2027 APC Gombe fracas: Borno LG Chair, Malgwi bags Zulum, others for endorsing Tinubu/Shettima ticket

By Ndahi Marama

The Executive Chairman of Hawul local government area of Borno state, Hon. Hussaini Malgwi has threw his weight behind Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, his counterpart from Yobe state, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, the Deputy National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC (North), Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, National Working Committee, NWC North East and all other stakeholders who unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice, Senator Kashim Shettima to run on the same ticket come 2027 general elections.

The endorsement which were made amidst fracas when the National Vice Chairman of the ruling party (North East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu decided to only endorse Tinubu in his speech, without mentioning the name of Kashim Shettima, a situation which compelled some aggrieved members and loyalists to Shettima who started hurling chairs and objects targeting Salihu that hitherto disrupted the meeting to end abruptly.

Addressing Journalists in Maiduguri on Monday over the incident, the Hawul Council Chairman lamented that the growing speculations regarding plans to replace His Excellency, Hon. Kashim Shettima GCON, as the Vice President and running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the forthcoming 2027 elections for a second term is uncalled for, as such a move will be vehemently resisted.

He however cautioned the people of the North East, especially APC teaming supporters not to engage into anti- party activities that would spell doom for the unity and development of the APC and the region as a whole.

Malgwi who strongly aligned with the position of Governor Zulum of Borno state, stressed the need to collectively work together as one family to ensure President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima fly same ticket to continue their second term come 2027.

He explained that the North East region have suffered much devastation from atrocities by Boko Haram for over decade, noting that, the healing time is now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with support from his Deputy, Kashim Shettima, Governor Zulum and other governors of the states of Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba and Bauchi irrespective of political affiliations.

His words: ” It is a great pleasure as I address you gentlemen of the press today, Monday 16th June, 2025.

“We are all aware of what happened during our APC North East Consultative Meeting in Gombe state last Sunday, which ended up in chaos.

“As Chairman and a loyalist to the Vice President Kashim Shettima and Governor Babagana Zulum, on behalf of APC members in Hawul LGA, let me throw my sincere weight behind Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, his counterpart from Yobe state, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, the Deputy National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC (North), Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, National Working Committee, NWC North East and all other stakeholders who unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice, Senator Kashim Shettima to run on the same ticket come 2027 general elections.

” I would also express my displeasure over the fracas that erupted when the National Vice Chairman of the ruling party (North East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu decided to only endorse Tinubu in his speech, without mentioning the name of Kashim Shettima. This singular act by Salihu compelled some aggrieved members and loyalists to Shettima to hurled chairs and objects targeting Salihu which hitherto disrupted the meeting to end abruptly.

” Therefore, let me caution our people in the North East, especially APC teaming supporters not to engage into any anti- party activities that would spell doom for the unity and development of the APC and the region as a whole.

” At this crucial time, what is need from all and sundry is to collectively work together as one family to ensure President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima fly same ticket to continue their second term come 2027.

” We from the North East ave suffered much devastation from atrocities by Boko Haram for over decade, the healing time is now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with support from his Deputy, Kashim Shettima, Governor Zulum and other governors of the states of Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba and Bauchi irrespective of political affiliations”. Malgwi stated.

He therefore expressed gratitude to all APC supporters and delegate from Hawul who massively come out enmasse to attend the Gombe meeting where they all display humility, calm and orderliness before, during and after the fracas.

2027 APC Gombe fracas: Borno LG Chair, Malgwi bags Zulum, others for endorsing Tinubu/Shettima ticket

Tuggar: Departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali from ECOWAS Has Not Affected Trade, Bilateral Relations Among West African Countries

By: Michael Mike

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has said the exit of Burkina-Faso, Mali and Niger, the three Alliance of Sahel States from the West African regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has not affected trade and bilateral relations among countries in the area.

Addressing a press conference on the forthcoming West African Economic Forum to be hosted by Nigeria, Tuggar said there has not been any notable distortion in trade and relations between the rest of the countries still in ECOWAS and the departing AES countries.

He said for instance Nigeria still has running the Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission and trade is as healthy as it used to be before the neighbouring country left ECOWAS.

Tuggar, who also added that there has not be any fission in relationship between the two countries, said the same thing can be said of other countries in the region with AES countries.

On the summit scheduled for 20th and 21st June 2025 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, the Minister expressed Nigeria’s readiness to host the inaugural event aimed at showcasing West Africa to the rest of the world.

Tuggar while noting that the forum, is an initiative of President Bola Tinubu and aimed at strengthening economic ties, unlocking investment opportunities, and promoting sustainable development across West Africa, added that the summit is designed to foster regional integration and economic cooperation among member states.

He said: “We’re not just talking about ECOWAS and ECOWAS states, but indeed to all states, businesses, private sector, development finance institutions that pertain to the West African region.

“What we’re talking about is regional integration. What we’re doing with each other. How do we strengthen that so that we’re trading more.

“The event aims to unlock investment opportunities by identifying and supporting investment-ready projects. Furthermore, the summit seeks to foster sustainable development by encouraging inclusive economic growth and development.

“The event will feature a range of activities, including a deal room, business conferences, and cultural events showcasing the region’s rich heritage.

“Overall, the West Africa Economic Summit promises to be a landmark event, driving regional integration, promoting economic cooperation, and fostering sustainable development in West Africa.

“With its unique approach and focus on private sector participation, the summit has the potential to unlock new opportunities for growth and development in the region.

“The summit will provide a platform for governments and the private sector to engage and address concerns related to security and other issues affecting business in the region.”

He also added that “The summit’s objectives align with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) ambitions, focusing on promoting intra-African trade by strengthening regional trade and investment.”

Tuggar also pointed out that the initiative will be driven by the private sector.

He noted that it is the private sector that will drive the initiative while the governments provide all the necessary support for them to excel.

The minister also highlighted the importance of peace and security in the region saying, “For business to take place, to thrive, the environment must be secure, emphasising the importance of collective efforts to address security challenges.”

He explained that: “The summit is not modelled after the World Economic Forum in Davos, but rather a novel, homegrown African original idea.

“We’re focusing this administration on preferring homegrown solutions to our problem, instead of copying and pasting what exists in other regions.

Tuggar revealed that the Alliance of Sahel States, AES, are invited for the summit.

Tuggar: Departure of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali from ECOWAS Has Not Affected Trade, Bilateral Relations Among West African Countries

Benue Killings: Nigeria Can’t Continue On This Trajectory Of Bloodshed, IPCR Laments

By: Michael Mike

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has expressed serious concern over the continued killings in Benue State.

Latest reports showed that recent killings in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State has claimed the lives of over 200 persons

The attacks on Yelewata and other communities in Benue State in the past weeks have been met with widespread condemnation across the country, with the Federal Government describing the attacks as inhuman and anti-progress, the Benue state Governor, Hyacinth Alia also condemned them as evil in its purest form.

The IPCR, in a statement signed on Monday by its Director General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, noted that the incessant violence, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property, has become a recurring theme in the lives of citizens. He decried that the situation has reached a boiling point, and it is imperative to acknowledge that Nigeria cannot continue on this trajectory of bloodshed.

Ochogwu said in the statement that: “There is a need for all hands to be on deck to address this situation. Stakeholders from all sectors should come out and raise their voices against this development; it should not be left to the government alone. The human cost of this violence is staggering, with lives lost and many more displaced, forced to flee their homes in search of safety. The trauma inflicted on individuals, families, and communities is immeasurable.

“The nation’s collective psyche is scarred, and the social fabric is beginning to fray. The economic impact of this bloodshed is also significant, disrupting economic activities, leading to the closure of businesses, and deterring investment.

“The situation demands collective action from all stakeholders. The government, security agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society must work together to address the root causes of the violence.

“The security agencies have been playing a crucial role in the fight against insecurity, and they still have a critical role to play in restoring peace and stability. They must be equipped with the necessary resources, training, and expertise to effectively respond to security challenges. The government must also ensure that the security agencies operate within the bounds of the law, respecting human rights and upholding the rule of law.”

He stressed that: “Dialogue is essential in resolving conflicts and promoting peace. The government must engage with various stakeholders, including community leaders, youth groups, and other interest groups, to address grievances and find lasting solutions. This includes creating a platform for dialogue, where issues can be discussed openly and honestly.

“Nigeria cannot continue on this trajectory of bloodshed. The nation must chart a new course, one that prioritizes peace, security, and development. This requires a multifaceted approach, involving the government, security agencies, and civil society. Nigeria’s trajectory of bloodshed must be halted. The nation requires a new direction, one that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens, promotes economic growth, and ensures peace and stability.

“The way forward requires a collective effort. The government, security agencies, and civil society must work together to address the root causes of the violence. This includes addressing poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare. By working together, Nigerians can promote peace and stability, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.

“Also, effective local governance, which is a key to conflict prevention and resolution, must be be emphasized. Local governments are the first tier of government that connects directly with the people, making them crucial in conflict prevention, management, and resolution. Effective and efficient local governance operations can help identify and address potential conflicts before they escalate.

“By engaging with local communities, understanding their needs, and providing essential services, local governments can build trust and promote peace. Capacity-building initiatives, adequate funding, and skilled personnel are essential to empower local governments to perform their roles effectively. When local governments are empowered, they can respond promptly to conflicts, mediate disputes, and foster community cohesion. Effective local governance is critical to promoting peace, stability, and development, and it is imperative that local governments are equipped to meet the needs of their communities. Local action is key to national stability.”

Benue Killings: Nigeria Can’t Continue On This Trajectory Of Bloodshed, IPCR Laments