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Of Matawalle, Gov Lawal and Gang Up
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From the time that Bello Matawalle was nominated as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023, Dauda Lawal the Governor of Zamfara State has been ill at ease.
The circumstances of his victory at the gubernatorial election as well as subsequent victory at the Election petition Tribunal did not give room for sound sleep. He knew that when pushing comes to shoving, the former Governor held the aces in the State politically.
Dauda Lawal having realised that it would be difficult to keep Matawalle’s new influence under check as Minister of State for Defence hatched another plan after his first moves to indict him through the cargo Airport controversy.This was to hoodwink a former aides to Matawalle who could provide information on his activities while in government.
This was what led to the unveiling of Bashir Hadejia, who we will dwell on later in the write-up
The original plan was to paint Bello Matawalle black over his achievements as Governor of Zamfara between 2019 and 2023. This however failed flat as the people of the state knew the legacies he left. And so they were not buying into that. After failing to achieve this, Dauda Lawal Dare thought out other plans.
Our sources believe that the Zamfara Governor connected with the former Jigawa Governor who is presently the Minister of Defence and both of them agreed that it was in their interests to cut Matawalle to size because of his looming influence and good relationship with President Bola Tinubu.
They found a willing tool in Jackson Ude, a former presidential aide to Jonathan. Jackson Ude is a Nigerian journalist who has made a name for himself as a blackmailer. Not less than twenty different top Nigerians, including the DG of World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala have either taken him to court and won or sued him.
Jackson Ude has since become a major ally of Zamfara Governor, Dauda Lawal. Together, they allegedly decided that the best way to tackle Matawalle growing influence in the Tinubu government was to continue to label him as backing the bandits and terrorists terrorizing the State he once governed.
Bello Matawalle’s rise in status and having become the poster boy of the Tinubu administration’s success in the Defence sector did not make his co-minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar comfortable. What you don’t have, you cannot give.
Many sources in the media confirmed that the two Ministers seemed to be opposites hence it was only a matter of time that their differences became obvious. According to our sources, while Matawalle would come to state what the Ministry was doing and encourage the troops and it’s leadership to do more, Badaru has never been a man who wanted visibility. He has always been too taciturn and withdrawn, as if sulking. So when the story came out that he was not too happy with the Minister of State for taking the shine off him, and aligning with Dauda Lawal to undermine Matawalle, not many people doubted it.
Sources claimed Badaru has grouses, with Tinubu appointing him as Defence Minister and not putting the Chiefs of Staff under him. It was also alleged that he was angry with the president because he wanted the FCT Ministry portfolio, which was given to Nyesom WIKE, a non- partyman. Abubakar Badaru, according to our sources felt he should have been given the portfolio of the FCT Ministry because he dropped his presidential ambition to support Tinubu when the President indicated interest in contesting.
Our source further revealed that Badaru, and Governor Lawal have teamed up to work and ensure that Matawalle is frustrated out of the Tinubu government so as to further dent whatever achievements the Tinubu government can claim to have while also denting Matawalle’s achievements.
Governor Lawal’s romance with terrorists is well known in the State despite all the air of arrogance he surrounds himself with as several pictures of his meetings and discussion abound everywhere on the social media.Impeccable sources gathered that Bello Turji works for the Zamfara Governor and the friends and allies of the bandits leader know this.
Sources confided in us that this is why it has been impossible for Bello Turji to be captured or killed as the State government virtually protects him, leaks information about troops movement if they have them and also support them with logistics. This explains why he makes so much noise and boasts of his invincibility.
Bello Turji’s MEN and other bandit leaders are also said to enjoy the same status as he enjoys..
Our sources also confirmed that Turji and a few other top bandits work for Dauda Lawal by ensuring his firm grip on the mining business in Zamfara.
Through them, the governor is alleged to have controlled a large chunk of the mining fields and also collected royalties on the governor’s behalf.
It is even alleged in some circles that some of the late bandits leaders eliminated by the military in its recent onslaught were bagkeepers for the governor who kept his money especially from the mines hence the reason why he was not too happy with their death and their elimination was not celebrated by the state.
Our sources also linked a powerful former NSA from the state with the gold mining business in the state. According to the sources, because of their vested interest, the powerful NSA who retired from the military as a general would do anything to ensure that his mining interests are protected in Zamfara hence the move to support the Governor and ensure that the top bandits who protect their vested interests are not touched. These gang-up believe that any attempt by Matawalle to upset the applecart in the mining sectors of the state will affect their vested interests since it is the bandits who are protecting their interests there and they need the continued presence of the bandits to ward off government prying eyes.
The implications of all these are germane here.
Key stakeholders in Zamfara state who ordinarily should be working for the success of the military are working at cross-purposes with the security apparatus of the state. They are not ready to allow the
security agencies operate. Rather, they work against them. They not only do this, they give out information against the security agencies to bandits and terrorists who through this organise ambushes for the security agencies all ina bid to paint the Minister of State Defence in bad light as well as maintain their strangle hold on the mining sector in the state.
Frightening Dimensions
The recruitment of Bashir Hadejia as well as the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, into this dastardly group constitutes a frightening dimensions to a problem that was hitherto localized. Our sources revealed that Bashir Hadejia was born in Niger Republic and maintains a home there just like the Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru. Having worked with Bello Matawalle, he understands the workings of the former Governor’s network as well as what he did to curb the excesses of the bandits while in power.
That Bashir Hadejia, working with Governor Dauda Lawal were able to cladenstinely sponsor anti- Nigerian protests during the August 1-10 protests in Nigeria signify the extent of their hatred for the country and its constitued authority. Though they set out to embarrass the Minister of State for Defence, and by implications the Tinubu government, the move showed the extent the Dauda Lawal gang-up could go in portraying Matawalle in bad light and their cause. Having recruited a notorious journalist who does not operate in the country, yet spews outright lies and also thrive on blackmail, no wonder they have dominated the cyber space with unverifiable stories upon stories against the Minister of State, Bello Matawalle.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been projected to emerge victorious in the 2027 presidential election, with a new political forecast giving him 20 states against nine for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and eight for NDC candidate Peter Obi.
The projection was made by the Political Intelligence Group (PIG) of Politico.ng, which assessed the current political landscape and projected how the three major political figures could perform if the presidential election were conducted under the circumstances prevailing at the moment.
According to the projection, Tinubu would have a clear advantage over his major rivals, although the group acknowledged that the political situation could change significantly before the actual election.
The forecast places Tinubu strongly in the South-West while also giving him important victories outside the region. Atiku is projected to maintain considerable strength across parts of Northern Nigeria, while Obi is expected to retain support in selected areas where he performed strongly during the 2023 presidential election.
Tinubu Projected to Win 20 States
According to PIG, Tinubu is currently projected to win 20 states, making him the leading candidate in the forecast.
The president is expected to dominate the South-West, with all six states in the region projected to fall into his column. The region remains politically significant because of its voting strength and Tinubu’s long-standing political influence there.
Tinubu is also projected to win Lagos State in the 2027 presidential election. This would mark a change from the 2023 presidential election, when Tinubu lost Lagos State to Peter Obi.
The latest projection says that Tinubu would regain the state in 2027. Lagos has been central to his political career and remains one of the country’s most important electoral territories.
The inclusion of Kano among the states projected to go to Tinubu is one of the more striking aspects of the forecast. Kano is one of Nigeria’s largest states by voting population and has traditionally been an important battleground during presidential elections.
A victory in Kano would provide Tinubu with a major northern foothold and could strengthen his ability to build a broad national coalition beyond his traditional South-West base.
Tinubu’s eventual performance, however, could depend heavily on how Nigerians assess his administration by 2027.
Economic conditions, inflation, employment, security, infrastructure and the cost of living could influence voters’ decisions. The administration’s policies and its ability to communicate its achievements may also become important campaign issues.
Religion and ethnicity could also play a role in the political calculations. Nigeria’s voting patterns are sometimes influenced by regional, ethnic and religious considerations, although these factors compete with economic and political issues.
Atiku Projected to Win 9 States
PIG projects that Atiku Abubakar would win nine states in the 2027 presidential election.
The former vice president is expected to perform strongly in Northern Nigeria, with Kaduna State projected to go to him alongside several states in the North-East and North-West.
Atiku’s strength in the region could be connected to his established political network and his previous presidential campaigns. His ability to mobilise support across northern states could make him one of Tinubu’s strongest competitors in the region.
Another issue that could influence Atiku’s support is his position on fuel subsidy.
Atiku has advocated a review of the current fuel subsidy policy and has spoken about measures aimed at reducing the burden of petrol prices on Nigerians. If the high cost of transportation and living remains a major concern by 2027, such a promise could appeal to voters who want immediate relief from rising household expenses.
However, the fuel subsidy debate is likely to be more complicated than simply promising cheaper petrol.
Voters may want to know where the money required to fund the subsidy would come from and whether restoring or expanding the policy would be financially sustainable. Questions surrounding government revenue, public spending and the opportunity cost of subsidy payments could therefore become major campaign issues.
Religion and ethnicity may also influence Atiku’s support in some areas, particularly where regional identity remains politically important. However, these factors cannot be assumed to determine how every voter will behave.
The strength of Atiku’s campaign could ultimately depend on whether he can combine his northern support with meaningful backing from other parts of the country.
Obi Projected to Win 8 States
Peter Obi is projected to win eight states, according to the Politico.ng forecast.
The projection also places the Federal Capital Territory in Obi’s column. Edo State is another state where the Labour Party candidate is expected to emerge victorious.
Obi’s projected support reflects the political base he developed during the 2023 presidential election, when he performed strongly in several parts of the country.
His campaign has continued to appeal particularly to voters seeking political change and a different approach to governance. Economic management, accountability, public spending and the need for greater efficiency in government are likely to remain central to his political message.
However, Obi’s challenge could be expanding his support beyond the areas where he has historically performed strongly.
The 2027 election is expected to be highly competitive, and the emergence of new political alliances could significantly change the distribution of votes.
If opposition parties eventually cooperate or form a coalition, the calculations surrounding Tinubu, Atiku and Obi could change dramatically. Likewise, defections, the choice of running mates and the strength of party structures could influence the final outcome.
Religion and ethnicity could also feature in the contest, particularly as politicians seek to build geographically and demographically balanced tickets. Nevertheless, voters could also prioritise issues such as economic hardship, security, employment and government performance.
Projection Could Still Change
PIG’s forecast should not be interpreted as the final result of the 2027 presidential election.
The group reportedly indicated that if the election were held in September under the political circumstances currently prevailing, the APC would win.
Under that scenario, Tinubu would secure 20 states, Atiku would win nine, while Obi would take eight.
However, the actual election is still ahead, giving the major political players considerable time to change the current political equation.
The economy could improve or deteriorate. Petrol prices could become a bigger or smaller issue. New alliances could emerge, and candidates could gain or lose popularity.
The debate over fuel subsidy could become particularly important if Nigerians continue to struggle with transportation costs and the broader cost of living. Atiku’s position could therefore become a significant campaign talking point, while Tinubu would likely defend the economic direction of his administration.
Beyond economic issues, regional interests, religion, ethnicity and political identity are likely to remain part of the broader electoral calculations.
For now, however, the Politico.ng projection places Tinubu in the strongest position with 20 states, followed by Atiku with nine and Obi with eight.
The coming months and eventual campaign season will determine whether those numbers remain intact or whether Nigeria’s political landscape produces another major realignment before voters finally head to the polls in 2027.
The Homat Megalite Event Centre, Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu, was filled to capacity penultimate Friday as Bottomline Media hosted the 2nd edition of the Ikorodu School Summit & Awards
With the theme, “Combating the Menace of Poor Orientation and Moral Decadence in Society,” the summit brought together students, teachers, school owners, parents, faith leaders, and security chiefs for a day of truth-telling, awards, and renewed commitment to rebuilding values in the society.
Supported by Education District II and LASUBEB, the summit has quickly become one of Ikorodu’s most important platforms for education, character, and community security.
The event recorded a strong presence from Nigeria’s security institutions. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Taiwo, was represented by the Area N Area Commander, Ijede, with the DPO, Igbogbo Police Station, CSP Akinola Clement who deployed full police security for summit also in attendance.
Speaking on behalf of the CP, the Area Commander commended Bottomline Media for the initiative and said there is an urgent need to “start early in educating the younger ones on moral uprightness.”
“An intelligent student without purpose and character will become an intelligent criminal,” he warned. He challenged society to pay more attention to values than to criminal success. “We celebrate criminal success at the expense of values. That must change if we want a safer Nigeria.”
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ikorodu Area Command, led by DCN Jonax David, delivered a hard-hitting lecture on the dangers of illegal and abusive drugs. The agency linked drug abuse directly to moral decadence and rising crime rates across the country.
NDLEA called on parents, schools, religious leaders, and teachers to do more in prevention and early intervention. The session left students asking questions and teachers requesting follow-up sensitization in schools.
Guest Speaker, Pastor Lanre Temenu, Pastor, Chapel of Transfiguration, COT Solution Centre, LASUTECH, anchored the moral conversation. His message on discipline, purpose, and right orientation resonated with audience who filled the hall from various discipline.
Dr. Henry Obidi anchored the programme with professionalism and energy, ensuring the day ran seamlessly from opening to the final award.
Proprietor of Homat Schools, Alhaji Olawale Amusa, hosted the summit at the Homat Megalite Event Centre, providing the venue that made the large turnout possible.
The awards segment was the emotional high point. Seven Prominent individuals and institutions were honoured and received a full 60-second standing ovation from the audience.
60-Second Standing Ovation Honorees
1. CP Fatai Tijani: Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command
2. Lagos State Ministry of Education
3. Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy
4. Femi Falana, SAN , Legal luminary
5. Hon. Jimi Benson Member, House of Representatives, Ikorodu Federal Constituency
6. Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, Senator, Lagos East Senatorial District
7. Ikorodu Division Peace & Security Initiative, Ikorodu
Champion of Moral Excellence & Societal Values Award
1. Lawrence Obilana: Proprietor, Meaning Resources School
2. Owenaze Blessing Ella: Managing Director, Unique Prella Schools
3. Pastor Lanre Temenu: Pastor, Chapel of Transfiguration, COT Solution Centre, LASUTECH
4. Princess Mulikat Fehintola Sanni, CEO, Mulifelong Motors
Excellence Recognition Award
Hon. Deen Sanwola, Mrs. Eyitayo Mojisola Olawunmi, Alhaji Taiwo Abiodun Odumbo, Dr. Henry Obidi, Alhaji Olawale Amusa.
Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu: Executive Chairman, LASUBEB, Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji – Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Dr. Bishop Joseph Edoro, Mr. Omotayo Layemo Sanni – Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District II, Hon. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, DCN Jonax David – Area Commander, NDLEA Ikorodu, and Engr. Mukadas Opeodu.
Education & School Excellence Awards
1. Miss Oyebode Sekinat Kofoworola, Civil Service Senior Model College, Igbogbo – _Outstanding Teacher of the Year_
2. Government Senior Model College, Owutu – _Outstanding Secondary School in Output_
3. Miss Alabi Taiwo Patience, Ikorodu Junior Grammar School – _Best Innovative School_
4. Lagos State Girls Junior Model College, Agunfoye – _Outstanding School with Best Learning Environment_
5. Mrs. Bolanle Moronkola Esho, Lagos State Civil Service Junior Model College, Igbogbo – _Best Education Administrator_
From the packed hall to the interactive Q&A, the summit achieved its goal: to confront poor orientation head-on and equip the next generation with character to match their intelligence.
Arthur Igbolaju Richard, Convener, Ikorodu School Summit & Awards 2.0 and CEO, Bottomline Media, said the goal is to make the summit an annual movement. “When students hear from the Police, NDLEA, Lawyers, teachers, and faith leaders in one room, the message is clear: society is watching, and society cares. We will keep building this table.”
With Education District II, LASUBEB, NDLEA, and the Nigeria Police on board, Ikorodu School Summit & Awards 2.0 ends as more than an event. It ends as a call to action.
#IkoroduSummit2.0 #ValuesFirst #BottomlineMedia
Wema Bank has introduced a new jingle to mark the next phase of its digital banking journey, tagged the ALAT: The Evolution jingle. Designed to capture the energy of a smarter and more seamless banking experience, the jingle is bright, catchy, and full of life. It reflects a platform built to simply work, pairing sound with innovation as ALAT: The Evolution steps forward with enhanced features and a refreshed user experience.
Everyday banking can often feel routine or even stressful, with multiple steps and delays slowing things down. The ALAT: The Evolution jingle reimagines that experience with a lively and confident tone that mirrors the app’s capabilities. From voice banking with SAW to Tap and Pay and bank uptime prediction, each feature is echoed in the rhythm and flow of the sound. It brings to life the speed, convenience, and reliability that define this new phase of ALAT: The Evolution.
More than just music, the ALAT: The Evolution jingle represents a clear statement of intent. It signals a shift towards banking that feels natural, responsive, and in tune with the user. As customers update their app and explore ALAT: The Evolution, the jingle serves as a reminder that a better, smoother way to bank is already here. Wema Bank is not just evolving its technology; it is shaping how banking feels.
