Northern Group condemned Malami’s detention,

Abubakar Malami

Says it’s “unlawful”…..

The timing of Malami’s invitation and detention has raised suspicions about the EFCC’s motives. His decision to join another party might be seen as a factor, but without clear evidence, it’s hard to say for sure. The EFCC should clarify their reasons for detaining him, and if it’s related to his new party affiliation, that would be concerning. His detention is likely to be seen as politically motivated by some, especially given the history of political figures facing scrutiny after switching parties.

The Coalition of North West Political Forum, have condemned the detention and subsequent detention of a loyalist to former president Muhammadu Buhari, Abubakar Malami.

While the group described the detention as a proof of the level of intimidation meted on the oppositions, expressed serious concern over the disdain at which the federal government is displaying impunity.

The political forum, in a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by the Chairman Dr. Muhammad Ali, and the Secetary, Comrade Mustapha Dan-Kano,
calling it “unlawful” and arguing that it contravenes the Constitution, as no evidence has been presented.

The group also, urging the APC-led administration to release Malami, citing concerns of victimization against opposition party members.

The EFCC’s actions have sparked controversy, with concerns over Malami’s prolonged detention without trial. The Constitution guarantees the right to liberty and fair hearing, and detention beyond 24 hours without charge is a contentious issue.

If the EFCC has evidence, they should proceed with charges; otherwise, he should be released. The seizure of his passport is a standard procedure, but detention without trial undermines constitutional protections.

The Coalition highlights concerns about fairness and transparency. The APC-led administration should ensure Malami’s rights are respected, and the EFCC should act within the law.

The detention of Abubakar Malami by the EFCC has raised concerns about due process and constitutional rights. The Constitution states that detention beyond 24 hours without charge is unlawful, and Malami’s continued detention without trial is being questioned, the group lamented.

“The EFCC’s actions, including seizing his passport and denying bail, are standard procedures in investigations, but they must be balanced with Malami’s rights”.

“There’s need for transparency and fairness in the process”.

“The EFCC should either charge Malami with a specific offense or release him. The courts can then determine the next steps if charges are filed” the statement added.
.

LEADTIMES AFRICA, US’ VARSITY, TO HONOUR PROFESSIONALS, BUSINESS ICONS NEXT WEEK

8 December 2025


Engr.(Dr.) Sadiq Mustapha (FNSE,
FIMC, CFPM), GMD,Trade & Tech Group.

The Director-General of Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi(FIIRO),Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Tutuwa Adamu is among the few prominent leaders that will be recognized with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Industrial Researcher of the Year, among other industrialists,business icons and professionals.In a press statement credited to Professor Buba S. Mshelia, the advisory chairman of Leadtimes Africa Magazine and the co-convener of the ceremony states:”the forthcoming ceremony will recognise few prominent leaders that are exceptional in their services to humanity with various awards during the summit.Selection for the honor was done on merit without bias or prejudices’,the statement further said.”Few outstanding Nigerians who have contributed immensely to the growth of Leadtimes Africa magazine over the year will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame, and will also receive Leadtimes Grand African Leadership Prize for Integrity,Transparency, and Accountability including the Leadtimes Africa Global Leadership Excellence Award respectively,” Mshelia further stated.
“It will be recalled that the Director-General/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, Lagos, (FIIRO)Dr.Jummai Tutuwa Adamu is selected for this honor in recognition of her enormous contributions in championing innovation, indigenous technology,and sustainable development in Nigeria through industrialization.Beyond this,her track records as CEO of FIIRO since 2022 speaks volumes as one of the most outstanding Africans in leadership”,Prof.Buba, Chairman,Advisory Board stressed. He opines further, “the D.G/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research,Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Adamu Tutuwa is nominated for her indomitable contributions towards inspiring transformation in Nigeria’s industrial research landscape,demonstrating the profound impact of science and technology on national development.”
During the ceremony, the Group Managing Director of UR 9 , Dr.( Hon)Uriel
Ezeh will also be decorated with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year Award as he has distinguished himself as one of the outstanding business industrialists and professionals that cut across different sectors of the economy including beverages, real estate and construction, interior Design, Agriculture, media, technologies, hospitality, energy, Fashion, logistics, security, and Asset Management, among others.Others listed for Grand Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service include Dr. Azeez Abayomi Mustapha, CEO of AZ Logistics Limited;CEO of Kwara State Procurement Agency, Mr. QS Raheem Abdulbaki; and the Group Managing Director/CEO of Trade and Tech, Engr.(Dr.) Abubakar Sadiq Mustapha,a 2023 winner of the Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year is again being nominated to serve as the Advisory Board member of Leadtimes Africa Magazine in view of his enormous contributions to Leadtimes Africa magazine over the year will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame during the ceremony.
In the same vein,few eminent Nigerians will be decorated with honorary doctorate degree awards of Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.
Those to bag HGU honorary awards include Mrs Abimbola Adebakin,CEO of Advantage Health Africa who is nominated for Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration by Highstone Global University,Texas, USA.Also included for honor is Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited and Founder/CEO, Majeurs Holdings, Ms Demi Samonde who are listed for Doctor of Business Administration respectively. Other awardees include the
General Secretary,NIPR who doubles as the Principal Consult SS PR Comm. Ltd, Dr.Ahmadu Fatimah-Binta who will bag Doctor of Personnel and Human Resource Management and Amb.
Emmanuel Moris of Nigeria Police Force who is nominated for Doctor of Risk and Security Management(honoris causa).
Aside from being inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame by selected few, others listed for Leadtimes Africa Global Leadership Excellence Award; and Grand Africa Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability in Service.
These include CEO of Silhouette Design and Build Ltd, Arc.(Dr.) Alaba Abiodun Oduniyi;current president of Airfirst Nigeria Ltd(ANL),Engr.(Dr)Abatan Gbolahan Olusegun;the Executive Director/Admin of Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Ltd,Dr.(Barr)Joshua Oghenejiru Muwhen;former Area Manager of the Lagos office of NIWA, Engr.( Dr) Larat Sarat Braimah;the CEO of Dynamic Mayor Edge Nig. Ltd, Dr. Olumayowa Olufemi Olurishe;CEO of C.J.Oil Nig. Ltd, Dr. Chinedu Judefranklin Oparah; Executive Chairman/CEO of Gombe State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Abubakar Inuwa Tata and Dr. Omoh Atsenokhai of National Library of Nigeria H/Q;a certified public procurement specialist of Bureau of Public Procurement of Nigeria, Dr. Ikhile Edobor Fred;Chairman/CEO of Tonypeters Industries PLC, Chief(Dr).Anthony Chukwuemeka Onyeakusi.Others are Chief (Dr.) Bernard Okumagba, fmr Managing Director of NDDC;Fmr North-East Zonal Manager of FCMB,Dr.Bala Ma’aji;General Manager TCN,Abuja, FCT, Engr.( Dr) Maiwada Sarki Bello; CEO of Chrisanbeth Investments Ltd, Dr.(Mrs) Lami Onayi Ahmed and the Fmr Chairman of Kanam LGC of Plateau, Hon.( Dr) Dayyabu Yusuf Garga.
Other awardees are Dr. Ifeanyi Madu, CEO Enmal Orthopaedic;CEO of Hebron Health Ltd, Dr. Eze Gabriel Ikechukwu; the CEO of Anthony Properties Nigeria Ltd, Dr. (Mrs) Anthonia Ada Utomi;CEO of Rhoda Michael ‘s Fashion Institute, Dr. Rhoda Agbeyo;CEO of Silvers and Hall Schools, Lekki, Lagos, Dr.(Barr) Omobonike Mariam Agunbiade;CEO of Eaglenet Logistics Services Ltd, Dr. Vincent Ugo Chukwuemeka Nwaugha; and the Secretary of Postgraduate School, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Alhaji (Dr) Babajiya Muhammad Bida.Three outstanding organizations including the freightliner Logistics Services Ltd;Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd and the Bowa-Gate Global Ltd who will bag the Leadtimes Africa Best Logistics Services of the Year;Leadtimes Africa Most Flavor and Confectionaries; and Leadtimes Africa Beacon of Excellence in Logistics services 2025, respectively.
During the program ,representatives of Highestone Global University, Texas, USA, will be attendance.

The Buzz Around Gen. Christopher musa’s Screening Is All About Hope And Realistic Expectations.

By M.K Mohammed

‘Tthere’s definitely optimism that Christopher Musa can make a difference’

 People are looking at his track record as former Chief of Defence Staff and saying, “He’s human, he’ll make mistakes, but we’ll stand with him.” That’s why prayers and moral support are flooding in; it’s a reminder that even the most seasoned leader needs a solid backing from the public.

During his Senate appearance, Musa laid out a clear plan: better welfare for troops, a unified national database, and a push for modern gear like drones to take on Boko Haram, bandits and other threats. He even urged the National Assembly to back government‑to‑government procurement so the military can get the equipment Nigeria’s neighbours already have.

So, in a nutshell:

-Expectations: He’s expected to bring the same disciplined, intelligence‑driven approach he showed as CDS, but everyone acknowledges he’ll need time and resources.

  • Support: Prayers, public encouragement, and political backing are seen as crucial.
  • Equipment: Modern tools—drones, surveillance tech, a national database—are highlighted as immediate gaps that the federal government is being urged to fill 

Iam confidence in his ability to turn the tide is echoed by many, and the call for the President to give him every necessary support is loud and clear. Let’s keep the energy up and the prayers coming – together we can help him deliver the security Nigeria deserves.

Gen. Christopher Musa! His appointment has already drawn praise from groups like Northern CAN and a civil‑society outfit, who say his military background and track record as former CDS give him a solid foundation to tackle Boko Haram, bandits and other threats.

During his swearing‑in, Musa promised “jointness,” a national database and a push for modern gear—drones, surveillance tech, better intel—so the armed forces can operate more like a cohesive unit. He also stressed that troop welfare is strategic, not just administrative, which lines up with the calls for better equipment and support.

At the same time, many observers remind us that even the most seasoned leader will need time, resources and consistent political backing to translate plans into results. Prayers and public encouragement are seen as helpful, but they’re usually paired with the expectation that the federal government follows through on procurement and logistics.

So, while there’s definitely optimism that Musa can make a difference, the general consensus is that a mix of strong leadership, modern equipment and sustained support will be key to turning that optimism into real security gains.

From M.K Mohammed, a public Analyst based in Kaduna and Abuja

Movement for Competent Leadership (MCL) – A Call to Join the Change

Nigerians, it’s time to rise above party politics and demand competent leadership that prioritizes our welfare. The Movement for Competent Leadership (MCL) is a non-partisan group focused on promoting effective governance, accountability, and people-centered policies.

Our Mission

  • Advocate for leaders who demonstrate competence, integrity, and vision
  • Promote policies that address the needs of all Nigerians
  • Hold elected officials accountable for their actions
  • Foster a culture of transparency and good governance

Why Join MCL?

  • Be part of a movement that puts Nigerians first
  • Contribute to shaping a brighter future for our country
  • Support leaders who prioritize our welfare and development
  • Demand accountability and transparency from our government

Join the Movement

Together, let’s create a Nigeria where leadership is based on merit, not party affiliation. Join MCL today and be part of the change we need.

Contact Us:
07012399994
08060772255

Let’s build a better Nigeria, together!

Yari Roundtable Convenes Interfaith Summit to Proffer Lasting Solutions for Peace in the North

Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony organisation convened a high-level interfaith summit bringing together Christian and Muslim leaders to discuss practical solutions to the persistent insecurity confronting Northern Nigeria.

The well attended strategic meeting, held in Abuja, drew prominent religious leaders, and dignitaries from across 19 northern states, all united in their commitment to chart a new course for peace and stability in the region.

In his opening remarks, Senator Shehu Sani ,who attended the event,said the summit became necessary in view of the worsening security challenges in the North. He stressed that leaders must confront the realities fueling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

According to him, the roundtable was designed to listen directly to religious leaders and community stakeholders, gather credible insights, and produce a harmonised report for relevant authorities to act upon.

“We must stop being reactive as leaders” . “The bold step we are taking today is to seek solutions through a bottom-up approach. It is clear that the North cannot develop under the weight of insecurity. We must confront the issues honestly and find lasting solutions once and for all.”

Speaking further during the Senator Shehu Sani charged the clerics to support government using worship place, to propagate messages of peace and harmony.

The former lawmaker who expressing satisfaction over what he described a rubost discussions during strategic meeting , he said ” We all feel highly enriched by the contributions and experiences narrated by the participants “

According bro him , the Yari Roundtable for Interreligious Harmony seeks to tackle how we can we collectively find peace and fight terrorism that bedevilled our nation

Having collectively agreed that terrorism and banditry is a common danger and threat to people,there is a need to proffer solutions

He further noted that interfaith collaboration remains critical in promoting peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility in the fight against insecurity. He emphasised that Christian and Muslim leaders must work together to rebuild trust and mobilise communities against violent extremism.

Religious leaders at the event commended Senator Yari for initiating the maiden interfaith roundtable, describing it as timely and courageous. They underscored the pivotal role of clerics in shaping public opinion, promoting unity, and discouraging radicalisation within communities.

They expressed optimism that the robust discussions at the summit had uncovered key drivers of insecurity and stressed that if the recommendations are fully implemented by federal, state, and local governments, the region will witness significant improvement in the battle against insurgency and banditry.

The clerics also urged political leaders, security agencies, and citizens to support the resolutions and sustain interfaith engagements as a sustainable pathway to peace and development.

Prominent religious leaders present at the summit included Archbishop James Mafita, Sheikh Salisu Abdullahi Maibarota, Rev. Gideon Mutum, Dr. Umar Zaria, Dr. Sadiq Doka, Bishop Salisu Bala (JP), Bishop Livingston Achili, Bishop Obadiah Gideon Bako, and Sheikh Adam Binani, among several others.

The former Zamfara Governor, and lawmaker, Senator Abdul Aziz Yari founded the organization to create a platform for Interreligious Harmony ,peace and unity across the 19 Northern states .

Nigeria Shines At COP30 Brazil

Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing COP30 in Belēm, Brazil, witnessed a tremendous boost when Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), delivered a keynote address at the High-Level Buildings and Cooling Pavilion Side Event.

The DG ECN used the platform provided to highlight Nigeria’s commitment to a smarter, energy-efficient cooling transition aligned with global climate goals.

Dr. Mustapha, alongside global partners which included Daikin Industries, UNEP-U4E, and the International Energy Agency, explored practical solutions to expand access to cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

At the global event, discussions emphasized the role of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and modern cooling technologies in reducing emissions across emerging economies, with side discussions held with staff of the NNPC on how this initiative can be further promoted by the Government of Nigeria.

The ECN Director-General, an avowed and committed believer in the country’s solarization project, reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to harmonize standards, deepen collaboration, and accelerate sustainable cooling innovations under the Global Cooling Pledge.

He told listeners that “ECN remains focused on advancing technologies and policies that enhance comfort, boost productivity, and protect the environment”.

Similarly, the ECN DG engaged with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy and Climate Change, to discuss fostering a just and equitable energy transition for developing nations.

The conversation focused on responsibly harnessing natural resources to accelerate sustainable growth, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and a future where energy development benefits people while protecting the planet.

Dr. Mustapha at the global event who comes to an end today, joined other distinguished Nigerians at the Nigeria Pavilion to celebrate Nigeria Day at the ongoing COP30 in Brazil, where a brief remark was delivered.

The delegation included the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Adelegbe Emmanuel Oluwatimehin.

Several other eminent Nigerian representatives were also present, demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to climate action and sustainable development on the global stage.

LEADTIMES AFRICA,HIGHSTONES GLOBAL UNIVERSITY,POSTPONED AWARDS

Engr.(Dr.) Sadiq Mustapha (FNSE,
FIMC, CFPM), Group Managing Director,  Trade & Tech Group

The long-awaited leadtimes Africa magazine annual award which has been slated for this weekend at the University of Lagos has been shifted to mid-December.In a press statement credited to Professor Buba S. Mshelia, the advisory chairman of Leadtimes Africa Magazine and the co-convener of the ceremony stated thus: “the postponement become very necessary in view of the need to make the event more colourful and recognize other stakeholders in business environment across the country.Few outstanding Nigerians who have contributed immensely to the growth of Leadtimes Africa magazine will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame,this is the maiden edition and we will do it better in future”.While we regret the pains associated with this postponement,we however call for more understanding and be rest assured that, you would enjoy the program come mid-December at the University of Lagos,Professor Mshelia reiterated.
It will recalled that Chief Director-General/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, FIIRO,Dr.Jummai Tutuwa Adamu will among those to be honored during the ceremony come mid December at the University of Lagos with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Researcher of the Year 2025 in recognition of her enormous contributions in championing innovation, indigenous technology,and sustainable development in Nigeria through industrialization.In a press statement credited to the chairman of the Advisory Board of Leadtimes Africa,Professor Buba S. Mshelia, “the D.G/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research,Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Adamu Tutuwa is nominated for her indomitable contributions towards inspiring transformation in Nigeria’s industrial research landscape,demonstrating the profound impact of science and technology on national development”.
During the ceremony, the Group Managing Director of UR 9 , Dr. Hon. Uriel
Eze will also be decorated with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year Award at the ceremony at University of Lagos.Hon.Dr.Uriel Eze has distinguished himself as an outstanding business industrialist and professional that has cut across different sectors of the economy including beverages, real estate and construction, interior Design, Agriculture, media, technologies, hospitality, energy, Fashion, logistics, security, and Asset Management, among others.Others listed for Grand Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service include Dr. Azeez Abayomi Mustapha, CEO of AZ Logistics Limited;CEO of Kwara State Procurement Agency, Mr. QS Raheem Abdulbaki; and the Group Managing Director/CEO of Trade and Tech, Engr.(Dr.) Abubakar Sadiq Mustapha,a 2023 winner of the Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year who is again nominated to serve as the Advisory Board member of Leadtimes Africa Magazine in view of his enormous contributions to the growth and expansion of Leadtimes Africa magazine over the years and he will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame during the ceremony.
In the same vein,few eminent Nigerians will be decorated with honorary doctorate degree awards of Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.
Prominent among the honorary awardees of Highstone Global University Texas, USA include Head of Health and Pharmaceutical Sectors, Jackson Etti & Edu, Mrs Chinyere Okorocha who is expected to bag Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration as well as Mrs Abimbola Adebakin,CEO of Advantage Health Africa who is nominated for Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration by Highstone Global University,Texas, USA.Also included for honor is Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited, Founder/CEO, Majeurs Holdings, Ms Demi Samonde;Titus Osawe of Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria,who are listed for Doctor of Business Administration and Corporate Governance respectively. Other awardees include Gbolahan Jacob Akinola, CEO of Trydnt Services who is nominated for Doctor of Risk and Security Management by Prowess University, Delaware, USA.


A Team of Highestone Global University, Texas, USA with an awardee

Detective Moris Emmanuel

QS Raheem Abdulbaki, CEO, Kwara Procurement Agency

Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Tutuwa Adamu, D.G/CEO, FIIRO
Lagos

Hon.( Dr) Uriel Eze,Group CEO
UR

Other nominees for Prowess University awards include the CEO of Sycamore, Gbenga Magbagbeola- Doctor of Business Administration;Dame Tito Obaigbo, Omowunmi, Director of Finance, AEC Unity Network Ltd; Co-Founder/CEO of Iwosan Investments Ltd, Mrs Fola Laoye will be honored with Doctor of Health Management and Leadership by Prowess University including Mrs Claire Omatseye, Managing Director of JNC International Ltd who is listed for Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration.
Also, the Group Managing Director of Digital Space Capital, Amb. (Dr.)Mrs Olubukola Abitoye will be decorated with Doctor of Strategic Management and Human Development by Highstone Global University, Texas, USA, including the General Secretary,NIPR who doubles as the Principal Consult SS PR Comm. Ltd, Dr. Fatimah Binta Ahmadu who will bag Doctor of Personnel and Human Resource Management and Detective Emmanuel Moris of Nigeria Police Force who is nominated for Doctor of Risk and Security Management(honoris causa). Also included the Managing Director of Blenco Supermarket Nig. Ltd, Blessing Aghedo who is nominated for Doctor of Business Administration. Also included in the list of honor is the Managing Director/CEO of Pinnacle Health Pharmaceutical and Stores Ltd, Amaka Ubajekwe who is nominated for Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration by Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.
Also listed for honor include the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare who nominated for Doctor of Risk and Security Management; and the CEO of Railway Property Management Company Ltd, Timothy Zalanga who will bag Doctor of Business Administration and Corporate Governance, among others.
During the program , the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Highestone Global University, Texas, USA, Professor Engr. Theophilus Aku Ugah, Ph.D including the Africa Vice Chancellor of the institution will be in attendance, among others.
Grand Leadership Prize For Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service will be presented to deserving awardees by Professor Buba S. Mshelia, Advisory Board chairman of Leadtimes Africa Magazine.

WHEN DEMOCRACY GOES TO COURT BEFORE THE VOTER ARRIVES

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Examines How Triple Threats of Money, Might, and Chaotic Litigations Sets Nigeria’s Democracy at Risk

As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, a familiar and troubling pattern is resurfacing: our democracy is being contested long before citizens approach the polling booths. Increasingly, political battles are fought not in town halls, rallies or debates, but in courtrooms, party secretariats, private villas and the shadows of unchecked financial influence.
When democracy goes to court before the voter arrives, the heart of electoral legitimacy is compromised; unless we confront this drift, 2027 risks becoming another election decided by judicial technicalities, power blocs and influence peddlers—not the will of the Nigerian people.
The Courtroom Is Not a Campaign Ground
Certainly, there is no democracy without an independent judiciary; but there is also no healthy democracy when litigation replaces voter persuasion and legal technicalities overshadow voter decisions. In this dispensation, pre-election court cases have mushroomed to unprecedented levels. Instead of focusing on policies, candidates invest in legal teams to disqualify opponents, overturn primaries or secure favorable interpretations of party rules, electoral law and election guidelines.
While the courts play a vital role in resolving disputes, their increasing involvement before and after elections weakens the mandate that should come from the electorate. When judges determine who appears on the ballot and who occupies position more than voters do, democracy becomes distorted.
Money: The Invisible Voter
Financial influence has become one of the most determining factors of Nigerian electoral process and outcomes. The monetization of the political process—from party forms that cost millions, to delegates’ primaries drenched in cash, to open vote-buying on election day—has made public office obviously purchasable.
In the buildup to 2027, there is already evidence of an arms race of money. But democracy should not and cannot be an auction. When the candidate with the deepest pockets surpasses the candidate with the best ideas and pedigree, the entire nation pays the price.
Might and Intimidation: The Dark Edge of Nigerian Politics
Nigeria’s elections are often marred by a subtle but powerful coercive force: the deployment of political thugs, the misuse of security agencies and the intimidation of both voters and electoral officials. If citizens cannot cast their votes freely, without fear of intimidation or manipulation of their votes, then we do not have elections—what we have are simply rituals of staged participation. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must insist that the ballot paper not the bully or manipulation, remains the instrument of choice. Stakeholders’ manipulative tendencies must be resisted and totally rejected. We must understand and believe that our destiny would not be served on a platter of gold. True freedom is always wrested not given!
Manipulation From Within
Manipulation does not only occur at polling units. It often begins much earlier—through compromised party primaries, doctored delegate lists, parallel congresses and last-minute candidate substitutions. These internal manipulations set the stage for disputed outcomes and post-election chaos.
Regrettably, when the foundations are shaky, the entire democratic structure trembles.
Why the Popular Vote Must Be Supreme in 2027
For Nigeria to move forward, the legitimacy of leaders must come from the people—not from court rulings, kingmakers or financial powerhouses. The 2027 season provide a crucial opportunity to reinforce the principles of free, fair and credible elections which require transparent and technology-backed electoral processes that prioritize voters over power brokers; political finance reforms to curb the corrupting force of money; internal party democracy that is credible, inclusive, and free from manipulation; judicial restraint and speedy processes ensuring courts do not become substitutes for elections as well as security neutrality to guarantee voter safety and trust.
To succeed, we must believe in being strong even when it seems to be impossible. It is said that if you really want to eat, keep climbing; the fruits are on the top of the tree; stretch your hands and keep stretching them; success is on the top. One cannot score a goal when sitting on the bench; to do so, one has to dress up and enter the game. Yes, WE CAN DO IT by securing our PVCs and getting set and determine to change the impossible with it! Democracy thrives when the ballot box speaks louder than any court order or political godfather.
2027: A Defining Moment
Nigeria is at a decisive crossroads.
Citizens are increasingly aware, vocal and determined to reclaim their democratic power. But the system must make space for their voices to matter. If the results of the 2027 elections are to enjoy national and international respect, they must reflect the true will of the Nigerian people—not the interests of a privileged minority.
Our democracy must not go to court before the voter arrives. This cherished democracy must go to the polling booth—where it truly belongs. The power to shape Nigeria’s future lies with its citizens. In 2027, the popular vote must not merely be counted; it MUST be respected, protected and allowed to decide.

This opinion was contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Justice & Constitutional Matters.

Muslim , Christian Groups Unite for National Mega Peace Summit in Kaduna, Abuja

Christian and Muslim organisations under the umbrella of the Coalition for Peace and Justice have concluded plans to convene a National Mega Peace Summit aimed at promoting unity and strengthening the fight against insecurity across Nigeria.

The interfaith summit, scheduled to hold next week Saturday in Kaduna and Abuja, is expected to attract grassroots religious leaders from across the country, particularly from the northern region.

In a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Dr. Othman Musa Idris and Pastor John Simon Jita, the coalition reaffirmed that unity, mutual understanding and collective action remain essential to overcoming the forces threatening the nation’s peace and development.

According to the organisers, the summit will provide a strategic platform for Christian and Muslim leaders to engage in dialogue, exchange perspectives and develop joint approaches to tackling the rising threats of terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.

They noted that faith leaders play a critical role in shaping public attitudes and influencing community responses to security challenges. The gathering, therefore, seeks to harness their influence in mobilising communities toward peacebuilding, conflict resolution and improved security cooperation.

Discussions at the summit will also focus on practical steps to end violence, foster peaceful coexistence and reinforce the shared commitment of both religions to safeguarding lives and restoring stability in affected communities.

At the end of the deliberations, a joint communiqué is expected, outlining agreed positions, recommendations and a coordinated framework to support national security efforts and advance sustainable peace across the country.

CSGG Names Gen. Christopher Musa as “Nigeria’s Needed Stabilizer” in New National Communiqué

Abuja, Nigeria — November 13, 2025

The Citizens Support for Good Governance (CSGG), a nationwide civic coalition with structures across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, has issued a national strategic communiqué identifying former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa Gwabin (rtd.), as the “most credible stabilizing force” needed to reinforce national unity ahead of the 2027 political season.

The communiqué, released in Abuja yesterday and signed by CSGG’s National Leader, Mallam Aminu Musa Ladan, warned that Nigeria is entering one of its most fragile periods since the return to democracy in 1999. It cited rising insecurity, ethnic tension, political fractures, and what it described as “a dangerous flood of misinformation” as factors threatening national cohesion.

Nigeria at a “Critical Crossroads” — CSGG

According to the coalition, nationwide consultations were conducted with clerics, community elders, youth groups, traditional rulers, security experts, and civil society organisations. From these engagements, the group said one figure consistently emerged as a neutral, widely trusted national asset.

“Nigeria cannot afford further division or national drift. The country needs a stabilizing figure with credibility across regions. The name overwhelmingly identified by citizens was General Christopher Musa Gwabin,” the communiqué stated.

CSGG warned that with political temperatures rising ahead of 2027, Nigeria must “deploy every credible stabilizing asset available or risk avoidable turbulence.”

Why CSGG Identified Musa as Key

The communiqué highlighted five major reasons behind General Musa’s endorsement:

  1. Cross-regional acceptance — respected in the South, trusted in the North, and embraced in the Middle Belt.
  2. Deep security expertise — described as an authority on insurgency, banditry networks, intelligence gaps, and peace-building.
  3. A unifier at a time of distrust — seen as non-partisan and non-sectional.
  4. A complement to President Bola Tinubu — not a political threat but a “reinforcing voice” for national stability.
  5. A reputation for integrity, discipline, and patriotism.

The coalition said public sentiments consistently portrayed the retired general as “the missing link” needed to calm tensions and strengthen national confidence.

Calls to Government: ‘Deploy Him Now’

CSGG urged the Federal Government to officially integrate General Musa into national unity and stabilization efforts.

Among its recommendations were:

Recognizing him as a national stabilizer;

Deploying him as a bridge between Northern, Middle Belt, and Southern blocs;

Engaging him in national cohesion advisory roles;

Protecting him from what it called “emerging political smear attempts”;

And assigning him a strategic role in the broader 2027 national consolidation framework.

The group insisted that Musa’s constituency—including Middle Belt communities, Christian leaders, military veterans, civil networks, and youth coalitions—should be transformed into “a structured national support base reinforcing unity and the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Nationwide Mobilization Planned

CSGG announced that it will begin nationwide engagements under the theme “Stability First — Nigeria Must Stand United.”

The program includes townhall meetings, interfaith dialogues, media campaigns, policy briefs, and a National Peace Desk modeled around General Musa’s legacy and leadership philosophy.

The coalition also plans to meet with governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, and traditional councils across Nigeria.

Warning to Political Actors

In one of its strongest statements, CSGG cautioned political stakeholders against undermining what it described as “national stabilizing figures.”

“Nigeria is too fragile for petty political battles. Any attempt to discredit stabilizers at this time may amount to undermining the nation’s survival,” the communiqué warned, adding that attacks on Gen. Musa would be interpreted as attacks on unity, security, and peace.

‘The Time Is Now — Or Never’

The coalition concluded by insisting that the country must not allow “a rare moment of national consensus” to slip away.

“Across Kano, Enugu, Lagos, Taraba, Kaduna, and Rivers, citizens identified a single pillar of unity: General Christopher Musa Gwabin. We must deploy him now or risk losing an opportunity that may never return,” the statement read.

The communiqué was jointly signed by:

Mall. Aminu Musa Ladan — National Leader, North West

Hon. Abayomi Rasheed — Director of Administration, South West

Hon. Victor Mathew — Director of Media & Public Affairs, Middle Belt

Donald James June — Director of Strategy & Organization, South South