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National, News

Ganduje Condoles APC Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda Over Mother’s Death

Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and immediate past governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has extended condolences to the party’s National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, following the death of his mother, Madam Lydia Yilwatda. In a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the late Madam Lydia as a devout and virtuous woman whose life was dedicated to God, family, and community. Read Also: Ganduje’s Statesmanship Beyond Kano Borders He said her exemplary values are evident in the leadership qualities of her son, who currently leads the affairs of the ruling party. “The passing of a mother is one of life’s greatest pains. On behalf of my family, associates, and supporters, I extend heartfelt condolences to our National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and the entire Yilwatda family,” Ganduje stated. According to him, Madam Lydia will be remembered for her moral uprightness, selfless disposition, and the role she played in nurturing generations of responsible citizens. “While her death is a great loss, we are consoled by the fact that she lived a fulfilled life of impact and service,” the former governor added. Ganduje urged the bereaved family to take solace in her enduring legacies and called on APC members nationwide to stand in solidarity with Yilwatda during this period of mourning.

Kano, News, Politics

Appointment of Mustapha Bala Dawaki as APC Chief of Staff Sparks Jubilation in Kano

The good people of Dawakin Kudu and Warawa Local Government Areas of Kano State on Sunday trooped out in large numbers to warmly receive their son and political mentor, Hon. Mustapha Bala Dawaki, following his appointment as Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. The colourful homecoming, which took place across several communities in the two local governments, was marked by jubilation, encomiums, and cultural displays, as youths, women, party stalwarts, and traditional leaders celebrated the elevation of one of their own to a national leadership position in the APC. Mustapha Bala Dawaki was accompanied by former Commissioner of Education, Honourable Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, who currently serves as the Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute (TPI), Abuja, alongside other close political allies. Their presence further underscored the significance of the occasion and the broad network of support around Dawaki. Read Also: APC Plateau Mourns Passing of National Chairman Yilwatda’s Mother Addressing the crowd, Hon. Dawaki expressed gratitude to the people of Dawakin Kudu and Warawa for their unflinching support throughout his political journey, assuring them that his new role would open greater opportunities not only for the two local governments but for Kano State as a whole. He pledged to use his office to strengthen the ruling party and support the leadership of Prof. Nentawe in repositioning the APC for greater success ahead of future elections. Community leaders and APC stakeholders who spoke at the event described Dawaki’s appointment as well-deserved, citing his years of service, loyalty to the party, and grassroots connection. They prayed for his success and reiterated their commitment to rallying behind him in his new assignment. The celebratory reception was also seen as a demonstration of Dawaki’s growing influence within Kano politics and his strong bond with his people, who turned out en masse to honor him. Photos:

National, News, Plateau

APC Plateau Mourns Passing of National Chairman Yilwatda’s Mother

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State has expressed deep shock over the death of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of its National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. In a statement signed by the Acting Publicity Secretary of the APC in Plateau State, Shittu Bamaiyi, the Party described her passing as not only a personal loss to the National Chairman but also to the entire APC family in Plateau State and Nigeria at large. The statement noted that Mama Lydia’s death was particularly painful and devastating to her children, as it occurred at a time when her counsel and prayers were most needed. Read Also: Nigeria Mourns the Passing of Elder Statesman Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim at 88 Describing her as a devoted Christian and respected women leader in the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), the Party said: “The deceased was virtuous, humane, and humble. Together with her late husband, Reverend Toma Yilwatda, she made immeasurable contributions to strengthening the Church in Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, and Plateau States.” The APC added that Mama Lydia left behind an indelible mark through her life of service and the accomplishments of her children. “The consoling record is that the deceased left behind an accomplished legacy, which is manifested in her children,” the statement read. The Party further described her death as a huge loss not only to the Yilwatda family but also to the Church, the Women Fellowship, and Plateau State. While extending its condolences to Professor Yilwatda and his family, the APC prayed for the repose of Mama Lydia’s soul. “While sharing with Professor Yilwatda in this moment of grief, the Party prays God to grant the late Mama’s soul eternal rest,” it stated.

National, News

TPI Trains Imo LG Officials on Public Sector Governance

The Progressive Institute (TPI), the official think tank of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has concluded a three-day training on Public Sector Governance for principal officers of the 27 Local Governments in Imo State. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Wale Abideen, Head of Media and Strategic Communication of the Institute. The retreat, themed “Enhancing Local Government Governance for Sustainable Development,” was declared open by the Executive Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, on Wednesday, 13th August, at the Sam Mbakwe Hall in Owerri. It ended on Friday, 15th August, 2025, with the presentation of certificates to participants. Related: Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party Declaring the program open, Governor Uzodimma charged the participants to be good ambassadors of the APC in their respective local governments and wards. He warned officials against indiscipline and corruption, urging compliance with law and order as well as dedication to service. He emphasized that his administration would not condone “diaspora local government officials” and directed council chairmen and councillors to reside within their communities. “As local government officials, you’re expected to live within your communities. You must be able to relate well with your community leaders, traditional rulers, youths, and ordinary citizens in your community to determine what their needs are and act on them accordingly. All chairmen must live within their local government and the councillors must reside within their wards. This is a must; hence I have tasked security agencies to monitor you,” Governor Uzodimma stated as he hailed The Progressive Institute for the quality of the training. The Director General of The Progressive Institute, Lanre Adebayo, Ph.D, thanked Governor Uzodimma for fulfilling a promise he made at the inauguration of TPI in September 2024. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Ganduje’s Leadership, Commends Role in Establishing APC Progressive Institute “I would like to express my profound gratitude and admiration to Your Excellency, the Governor of Imo State, for your visionary leadership and commitment to the development of Imo State,” Dr. Adebayo said. According to him, “The retreat is a collaborative effort between The Progressive Institute and the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Imo State, and we are honored to have such a distinguished group of guests to grace this occasion. Today, we have a total of 575 participants, comprising key officials from 27 local government areas of Imo State, including Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, LG Secretaries, Treasurers, Directors of Personnel Management, Councillors, and Supervisory Councillors.” The participants were trained in eight critical areas: Public Procurement, Public Financial Management, Public Service Rules, Public Policy Process and Communication, Public Sector Ethics and Anti-Corruption Legislation, Law Making Process at the Local Government Level, Revenue Generation Strategies, and Monitoring and Evaluation of Projects. The three-day continuous training featured thought-provoking discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive sessions aimed at enhancing the officials’ understanding of Public Sector Governance in line with progressive ideology.

Kebbi, News

Emir of Zuru, Muhammadu Sani Sami, Dies at 81

The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami (Gomo II), has passed away in London after a brief illness. He was 81. Family members confirmed that the retired army officer and respected traditional ruler died on Sunday. Born on October 24, 1943, Sani Sami enlisted in the Nigerian Army on December 10, 1962, and trained at the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, United Kingdom. He was commissioned as an officer on July 25, 1963, alongside coursemates including former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida. Read Also: Nigeria Mourns the Passing of Elder Statesman Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim at 88 Throughout a distinguished military career, he held several strategic positions. Under the Murtala Mohammed administration, he served as Commander of the Brigade of Guards in Lagos. Following the coup that brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power in December 1983, he was appointed Military Governor of Bauchi State, a position he held until August 1985. After retiring from active service, Sani Sami returned to his community and was later enthroned as the Emir of Zuru. He was widely respected for his firmness, simplicity, and dedication to cultural and traditional values. The palace is expected to announce details of his funeral arrangements in due course.

Kano, News, Politics

NNPP Wins Bagwai/Shanono By-Election, Strengthens Hold on Kano Assembly

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has won the Bagwai/Shanono state constituency by-election in Kano, further strengthening its presence in the State House of Assembly. Announcing the results on Sunday, Returning Officer Hassan Adamu Shitu declared Ali Hassan Kiyawa of the NNPP winner with 16,198 votes, defeating Ahmad Muhammad Kadamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 5,347 votes. The by-election was conducted following the death of the former APC lawmaker, Halilu Ibrahim Kundila, in April 2024. Read Also: Son of Late Kano Military Administrator, Colonel Wase, Appointed GOC 1 Division With this victory, the NNPP now controls 26 seats in the 40-member assembly, while the APC holds 14. The exercise was marred by controversy, as the APC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, called for the cancellation of the poll, alleging violence and disruption by armed gangs in Shanono, Bagwai, and Ghari. However, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Audu Zango, revealed that more than 100 suspected political thugs were arrested during the election. Reacting, NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed APC’s claims as baseless, insisting the process was peaceful, credible, and a reflection of the party’s dominance in Kano politics.

Kano, News, Politics

APC Defeats NNPP in Ghari/Tsanyawa Supplementary Election

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has emerged victorious over the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the Ghari/Tsanyawa supplementary election conducted in Kano State. Announcing the results on Sunday, the Returning Officer, Prof. Muhammad Waziri of Bayero University, declared the APC candidate, Garba Gwarmai, winner after securing 31,472 votes. His closest rival, Yusuf Maigado of the NNPP, polled 27,931 votes. Read Also: FEC Approves ₦493bn for Kano–Katsina Road Upgrade, New Carter Bridge Prof. Waziri explained that the supplementary election was held following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to declare the initial poll inconclusive. The rerun, he said, covered polling units where voting was either cancelled or not held due to irregularities. “With a margin of 3,541 votes, Garba Gwarmai of the APC has satisfied the requirement of the law and is hereby returned elected,” the Returning Officer announced. Reacting to the development, jubilant APC supporters described the victory as further proof of the party’s dominance in Kano politics. On the other hand, some NNPP members vowed to review the outcome before deciding on their next course of action. INEC officials noted that the exercise was generally peaceful, with security agencies deployed to maintain order and ensure a hitch-free process. The Ghari/Tsanyawa supplementary election was one of several by-elections conducted nationwide to conclude contests earlier declared inconclusive during the last general elections.

Agriculture, Education, Kano, News

Hotoro Residents Defend FCAPT Provost, Cite Reforms, Impact, and Alignment With Renewed Hope Agenda

As the tenure of Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, Provost of the Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology (FCAPT), Kano, draws closer to expiration, residents of Hotoro community have risen in his defense, stressing that his leadership should continue in view of his remarkable reforms and alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. They argued that contrary to speculations, the retirement age for Provosts of Federal Colleges of Agriculture (FCAs) and heads of National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) is 65 years, not 60. Therefore, calls for his exit on such grounds were described as baseless and misleading. Highlighting his achievements, the residents maintained that Dr. Gwaram has distinguished himself among the most successful Provosts in the institution’s history. Under his stewardship, FCAPT has expanded its impact across agricultural education, agribusiness, and youth empowerment. Particularly, his initiative of providing graduates with entrepreneurial knowledge and starter kits has created jobs and lifted many youths out of unemployment. Read Also: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus “This vision is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, which prioritizes empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development,” the statement noted, adding that his leadership has strengthened service delivery, institutional growth, and confidence among staff and students. The Hotoro community further condemned what they described as “online detractors tarnishing the image of a reform-minded leader.” They emphasized that many youths in Hotoro, Kano, and beyond have benefited from the college’s training and retraining initiatives, and urged the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and the Kano State Government to intervene and put an end to what they called unnecessary distractions. “Dr. Gwaram’s tenure has been about legacy, institutional growth, and building futures. Extending his leadership is not just a reward for his achievements but an investment in the future of agricultural education in Nigeria,” the residents reiterated. Shehu is a resident of Hotoro and a concerned Kano citizen.

Kaduna, National, News, Plateau

Son of Late Kano Military Administrator, Colonel Wase, Appointed GOC 1 Division

Major General Abubakar Sadik Muhammad Wase has been appointed the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna. In a congratulatory post by Plateau Watch, the platform wrote: “Congratulations to one of our own, Major General ASM Wase, on his appointment as General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna.” Read Also: Ganduje’s Statesmanship Beyond Kano Borders Major General Wase is the son of the late Colonel Muhammadu Abdullahi Wase (1948–20 June 1996), a Nigerian military administrator who governed Kano State under General Sani Abacha’s regime from December 1993 to June 1996. Colonel Wase tragically died in a plane crash on June 20, 1996, while on his way to Jos from Kano. At the time of his father’s death, Abubakar Sadik Wase was serving as a lieutenant in the Nigerian Army. His elevation to the prestigious position of GOC 1 Division, nearly three decades later, has been described as a mark of dedication, resilience, and a continuation of his family’s legacy of service to Nigeria.  

Kano, News, Politics

APC Demands Cancellation of Kano Bye-Election, Cites Violence and Electoral Disruption

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the ongoing bye-election in Shanono/Bagwai State Constituency and the rerun election in Ghari Constituency, alleging widespread violence and disruption of the electoral process. This was contained in a press statement signed by Felix Morka, CON, the party’s National Publicity Secretary. According to the APC, armed thugs stormed several polling units across Shanono, Bagwai, and Ghari constituencies, unleashing violence that forced voters to flee and overwhelmed security personnel deployed to maintain order. Read Also: Abba Ganduje Distributes Over 1,000 Solar Lights to 38 Wards in Kano “Verifiable reports from Shanono and Bagwai Local Government Areas and Ghari Constituency have voters fleeing polling areas, with deployed security personnel overwhelmed by the violence,” the statement read, stressing that the prevailing situation made it impossible to conduct a credible election. The party warned that continuing with the exercise under such conditions would undermine democratic principles and legitimize malpractice. “Proceeding with the Shanono/Bagwai Kano State Constituency bye-election and Ghari rerun election in the atmosphere of utter brigandage and outright violent voter intimidation will be against democratic dictates of free, fair and peaceful election,” Morka stated. The APC further argued that allowing the elections to continue would set a “dangerous precedent for undesirable and unacceptable electoral heist,” urging INEC to act urgently in the interest of electoral integrity and public safety. As of press time, INEC had not issued a formal response to the APC’s demand. The situation remains tense in the affected constituencies, with observers and civil society groups closely monitoring developments.

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