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NORTH EAST INTELLECTUALS FORUM: MEMO TO OUR PARTY MEN AND WOMEN

A CASE FOR SENATOR KASHIM SHETTIMA AS PRESIDENTiAL RUNNING MATE.
This group comprises of professionals in all fields of endeavour, Northerners and Southerners, Muslims, Christians and Atheists, partisans and the non partisans, but most importantly Nigerians, who are concerned about the dangerous dimensions our nation is drifting towards.
Times like this call for an all inclusive intervention, so that we can prevail on those entrusted with the destiny of our country, to takes steps aimed at arresting the dangerous slide and for the benefits of all.
This memo is one of such moves, we intend to initiate, as we contribute to advancing our national leadership discourse.
We note, that, the names of Presidential running mates to all the Presidential candidates in all the political parties, have long been submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, albeit with windows still open for substitutions.
We have keenly observed ongoing debates amongst Nigerians, as to who makes a more suitable running mate to all the Presidential candidates of all the parties against the windows for substitution and wish to make imputes into the debates.
We do this, with the firm belief that, untill we reverse the philosophy which makes the choice of leaders for Nigeria, as the prerogative of a few players, and untill those who understand the potential dangers in allowing puppets to emerge as leaders,we may end up perpetually with vagabonds as our next set of leaders.
For the ruling, All Progressives Congress, APC, in particular; which stands a greater chance, and to which we belong, we make bold to state, that: times like this, even as non stakeholders in the party’s choice of it’s candidate and his running mate, calls for deeper introspection by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu about Nigeria’s political question and the need for an inclusive approach, if he hopes to succeed.
Several groups and individuals have made several suggestions to him:mostly based on permutations of primordial alignments, including tribe, religion or even geo-political estimations.
After exhaustive consultations, including virtual meetings with like minds, we make haste to caution the candidate against choosing the substitution for his running mate based on the prescriptions handed down to him by those who seek to exert perpetual control over the system and commit him into making blunders that could ultimately undo him, to their own benefits.
We make this caution against the background that, some of us were privy to the plans of making Bola Ahmed Tinubu, even with his political clout a mere surrogate.
It is against this background that, after a critical scrutiny of all the recommended possible appointees made to him, a sound intellectual, a loyal and committed compatriot, with a vast knowledge of socio-economic and political dynamics of Nigeria, remains his best bet.
We did not come to this conclusion with any sentiments; either tribal, religious or sectional attachment, but rather through a broad based view lens of antecedents and demonstrative capabilities, noticed over the years.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu knows that, while the choice of his running mate remains exclusively his own prerogative according to the law: allowing vested interest to infuse their venom into the choice and possibly sway his initial calculations, could be politically suicidal and counter productive.
As he also knows, the interests vested in the next leadership of Nigeria is more intense than ever before, just as he knows that some of the choices being forwarded to him are in everything but national interest.
His body language gives many Nigerians confidence that, he knows each of the political players since his sojourn into politics and also knows the game plan of the later day counsellors, trying to sway him.
Despite knowing what he could possibly do in the face of the intrigues and manipulations being mounted to bring in strange bed fellows, we strongly feel the need to re-enforce his resolve in picking the better devil than the stranger saint.
We have weighed the credentials of all possible nominees as suggested to him and have come up with this view, that none of all those so far recommended, has the requisite political sagacity, intellectual depth, leadership and vision as well as the demonstrative loyalty of Senator Kashim Shettima.
We make this conclusion without prejudice to his geo- political region, tribe or religion considerations. This we believe, taken along with what might be on Bola Ahmed Tinubu”s take on Kashim Shettima, will give an informed edge over the deliberate clowning that some people have reduced the contest to be.
Those who have been pushing to pitch Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum: although eminently qualified, against his own godfather are being most uncharitable and unfair to Nigerians, at this seeming labyrinthine period.
We hope this memo meets the expectations of all patriotic Nigerians who seek to advice Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu in making an informed choice from the crowd.
May God grant him the wisdom to know, to differentiate and to act.
Sign:
Professor Haruna Yerima- Convener
Inuwa Bwala- Protem Secretary
Yakubu Ahmed Mai Bindiga-Co-Convener
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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