state’s governance.

The question remains: will political leaders find a way to de-escalate the crisis, or will Rivers State descend further into political turmoil? The answer lies in the actions of key stakeholders in the days ahead.

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

Tinubu Intervenes in Lagos Assembly Crisis, Upholds Obasa as Speaker

President Bola Tinubu has successfully intervened in the lingering leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, endorsing Mudashiru Obasa’s continued tenure as Speaker despite previous recommendations for his resignation.

The resolution followed a crucial meeting between Tinubu and all 40 lawmakers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. The President’s decision, however, runs contrary to the recommendations of a panel previously established to mediate the crisis.

Reversal of Agreement

The panel, led by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande and former Ogun State Governor Chief Gbenga Daniel, along with members of the Governance Advisory Council, initially advised that Obasa should return as Speaker but step down shortly after, allowing for a new Speaker from Lagos West in the interest of political balance.

On March 3, 2025, Mojisola Meranda, who had taken over from Obasa after his impeachment, resigned from her position and was re-elected as Deputy Speaker. Obasa was subsequently reinstated in line with the agreement. However, in a dramatic twist, he indefinitely adjourned the Assembly and refused to step down as originally planned.

Tinubu Brokers Lasting Peace

During the closed-door meeting, Tinubu urged lawmakers to put aside their grievances and work together under Obasa’s leadership to ensure stability in the Assembly and across Lagos State.

“Tinubu met with the lawmakers behind closed doors. They expressed their concerns, and he resolved the issues. Obasa will remain as Speaker, and the lawmakers have agreed to work with him,” a source familiar with the meeting revealed.

Despite dissatisfaction among some Lagos stakeholders over Obasa’s defiance of the original agreement, the source assured that Tinubu would engage all concerned parties to maintain unity.

“Some stakeholders are naturally displeased that Obasa reneged on the agreement with the Akande panel, but the President will address their concerns to ensure lasting peace,” the source added.

Obasa to Withdraw Lawsuit

In a further development, Tinubu directed Obasa to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his impeachment at the Lagos State High Court.

“The President told the lawmakers to allow Obasa to work, and in return, Obasa must withdraw his case against Meranda and the Assembly members in court. The lawmakers have agreed to this arrangement,” another insider disclosed.

Prior to this directive, Obasa’s lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), had confirmed that despite his reinstatement, the Speaker had not withdrawn his lawsuit, arguing that the allegations against him—ranging from high-handedness to financial mismanagement—needed to be addressed.

With Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court set to hear the case on March 17, 2025, all eyes are now on Obasa’s next move following Tinubu’s directive.

Political Ramifications

The intervention by Tinubu, a towering figure in Lagos politics, signals his firm grip over the state’s political structure. However, the decision to allow Obasa to remain as Speaker could spark further discontent among factions within the ruling party and raise questions about adherence to internal agreements.

For now, the Lagos State House of Assembly crisis appears to have been temporarily resolved, but the long-term political implications remain to be seen.

 

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly"

LOCKED OUT: RIVERS STATE GOVERNOR DENIED ENTRY TO ASSEMBLY, BUDGET PRESENTATION STALLED

…Fubara Laments Attempt to Frustrate Governance
…Tension Mounts as Assembly Faction Defies Supreme Court Ruling
…Tinubu Pressures Governor to Implement Verdict Amid Growing Political Standoff

 

Rivers State was thrown into fresh political turmoil on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied access to the Port Harcourt Aba Road temporary Rivers State House of Assembly complex, effectively blocking him from presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

Accompanied by his entourage, Fubara arrived at the Assembly Quarters only to be met with locked gates, an action seen as a bold and calculated move by the 27 lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The incident underscores the deepening power struggle between the governor and Wike’s faction, which the Supreme Court recently recognized as the legitimate Assembly leadership.

48-Hour Ultimatum and Assembly’s Defiance

The legislative crisis escalated after the pro-Wike lawmakers issued Fubara a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget, challenging an earlier approval by a four-member faction of lawmakers aligned with the governor. However, instead of attending the session, Fubara invited the lawmakers to Government House, Port Harcourt, a move they outrightly rejected.

Governor Fubara Reacts: ‘I Leave Everything to God’

Addressing the development during the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana LGA, Governor Fubara expressed disappointment at the obstruction, emphasizing that his priority remained the state’s economic stability and the welfare of civil servants. He lamented the resistance he has faced in executing governance duties despite following due process.

“I made frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly,” Fubara stated. “I even sent WhatsApp messages to them, notifying them that I would be coming at 10 a.m. to present the budget. This was to ensure that Rivers State does not face any crisis because of me, as some have alleged.”

Despite his efforts, Fubara said he was left standing outside the legislative complex, only to hear claims that no official communication was made regarding his visit.

“I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret,” he added. “Like I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually comes to an end. What matters is how we use power. I have chosen not to abuse mine, no matter what they claim.”

Presidential Pressure: Tinubu Orders Compliance with Supreme Court Verdict

The budget blockade comes just 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu directed Governor Fubara to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling recognizing the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers. During a high-stakes meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu reinforced his stance, demanding adherence to the court’s decision to prevent further instability in the oil-rich state.

However, Fubara’s camp views the legislative impasse as an orchestrated attempt to sabotage his administration. His allies argue that the governor is being cornered into submission, with the opposition exploiting institutional control to dictate terms.

Calls for Resignation, Threats of Impeachment

Adding to the already volatile situation, Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, called for Fubara’s resignation, warning that failure to comply with the Supreme Court ruling could lead to impeachment proceedings. The remarks signal a potential escalation in the crisis, with political forces aligning to push Fubara into a corner.

As tensions mount, Rivers State finds itself at the center of a deepening political crisis. The coming days will determine whether Fubara can navigate the high-stakes battle or if the opposition forces will tighten their grip on the state’s political landscape. One thing remains certain—this is a battle far from over.

 

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