Arewa youths accuse Amaechi, Bafarawa of plotting to destabilize Tinubu’s govt

There is no end in sight to the controversy trailing former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi’s recent political comments as the Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria, RAYCN, has accused him and some other opposition politicians of plotting to destabilize President Bola Tinubu’s government.

It would be recalled that, at a conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria on January, Amaechi said Nigerians must brace up and be willing to make sacrifices if they are to take power from Tinubu.

Amaechi, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who served as Minister of Transportation during the government of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, stressed that Tinubu would not give up power easily, and as a result, the people should be prepared for a struggle.

“The only way Ibrahim Shekarau (ex-Kano State governor) became governor was because people lined up. It happened in Ghana before the election of the last President. Two days, a lot of us were called to intervene. But why did they do that? The people were ready to die.

“You are talking and abusing everybody. Nobody has power and will give it to you — not even me. If you want a pastor as President, go and get one. The politician is there in Nigeria to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power.

“If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time,” Amaechi said.

Responding to the comment, the Presidency, through the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, accused Amaechi and other critics, including former Kaduna State governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, of heating up the polity.

Further reacting to the development at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria, RAYCN, raised concerns over an alleged plot by Amaechi and former Sokoto State governor Attahiru Bafarawa, to destabilise Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking through its national president, Bilal Abdullahi, the Arewa group alleged that Amaechi and Bafarawa are working with other disgruntled elements to undermine Tinubu and his government.

Specifically, the politicians were accused of plotting to orchestrate massive protests against Tinubu across the North-West, starting from Bafarawa’s home state, Sokoto.

Urging relevant security agencies to investigate the alleged plot, the group claimed that the activities of Amaechi and the others threaten national security.

The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria in the same vein urged youths, religious organisations and lovers of peace and democracy to condemn the alleged plot and support Tinubu’s administration in its efforts to reform the country.

“Their intention and their several meetings is aimed at intimidating the government of President Tinubu and the various organs of government, and make the citizens feel that the government and its various organs are not doing enough to take the people to prosperity.

“This is a matter of utmost state security concern. We cannot fold our arms until we are submerged or over awe by their evil machination and subterfuge.

“It is clear that ever since their incontrovertible defeat at the polls by President Bola Tinubu, these elements have not hidden their hate and disdain for the person of the President and the various organs of government.

“It is however unfortunate that this hatred and disdain is pushing them to act against the Office of the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and becoming direct threat to our democracy and the rule of law.

“They must consequently be stopped with all might and not be allowed to go further, to serve as deterrence to others.”

Arewa youths accuse Amaechi, Bafarawa of plotting to destabilize Tinubu’s govt

  • Related Posts

    MES to Empower Youth, Women, Other Businesses 

    MES to Empower Youth, Women, Other Businesses 

    As part of the measures to boost the economy and lift youths and women, the maiden edition of the Muslim Economic Summit (MES 1.0) – a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower youths, women, and businesses through ethical finance, enterprise, and collaboration has been announced. 

    The event, themed: ‘Faith, Finance & the Future: Empowering Youths, Women & Businesses for a Prosperous Ummah’, is scheduled to hold on January 17-18, 2026, at the University of Lagos DIL Main Auditorium.

    Speaking ahead of the press conference, President, MuassasatNasrulIImWaDa’awat Foundation (MNIDF), and spokesperson for the organising committee, Alhaji Ibraheem Olayinka Adigun, said: “This summit is not just another conference – it is a movement towards economic renewal for our people. We want to equip our youth and women with the tools, training, and partnerships they need to succeed ethically in business and in life. MES 1.0 is a vision to build a prosperous Ummah, powered by knowledge, enterprise, and collaboration.”

    Read more

    Akiin Shuga, Nigeria’s Live-Band Grandmaster, Dies at 50

    Akiin Shuga, Nigeria’s Live-Band Grandmaster, Dies at 50

    Adedayo Adejobi

    The Nigerian music community has been thrown into mourning following the death of one of its most beloved figures, Akinloye Tofowomo—popularly known as Akiin Shuga—who passed away on October 30, in New Brunswick, Canada. He was 50.

    In a statement announcing his death, the family described him as a “revered music icon, Grandmaster, and custodian of rhythm, culture, and the spirit of performance.”

    Born on January 6, 1975, in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Akiin Shuga’s life was a remarkable story of music, resilience, and purpose. Stricken by polio at the age of five, he rose above physical limitation to become one of Nigeria’s most dynamic live-band performers and music entrepreneurs. His journey from performing in small clubs to building a nationally recognised band mirrored Nigeria’s own rediscovery of live music as an art form.

    In 1998, he founded the Shuga Band, which began performing at Pintos in Ikeja, Lagos. Over time, it grew into a 14-piece ensemble of instrumentalists, vocalists, and technicians famed for electrifying performances at corporate events, weddings, and state occasions. His company, Shuga Entertainment, became a benchmark for professionalism in live performance—combining artistry with discipline, and passion with polish.

    Akiin Shuga was also the Founder and President of the Association of Music Band Owners of Nigeria (AMBON), where he championed the professionalisation of the live-music ecosystem and fair standards for musicians.

    “Akiin was more than a performer; he was a reformer,” a very close colleague of the Late musician, said in a statement. “He brought dignity to a profession that was often misunderstood. He insisted that a live band was not just an accessory to parties but a pillar of our cultural economy. His leadership helped many of us see ourselves as entrepreneurs and brand custodians, not just entertainers.”

    In an industry defined by fleeting fame, Akiin Shuga cultivated permanence. On stage, his charisma was matched by his devotion to structure behind the scenes—contracts, rehearsals, sound checks, and mentorships were handled with the precision of a conservatory conductor. He often reminded his band, “We don’t perform to impress; we perform to connect.”

    That ethos defined his artistry and sustained the Shuga Band for more than two decades. The band’s leader, Reke Ofano, described him as both a taskmaster and a mentor. “Shuga never accepted mediocrity. At every gig, he demanded excellence. But behind that firmness was an enormous heart—he knew everyone’s birthday, everyone’s struggle, everyone’s dream. That’s what made us stay. We weren’t just a band; we were a family.”

    Akiin Shuga’s intellectual curiosity and business acumen also distinguished him. After completing a programme in Music Business at the Berklee College of Music, Boston, he returned to Nigeria determined to modernise live performance. He introduced brand collaborations, stage choreography, and integrated digital sound engineering to the local circuit—innovations that redefined audience expectations and re-established live-band culture as premium entertainment.

    Beyond music, he was a passionate advocate for people living with disabilities. Having lived with the effects of polio, he founded the Shuga Limb Foundation to support those with limb challenges. His appointment as Rotary International District Polio Ambassador in 2018 reflected his deep commitment to advocacy.

    District Governor, Rotarian (Prince) Henry Olubowale Akinyele, described him as “a man who carried his scars like medals.” He said, “Akiin Shuga used his music to give voice to courage. He often said disability is not inability, and he lived that truth every day. Through his song I Can Walk, he gave polio survivors an anthem of hope.”

    Over the years, Shuga Band became a fixture at high-profile weddings, state banquets, and corporate galas. Yet, despite performing for presidents and billionaires, Akiin Shuga remained grounded in humility and faith. Colleagues recall that he ended every show with a short prayer and the promise to “leave joy in the air.”

    Tributes have since poured in from across the creative community, with singers, instrumentalists, and event professionals celebrating him as “the architect of modern live-band culture.”

    The family, in their statement, expressed gratitude to all who have reached out in prayer and condolence. “As we come to terms with this immeasurable loss, we ask for quiet reflection and the space to honour his life in the intimacy of loved ones and cherished memories,” the statement read, adding that details of the memorial arrangements will be announced later.

    Though gone, Akiin Shuga’s influence will reverberate for generations. His leadership helped elevate live-band performance from the periphery of Nigerian entertainment to the centre of its cultural identity. To the younger musicians he mentored, his life proved that integrity and showmanship can coexist.

    “He taught us that music is service—to people, to God, and to joy itself,” said Ofano. “Even in death, he remains our Grandmaster.”

    Akinloye Tofowomo is survived by his wife, children, siblings, and mother.

    In the words of one of his own lyrics, “Every rhythm tells a story.” His story—rich with melody, meaning, and humanity—will continue to play in the hearts of those he inspired, and in every beat that moves to the sound of live music in Nigeria.

    Read more

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Business & Economy

    Canada cuts temporary immigration, opens residency path for H-1B visa holders 

    Canada cuts temporary immigration, opens residency path for H-1B visa holders 

    China launches digital arrival card, visa-free transit access for foreigners 

    China launches digital arrival card, visa-free transit access for foreigners 

    Solar energy: Experts push $2.5billion carbon market opportunity for Nigeria 

    Solar energy: Experts push $2.5billion carbon market opportunity for Nigeria 

    Education tops Katsina’s 2026 budget with N156.3 billion allocation 

    Education tops Katsina’s 2026 budget with N156.3 billion allocation 

    Biased credit ratings cost Africa $75 billion annually – Experts  

    Biased credit ratings cost Africa $75 billion annually – Experts  

    Senate approves 14-year jail term for sexual harassment in tertiary institutions

    Senate approves 14-year jail term for sexual harassment in tertiary institutions

    Nigerian Railway Corporation plans to switch to electric-powered trains in five years 

    Nigerian Railway Corporation plans to switch to electric-powered trains in five years 

    Eurobonds: Nigeria raises $2.35 billion after record $13 billion investor demand 

    Eurobonds: Nigeria raises $2.35 billion after record $13 billion investor demand 

    US Military drafts Nigeria strike plans after Trump directive 

    US Military drafts Nigeria strike plans after Trump directive 

    TRUMP’S REBUKE, NIGERIA’S MORAL TEST

    TRUMP’S REBUKE, NIGERIA’S MORAL TEST

    Effi & Associates Joins ALPi as Group Expands into Francophone W’Africa

    Effi & Associates Joins ALPi as Group Expands into Francophone W’Africa

    SEC Tasks Registrars Other CMOs on Innovations

    SEC Tasks Registrars Other CMOs on Innovations

    Elizade JAC Autoland Introduces New Models, Reaffirms Commitment 

    Elizade JAC Autoland Introduces New Models, Reaffirms Commitment 

    NIPR Holds Annual PRICE Awards

    NIPR Holds Annual PRICE Awards

    T2 Named Technology Partner for CIArb Conference

    T2 Named Technology Partner for CIArb Conference

    Growing Cultural Impact of Nigeria’s Creative Industry

    Growing Cultural Impact of Nigeria’s Creative Industry

    NCC Restates Commitment to Unlock Rural Economic Potential with Digital Connectivity

    NCC Restates Commitment to Unlock Rural Economic Potential with Digital Connectivity

    Report: Connectivity Speed in Urban Networks Rises as Operators Invest More in 4G LTE Technology

    Report: Connectivity Speed in Urban Networks Rises as Operators Invest More in 4G LTE Technology

    Theuri: Nigerian Market is Strategic for Business Growth

    Theuri: Nigerian Market is Strategic for Business Growth

    Dantsoho Urges African Ports to Deepen Collaboration for Blue Economy Growth

    Dantsoho Urges African Ports to Deepen Collaboration for Blue Economy Growth

    15% import tariff on petrol will strengthen local content – MAN

    15% import tariff on petrol will strengthen local content – MAN

    Funding gap threatens Nigeria’s AI growth despite strong implementation – Report 

    Funding gap threatens Nigeria’s AI growth despite strong implementation – Report 

    Fidelity Bank records N13.9 billion as All-Share wipes 1,816.2 points on large-cap declines 

    Fidelity Bank records N13.9 billion as All-Share wipes 1,816.2 points on large-cap declines 

    Ondo state, investors sign $50 billion refinery, free trade zone agreement 

    Ondo state, investors sign $50 billion refinery, free trade zone agreement 

    SEC DG: Nigeria’s non-interest capital market now worth N1.6 trillion  

    SEC DG: Nigeria’s non-interest capital market now worth N1.6 trillion  

    Beyond Compliance: How stronger capital will redefine merchant banking in Nigeria 

    Beyond Compliance: How stronger capital will redefine merchant banking in Nigeria 

    Receivership: Nestoil drags 8 Nigerian banks, Afreximbank to Abuja Court 

    Receivership: Nestoil drags 8 Nigerian banks, Afreximbank to Abuja Court 

    FCCPC shuts down five textile warehouses in Kano over deceptive sales practices 

    FCCPC shuts down five textile warehouses in Kano over deceptive sales practices 

    AXA Mansard sustains growth momentum, lifts insurance revenues by 23% to N120.53 billion  in Q3 2025 

    AXA Mansard sustains growth momentum, lifts insurance revenues by 23% to N120.53 billion  in Q3 2025 

    Woodhall Capital targets $50 Billion in Global Investments to drive Nigeria’s Development 

    Woodhall Capital targets $50 Billion in Global Investments to drive Nigeria’s Development 

    Access Holdings leads Nigerian lenders in credit quality, PREMIUM TIMES Annual Banking Report shows

    Access Holdings leads Nigerian lenders in credit quality, PREMIUM TIMES Annual Banking Report shows

    Access Holdings leads Nigerian lenders in credit quality, PREMIUM TIMES Annual Banking Report shows

    Access Holdings leads Nigerian lenders in credit quality, PREMIUM TIMES Annual Banking Report shows

    FG considers refinery sales to attract investors, boost competition 

    FG considers refinery sales to attract investors, boost competition 

    FG considers refinery sales to attract investors, boost competition 

    FG considers refinery sales to attract investors, boost competition 

    CBN’s Fixed Income overhaul sparks regulatory tensions in financial market 

    CBN’s Fixed Income overhaul sparks regulatory tensions in financial market 

    Taikun Mindset: Tribute to Alhaji KK as a relentless visionary at 57 

    Taikun Mindset: Tribute to Alhaji KK as a relentless visionary at 57