Ejembi Takes Over as Acting Chairman of MBF Kaduna Chapter

The Kaduna State Chapter of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) now has a new Acting Chairman.

At a brief ceremony during a valedictory executive meeting held in Kaduna yesterday, the outgoing Chairman, Luka Binniyat, announced that he had been directed by the National President of MBF, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, to hand over leadership to his deputy in an acting capacity.

According to the Middle Belt Forum’s organizational structure, the Chairman is supported by a Deputy Chairman and three Vice Chairmen, followed by other executive members. However, the majority of the executive committee favored Mr. Daniel Ejembi, the Assistant Chairman 1, for the role. This decision was communicated to Dr. Pogu, who promptly approved the choice.

Before formally handing over Ejembi’s letter of appointment, Binniyat stated:

“Following my appointment to the National Working Committee (NWC) as the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Forum, the President of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Dr. Bitrus Pogu, in consultation with the NWC, has directed me to officially hand over to you, Assistant Chairman 1, to assume the position of Acting Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter.

As such, I am no longer the Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter of the MBF.

With this letter, you are hereby recognized as the official and only Acting Chairman of the MBF, Kaduna State Chapter, along with your duly elected Executive Committee, until otherwise directed by the NWC.

It must be emphasized that any individual or group claiming to act in your capacity or that of your executive committee may be liable for impersonation.

The President congratulates you on your new role and looks forward to a vibrant and effective Kaduna State Chapter under your leadership.”

Ejembi, a businessman, human rights activist, and anti-corruption crusader, has been a longtime resident of Kaduna. He hails from Benue State.

The Middle Belt Forum represents ethnic groups from Northern Nigeria that were historically outside the Othman Dan Fodio Caliphate and the Kanem-Borno Empire before colonial rule. It spans 14 northern states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Ethnic groups from Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Borno, and Southern Bauchi, as well as those from Adamawa, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Taraba, Benue, and the FCT, are all members of the MBF.

Nasarawa Assembly Advances Bill to Regulate Mining Consents, Aims to Curb Illegal Activities

The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has successfully passed a bill aimed at regulating the issuance of land consents and community agreements to mining entities, advancing it to its second reading. This legislative move seeks to address conflicts and other adverse impacts associated with mining activities in the state.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, announced the progress during a recent session held in Lafia. He emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to overseeing the issuance of mining consents by traditional and community leaders to mining companies, with the goal of mitigating disputes and enhancing the overall process.

The bill’s sponsor, Hon. Daniel Ogazi Kokona East, outlined its key provisions, which include fostering peace and unity within mining communities. He urged his fellow lawmakers to support the bill’s passage, highlighting its potential to bring about positive change.

During the debate, several lawmakers expressed their backing for the bill, noting the minimal benefits currently accruing to the state from foreign miners who often exploit local resources. They argued that the bill’s enactment could lead to community development and a reduction in insecurity.

The Assembly also proposed the active participation of key ministries—Land and Survey, Environment, and the Judiciary—in negotiating agreements between miners and host communities. Additionally, it recommended the allocation of a specific percentage of funds for the development of mining communities.

This legislative initiative underscores the Nasarawa State House of Assembly’s dedication to ensuring sustainable and equitable mining practices, with a focus on enhancing the welfare of affected communities and promoting environmental stewardship.

Benue State Government Initiates Demolition of Illegal Structures in Makurdi

The Benue State Government has launched a campaign to dismantle unauthorized buildings constructed along road setbacks and major highways in various parts of Makurdi, the state capital.

Terhemen Mende, the General Manager of the Benue State Urban Development Board, spearheaded the demolition operation, emphasizing the board’s commitment to the urban renewal and upgrade of Makurdi.

Mende explained that the demolition was essential to facilitate the Federal Government’s Benue-Enugu Highway construction project and to support the broader urban regeneration efforts in the state capital.

“This demolition is integral to the government’s strategy to clear the path for the Benue-Enugu Highway project and to enhance the overall appearance and safety of Makurdi,” Mende stated.

He further noted that the board is dedicated to revitalizing the urban environment of Makurdi through comprehensive renovation and modernization initiatives.

Additionally, Mende highlighted ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the demolition of unauthorized structures in other parts of the state that present significant security risks.

While some residents affected by the demolition expressed a mix of emotions regarding the process, they urged the government to offer financial support to help them explore alternative opportunities.

Communiqué Issued by All Support Groups and Obidient Stakeholders in Kaduna Following an Interactive and Strategic Meeting.

Following a comprehensive interactive and strategic meeting of all support groups and Obidient stakeholders in Kaduna, the following resolutions were reached:

1. Expression of Gratitude: We extend our sincere appreciation to His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, and the members of the Expanded Stakeholders Committee of the Labour Party for the appointment of the following esteemed individuals from Kaduna State: Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman as the National Caretaker Chairperson of the Labour Party, Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the State Chairman of the Labour Party, Dr. Yunusa Tanko as a key member of the Obidient National Leadership, and Mallam Abdulkareem Ibrahim as the Presidential Candidate’s Spokesman.

Since the appointment of Hon. Solomon Danbaki, we have observed a marked improvement in the trust and confidence within the Party. Activities are being revitalized at all levels, and we are committed to offering our unwavering loyalty and support to the Party and the Obidient Movement across all levels.

2. Congratulations to the New Leadership: We formally congratulate Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman and her team for accepting the responsibility to serve in their respective capacities. Their leadership marks a significant step forward for the Party and the Movement.

3. Condemnation of Anti-Party Activities: We condemn in the strongest possible terms the actions of the immediate past Chairman of the Party, Barrister Julius Abure, and his associates for their involvement in anti-party activities. These actions have caused significant disruption to the Party and its supporters. We urge Barrister Abure to embrace peace and accept the current reality for the greater good of the nation.

4. Reaffirmation of Labour Party’s Position: The current leadership has restored the Labour Party’s rightful position as Nigeria’s main opposition party. We call on all Nigerians to seize this opportunity and rally behind the Party as we work to reclaim the greatness of our nation.

5. Call for Membership Drive and Asset Recovery: We advise the new leadership to immediately embark on a membership drive at all levels and to create a new membership register, as we no longer have confidence in the old one. Furthermore, we recommend that deliberate efforts be made to recover all assets and funds belonging to the Party, which remain in the possession of individuals from the previous executive, led by Barrister Julius Abure.

6. Appeal to Aggrieved Members: We extend a call to all aggrieved members who may have left the Party or felt disillusioned to return and join us in our shared mission to free Nigeria from the clutches of failure. Additionally, we appeal to all Nigerians, particularly those in Kaduna, to vote massively for the Labour Party and to ensure the protection of ballots cast in favor of the Party.

7. Assurance of Commitment: We acknowledge that mistakes were made during the last general elections, which led to a loss of trust despite the many sacrifices of our supporters. We assure all members that every effort is being made to address these anomalies. We remain steadfast in our determination to reclaim Nigeria for ourselves and future generations.

8. Adoption of New Slogan: The Kaduna State Chapter of the Global Obidient Movement has adopted the following slogan: “Obidient Movement! Doing the right thing! Doing the right thing! Go and verify!”

In conclusion, we pray for divine strength and guidance for all the courageous men and women who came out in support of the Labour Party, despite the challenges. We are committed to continuing our efforts and will not be swayed by any opposition, including from figures like Julius Abure.

Thank you all for your attention.

Long live the Labour Party.
Long live Kaduna State.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah Inducted into BLERF Hall of Fame for Outstanding Contributions to Peace and Governance

In a momentous event yesterday, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah was honoured with an induction into the prestigious Biographical Legacy and Research Foundation (BLERF) Hall of Fame. This esteemed recognition, presented by Nyaknno Abasi Osso—celebrated as Africa’s foremost Journalism Librarian—acknowledges the Bishop’s exceptional contributions to peace advocacy and good governance in Nigeria.

Nyaknno Abasi Osso praised Bishop Kukah, often referred to as “the conscience of the nation” and “Nigeria’s spiritual guide,” for his unwavering dedication to promoting national unity through interfaith dialogue, social and economic justice, and strategic governance. With deep roots in Kaduna State, Bishop Kukah has earned both local and international respect for his tireless efforts in fostering peace and nation-building.

The induction into the BLERF Hall of Fame not only celebrates Bishop Kukah’s remarkable achievements but also serves as a reminder of the profound impact of his work and the enduring relevance of his vision for a peaceful, united, and prosperous Nigeria.

As Nigerians and the global community reflect on his legacy, Bishop Kukah’s commitment to shaping a brighter future continues to inspire leaders and citizens alike.

SOKAPU, Middle Belt Forum Condemn Kidnapped and Assination of Members.

The unrelenting insecurity aimed at ethnic nationalities of Southern Kaduna, in the Middle Belt of Nigeria seems to have taken another dimension.

Southern Kaduna, is the buffer belt between the majority Muslim population of Northwest Nigeria and the Christian stronghold of Nigeria Middle Belt.

The Southern Kaduna People Union (SOKAPU) – the umbrella socio-cultural body of the 57 ethnic groups of Southern Kaduna estimated at 5.2 million spread in 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kaduna state, Thursday raised the alarm over increasing cases of select kidnap and murder of some of its prominent members.

A Statement made available to the press in Kaduna, Friday, signed by Josiah Yusuf Abraks, Public Relations Officer of SOKAPU said that the District Heads or traditional ruler of Garu community, Alhaji Babangida Adamu Suleiman was kidnapped in Lere LGA, Wednesday by suspected armed herdsmen. The statement said further, that a popular evangelist, Pastor Peter Shabanyan was assassinated in his home in Katul Crossing community of Kachia.

“In another development in Kwassam Dr. Ishaya James was killed and eight other people kidnapped also in Kauru LGA”, the statement added.

Dr. Ishaya was a very beloved Doctor in his community for his charitable medical assistance to local farmers of his community.

In the same vein, Caleb Musa Kantiyok Dogo, Chairman, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) Kaduna State branch narrowly escaped assassination as he visited his village, Ayagan Kukwan, Zangon Kataf LGA, Wednesday, according to findings.

Dogo was the immediate past National Deputy Chairman of Bajju Development Association (BADA) .

Confirming the incident to our reporter from Abuja on phone yesterday, Dogo said, it’s true that there was an attempt on my life.
“I was having supper with my cousins Wednesday evening.
“The Four gunmen came to my village around 7pm on two motorbikes pretending that I had given them an appointment to see me, so they wanted to be shown where I was. They were four in numbers,” he said.

“But their looks betrayed them as herdsmen,” he said.

“People were still moving around, especially our ever vigilant youths. So, when the herdsmen were further questioned by the youths they got angry. They reached out to their long flowing trench coats, brought out two AK 49 rifles and started shooting in the air. And they zoomed off into the night.

“When I came out to see commotion all over. I was told that they had come for me and I was vividly told what happened,” he said.

“The entire villages around were on red alert. I had to find my way to Abuja that night,” he said.

According to him, for years he has had a hunch that he was a mark for assassination or kidnapped after his uncle, Sunday Katiok, 64, was killed and their family compound set ablaze by suspected herdsmen in 2015.

“I hardly visit the village since my uncle was killed and our family home destroyed by fire set by the attacking Fulani herdsmen,” Dogo told our reporter..

“I have always known that my life was in danger, because after the murder of my uncle, who was a very successful farmer in Zangon Kataf LGA, many of our outstanding sons were either killed or kidnapped for huge ransom,” he told our Correspondent.

In May, 2023, the National President of BADA, Habila Madaki, a retired Director with the Central Bank of Nigeria, was kidnapped in his home and kept for two weeks until an undisclosed amount of ransom paid the kidnappers, said to be armed Fulani bandits, this medium can confirm.
Shortly before Madaki was kidnapped, Dr. Yakubu Sankay, a former Director General of National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), Jos, Plateau State, was murdered in his village when he came to visit his home folks in Zonkwa, Bajju land, Zangon Kataf LGA.
NIPPS is Nigerian most elitist government run college of administration.

“So, if you heard that I escaped an assassination attempt, it is true,” he said and I have reported the case to the police.

I have also notified SOKAPU and the Middle Belt Forum,” he told our reporter.

The Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna State Chapter, Comrade Luka Binniyat confirmed the incident to our reporter.

“I heard about the assassination attempt on Caleb Katiok from some of our members from Zangon Kataf LGA before he called to inform me,” said Binniyat who was also the immediate past national spokesman of SOKAPU.

“What is going on in Southern Kaduna looks like the Fulani herdsmen are picking our important and useful members of our communities for elimination or humiliating kidnap.

“The Middle Belt Forum is calling on all our members to do everything within the law to secure their communities since it looks that the government is incapable of securing us in the Middle Belt,” he said.

The Middle Belt Forum is the pan-socio-cultural body of all the over 250 ethnic groups of the Middle Belt of Nigeria spread in 14 States, including Southern Kaduna.

CDS General Christopher Musa Earns Praise for Ensuring Peaceful Protests

Abuja, Nigeria – Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa has garnered widespread acclaim for his steadfast commitment to maintaining peace and order amid recent protests across several Nigerian states. In a recent press conference, General Musa underscored the military’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that the demonstrations remain peaceful and do not escalate into anarchy.

General Musa stated, “The Nigerian military is resolute in its mission to protect the peace and security of our nation. We stand ready to assist the police in maintaining law and order, and our troops are prepared to deploy if necessary to ensure that the protests do not degenerate into chaos.”

His proactive approach and clear directives have been instrumental in preventing the protests from spiraling out of control. General Musa’s emphasis on unity and collective action has resonated with Nigerians, who have largely heeded his call for peaceful demonstrations.

“It is crucial that we all work together as a team. The security forces cannot do it alone. We need the support and cooperation of all Nigerians to ensure that we succeed in maintaining peace and stopping criminals from taking advantage,” General Musa said.

The CDS’s message has been conveyed to the federal, state, and local governments, highlighting the military’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the nation’s integrity. General Musa’s leadership and resolve have been widely praised, reinforcing the military’s role as a guardian of Nigeria’s stability.

As the nation navigates through these challenging times, General Christopher Musa’s exemplary leadership and dedication to peace have earned him well-deserved credit. His efforts serve as a beacon of hope, reminding all Nigerians of the importance of unity and collective action in preserving the peace and security of their beloved country.

EndBadGovernance Protest Intensifies, Security Forces Confront Protesters Across Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria – The #EndBadGovernance protest, which has swept across Nigeria, escalated on its second day as security forces clashed with demonstrators in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. In Lagos, thugs menacingly threatened to behead protesters and journalists, while police officers looked on. Meanwhile, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, protesters converged at the Federal Secretariat area.

At the Ojota protest grounds in Lagos, activist Zokira Ibeh detailed the escalating situation to Middle Belt Times: “We gathered here as early as 7 a.m. Initially, it was peaceful until about 20 thugs arrived, causing a surge in tension. They explicitly threatened to behead me and a media person. It’s crucial to note that the Police, who are duty-bound to protect us during this peaceful protest, were present but did nothing as thugs disrupted our demonstration.”

In contrast, Ibadan, Oyo State, has thus far remained relatively calm, with businesses resuming operations.

In Abuja, a contingent of heavily armed Nigerian Police officers forcibly dispersed a group of protesters near Berger Bridge. The protesters, chanting “Hunger dey oo, hunger dey ooo” (There’s hunger, there’s hunger), were met with tear gas and forceful dispersal by the officers. Passers-by and motorists, caught off-guard, criticized the police for their heavy-handed approach.

As the protest continues, the situation remains volatile, with calls for an end to bad governance echoing across the nation amid growing concerns over the safety of protesters and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public order.

Middle Belt Forum’s Caution on Kaduna Protest Vindicated as Hoodlums Vandalize Government Offices

Kaduna, Nigeria – Following the recent incidents of vandalism and looting during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Kaduna State, the earlier advisory by the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State chapter, urging Middle Belt youths to refrain from participating in the protest appears prescient. The MBF had expressed concerns that the protest, aimed at addressing governance issues, could be exploited by unknown sponsors for ulterior motives, as reported by the Middle Belt Times on July 24, 2024.

The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed that hoodlums vandalized the offices of the State Traffic and Law Environmental Authority (KASTLEA) and the Investment Promotions Agency (KADIPA) during the protest. Additionally, an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) was set ablaze, and numerous shops were looted. Police spokesperson Mansir Hassan informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that 23 suspects have been detained in connection with these incidents.

Hassan also noted that while police personnel did not use live ammunition, they resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd, which attempted to breach the Government House. Several officers sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals.

The MBF’s earlier statement, cautioning against the involvement of Middle Belt youths in the protest, highlighted potential security risks and the possibility of foreign elements escalating the situation into violence. This foresight has been validated by the events that unfolded, underscoring the importance of strategic caution in public demonstrations.

As the situation in Kaduna State continues to unfold, the MBF’s stance serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and unity among residents to safeguard their welfare and the integrity of their collective voice against governance challenges.

For further details on the MBF’s initial advisory, please refer to the original report published by the Middle Belt Times at Middle Belt Times Article.

Police Fire on Hunger Protesters in Nyanya

According to reports, police personnel assigned to protect the rights of protesters have allegedly opened fire on the demonstrators in Nyanya.

The Middle Belt Times has learned that the protesters, defying threats from the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who stated that the FCT would not be available for the protest, gathered in large numbers to participate in the demonstration.

The protest, which commenced at approximately eight o’clock in the morning, turned violent after the police fired gunshots in an attempt to disperse the protesters.

The Middle Belt Times is unable to confirm whether any protesters were injured or killed by the police during the incident.