Author Archives: MOONLIGHT NEWS

The Youth Reformation and Leadership Skills Development Foundation recently conducted independent enquiries regarding allegations levelled against the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, specifically focusing on personnel pay, allowances, and promotions. Our investigations aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Nigerian Army and the initiatives undertaken to enhance the welfare of its troops.

Commitment to Personnel Development

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has consistently demonstrated a robust commitment to uplifting the Nigerian Army through comprehensive training and retraining programs. These initiatives ensure that soldiers are adequately equipped to perform their duties and are prepared to meet future challenges. The focus on continuous professional development is essential for maintaining operational readiness and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Army.

Structured Promotion Procedures

Promotions within the Nigerian Army are strictly governed by well-defined guidelines that prioritize merit, performance, and available vacancies, as detailed in the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen 2024. The Chief of Army Staff has steadfastly upheld these standards, ensuring that promotions are awarded based on hard work, efficiency, and compliance with established criteria.

Improved Pay and Allowances

During General Oluyede’s leadership, significant strides have been made in ensuring the prompt payment of salaries and addressing any outstanding arrears. The recent increase in Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) exemplifies the Army’s commitment to adequately compensating its personnel for their dedicated service. This measure not only boosts morale but also reflects an understanding of the financial challenges that soldiers and their families face.

Enhanced Living Conditions

The Chief of Army Staff has prioritized the construction and renovation of soldiers’ accommodations, hospitals, schools, and recreational areas. Such improvements are vital for fostering a supportive environment that promotes the health and well-being of service members and their families. By investing in essential facilities and amenities, General Oluyede aims to enhance the quality of life for troops.

Findings from Our Independent Assessment

Our independent fact-finding mission allowed us to engage in discussions with personnel across various military formations. The feedback received during these interactions provided valuable insight into the current state of the Nigerian Army.

Commendations and Appreciation

The findings reveal widespread commendation and appreciation for the initiatives implemented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. Personnel expressed satisfaction with his leadership style and acknowledged the tangible improvements in their working conditions and quality of life. Many voiced their loyalty and commitment to the Army and the nation while also expressing hopes for ongoing enhancements to their well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, remains dedicated to the welfare of its personnel. The ongoing initiatives in training, promotion, pay adjustments, and facility improvements reflect a genuine commitment to excellence. The Army values the support and dedication of its personnel, and together, we will continue to pursue a more effective and prosperous service for the benefit of the nation.

E-Signed

Comrade Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu Director General

By Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani

The inception of the administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2015 marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism. As a retired general and former military head of state, Buhari’s leadership was instrumental in restructuring military command operations, temporarily relocating military headquarters to Maiduguri, a strategic move aimed at intensifying the fight against Boko Haram.

In July of the same year, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, then Chief of Army Staff, launched Operation Lafiya Dole, a decisive initiative that replaced the previous Zaman Lafiya operation. With unwavering commitment, Gen. Buratai emphasized that the military’s strategy to combat Boko Haram would be executed through action rather than mere rhetoric. True to his word, he maintained a strong presence on the front lines, demonstrating his dedication to the mission.

As the months progressed, the Nigerian military began to witness tangible successes in the fight against insurgency. Troops executed heavy crackdowns, reclaiming significant territories from the clutches of Boko Haram. This momentum was further bolstered by the emergence of a breakaway faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which ultimately weakened the overall strength of Boko Haram, they were technically defeated.

However, Gen. Buratai recognized the complexities of the insurgency, cautioning that “Boko Haram and the likes cannot be defeated by kinetic military warfare alone.” He foresaw that the struggle against terrorism could extend over two decades, warning of the dangers of allowing insurgent activities to proliferate across the nation.

In 2016, to complement military efforts, a non-kinetic approach known as Operation Safe Corridor was introduced. This initiative aimed to encourage voluntary surrender, deradicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members into society through vocational training and civic programs. While this initiative has achieved many success, the threat of terrorism remains a significant concern.

In April 2018, the Nigerian Army launched Operation LAST HOLD, a strategic offensive aimed at “totally destroying Boko Haram locations in the Lake Chad Basin.” This operation involved the deployment of six additional maneuver brigades and critical assets to Borno State.
Throughout his tenure, Gen. Buratai left no stone unturned in his commitment to operational excellence. He visited all military formations in the northeast and remained actively engaged until his voluntary retirement in January 2021. His tenure as Chief of Army Staff was marked by several notable achievements, including:1. Establishing several Forward Operation Bases (FOB) to enhance operational flexibility and project force around epicenters of security challenges across the nation. 2. Bolstering effective training for personnel through enhanced access to both international and local military courses, significantly improving capacity building. 3. Making unprecedented contributions to civil military cooperation by executing numerous life enhancing projects in communities across Nigeria. 4. Spearheading the upgrade and completion of the 44 Military Hospital in Kaduna, enhancing healthcare services for military personnel. 5. Deploying several advanced military medical centers across operational areas, ensuring medical support for troops in the field. 6. Operationalizing the employment of Special Forces in counter-terrorism and insurgency operations, enhancing tactical effectiveness. 7. Implementing innovative approaches to building and deploying equipment as force multipliers, significantly improving operational capabilities.

General Buratai’s leadership exemplified a vision for excellence in military operations and a steadfast commitment to restoring peace in Nigeria. His strategic initiatives and hands-on approach have left a lasting legacy, shaping the future of Nigeria’s military efforts in combating terrorism.
Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, A Kaduna Base Journalist editor Gamji Reporters

By Our Reporter

A coalition of over 400 contractors engaged by Formal Act Legacy Ltd, acting as consultants to the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kaduna State, has issued a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, seeking urgent intervention over unpaid contracts that have left many financially ruined and devastated.

In an open letter addressed to the President, the contractors, under the banner of “Concerned Contractors to Formal Act Legacy Ltd,” detailed a harrowing ordeal that began between January 2022 and early 2023. According to the letter, the contractors were awarded projects covering critical development needs—including drilling water boreholes, constructing and rehabilitating primary health care centers, and supplying hospital equipment, ambulances, and medicines—under what was presented as a Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) partnership involving all 23 LGAs of Kaduna State.

The contractors claim that, trusting in the authority of the local government chairmen and the credibility of the SDG initiative, they executed the contracts diligently and in full compliance with specifications. The total value of the completed projects reportedly exceeds ₦30 billion.

However, more than two years after project completion, the contractors allege that they have not received any payment for their work. Repeated efforts to engage Hon. Bashir Ibrahim, Managing Director of Formal Act Legacy Ltd, have yielded only unfulfilled promises, leaving the contractors in dire financial straits.

“Today, we are broken,” the letter reads. “Many of us are now bankrupt as our assets have been seized by creditors. Some of our colleagues have been hospitalized, while others have tragically passed on under the weight of this burden. Our children are out of school, our businesses shuttered, and our dignity diminished.”

The contractors further revealed that they have sought redress through the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), commending the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Office for its professionalism in investigating the matter. Despite these efforts, justice remains elusive.

The open letter calls on President Tinubu to:

Intervene in the recovery of payments owed to all affected contractors;

Hold accountable those responsible for the alleged fraudulent scheme;

Restore faith in justice and leadership for the affected citizens.

The contractors also appealed to Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, citing the direct involvement of the 23 Local Government Chairmen in awarding and signing the contracts. They believe the Governor’s intervention would not only bring relief to the affected contractors but also uphold the integrity of the contracts and the developmental projects undertaken in Kaduna State.

“Your Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we, as contractors from across the various states of the country, appeal to your legacy of reform and your commitment to protecting the vulnerable by ensuring that justice is served,” the letter concludes.

The contractors urge the President and Governor to act swiftly, emphasizing that the lives and livelihoods of hundreds of citizens hang in the balance.

For further information, the interim leadership of the contractors can be reached at:

Engr. Adamu Isah Idris Isyaku (Interim Chairman)

Tel: 08065536457

Email: adamu_isah@yahoo.com

Interim Secretary

Tel: 08033769876

END

Civil society organizations under the aegis of the Coalition for Justice and Equity Forum have called on the United States Government to disregard a petition seeking a visa ban on the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Monday Okpebholo.

The petition, allegedly filed by unnamed political actors, urges the U.S. to impose travel restrictions on Governor Okpebholo and members of his immediate family. If granted, the ban would prevent them from entering the United States.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and jointly signed by Comrade Peter Okafor, the Chairman, and Comrade Musa Ndanusa, the Secretary,the Coalition described the petition as politically motivated and aimed at undermining the governor’s achievements and developmental efforts in Edo State.

“It is important that foreign governments, including the United States, recognize the political undertones of such petitions. Otherwise, we risk encouraging undue external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs,” the statement said.

The group warned that approving such a petition could set a dangerous precedent where international diplomatic actions are used as tools in local political rivalries.

While reiterating the importance of international accountability, the Coalition cautioned against the misuse of foreign policy instruments for partisan agendas.

“We support global standards for justice and human rights, but those standards must not be manipulated for political witch-hunts,” the group added.

The Coalition called on the U.S. Government to uphold principles of fairness and due process in dealing with petitions from politically sensitive environments.

In an address at the 18th Distinguished Public Lecture of the Federal University, Lokoja, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai delivered a thought-provoking discourse on the urgent need to rethink Nigeria’s security strategy. The theme of his lecture, “Youth, Governance, and Countering Violent Extremism: Rethinking Nigeria’s Security Strategy,” resonated deeply with both students and faculty, emphasizing the pivotal role of youth in shaping the nation’s future.

The former military chief proposed a synergistic approach to combating insecurity, recommending a combination of both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. “It takes not guns and boots to counter such a threat but rather a change in paradigm in the way governance gets done in the area of security,” he stated, calling for a radical structural transformation that places youth at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Buratai’s lecture emphasized the necessity for Nigeria to learn from successful youth-centered approaches in countries like Tunisia, Kenya, Colombia, and Rwanda. “If we do not reach out to our young people, we leave them to be recruited by criminal gangs or extremist organizations,” he warned. He urged policymakers to empower the youth, asserting that they will become defenders of Nigeria and architects of its future.

In a commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives, Buratai praised the establishment of the National Education Data System, the Students’ Loans Scheme, and the approval of skill development programs across all levels of education. He highlighted the importance of critical education and peace literacy in schools, as well as the role of youth-led digital platforms in countering hate speech and fostering positive narratives.

The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi echoed Buratai’s sentiments, stating that the theme of the lecture could not have come at a more opportune moment. “Our country is in dire need of strategies that are innovative, inclusive, and sustainable,” he asserted, expressing confidence that Buratai’s insights would inspire meaningful conversations and inform policy.

As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of insecurity and youth disenfranchisement, Buratai’s call for a transformative approach to governance and youth engagement offers a beacon of hope for a more secure and prosperous future.

Subject: Call for Stability in APC Leadership and Our Condolence on the Passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Your Excellency,

With deep respect and patriotic concern, we, the members of the All Progressives Stakeholders Forum—an integral voice within the All Progressives Congress (APC) family—write this open letter to commend your leadership and to share our candid views on matters vital to the unity and progress of our great party.

First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt condolences to you, the APC family, and the entire nation on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a statesman whose disciplined leadership, integrity, and patriotism laid the foundation upon which the APC grew into a national force. His legacy will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

Your Excellency, as committed party loyalists who have labored at all levels to uphold the values and vision of the APC, we feel compelled to humbly advise against any sudden alteration or removal of members of the current National Working Committee (NWC) before the next National Convention

At this critical stage in your administration and in the life of the party, any reshuffling or tampering with the current leadership may ignite internal unrest weaken party cohesion and give political opportunists and so-called power scavengers the room to exploit the situation to the party’s detriment.

Your Excellency, the current NWC has shown considerable stability, and continuity at this time will not only strengthen internal trust but also give your administration the needed backing to deliver on the “Renewed Hope” agenda without distractions.

This is not a time for division or uncertainty. It is a time for consolidation, harmony, and focus—both in governance and within the party structure.

We urge you, as the father of the party and symbol of unity, to allow the current NWC leadership to continue its role until the next convention, where necessary changes can be democratically and strategically addressed.

The All Progressives Stakeholders Forum remains steadfast in our support for your administration and will continue to advocate for a party that is stable, inclusive, and forward-looking.

May God grant you continued strength and wisdom as you lead our nation through this historic moment.

Yours in service,

Hajia Dr. Maryam Danjaki
President
All Progressives Stakeholders Forum

*As court fix Oct 10 for ruling .

The Abuja division of the Federal High Court has fixed October 10, 2025 to deliver ruling in the trial-within-trial proceedings involving the former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman over alleged suspicion of fraud relating to the Mambilla Hydropower project.
The former Minister through his council Emmanuel Hassan, yesterday, urged the court to reject all the extra judicial statements he made during his investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as same did not meet the provisions of section 15 (4) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

However, responding, the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, who adopted his written address filed on July 11, 2025, urged the court to reject the request and proceed with the substantive trial.
He submitted that the prosecution agency diligently fulfilled all the statutory provisions as set out in ACJA during the investigation of the defendant, adding that none of his statement was obtained under coercion.
Justice James Omotosho on March 19, 2025, ordered a trial-within-trial following the defence counsel’s objection to EFCC move to tender a disputed statement credited to the former Minister of power, Engineer Sale Mamman.

The trial-within-trial is to determine if the disputed statement in a video clip was made by the defendant from his free will.

Specifically, the prosecution was to tender the disputed statement dated February 20, 2024, through the EFCC 17th witness, when the defence counsel, Femi Atteh SAN, raised an objection to it’s admissibility.
During the trial-within-trial, the defendant told the court that he was compelled under difficult situation to make his statement at the EFCC during his investigation.

Mamman who was testifying in the trial-within-trial, specifically told the court that he was under severe pains and discomfort resulting from his ill health during his investigation.
He challenged the credibility of his earlier statements to the EFCC on the grounds that they were not covered by the provisions of sections 15 and 17 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which requires a video recording of the extra-judicial statements of the defendant.
He contested the credibility of the statements on the grounds that they were not covered by the provisions of sections 15 and 17 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which requires a video recording of the extra-judicial statements of the defendant.
In addition, the defendant submitted that some of his statements were obtained without the presence of a lawyer, as required by (ACJA) Act, 2015.

To attest on that, the defence counsel, Atteh, referred the court to the statements made on May 10, 11, 12, 15, 17, 2023, August 3, 2023 and August 9, 2023, respectively.

The defence lawyer drew the attention of the witness to the statement of the defendant made on February 20, 2024 where he stated; “I instructed my lawyer to write my statement on my behalf as a result of my ill health. I have submitted a medical report to that effect.” It is also learned that in all the previous contentious statement there was no any confession.
Atteh then asked the witness whether the earlier statements of the defendant had such instructions and he said no.
The former minister told the court that he visited the EFCC on 20 February with his lawyer, Mohammed Ahmed of Pineal Solicitors, who wrote the statement on his behalf due to his ill health.
He claimed, however, that he could not confirm whether the lawyer wrote exactly what he stated.
He narrated how his request for an adjournment of the investigation exercise, to enable him fully fit and sound to volunteer his statement was refused by an investigator of the EFCC, simply identified as Shehu, was refused.

He tendered a medical report dated January 16, 2024 to prove that he was sick and not in a sound state of mind to make a statement to the commission.

It was his testimony that the said Shehu bluntly told him that he was the “target” of the whole investigation.
“My Lord, I was in serious pains during the session and was in tears due to my ill health. I requested that they should give me an adjournment of one week to enable me regain myself before coming back for my statement l, but they refused.
” When I reported to the EFCC on that day, I went to the desk of one of the investigator called Shehu, where I complained about my health situation. I even showed him my medical report in pleading with him for one week adjournment, but he refused
“I asked him why and he told me that I was the target of the investigation,” the defendant told the court.
Also during the proceedings, a video clip was played in court establishing the health status of the defendant, during his investigation.
After the adoption of the written addresses by both parties, Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to October 10 2025 for ruling and continuation of trial.

Northern based group, Northern Frontiers for Buhari (NFB) has raised allegations about how Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, betrayed the trust of the late President Muhammadu Buhari through sustained criticism and legal confrontations that, according to a civic group, weakened the cohesion of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released to the press by Northern Frontiers for Buhari (NFB)and signed by Comrade Murtala Musa Daura, the group alleged that El-Rufai’s relationship with Buhari, once seen as close and politically strategic, degenerated into public opposition, policy defiance, and subtle sabotage—actions they described as acts of betrayal.

“One such example,” the group said, “was when El-Rufai dragged the Federal Government under Buhari to court over issues related to federal appointments and resource control. Legal records show a governor persistently at odds with the central government—even when it was controlled by his own party.”

The group emphasized that this legal resistance came at a time when Buhari’s administration needed unwavering loyalty from state governors to address pressing economic and security challenges. “El-Rufai’s posture was seen by insiders as a deep betrayal that undermined internal party unity,” the statement read.

They also recalled that in 2023, just months before Buhari’s tenure ended, El-Rufai openly condemned the controversial naira redesign policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), labeling it “senseless” and “ill-timed.” He blamed Buhari’s economic team for worsening the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

In a defiant move, El-Rufai’s Kaduna State government instructed residents to continue using the old naira notes, in direct opposition to federal directives—a stance widely interpreted as an act of rebellion against the presidency.

“Political watchers saw this not just as resistance to policy but a public rejection of Buhari’s leadership—especially shocking, coming from someone believed to have risen politically through Buhari’s support,” the statement added.

The group further alleged that El-Rufai was part of strategic political meetings that backed individuals within the APC who were critical of Buhari’s inner circle. Citing leaked memos, they claimed El-Rufai once described Buhari as “detached” and “surrounded by incompetent loyalists.”

Although El-Rufai never formally distanced himself from Buhari’s administration, his statements and political maneuvers suggested a calculated effort to reposition himself as Buhari’s influence began to wane.

“From being one of Buhari’s most trusted allies and a pillar in the 2015 APC electoral victory, El-Rufai morphed into a sharp critic and political opportunist. His transformation has been described by many as a textbook case of political betrayal,” the statement concluded.

The group also criticized El-Rufai’s continued political posturing even after Buhari’s passing. “El-Rufai is simply an opportunist who hid under Buhari’s political goodwill to pursue his own ambition. Even in death, Buhari’s legacy is still being trampled on by people like him.”

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has taken a swipe at ex-Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding alleged deductions from federal allocations.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, Sani accused El-Rufai of hypocrisy, pointing out that the former governor presided over the alleged diversion of local government funds throughout his eight-year tenure without facing impeachment or any form of accountability.

“Is this not the same El-Rufai who allegedly tampered with LG funds consistently during his time as governor? How come no one held him accountable then?” Sani queried, echoing widespread concerns on social media.

During El-Rufai’s administration, multiple local government chairmen were said to have raised alarm over irregular remittances and the lack of financial autonomy. Despite persistent complaints, the Kaduna State House of Assembly failed to initiate any formal investigation or impeachment process.

El-Rufai’s recent comments targeting President Tinubu’s economic policies—including fuel subsidy removal and alleged deductions from statutory allocations—have reignited debate over his own tenure, with many questioning his moral authority to critique the current administration.

President Tinubu has faced mounting backlash over tough economic reforms that critics argue have worsened the financial state of many sub-national governments. However, El-Rufai’s remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing them as politically motivated.

Political analysts say the unfolding exchange reflects a recurring trend in Nigerian politics, where former public officials attempt to rebrand as public advocates while deflecting accountability for their time in office.

As the controversy continues to stir reactions, citizens and civil society groups are renewing calls for equal accountability and transparency across all tiers of government—past and present.

The Northern Online Media Reporters and Publishers Association has joined millions of Nigerians at home and abroad in mourning the passing of former President, General Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London after a protracted illness.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Femi Adi, the Association described Buhari’s death as a rude shock, noting that he would be remembered as a leader who stood firmly against institutionalized corruption.

The group acknowledged Buhari’s unwavering commitment to nation-building and his efforts to establish a just and equitable society. It praised his steadfast opposition to oppression and his dedication to national development.

While expressing deep sorrow over the loss, the Association extended heartfelt condolences to the former First Lady and the entire Buhari family, describing his passing as an irreparable loss to the nation.

The Association also called on the Federal Government to immortalize the late president by naming a major national monument in his honor.