The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has firmly rejected claims that Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, neglected education in favor of religious infrastructure.
Governor Namadi accused of spending over N1.5b on religious infrastructure at the expense of education, however, the forum defended the Jigawa Governor insisting that the administration is committed to a balanced approach that will advance both educational and religious needs.
In a statement issued by the PGF’s Director-General, Fulurunso Alunko, the forum declare that the allegations are misleading and politically motivated.
The statement emphasized that Namadi’s administration prioritized a balanced approach to governance, addressing the social, spiritual, and material needs of Jigawa’s citizens.

The PGF argued that the governor’s approach to governance is inclusive and focused on meeting the diverse needs of the state’s population, including substantial investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. The statement also clarified that the amount allegedly spent on religious infrastructure was far less than the funds allocated for educational initiatives, such as the construction of female student hostels at Sule Lamido University and the expansion of facilities at Lamido University and Hadejia School of Nursing.

In defense of the governor’s education record, the forum highlighted several initiatives, including the allocation of 30% of the 2024 budget to education, the recruitment of 9,000 teachers, the renovation of over 500 classrooms, and the supply of over 15,000 student seats.
“The governor also approved a N1.6 billion investment in female student hostels and made substantial commitments to higher education, including scholarships and sending students abroad to study medicine.”
Overall, the PGF stressed that Namadi’s administration continues to support the development of education alongside other critical sectors in Jigawa.

Following the recent arrest of Barrister Dele Farotimi, the Obidient Movement, led by its National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, has raised concerns over alleged threats against Peter Gregory Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement. 

During a press conference on Wednesday, the group condemned what it described as a systematic crackdown on dissent, exemplified by the recent arrest of prominent human rights lawyer Barr. Dele Farotimi.
Dr. Tanko warned that the threats against Peter Obi were part of a broader campaign to silence voices critical of the government. 
He stated, “We are aware of the one-by-one targeting of key figures in our movement, and we will not stand idly by while tyranny takes hold. Any attempt to arrest or intimidate Mr. Peter Obi will be met with nationwide resistance.”
The group accused the government of using state institutions to suppress opposition, pointing to the arrest of Farotimi as evidence of a growing pattern of repression. They also highlighted the deteriorating economic conditions, including soaring fuel prices, currency devaluation, and rising interest rates, as the backdrop against which these threats are occurring.
Calling for the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, the Obidient Movement vowed to mobilize peaceful protests if the government continued its crackdown. 
They also appealed to the international community to monitor the situation closely, urging global solidarity in defense of human rights and democracy in Nigeria.
Dr. Tanko concluded with a warning: “Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we will resist any attempt to undermine our democracy. The protection of Peter Obi is non-negotiable, and we stand united in defense of justice and freedom.”
The movement’s statement has sparked widespread reactions, with many calling on the government to ensure the safety of opposition leaders and to uphold the principles of democracy and free speech

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi has condemned the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi over defamation allegations, describing it as a blatant abuse of police powers and an affront on democracy and justice.

Obi expressed outrage at the misuse of law enforcement to suppress dissent, emphasizing that defamation is a civil matter to be resolved in court.
“The Nigeria Police Force exists to protect citizens’ rights, not to stifle them,” he said, adding that such actions threaten freedom of speech and accountability.

Drawing from personal experience, Obi noted, “I have been defamed countless times, yet I have never used the police to silence critics. Those aggrieved should follow legal channels, not weaponize state power.”

He criticized the arrest as an abuse of authority, warning that it undermines the professionalism of the police. Obi demanded Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, reminding the police of their duty to uphold the Constitution and serve the people, not political interests.
Whike reaffirming his commitment to democratic values and justice he concluded saying,
“A new Nigeria that will be just, fair, and free is possible,” Obi declared,