By Muhammad Yakubu Lele, Dramaturu

In a surprising political development, Hon. Saidu Hassan Jakusko, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State, has tendered his resignation from the party, citing dissatisfaction with the lack of recognition and support for his contributions.

Jakusko, who served as the Director-General of the APC Youth Awareness Council for Mai Mala Buni during the 2019 gubernatorial campaign, announced his decision in a detailed resignation letter made available to journalists. He expressed disappointment over what he described as years of unreciprocated loyalty and sacrifice for the party.

A Legacy of Dedication

Jakusko recounted his active role in securing the victory of Governor Mai Mala Buni in 2019, emphasizing the sacrifices he and his team made during the rigorous campaign. “We worked tirelessly, investing our time, resources, and energy to secure the victory of Hon. Mai Mala Buni,” he wrote. However, he lamented that his efforts were not acknowledged by the government over the past four years.

Despite this, Jakusko remained loyal to the APC, doubling down on his commitment during the 2023 general elections. He claimed to have facilitated the defection of approximately 600 individuals from opposition parties, including the PDP, APGA, AC, and Labour Party, into the APC.

Alleged Neglect and Unfulfilled Expectations

Jakusko alleged that despite his significant contributions to the party, no tangible support or recognition was extended to him or his constituency. “These decampees were presented to the party leadership, including the APC chairman and other top officials,” he noted, yet his efforts failed to yield the expected acknowledgment or assistance.

The perceived neglect appears to have been the final straw, compelling Jakusko to step away from the party he once served with unwavering dedication.

Appreciation and Forward-Looking Vision

In his resignation letter, Jakusko expressed gratitude to the APC leadership and members in Yobe State for their collaboration over the years. He reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of democracy and the development of his community, even as he embarks on a new political path.

Jakusko’s resignation marks a significant moment for the APC in Yobe State, given his influential role and the political capital he has built over the years. His departure raises questions about internal dynamics within the party and could signal potential challenges in retaining grassroots loyalty.

Implications for Yobe APC

Political analysts suggest that Jakusko’s exit could weaken the APC’s grassroots mobilization efforts in Yobe State, particularly given his history of rallying support across political divides. The move also underscores broader issues of internal dissatisfaction that the APC may need to address to maintain cohesion ahead of future elections.

As Hon. Saidu Hassan Jakusko moves on, the political landscape in Yobe State is set for a potential shift, with both his supporters and critics closely watching his next moves. For now, the APC leadership in the state has yet to issue a formal response to his resignation.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has voiced strong opposition to the controversial tax reform bill recently presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly. The organization raised concerns over several provisions in the bill, calling for a thorough review before it is passed into law.

At a town hall meeting held on January 6, 2025, at Gombe State University, Comrade Jamilu Charanchi, the National Coordinator of CNG, outlined the contentious aspects of the bill and urged the Federal Government to provide Nigerians with a clear report on the outcomes of the fuel subsidy removal, as well as a transparent account of how the savings have been utilized.

Speaking at the event, Professor Abubakar Sadiq from the Federal University of Kashere echoed similar concerns, criticizing the government for pushing forward with the bill despite significant opposition from across the country. He stressed that the proposed tax reforms could place undue pressure on Nigerians already facing economic challenges.

The meeting, themed “Tax Reform: A Catalyst for Economic Growth or a Burden on Nigerians,” drew significant participation from civil society organizations and regional representatives. An overwhelming 99% of attendees expressed their opposition to the bill, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction among the public.

Comrade Muhammad Usman Deba, the CNG’s Coordinator for Gombe State, further emphasized the potential negative impact of the tax reform on Northern states. Deba noted that while the bill aims to boost national revenue, it risks disproportionately benefiting Southern states, particularly those with higher economic activities, such as Lagos. This imbalance could reduce the revenue shares allocated to Northern states, exacerbating existing economic disparities and potentially leading to migration and social unrest.

Deba also criticized the lack of data-driven policymaking and transparency, urging the government to provide solid evidence supporting the proposed changes. He called for a more inclusive approach, with a transparent and equitable revenue-sharing formula that involves consultations with stakeholders from all regions.

The CNG concluded by urging the Nigerian Senate to halt deliberations on the bill and engage in more consultations to ensure the reform promotes national unity and balanced development. They emphasized the need for a fair tax system that ensures no region is marginalized in the pursuit of economic growth.

By Our Correspondent

The Chairman of the Promoters Forum in Broadcasting Media, Comrade Idris Maheer Kumo, has declared that Professor Isah Ali Ibrahim Pantami, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, is qualified to contest for the governorship of Gombe State in 2027.

Speaking during an interview with reporters in Gombe, Comrade Maheer highlighted Pantami’s achievements during his tenure as Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. He noted that Pantami’s track record is a testament to his ability to deliver transformative leadership if given the mandate.

“Professor Pantami has proven his competence through his achievements at NITDA and as a minister. During his time in office, he established at least 10 ICT centers in each of the 11 local government areas of Gombe State, ensuring significant development not only in Gombe but across Nigeria,” Maheer stated.

The chairman also commended Pantami’s efforts in creating opportunities for the underprivileged, stating that over 700 job offers were facilitated for youths from poor backgrounds during his tenure as minister. He dismissed allegations suggesting that these opportunities were only extended to children of the elite.

Comrade Maheer called on the people of Gombe State, especially the youth and women, to support competent candidates in the 2027 elections. He emphasized the importance of making informed decisions to ensure the state’s continued progress.

“Pantami, like any other qualified citizen, has the right to seek election as the next governor of Gombe State. The choice of leadership must be guided by integrity, competence, and the potential to deliver on promises,” he concluded.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, Comrade Maheer’s remarks are expected to spark discussions about the potential candidacy of Professor Pantami and the criteria for selecting the next leader of Gombe State.