In the Shadow of the Crescent: The Tumultuous Terrain of Nigeria’s Security Landscape

By

Ashineko Ayinya

As Nigeria grapples with the specter of its security challenges, the appointment of Christopher Gwabin Musa, an Atyap man, as the Chief of Defense staff has sparked a maelstrom of criticism. The outcry, primarily from Northern clerics and politically motivated instigators, exposes the deep-seated ethnic and religious fissures within the nation. This article explores these tensions, the political maneuverings around them, and their implications for the nation’s security.

Since the ascension of Christopher Musa, an Atyap, to the mantle of Chief of Defense staff in Nigeria, a veritable Pandora’s Box of controversy has been unlatched. A chorus of Northern clerics, spurred on by Machiavellian politicians seeking to portray themselves as the guardians of Islam, have been vocal in their dissent. In a sweeping act of political grandstanding, they targeted the Atyap Development Association in their twilight hours of power.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, like Odysseus navigating the tumultuous seas, sincerely seeks to shore up the security of his nation. Appointments like Musa’s are born out of merit and necessity, a lesson learned from the previous regime’s missteps, which led to a veritable Trojan Horse situation with Muslims monopolizing all strategic security positions, resulting in the country’s descent into its darkest period of insecurity. President Tinubu’s move may be more of a strategic maneuver than a show of favoritism towards Christians. In matters of national security, religious and ethnic affiliations should be relegated to the background.

Yet, these clerics, like sirens calling out to a ship, are desperate to discredit and possibly pressure President Tinubu into retracting the appointment. They have propagated the unfounded claim that Musa, who has merely been in position for two months, is planning a purge of Hausas, beginning in Zaria. Their references to the 1992 Zangon Kataf crisis, a dark chapter in Kaduna State’s history, are one-sided and exclude the instigations that sparked the conflict. They demand the execution of General Zamani Lekwot, rekindling old tensions and risking the resurgence of conflict.

Amidst the realm of political discourse, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cautionary words, foretelling the potential for ECOWAS’ martial intervention against the coupists in Niger, suffered a lamentable misinterpretation. Like whispers carried by the winds of ancient myths, some insinuated that the astute military chief, donning the mantle of ECOWAS grand commander, harbored a cunning stratagem to set ablaze the passions of conflict, starting with the noble Hausa populace ensconced in Zaria’s storied embrace. This misconception, akin to the tragic tales of old, took root in the intertwined narratives of Niger and Northern Nigeria, where any hostile act towards Niger was viewed as a direct assault upon the very essence of Northern Nigeria, igniting a chorus of collective anguish and invoking the echoes of an enduring bond.

The clerics’ selective amnesia extends to the security challenges faced under the Buhari administration. They conveniently overlook the rampant kidnappings and killings unless someone from a non-Muslim background assumes a position of authority. They remain silent on the violence, abductions, forced marriages committed by Fulani individuals against their fellow Hausas. Their selective outrage and consciousness paint a puzzling picture.

The discord surrounding Musa’s appointment is symptomatic of the complex interplay of religion, ethnicity, and politics in Nigeria’s security landscape. These complications, if left unchecked, could further destabilize the already tenuous security situation. It is therefore crucial for the government and its citizens to rise above the divisive rhetoric and work towards a harmonious and secure Nigeria.

About the Author

Ashineko Ayinya is a writer, researcher, and mathematician from Southern Kaduna. In 2018, he faced persecution from the government led by El-Rufai and narrowly escaped with his life. As a result, he is currently an internally displaced person. He sustains himself amidst the economic challenges in the country through his professional writing.

Footnotes:

• Christopher Gwabin Musa: General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR, an Atyap man, (born 25 December 1967) is a Nigerian Army general who is the 18th Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria. He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on 19 June 2023.
• Zangon Kataf Crisis: The Zangon Kataf Crisis refers to a violent ethnic conflict that occurred in Zangon Kataf, Kaduna State, Nigeria, in the early 1990s. The conflict involved clashes between the Kataf ethnic group and the Hausa-Fulani Muslim settlers, driven by issues of land ownership, political representation, and religious tensions. The crisis resulted in casualties, property destruction, and mass displacement. Major General Zamani Lekwot, a key figure in the Nigerian Army, was implicated in the crisis and faced legal consequences, highlighting the complexity of managing communal tensions and the need for effective conflict resolution strategies.
• Zamani Lekwot: Zamani Lekwot (1947-date), an Atyap man, was a Nigerian military officer known for his role in peacekeeping operations, particularly during the ECOMOG intervention in Liberia and Sierra Leone. He rose to the rank of Major General in the Nigerian Army and served as the Force Commander of the Nigerian contingent in ECOMOG. However, Lekwot’s career was marred by controversy when he was implicated in the Zangon Kataf communal clashes in Nigeria and sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Lekwot’s contributions to peacekeeping efforts and his complex legacy remain significant.

Navigating the Murky Political Waters of Kaduna: Senator Katung’s Discretion and El-Rufai’s Legacy

By

Ashineko Ayinya

The delicate dance of politics in Nigeria unravels yet another layer as objections are raised against El-Rufai’s nomination, bringing to light the importance of Senator Sunny Masha Katung’s choices in the red chambers. This narrative draws from the biblical tale of David and Goliath, jostling between the commendable efforts of the underdog and the looming shadow of a once-powerful king. Could this be the acid test against the senator?

While the criticisms levied against El-Rufai’s nomination hold water, it behooves us to also respect the discretionary judgement of Senator Sunny Masha Katung in choosing his battles, akin to Odysseus navigating the treacherous waters of Scylla and Charybdis. The laudable work of House of Justice with Gloria Ballason, wielding her pen as a sword in her writings against the former governor, echoes the biblical story of Judith and Holofernes, an enduring testament to the power of truth and justice. Similarly, the Herculean efforts put forth by the student group are deserving of praise.

Furthermore, in line with Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to diversity, reminiscent of the harmonious symphony of the Corinthian Body, the ministerial appointment ideally should be bequeathed to a representative from Southern Kaduna.

Nonetheless, let us not forget to grant Senator Katung his proverbial ‘Pound of Flesh’. If he is deemed trustworthy enough to bear the mantle of his position, his judgement should surely be held in the same regard. As a senator, he likely possesses a trove of information beyond the reach of the general populace, especially concerning matters of such political weight. His decisions, therefore, should be perceived as informed ones.

This standpoint does not undermine the voice of the public or trivialize the significance of expressing discontent against the senator where necessary – it would at least lend him an ear to the ground. But, let us also acknowledge the Senator’s capability to steer the ship of politics as he deems fit. It is my belief that he carries the interests of his people within his heart, albeit his approach may be more of restitution than seeking retribution.

It is high time we rise, like the phoenix from the ashes, above the malevolence perpetrated by El-Rufai. By transcending the negativity of El-Rufai’s past deeds, we can focus our collective energy on areas where it truly matters.

We must conserve our strength for building and healing our communities, rather than expending it on the ghost of El-Rufai’s misdeeds. Just as the sun eventually rises, illuminating the darkest corners of the night, so too must we look forward to a brighter future, guided by the wisdom and discretion of our chosen leaders.

About the Author
Ashineko Ayinya is a writer, a researcher and a mathematician of Southern Kaduna extraction who was persecuted by El-Rufai and narrowly excaped with his life in 2018. He is presently an internally displaced person and survives the current economic travails in the country through professional writing.

The impact of Nigeria’s interference with Niger on the Middle Belt.

By Tislo Pam

Over the course of the last three days, news of impending attacks by the Nigerian military on Niger have filled the airwaves. The coup which happened on the 27th of July, 2023, has had the world speaking especially considering the players who are involved. Think pieces and articles have been written opinions have been given on the situation. However, the real cause of the issue must be discussed for what they really are.

The interference from the French who have held on to them by the apron strings since the end of colonialism. Nigeriens consider the interference of France as imposing and exploitative as their fortunes have not improved despite their proximity to the French.

In videos showing the celebrations of citizens in the streets of Niger, they expressed similar sentiments on the presence of France has been detrimental to them, chanting phrases that indicate the dislike for France.
The issue has been discussed and has hit the crescendo of concern with the Nigerian public which are largely concerned about a lot of things should this happen: the impending embarrassment that awaits the Nigerian army and its people in general as details show they have the support of the Russians; the doggedness of the new my sworn in President Bola Tinubu whose legitimacy is being challenged at the court with other contestants and the potential influx of unwanted migrants into the country particularly the Middle Belt. This concern is one that worries many from the region because in time past, numbers have been a major problem in determining power rotation and politics.

A potential migrants influx into the region does two things: heightens the conflicts that have bedevilled the region and give the upper hand to settlers of which the current settlers of Fulani descent share affinity with. In relation to the ousting of Bazoum, the Nigerian president who was deposed by the Nigerian military, the core north has shown its immense displeasure at the treatment of the man.

For a lot of core northerners in Northern Nigeria, sympathy is at an all time high for Nigeriens with whom they share ancestral affinity with. With an already porous border in the north, movement of migrants will occur unchallenged. Porous borders can mean access to unscrupulous migrants who can cause further harm, especially since Nigeria has fought against insurgency against Boko Haram and Fulani herders. With a very tumultuous history of fighting insurgents and a clear struggle to keep them at bay, this could result to full scale conflict of heightened proportions.

Migrants especially in a place like Nigeria cannot be kept out and as such will migrate down south which would require them going through the Middle Belt. What we will be dealing with essentially will be refuelled agitations of settlers in the Middle Belt as migrants with who they deem brothers, to secure political positions and challenge the place of natives.

This sympathy could become an Achilles Heel for natives who have hundred thousands of natives who have been displaced and settled elsewhere. Villages which have been razed down and lay empty, will then be reoccupied by these foreigners and a slow and gradual attempt at rewriting the history of the Middle Belt. This is a fight for existence and survival.

The Middle Belt should not ignore the impending dangers of the coup that intends to destroy what we have as a people, a region and most of all, an identity.

el-Rufai: Haunted By The Past

BY NASIRU JAGABA

In recent times, social media has been awash with vitriolic attacks against the elders of Southern Kaduna. These elders stand accused of fostering hatred and antagonism towards the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai. As one sifts through the deluge of articles regarding this issue, one has to wonder what the orchestrators of this smear campaign hope to achieve, and why they have chosen to act now, after el-Rufai’s tenure.

For the sake of clarity, it is important to understand that the people of Southern Kaduna have always been peaceful, law-abiding, dedicated, and hard-working. Despite enduring systemic marginalisation and neglect, they have consistently remained supportive and law-abiding citizens. However, the recent campaign against their elders isn’t just baseless, but also appears to be instigated. If left unchecked, these false narratives could spread and potentially be mistaken for the truth.

In a delightful twist of irony, this campaign against our leaders emerged shortly after the former Kaduna State governor delivered a keynote address at the book launch and retirement event in honour of Professor Ishaq Akintola, the founder of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) and an erratic and confused fanatic stocking the embers of division and disharmony with many destructive and senseless press releases. In his address, el-Rufai reportedly stated that elders from the southern part of the state humiliated his deputies, who hailed from the same region. He then painted a narrative of himself as a victim. It’s intriguing to note that this narrative conveniently emerged at an event where MURIC honored him with an award as Defender of the Faith.

If there’s any party that could justifiably accuse another of fostering hatred and antagonism, it would be the people of Southern Kaduna and not the governor. They survived the tumultuous eight-year tenure of el-Rufai under whose watch their communities were decimated and thousands of their people killed. Yet, despite remaining silent and allowing posterity to judge the former governor’s actions, he seems intent on rewriting the narrative that portrays the Southern Kaduna people in a negative light.

It is interesting to note that despite the 7th Senate’s pronouncement that el-Rufai was unfit for public office; the people of Southern Kaduna extended nothing but love and support towards him during his 2014 campaign. It’s almost comedy that el-Rufai now feels justified to accuse the Southern Kaduna elders of hatred and antagonism towards him. In 2015, the people of Southern Kaduna broke a longstanding tradition of supporting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to cast their votes for him. Without their support, his governorship ambition would have remained a pipe dream.

The tenure of the former governor was characterised by deception and neglect, particularly in the manner he handled the security situation in Southern Kaduna. It’s almost farcical that his solution to the 2016 security threats was to visit the terrorists and give them money, supposedly to persuade them to stop their attacks. Instead, the attacks worsened, as if he had inadvertently empowered them for more attacks. Moreover, his response to the cries of the people was to offer excuses for the terrorists, rather than sympathise with the victims.

In terms of projects, the lion’s share of the over $350 million (N270 billion) World Bank loan that the former governor secured for Kaduna State was spent mostly on Muslim-dominated areas, with less than N5 billion allocated to the 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Southern Kaduna. Even within these LGAs, the few projects he initiated were centered in Muslim-majority areas, leaving the Christian-populated areas in complete neglect and abandonment.

The governor’s appointments to public offices were also a source of contention. During his tenure, the entire top management positions of the Kaduna State University (KASU) were Muslims, and mostly non-Southern Kaduna. This blatant disregard for diversity was almost comical, if not for the stark reality of its implications. The list of top positions within the university, from the Vice Chancellor down to departmental directors, was dominated by Muslims. The staff recruitment ratio, student admission ratio, student union government leaders, and class representative leaders all tilted heavily towards Muslims. In fact, there were six mosques within the university, but not a single Christian chapel.

Below are top management positions of KASU that was a product of the el-Rufai years as governor of the state:

Vice Chancellor – Muslim
Deputy VC Admin. – Muslim
Deputy VC Academic – Muslim
Registrar – Muslim
Bursar – Muslim
University Librarian – Muslim
Chief Security Officer – Muslim
Dir. Academy Planning – Muslim
DIr. Physical Planning – Muslim
Dean Student Affairs – Muslim
Director ICT- Muslim
Pro Chancellor – Muslim
Dir. University Advancement – Muslim
Number of Mosques: = 6

Number of Christian Chapel: = 0

Staff Recruitment Ratio:

Muslims = 70%

Christians = 30%

Student Admission Ratio:

Muslims= 75%

Christians = 25%

Student Union Government Leaders

Muslims = 94%

Christians =06%

Class Reps. Leaders

Muslims = 97%

Christians = 03%

With such a track record, it’s almost amusing that el-Rufai has the audacity to accuse the Southern Kaduna elders of being hateful and antagonistic. It is clear that if anyone has a right to feel antagonised or hated, it is the people of Southern Kaduna, not the former governor who exit made Kaduna citizens to heave a sigh of relief.

It’s a tragic -comedy that el-Rufai, a man whose recklessness with words is well-documented, is now trying to paint himself as the victim. The irony is that his attempts to rewrite his legacy are being aided by those who should be working towards unity and peace in the aftermath of his divisive reign.

Ultimately, the former governor’s attempts to regain relevance are doomed to fail. His past actions against the people of Southern Kaduna can’t be easily forgotten. No amount of linguistic gymnastics or social media campaigns, including sponsored articles, can alter the fact that he is now reaping the consequences of his actions. Indeed, one might call it poetic justice.

In the grand theatre of political rhetoric, his attempts to cast himself as the victim are nothing short of a farcical pantomime. He seems to be peddling a narrative that paints him as a misunderstood leader, grievously wronged by the same people he evidently shortchanged and marginalised.

And yet, the evidence of his misdeeds is as clear as daylight. The disproportionate allocation of resources and projects, the blatant favoritism in the university appointments, and his apathetic response to the security threats faced by the people of Southern Kaduna are all stark reminders of his leadership deficits anchored on religious and ethnic discrimination.

In a twist worthy of a Shakespearean tragedy, el-Rufai seems to have forgotten the old adage, “What goes around, comes around”. His administration’s blatant bias against the Southern Kaduna people is akin to sowing seeds of discord and neglect. Now, as he faces the harvest of rising public discontent and criticism, he seeks to deflect blame and paint himself as the victim.

But the people of Southern Kaduna are neither fooled nor swayed by these attempts. Their resilience and unity in the face of adversity are a testament to their strength and character. The former governor’s attempts at revisionist history are desperate bids to salvage a tarnished reputation at the expense of Southern Kaduna people.

The irony is that, while he attempts to smear the reputation of Southern Kaduna elders, he only succeeds in further tarnishing his own battered reputation. His actions have revealed his true character, and no amount of deflection or blame shifting can change that. The people of Southern Kaduna, and indeed, the rest of the world, are not blind to this reality.

In conclusion, the former governor’s attempts to reframe his legacy are akin to trying to paint a crumbling mansion in bright colors – it may look different from afar, but up close, the cracks are still visible. The people of Southern Kaduna, and Nigerians at large, see his actions for what they are – a desperate attempt to rewrite history and salvage his tarnished image.

However, as the saying goes, “You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear”. No matter how hard he tries, the truth of el-Rufai’s legacy of injustice is very clear for all to see.

Jagaba is the former National Youth Leader of Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU).

Unraveling the Islamization Debate in Nigeria: Understanding Perspectives, Extremism, and the Secular State 

By

Patrick Anum

For years, Nigeria has been engaged in discussions about the perceived threat of Islamization. This topic has sparked diverse viewpoints, with some dismissing it as mere conspiracy theories, while others express genuine concerns. 

Additionally, there are individuals within the Muslim community who view it through the lens of intolerance and Islamophobia. In my latest column for the Middle Belt Times, I delve into this multifaceted issue, aiming to shed light on the different aspects surrounding the Islamization debate. 

One observation I have made is that many Muslims in Nigeria adopt a defensive stance, which, in my opinion, is unnecessary. There appears to be a misunderstanding regarding the nature of what such a threat would most likely entail. 

While ordinary Muslims believe it to be the spread of regular Islam, those discussing it refer to fundamentalist doctrines that even Muslims in Nigeria may find hard to accept. Boko Haram serves as a significant case study, as it became too extreme even for Ansaru and Islamic State, leading to a breakaway. 

This highlights that these ideologies are not aligned with regular Islamic doctrines. And if a group like Islamic State cannot stomach these doctrines, how can one imagine muslims in Nigeria would fare? Many experts like Col Adewunmi have attributed this problem to a certain elite in the country while other experts have also attributed the deliberate efforts to keep the population uneducated as an avenue which creates a fertile ground for radicalism. 

Intolerance in our diverse society is an alarming indicator that society is veering off course. The Yoruba Muslims’ role in the 1979 constitutional drafting committee exemplifies the importance of replicating diversity and incorporating tolerance not just in society but also in politics. 

From a perspective of tolerance, we witness fewer individuals embracing the ideologies of the ’70s, which could be problematic in a multicultural nation like ours with an example being the defense of the Muslim/Muslim ticket in the just concluded 2023 Presidential elections. 

The rise of groups like ISWAP, Ansaru, and Boko Haram, with their growing local recruitment, underscores the consequences of unintentional educational policies in combating radicalism. I had the opportunity to speak with an Algerian Muslim who revealed that their government’s approach to extremism has been swift. 

In Nigeria, however, it festers due to the interests of certain elites who favor such an environment, and they are not shy about this fact. It is important to emphasize that this issue is nota debate about the Christians versus Muslims or Traditionalists and should not be viewed in these lenses; however it should be viewed as a conversation around combating the spread of radical ideologies.

Given Nigeria’s status as a secular state, it is crucial for Muslims to take the lead in ensuring that all ethnic gruops and people of diverse religious affiliations feel involved in society and governance and that the country remains non-aligned with religious organizations, be it Christian or Muslim. 

These issues if not adequately addressed have the potential to tear at the fabric of our nation. I still recall the sense of impending doom when Ibrahim Babangida secretly joined the OIC. President Buhari’s continued alignment with such organizations highlights the absence of steadfast moral codes among Nigerian leaders. It becomes evident that if there is no decentralization, there is a possibility that someone in power may seek to impose hegemony and implement radical ideologies favoring their faith or religion in the future considering the number of out of school children and high levels of illiteracy in the country. 

One troubling aspect of radicalism is that it often begins with targeting individuals of other faiths before turning on those within the same faith. This highlights the urgency of addressing this issue collectively. But more importantly, these fundamentalists being linked or allegedly sponsored by elite is worrisome in our country and Nigerians would need to have very serious and honest conversations about these issues going forward.

In light of the ongoing Islamization debate in Nigeria, it becomes imperative for all citizens to stand united against any form of radicalist ideology. The preservation of secularism should be our shared priority, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. 

This call to action stems from the realization that radicalist ideologies pose a significant threat to the peace and harmony of our diverse nation. It is crucial that we reject these extremist narratives and embrace a path that upholds our secular values. 

While acknowledging the existence of differing opinions on the Islamization issue, it is essential to distinguish between regular Islam and fundamentalist doctrines. Nigerian Muslims, who make up a significant portion of our population, often embrace Islam as a peaceful and inclusive religion. 

However, the concerns raised regarding Islamization are primarily directed at the propagation of radical and intolerant ideologies and must not be confused in any other regard. 

 As such, moving forward, we must use tolerance as a litmus test in accessing the health of Nigeria with no exceptions.

The 1999 Constitution Makes Nigerians Subjects Not Citizens

By

Ndidi Uwechue

The aim of this article is to open up the thinking ability of young Nigerians who continue to be manipulated by their elders whom they look up to for guidance. Having successfully dragged young people to give themselves to elections 2023 instead of first correcting the faulty constitutional arrangements of the Nigeria Union, using the misleading slogan that “a new Nigeria is possible” under the fraud called 1999 Constitution foisted upon Nigerians, now the same cunning individuals have started a new deception over the meaning of “citizen”.

One such influencer is a celebrity lawyer who helped to drag his many followers to those doomed elections, and rather than now tell his depressed and disappointed followers that their vote never counts in unitary Nigeria, but it is their act of going to vote that is needed to be seen by the watching world, he is leading them down another dark byway this time telling them that elections having been rigged, they can still salvage something by reclaiming their citizenship!

Just because a word can be applied in Europe, Australia and North America does not always mean that it is applicable in Nigeria. Such are the words “citizen” and “citizenship”. Nigeria is an artificial country created and maintained by a unitary Instrument of Governance, deceitfully called “1999 Constitution” that does not have the mandate of Nigerians because they never made it or agreed it. Such is this place called “Nigeria”. It is the owners of that imposed Forgery, ie the 1999 Constitution who are the lords of Nigeria and who by force and deception keep Nigerians inside the unitary Union they created. We know who they are, they are the immigrant settler Fulani, helped into a dominating position by the departing British around the time of Independence in 1960. Making no secret of their agenda, Ahmadu Bello the then Premier of the Northern Region, declared that henceforth Nigeria would be “ruthlessly” turned into the “estate” of the Fulani, and Nigerians would be a “conquered” people – as reported on 12^th October 1960. That 1999 Constitution is the Instrument that brings about the Fulanization Agenda declared by Ahmadu Bello: it overrides Sovereignty, and hijacks the Self-Determination of indigenous Ethnic Nations. HOW then can Nigerians ever think to apply the word “citizen” of Nigeria to themselves? As a consequence of that 1999 Constitution Nigerians are a CONQUERED people, so cannot truthfully be referred to as “citizens” of Nigeria. What they are, are SUBJECTS of Nigeria.

The word “subject” has Latin roots. “Sub” means under, and “jacio/jacere” means to throw. So subject means someone “thrown under” something or someone else. Thus, a subject is someone who is under the power of another. To put it plainly, as long as Nigerians accept the fraud called 1999 Constitution to govern them, since it was not made or agreed by them, they place themselves under the power of the Fulani Caliphate who are the owners of that 1999 Constitution, and, in so doing, Nigerians are in reality subjects of the Fulani’s unitary Nigeria not citizens in the real sense.

We can use an example from history to illustrate how Nigerians are subjects of Nigeria as presently constituted, not citizens by looking at the country that became the United States of America, quoting from and using material from The Difference Between A Citizen And A Subject by W R Miller, 2015.

With the Declaration of Independence by Congress, on 4^th July 1776, “a nation was born in a day”, so those who had been subjects of the English Crown now became citizens of the free independent states that had now confederated together and started a new political association.

“The United States are a new nation, or political society, formed at first by the Declaration of Independence, out of those British subjects in America, who were thrown out of royal protection by Act of Parliament, passed in December, 1775. A citizen of the United States, means a member of this new nation. The principle of government being radically changed by the revolution, the political character of the people was also changed from subjects to citizens.

The difference is immense. Subject… means one who is under the power of another; but a citizen is an unit of a mass of free people, who, collectively, possess Sovereignty.

Subjects look up to a master, but citizens are so far equal, that none have hereditary rights superior to others. Each citizen of a free state contains, within himself, by nature and the Constitution, as much of the common Sovereignty as another…”

Despite being warned by NINAS that Nigerians should FIRST correct the faulty constitutional basis of the artificial Nigeria Union, Nigerians went headlong towards the sham elections 2023. As predicted, their problems have multiplied, and the existential threats they face from the Fulani Conquest Agenda have increased. So what should Nigerians do now? The solution remains what it has been since 1999 when the 1999 Caliphate Constitution was foisted upon Nigerians. The solution is therefore to TERMINATE the operation of that 1999 Constitution. The NINAS Proposition to do so is an ORDERLY PROCESS based on United Nations instruments (eg UNDRIP) and international law, and has been on the Table since 16 December 2020 when the Constitutional Force Majeure was Declared. It involves Transitioning to Renegotiate the Nigeria Union. Yes, sham elections have taken place, but Nigerians can stop further crises and further insecurity by even now Rejecting and Repudiating the fraudulent and illegitimate 1999 Constitution then going to Transitioning.

We should also consider why so many Nigerians are gullible and so easily deceived by influencers and by the Fulani Caliphate’s willing tools. An elderly gentleman has answered that for us, he said that it is because of a “sheer unwillingness to learn”. Reader, especially if you are a young Nigerian, it is hoped that is not your attitude, but that after reading this article you will do your own Research about the grand swindle called 1999 Constitution

Ndidi Uwechue is a British citizen with Igbo heritage from the Lower Niger Bloc. She is a retired Metropolitan (London) Police Officer, she is a signatory to the Constitutional Force Majeure, and she writes from Abuja.

The 1999 Nigerian Constitution is like the system of Victorian treaties of the past!

By Ndidi Uwechue

Although indigenous peoples of Nigeria curse Frederick Lugard, the Amalgamator, before him was an equally unjust man also with racial supremacist views: the merchant George Dashwood Taubman Goldie who formed the Royal Niger Company (RNC), originally the United African Company then the National African Company. Even before obtaining a Royal Charter that gave Goldie and his company enormous powers, Goldie had managed to get Treaties signed by native Traditional Rulers. Some would have signed those Treaties under threats (“by gunpoint”) but some would have happily signed them for personal gain (ie the willing tools). By these Treaties, Traditional Rulers handed over the Sovereignty of their People to Goldie and his RNC. Quoting from Royal Niger Company by nigerianscholars.com: 

“Even before gaining its charter, the [Royal Niger] Company signed treaties with local leaders which granted it broad Sovereign powers. One 1885 treaty read:

We, the undersigned King and Chiefs […] with the view to the bettering of the condition of our country and people, do this day cede to the National Africa Company (Limited), their heirs and assigns, forever, the whole of our territory […] We also give the said National African Company (Limited) full power to settle all native disputes arising from any cause whatever, and we pledge ourselves not to enter into any war with other tribes without the sanction of the said National Africa Company (Limited).

We also understand that the said National African Company (limited) have full power to mine, farm, and build in any portion of our territory. We bind ourselves not to have any intercourse with any strangers or foreigners except through the said national African Company (Limited), and we give the said National African Company (Limited) full power to exclude all other strangers and foreigners from their territory at their discretion.

In consideration of the foregoing, the said National African Company (Limited) bind themselves not to interfere with any of the native laws or customs of the country, consistently with the maintenance of order and good government … [and] agree to pay native owners of land a reasonable amount for any portion they may require.

The said National African Company (Limited) bind themselves to protect the said King and Chiefs from the attacks of any neighbouring tribes (Ibid.).

The company considered itself the sole legitimate government of the area, with executive, legislative and judicial powers, all subordinate to the rule of a council created by the company board of directors in London…”

While the Nigerian reader may be shocked at the text of this example of a Treaty in Victorian times, TODAY the 1999 Constitution, a known Forgery foisted upon Nigerians achieves the very same thing! Here are some ways the 1999 Constitution robs Nigerians. Firstly, by the false claims in its Preamble, the Sovereignty and Self-Determination of indigenous Ethnic Nations are hijacked, and it is made to look as if Ethnic Nations put their signatures to it.

Secondly, through the 68-item Exclusive List (Second Schedule, Part One) indigenous Ethnic Nations lose control of their lands and the valuable resources in them. 

Moreover, since Arms and Ammunition are in this Exclusive List, Ethnic Nations cannot protect themselves against armed invaders, and must depend on Central Government, and if such government has been accused of being complicit with the genocidal insecurity as President Buhari has been, indigenous peoples then face a serious existential threat.

Thirdly, although in Chapter 2 of that 1999 Constitution, welfare and security are promised to Nigerians, these are cunningly ousted in Chapter 1 by section 6. (6)(c).

Just as those Treaties of old were intended to steal from indigenous peoples, and dispossess them, those are also the goals of the illegitimate 1999 Constitution, whose beneficiaries are the Fulani, rigged into dominating power by the departing British in 1960. As the NINAS Alliance of indigenous Ethnic Nations of the South and Middle Belt has identified, that 1999 Constitution is the instrument used to rob indigenous Ethnic Nations, and also bring about Ahmadu Bello’s Declaration of 1960 that Nigeria would be converted into the “estate” of the immigrant settler Fulani. 

Sovereignty is defined as the most essential attribute of an indigenous Ethnic nation in its ancestral land, meaning that it has dominion and supremacy to control its present and its future. Therefore, playing the role of the “ever ignorant African” is not advisable in this, the 21^st century. So it is not acceptable for indigenous Ethnic Nations of Nigeria to continue to allow the 1999 Constitution to rob them of their inalienable position of Sovereignty, and power of Self-Determination. The same way Nigerians are today horrified that (somehow) those Victorian-age Treaties got signed, is the same way future generations will be horrified that indigenous Ethnic Nations allowed the operation of a Forgery, that illegitimate 1999 Constitution, over them, their resources, their lands, and their future. Therefore, terminating the operation of the 1999 Constitution is a task that MUST be done! 

As at today, the 1999 Constitution has been Repudiated and a Constitutional Force Majeure declared. Not surprisingly, the Fulani-dominated government has refused to acknowledge this – a big mistake on their part because indigenous Ethnic Nations did not make or agree that 1999 Constitution, and therefore did not sign away their Sovereignty. What not just Nigerians, but the rest of West Africa deserve is that Unitary Nigeria, a Union of death maintained by gunpoint, be brought down in a peaceful and controlled manner, and then be Renegotiated using globally accepted tools, which is what the NINAS-template Transitioning Arrangement is about. The NINAS Propositions have been on the Table since 16 December 2020. 

Ndidi Uwechue is a British citizen with Igbo heritage from the Lower Niger Bloc. She is a retired Metropolitan (London) Police Officer, she is a signatory to the Constitutional Force Majeure, and she writes from Abuja.

Governors insisting on the continued circulation of old naira notes do so with the intention of utilizing them to buy votes – SAN

According to Senior Advocate of Nigeria Muiz Banire, the governors’ insistence on the continued use of all old naira notes as legal tender is an attempt to buy votes.

In order to “purchase voters’ conscience,” according to Banire, the governors planned to deceive the public into accepting the “already stocked old notes in their custody.”

“A lot of us might not understand why the Governors are insisting on the old notes being legal tender,” the SAN wrote.  “Certainly, it is not that they don’t know that they do not have the power to declare what is legal tender, neither did they not know that [they] … lack the capacity to enforce any Supreme Court judgment.

He claimed that their true intentions were to deceive naïve prospective voters into taking the already stocked old notes in their possession in order to buy voters’ conscience.

Banire advised people to demand “the true legal tender as stated by the apex bank” in all cases

In his letter, he advised prospective voters to either insist on the real legal cash declared by the apex bank or use any other form of payment they found acceptable.

But he cautioned, “Your conscience is not worth purchasing; if you must collect the money, which is primarily taken from the Treasury, insist on acceptable legal tender and still vote your conscience.

The Evil-Genius In Kaduna

By JD Ephraim Esq

Anything said about this evil-genius could be true. Sometimes such geniuses could be like the proverbial crocodile who swallows a heavy stone and believes it will help it sink deeper.
There is nothing I will not believe about this evil-genius. He has tampered with the architecture and engineering of Kaduna State between 2015 and now and there may be more tampering by 2023, If God allows him, to reach that time.
An incidental fall-out of his actions and, or inactions, is that most of us have gone spiritual. And we are testing the spirit world, according to our measure of access to it. In this spirit world, there are forces of darkness and forces of light,as well . To them, have been given, all powers, in their measure, by the Almighty Creator.
However, the more superior of the two forces, is that of light. But it is not freely available, in the material world. It depends on our ability to access it in the spiritual realm, as distinct from, the material world. Whoever has better access, controls the material world. Access to the forces of darkness, translates to, control of the material world; however, this can only be temporary. Control of the material world is not ad- infinitum. It does change, according to the personalities. There in lies our hope, to conquer, in the end, no matter the ingenuity of the evil-genius in Kaduna.
By 2015, majority of the people of Kaduna State voted the evil- genius in, because of the hatred of the then incumbent, especially in the Southern part of the State; where the political elite did what is normally known as “anti-party “.It was an all-party thing. Little did we know that the whole state was stepping into the viper’s hole. We did, praying that, even if anything, he would perform the miracle he did in Abuja, when he was Minister. Alas, we were wrong. The miracle he did in Abuja,it would seem, was to make the city become his, his family, friends, and associates, according to the Senates Committee probe of his land administration in the FCT. They thus ,banned him from holding any public office, but he was smart enough to head to court to have it set aside. By that smart act of going to court,, he became “clean”.On being accused of allowing property to self, family, friends, and Associates ,by the Senate’s Probe Committee, he said , ” well, if it is your time to be Minister in Abuja, you can appropriate the city to your enemies “. Well, some of us believe that here, in Kaduna, he is guided by the same philosophy, and thus, may repeat the Abuja “miracle”.
For a start, we know he has sold off, most of the government’s houses. We do not know yet, to who, but ,we may surmise a guess– and say, “to himself, family, and friends.” We pray that this time around, it would not be so.But what we know, for sure, is that, he may not sell it to his “enemies”. Only time will tell.
But that is just a “tip of the iceberg”. We leave the rest for another day, and the judgement of history.
By 2018,it was clear, that this evil- genius, had done enough harm, to the state. But in his calculation, a span of four years, was not enough. He had retired all the the credible politicians, in the state, to prepare the political space, for himself. He almost succeeded. But not totally. That is why we are able to talk and write.
For him to win the 2019 elections, which would have been impossible, but, as intelligent as he was, he embarked ,on the manipulation of religion. He knew the southern part of the state would not vote for him, because of the actions he had taken against their corporate interest, as mostly Christian minorities . He embarked on campaigns in the northern part of the state,for the 2019 elections, claiming he had declared a jihad on the Southern Kaduna State Christians.He came up with a law controlling religious practice and licensing of the clergy. That done with, he descended on their traditional institutions, and abolished tribal Chiefdoms and titles , and reduced their domains to mere towns and villages. He sacked district heads. He uplifted the Chiefdoms of Jere, Kajuru, and Kauru to Islamic emirates. Kachia, Zango Urban in Zangon Kataf Local government, are still in the sleeves, and we are all watching.
Not done with that, he descended on the civil service, sacked the teachers, and many civil servants . Pensions became a play-toy for him. As most Southern Kaduna people are not business men, but civil servants, and teachers, the Hameed Ali’s experience, was visited, on the people ,as most families, went under the economic realm, while most people fell ill,, frustrated and might have died. For those in businesses, he ensured he crumbled their businesses, for instance, the Micro finance banks- a vital link with the active rural poor . These banks were supporting the active poor through loans, but mounting the saddle of power, civil servants that maintained salary accounts in such banks were forced to transfer them to the conventional commercial banks thereby forcing the microfinance banks to become comatosed.
Within a span of four years, he had dealt with southern Kaduna and defeated them, in a “jihad” he unitarily, declared silently.
The evidence could be seen on the ground. What Uthman Danfodio could not do in the 19th century, other than the raids for slaves and slavery, he has now proven that even in the 21st Century, “jihad” was still possible . He had conquered southern Kaduna and raised his “Jihadic flags”. One could see the flags in the new Emirates of Jere,Kajuru and Kauru that were chiefdoms .

Going hand in hand with this is the spade of insecurity, going on, caused by, terrorists who they falsely brand “bandits”. There are also kidnappers, violent crimes, killing, maiming, raping, and burning down of buildings, farms, and whole villages.
Truly, this is what you see in a jihad. But it has fallen short of converting the people to Islam which a true Islamic jihad is supposed to achieve. It will appear the wickedness is not limited to Southern Kaduna alone but the whole state.
Going back to the 2018/2019 electioneering campaigns, it was enough for the evil genius to show what he had done to Southern Kaduna, and the people will believe that truly he had undertaken and almost won a “jihad” .He needed four more years, to complete, and consolidate the “jihad.” Therefore, he went to Zaria and the rest of the people in the Northern side of the State, during the 2019 electioneering campaigns, and said he needed four more years to complete the “jihad”. Our prominent PDP leaders in the northern side were, it would seem, mischievously silenced, through threats of exposure of skeletons in their cupboards, and they submitted to the mischieve .
The final electoral “victory” was done, it would seem, through Compromises and riggings.

Now. then, after the "jihad" of the 2019 elections, what next ? It is consolidation of what he has in store for the state. Then nature struck : and the Emir of Zazzau died. Allahu Akbar.  Inna lillahi wa inna illaihi rajiuun.  May Allah forgive his shortcomings, and grant him aljanat firdausi.  But the evil- genius is not thinking of how he too will end up in this world. He sees every happening, as an opportunity, to restructure and re-engineer society, in his own image. What sane people think is impossible, for him, it is possible. He has to satisfy his interests. Tradition will not count. It is either that he splits the emirate and ignore history ,or he places his own there ,ala Ganduje of Kano. 

And so it went. Just like during his first term, when he declared he was fighting a “jihad” against a particular section of the state, the rest of the people later, discovered it was not a real Islamic jihad, but his own version of” political jihad”, against the whole state. Those he said he was conducting the jihad for them, after wining,
became the first victims of the evil genius’ “political jihad” and everybody in the state , without exception, is a victim; victims of ill choice. Religion, being opium of the masses, can be used by ,( not angels), but the devil himself. After all, Christians know that when Jesus, was caught-up in the wilderness, to be tempted by Satan, it is reported that Satan quoted from the Bible.
To the Zaria people, the evil genius fought a “political jihad” purportedly, on their behalf, and they mistook it for the real jihad. At last, they have become the victims: real toys in the power calculus, of the evil- genius. Only time will tell.

AN ANALYSIS OF SOUTHERN KADUNA UNDER POLITICAL BONDAGE AND THE CLOSEST OPPORTUNITY FOR FREEDOM IN 2023

By Eldee

The best political decision for Southern Kaduna people in 2023 is to transfer their bloc votes to Labour party who’s presidential candidate is a movement that has the power to push mountains.

Secondly, Though all the candidates from Southern Kaduna are competent enough to govern Kaduna State, Comrade Jonathan Asake’s sacrifice as SOKAPU President for the Southern Kaduna people in their dark experiences of kidnappings and killings has made him an easy candidate to sell than others who came out before him.

His courage and boldness to confront the government in power against all odds and to lead his team through vulnerable areas in the Kidnappers den shows he has the capacity to lead the fight against insecurity from the front.

His ability to mobilize support both locally and internationally for those living in the IDP camps dipicts his capacity to fight poverty and hunger.

His leading role in fighting for justice, equity and fairness amongst the 3 zones in the state will checkmate him to ensure justice equity and fairness for zone 1 and 2 if elected.

However, what about the risk of loosing and dividing the votes of PDP in Southern Kaduna to the advantage of APC Muslim-Muslim ticket government. If a choice must be made between the devil and the deep blue sea, between bad and worse which has been the position of Southern Kaduna people since the return to democracy in 1999 a good analysis of the dilemma must be made.

First and foremost we need to know that marginalization brings us closer to freedom than subjugation .

The reason why black Americans got their freedom at last was because they were able to endure years of marginalisation instead of accepting subjugation .

The reason why the black majority led by Nelson Mandela in South Africa got their freedom at last was because they endured years of marginalisation instead of accepting subjugation .

The reason why the Hausa’s can never break away from the political bondage of the Fulani’s is because they accepted subjugation instead of enduring marginalisation .

The reason why southern kaduna will be free in the long run is if we decide to endure marginalization rather than accepting subjugation .

Marginalization refers to social exclusion, where certain groups of people are denied access to certain rights in the society. i.e. denial of access to institutions, funding and other opportunities.

Subjugation is essentially an action by which a group of people conquers another group of people and the conqueror decides over all kinds of aspects relating to the conquered. Treating the conquered as inferior or subjects.

Our Muslim brothers in kaduna state whether APC or PDP do not believe that we have the right to produce a governor in kaduna state. They believe that it is their birthright to produce the governor in kaduna state. So both APC and PDP have the same agenda but they go about achieving it using different strategy.

While APC is using marginalization PDP on the other hand is using Subjugation .

It is easy to gain freedom after many years of marginalization because you will attract the attention and sympathy of the world when you are marginalized . But nobody gives you attention when you are comfortable with the crumbs that falls from your masters table as subjects.

The governorship of late Sir, Patrick Yakowa was an act of God not an act of PDP. Yar’adua died and God used Goodluck Jonathan being a Christian President to pick Namadi Sambo for Yakowa to be governor.

Majority of the Federal appointment we’ve had i.e Isaiah Balat, Garba Ali madaki, Nenadi Usman, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, Gen. Luka Yusuf etc. were all appointed by Christian Presidents in PDP against the wishes of the governors of that period that are from the Northern part and also PDP.

If PDP truly appreciates our loyalty to party and Bloc votes since 1999 what is our reward? Deputy? God forbid. Politics is about give and take, we have been giving their candidates Bloc votes since the 1999. Now why didn’t they ask us to produce a candidate that they also will support? Politics is about negotiation, see how Gov. Nyeson Wike is negotiating for his people, what are our elders negotiating for us? For anybody to say that we should continue supporting PDP is as good as saying that we should accept second fiddle for only God knows how long. If they did not give Late Isaiah Balat the ticket to contest for the governorship of this state despite his sacrifice for the party, do you think they’ll give anyone of those parading themselves today? NO

APC is rather courageous enough to say they are taking everything because we didn’t vote for them and perhaps if they continue taking everything our freedom will eventually come one day or maybe if they continue taking everything PDP will come back to her senses.

Being a Christian dominated zone, our vote in 2023 is in defence of our faith, our freedom of worship, PDP have not defended us either, both at the state and the federal level they have not come out to speak against the he killing of Christians. Tell me what Sen. Makarfi said when we were being killed, tell me what Hon. Isah Ashiru said when we were being killed or didn’t Atiku withdrew what he said? Haba jama’a what did they take us for?

We told PDP to give us a better candidate against APC in 2023 yet they repeated the same unsalable person as 2019 but are expecting a different result. To make matters worse Southern Kaduna PDP elders now pushed a deputy governorship candidate that is older and more qualified than the governorship candidate, what an insults to the collective intellectual capacity of the Southern Kaduna people. Don’t we have younger competent youth? enough is enough! It’s better we take a stand now under the current movement and make our position of the No.1 seat known than continue going for second seat for God knows how long.
Please don’t mind my outrage ?

Eldee
08032986521