Crystal News, Port Harcourt, Harcourt (2025)

13/11/2025

Ribadu Strengthens Forest Security Operations to Dismantle Criminal Hideouts

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has revealed that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is intensifying the training of a specialized unit within the Nigeria Forest Security Service as part of ongoing efforts to enhance national security.

Ribadu explained that the initiative forms a key component of the Federal Government’s renewed strategy to dismantle criminal networks and armed groups that have turned the nation’s forests into operational bases and safe havens.

According to him, the enhanced training programme is designed to equip operatives with advanced tactical, surveillance, and intelligence-gathering skills needed to track, intercept, and neutralize criminal elements across forest regions.

The NSA noted that the move underscores the government’s determination to strengthen internal security architecture and restore safety to rural communities that have long suffered from banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

https://naijacurrents.com/ribadu-strengthens-forest-security-operations-to-dismantle-criminal-hideouts/

10/11/2025

TEXT OF A PRESS CONFERENCE, ORGANIZED BY A COALITION OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS, ON THE NEED FOR THE SENATE TO END THE UNNECESSARY DELAYS AND IMMEDIATELY CONFIRM ENGR ABDULLAHI GARBA RAMAT AS CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION (NERC), AT IMO HOUSE ABUJA, ON THE 10TH OF NOVEMBER, 2025.

Protocol,

Ladies and gentlemen of the press,

Silence in the face of injustice amounts to complicity. It is on this note that we have chosen to take a stand and speak courageously to power in order to put an end to the injustice that has trailed the unnecessary, inexplicable and inexcusable delay in confirming the nomination of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the Chairman of NERC by the Nigerian Senate.

Let this be on record that on the 22nd of October, 2025, Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe (Abia South), Chairman , Senate Committee on Power, after a thorough vetting exercise, presented the trio of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, Mr. Abubakar Yusuf and Fouad Olayinka Animashaun as Chairman, Commissioner (Consumer Affairs) and Commissioner (Finance and Administration) respectively, of NERC.

However, instead of performing their statutory responsibility of screening and confirming appointments and nominations from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Senate decided to constitute a public obstacle to the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially in the Power sector. Apart from willfully sabotaging the power reforms as enshrined in the Renewed Hope Agenda, the action of the Senate under Senator Godswill Akpabio speaks eloquently about the integrity of our democratic institutions and their motives in the grand national scheme.

Our clandestine findings in this suspicious and questionable debacle indicates that some parliamentarians seeking regional influence, appear increasingly determined to act as obstacles to the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking instead to impose their personal interests on critical national appointments. Therefore, rather than supporting the administration in its efforts to build strong institutions and deliver progress, they resort to pressure tactics, intimidation, and the blackmail of appointees and nominees of Mr. President. This conduct undermines governance, erodes public trust, and sabotages our national development.

The delay in the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, a seasoned and experienced professional, is reportedly due to the actions of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and his Deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin. Unfortunately, these two men are APC top leaders, who in public claim to support the President, but in private work against his decisions because of their personal political schemes. Sadly enough, no concrete reason(s) have been advanced to justify the prolonged delay in confirming this appointee.

It is deeply troubling that, according to credible accounts, this delay is not because Engr Ramat does not merit the job, nor is it in the national interest, but it is rather rooted in Senator Barau’s alleged political machinations and selfish interests. This is political terrorism and must not be condoned by Nigerians. Let us be clear, no individual, however politically positioned, should hold the nation hostage or subvert meritocracy for their personal ambition. The future of our power sector is far too important for petty political gimmicks. The power needs of Nigerians are too urgent (in fact, an emergency), and Mr. President’s reform momentum is also too critical to allow this form of internal sabotage to continue unchecked.

Engr. Abdullahi
Ramat, an experienced electrical energy reform and policy expert with over 10 years of working experience across diverse areas, deserves to be given an opportunity to contribute his quota to the reform efforts of Mr. President. As a multi-disciplinary professional with expertise spanning electrical engineering, electronics, telecommunications, and strategic management with core and subject-specific degrees in addition to a Ph.D. in Strategic Management, is undoubtedly most qualified and suited for the chairmanship of NERC. This commission will be a perfect niche for this talented Nigerian to demonstrate his immense proven capacity.

As a fellow of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN); a Harvard University alumni who served as the pioneer Managing Director of Kano State Metropolitan Agency (KASMA) as well as the current Director of AG Ramat Global Electrical/Electronic Ltd, amongst many other roles, he is ably qualified to drive the necessary reforms in the power sector which has been a national embarrassment due to failure of successive adminstrations to tackle the Power sector challenges headlong.

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, our position is simple and straightforward. The Senate President should, as a matter of utmost national importance, address Nigerians and state categorically why an eminently qualified Nigerian is being treated this way despite the express appointment and nomination by Mr. President. What exactly is the problem, if not crude local politics? In fact, of all sectors, the power sector should be spared the unnecessary politics of selfish interests due to its strategic importance as driver of industrialization and economic growth.

Enough is enough. If Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat's confirmation is delayed for another 48 hours, we shall mobilize all unemployed Nigerian youths whose future is being compromised by the personal political ambitions of a few bad eggs, for a massive protest at the National Assembly and all offices of NERC until the will of Mr. President and indeed Nigerians are achieved, and the critical power sector is salvaged.

This is no empty threat at all. Nigerians are tired of playing politics with everything. So, since the leadership of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is on this base and shameless part, we will help to embarrass and expose their chicanery.

Thank you all for listening.

Signed:

Comrade Danesi Momoh Prince,

Convener,
Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative (EUYI), on behalf of the Coalition

08/11/2025

Don’t beat around the bush, give us answers,” Group Responds to Senate on NERC Boss Confirmation Delay

The Grassroots Initiative Concept (GRIC) has issued a formal rejoinder to the Nigerian Senate addressing the delay in confirming Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), urging transparency and due process in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. GRIC reaffirmed its respect for the Senate’s institutional role, noting that the Senate Committee on Power had screened, cleared, and recommended Engr. Ramat, and that only one petition which was dismissed for lack of merit, was received during the process.

"If indeed it was implied that Engr. Ramat’s confirmation was delayed due to a “baggage of complaints,” this does not reflect the official record of the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by the highly respected Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

The records show that Engr. Ramat was screened, cleared, and recommended for confirmation by the committee after a thorough process. Only one petition, questioning his years of experience, was received. After careful evaluation, it was found to be without merit and dismissed.

Several members of the committee have confirmed that the report recommending his confirmation was completed and submitted to the Senate leadership on 22nd October 2025, with copies circulated among members.

The GRIC is in possession of this report, which clearly recommends his confirmation. However, out of respect for the Senate and its internal procedures, we have refrained from releasing it publicly. We trust the distinguished leadership of the Senate to handle this matter with the dignity and discretion it deserves,” the group stated.

The group further stressed that while another nominee screened the same day was confirmed, Ramat’s confirmation has remained pending without explanation.

GRIC appealed to the Senate to clarify on whether the delay is procedural or administrative, emphasising that public confidence in the Senate depends on openness and fairness. It highlighted concerns over mixed public messaging, including comments suggesting “complaints” against the nominee, which contradict the committee’s official findings.

Reiterating support for democratic institutions and President Tinubu’s reform agenda, GRIC called on the Senate’s leadership to uphold transparency, reassure Nigerians and international observers of the Senate’s credibility, and avoid perceptions of political interference.

The group also clarified that references to alleged bribery were based on public speculation, not accusations, and reaffirmed its respect for Senate leadership and confidence that the matter will be resolved with integrity and statesmanship.

Read the Full Rejoinder Statement of GRIC

Senate: Why We Halted Ramat’s Confirmation as NERC Chair —A Rejoinder

The recent statement attributed to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), regarding the delayed confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has generated understandable public concern and discussion across the country.

At a time when His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is driving the Renewed Hope Agenda founded on fairness, competence, and youth inclusion, the role of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a stabilizing pillar of democracy remains indispensable. The credibility and moral authority of the Senate, our foremost legislative body, are essential to sustaining the trust and confidence of the Nigerian people and the international community.

We, the Grassroot Initiave Concept (GRIC), wish to emphasize that we hold the Senate in the highest possible esteem. It is one of the most respected parliaments in Africa, a custodian of the people’s will, and a beacon of legislative excellence. Our intention, therefore, is not to criticize but to clarify facts, defend due process, and safeguard the Senate’s integrity, which remains the foundation of Nigeria’s democratic governance.

1. On the Alleged “Baggage of Public and Private Complaints”

If indeed it was implied that Engr. Ramat’s confirmation was delayed due to a “baggage of complaints,” this does not reflect the official record of the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by the highly respected Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

The records show that Engr. Ramat was screened, cleared, and recommended for confirmation by the committee after a thorough process. Only one petition, questioning his years of experience, was received. After careful evaluation, it was found to be without merit and dismissed.

Several members of the committee have confirmed that the report recommending his confirmation was completed and submitted to the Senate leadership on 22nd October 2025, with copies circulated among members.

The GRIC is in possession of this report, which clearly recommends his confirmation. However, out of respect for the Senate and its internal procedures, we have refrained from releasing it publicly. We trust the distinguished leadership of the Senate to handle this matter with the dignity and discretion it deserves.

We remain grateful to the Senate President, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, and the Deputy Senate President, His Excellency Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CON, for their tireless service to the nation. We are fully aware of the enormous responsibility they shoulder in managing the affairs of the Senate and maintaining harmony between the executive and legislative arms of government.

It is in this same spirit of respect and national loyalty that we humbly appeal for clarification as to why the report of the Committee on Power, completed and repeatedly requested for enlistment, has not yet been presented before the full Senate.

2. Senate Procedure and the Question of Delay

By established legislative tradition:
1. The President nominates a candidate.
2. The Senate President refers the nomination to the appropriate committee.
3. The committee screens and submits its report.
4. The Senate deliberates and votes for confirmation or rejection.

In this instance, the Committee on Power faithfully fulfilled its mandate and submitted its report. Yet, while Malam Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, who was screened on the same day, was confirmed as Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Engr. Ramat’s confirmation has remained pending without public explanation.

We are not questioning the Senate’s prerogative, which we recognize and respect fully, but merely appealing for clarity and transparency to prevent unnecessary public misunderstanding.

The Nigerian people hold the Senate in very high regard. A simple clarification will help strengthen that trust and reaffirm the Senate’s reputation as a transparent and impartial arm of government.

3. Key Questions for Clarification

With utmost humility and respect, we seek clarification on the following:
1. If the Committee on Power cleared and recommended Engr. Ramat, why has the report not been presented to the plenary?
2. Why have the Committee’s repeated pleas for enlistment of the report not yet received consideration?
3. Can the distinguished Senate leadership kindly help Nigerians understand whether this delay is procedural, administrative, or otherwise?

We raise these questions not in defiance, but in trust —trust in the Senate’s moral authority and in its history of fairness and justice.

4. Our Stand and National Appeal

This intervention is not about defending an individual but about defending institutional integrity and renewing national faith in democratic institutions.

We represent a broad coalition of patriotic Nigerians, especially young professionals, who deeply believe that the success of the Tinubu administration and the credibility of the 10th Senate are mutually reinforcing.

Our purpose is non-partisan, guided by the conviction that due process, merit, and transparency must continue to define governance in Nigeria.

In light of recent international observations, including comments by the President of the United States on governance and institutional credibility in Nigeria, it is imperative that our institutions, especially the revered Senate, continue to embody transparency, dignity, and independence.

We therefore appeal, respectfully yet earnestly, to the distinguished leadership of the 10th Senate, under Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin, to help Nigerians understand and resolve this matter in the interest of truth, justice, and the image of our nation.

We have absolute confidence that the 10th Senate, guided by its history of fairness and patriotism, will act with wisdom and statesmanship to reaffirm the trust that Nigerians and the world community have long placed in it.

Lastly, On The Alleged $10 Million Bribe Claim:

The statement suggesting that the confirmation of Engr. Ramat was linked to an alleged $10 million bribe is inaccurate and unfairly presented.

For the record, Mr. Alwan’s remarks were purely a reflection of public speculation. He was careful and conditional, using the word “allegedly,” which clearly indicated that he was not accusing the Senate or its leadership of wrongdoing.

The concern raised was about perceptions of political interference, not an indictment of the Senate or any of its distinguished leaders. We therefore respectfully urge that this context be properly understood and communicated.

We reaffirm our deepest respect for the Senate leadership, its distinguished members, and its longstanding tradition of integrity, wisdom, and national service. The Senate has consistently demonstrated a commitment to transparency and justice, and we believe this situation will be handled in that same noble spirit.

Signed:
Ahmed I. Suleiman
(Spokes Person)
Grassroots Initiative Concept (GRIC)
Abuja, Nigeria
Date: 8th November 2025

07/11/2025

Group Accuses Akpabio, Barau of Sabotaging Engr Ramat’s Nomination to NERC

A civil society group in Kano State has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin of obstructing President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda by allegedly blocking the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Speaking in Kano, the group’s convener, Alwan Hassan, condemned what he described as a growing pattern of political interference and blackmail by senior lawmakers who undermine qualified nominees for personal interests rather than national progress.

Hassan stated that Engr. Ramat, a highly qualified, 40-year-old technocrat with advanced engineering and management credentials represents the new generation of leaders needed to modernize Nigeria’s power sector.

He urged the Senate leadership to allow due process, warning that delaying Engr. Ramat’s confirmation betrays the President’s vision, harms Kano’s interests, and undermines national development.

Read the full text of the Press Conference below:

TEXT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE DELIVERED BY ALWAN HASSAN IN KANO STATE ON THE 7TH OF NOVEMBER 2025.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the press, fellow Nigerians, and particularly the good people of Kano State, we welcome you all to this crucial Press Conference.

We have convened this press conference today to address a matter of national significance, one that speaks not only to the future of our power sector, but to the integrity of our democratic institutions and the rights of qualified citizens, especially from Kano, to serve their nation without undue obstruction.

In recent months, a disturbing trend has emerged in our polity.

Some parliamentarians appear increasingly determined to act as obstacles to the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking instead to impose their personal interests on critical national appointments. Rather than supporting the administration in its efforts to build strong institutions and deliver progress, they resort to pressure tactics, intimidation, and the blackmail of appointees and nominees of Mr. President. This conduct undermines governance, erodes public trust, and sabotages our national development.

The most glaring example today is the ongoing delay in the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). Despite being nominated by the President and screened by the Senate Committee on Power, Engr. Ramat’s confirmation has been stalled reportedly due to the actions of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and his Deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin. Unfortunately these two men are APC members who in public claim to support the President, but in private work against his decisions.

It is deeply troubling that, according to credible accounts, this delay is not because Engr Ramat does not merit the job, or is it in the national interest, but rather it is rooted in Senator Barau’s political machinations and personal selfish interests. Unfortunately, this is not the first time such conduct has been attributed to the Senator working in cahoots with Senator Akpabio. Several individuals from Kano State have, in the past, allegedly been denied federal opportunities due to political interference and the desire to impose preferred candidates lacking the necessary competence or breadth of experience. Publicly circulating accounts include:

1. The alleged orchestration of the removal of Abdullahi T. Gwarzo as Minister of State for Housing and replacement with a less influential nominee;
2. Reported obstruction of federal opportunities for Dr. Nasiru Gawuna and Murtala Garo;
3. Alleged interference leading to the replacement of Maryam Shetti as MD of NWDC with a political ally;
4. Attempts to undermine Hon. Abba Bichi’s leadership in the House Appropriations Committee;
5. Reported moves to prevent NNPP members from joining the APC in Kano to preserve political control.

These patterns represent an unfortunate attempt by Senator Barau and his boss, Senator Akpabio to personalise the leadership of Kano State while limiting opportunities for Kano citizens based on political insecurity rather than merit or competence.

Let us now return to the matter at hand: Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat.

All of you here know that Engr. Ramat’s credentials are not in question. In fact, they are exceptional. At just 40, he represents a new generation of technocratic leadership. He is an electrical engineer with advanced degrees in telecommunications and strategic management, and trained at institutions including Gonzaga University, Microsoft, and Harvard.

He exemplifies what we will describe as the blend of technical expertise and modern leadership Nigeria urgently needs.

His professional record speaks for itself: from reducing energy costs through modernization initiatives in Kano, to digitising local governance systems, to managing complex power-administration responsibilities at state level. He combines vision with ex*****on, and integrity with innovation.

When he was appointed, he stated that his agenda for the NERC will align with the Electricity Act 2023: that is prioritising transparency, efficiency, investor confidence, consumer protection, smart-grid adoption, technology integration, renewable energy, and modern regulatory enforcement.

These are the qualities Nigeria desperately needs in the power sector, especially after decades of stagnation, underinvestment, and unfulfilled promises. Those who desire progress should welcome such leadership; only those invested in the status quo would resist it.

The Senate Committee on Power, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, reviewed his qualifications and unanimously endorsed him as eminently fit for the role. Yet, despite this professional clearance, the report scheduled for adoption on October 22 was reportedly delayed due to pressure exerted from Senator Jibrin Barau. It is ironic that a non-APC senator has shown greater commitment to the President’s vision than APC Senators who claims to support the President. Senator Akpabio and Senator Barau are mocking the President by their actions.

Let us be clear: no individual, however politically positioned, should hold the nation hostage or subvert meritocracy for their personal ambition. The future of our power sector is too important, the needs of Nigerians too urgent, and the President’s reform momentum too critical to allow this form of internal sabotage to continue unchecked.

Today, we are calling for Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin to allow due process to prevail. They must refrain from interference, respect the President’s mandate, and stop working against both the party and the interest of Kano citizens.

If Senator Barau’s ambition is to lead Kano, let him pursue it through service and merit, not by obstructing the advancement of capable Kano sons and daughters out of political insecurity.

Nigeria must move forward. Merit must prevail. And Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat must be confirmed without further delay.

We stand with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. We stand with progress. And we stand with every young, competent, patriotic Nigerian committed to national development.

Thank you.

Alwan Hassan
Convener, Grassroot Initiative Concept

See more>>> https://naijacurrents.com/group-accuses-akpabio-barau-of-sabotaging-engr-ramats-nomination-to-nerc/

06/11/2025

China Backs Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Rejects US Coercive Diplomacy, Foreign Interference

China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with Nigeria and supporting the country’s sovereign right to pursue independent policy choices, in a move widely interpreted as a response to rising geopolitical pressure on Africa’s largest economy—including recent remarks from the United States.

Following a meeting with National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja, China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said relations between both nations have entered a “new phase of practical cooperation” since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit last year. He noted that joint initiatives in infrastructure, technology, security, and trade are already delivering tangible development gains for Nigerians.

Positioning China as a “comprehensive strategic partner,” Ambassador Dunhai emphasized Beijing’s support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and its right to define its development path without external pressure. He stated that China “opposes interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations under the guise of religion or human rights,” and condemned what he described as coercive foreign diplomacy, including sanctions and threats of force.

The comments follow heightened U.S. scrutiny of Nigeria’s domestic affairs and come amid a broader contest between global powers for influence across Africa. While avoiding direct reference to Washington, the Ambassador’s remarks signal China’s willingness to present itself as a non-interfering alternative partner, as Nigeria balances critical security and economic ties with both nations.

Ambassador Dunhai added that China stands ready to expand defence and counter-terrorism cooperation with Nigeria, noting that maintaining internal stability and strengthening security institutions remain shared priorities. “China will continue to support Nigeria in safeguarding peace, combating terrorism, and advancing sustainable development,” he said.

With Nigeria emerging as a pivotal player in Africa’s diplomatic and economic landscape, analysts say Abuja’s ability to navigate relationships with both China and the United States will be central to its long-term development and geopolitical influence.

https://naijacurrents.com/china-backs-nigerias-sovereignty-rejects-us-coercive-diplomacy-foreign-interference/

06/11/2025

Power, Politics & Paranoia: How Senator Barau Jibrin Is Desperately Fighting to Block Engr. Abdullahi Ramat’s Confirmation as NERC Chairman

In what many insiders describe as a mix of political insecurity and fear of rivalry, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, is reportedly using his influence in the National Assembly to frustrate the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the substantive Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Reliable sources within the Senate reveal that Barau’s interference began right from the first day Engr. Ramat appeared before the Senate Committee on Power for screening. Acting through Senator Lado, Barau allegedly moved to stop the process, claiming that Ramat did not possess the required 10 years of experience for the role.

However, the committee swiftly dismissed that claim after confirming that the Electricity Act 2023 does not specify any number of years of experience as a requirement for appointment. In fact, the committee members were reportedly impressed by Ramat’s well-documented achievements, multidisciplinary expertise, and strong leadership background –credentials many agree are more than enough to qualify him even for the position of Minister of Power.

Senate Committee Clears Ramat, But Barau Interferes Again

Despite the attempt to derail the process, the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (a non-APC member), found Engr. Ramat eminently qualified and recommended him for confirmation alongside nominees for HYPPADEC. The report was listed for consideration on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, but before it could be adopted, Barau allegedly made another move.

According to insider accounts, Senator Barau used his proximity to the Senate President to have Ramat’s confirmation stepped down, allowing only HYPPADEC nominees to be cleared. He reportedly pressured Senator Abaribe to either disqualify Ramat or leave the chamber, forcing the committee chairman to momentarily withdraw, which led to the session being abruptly suspended.

The Real Motive —Fear Born from Political Insecurity

Political insiders believe Senator Barau Jibrin’s hostility toward Engr. Abdullahi Ramat has little to do with qualifications and everything to do with fear of competition –a rivalry that reportedly began the day Engr. Ramat publicly celebrated the birthday of former Governor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

That single gesture, according to close observers, was interpreted by Barau as a sign of political alignment, even though it was widely seen as a display of respect and goodwill. Since then, Barau has allegedly treated Ramat as a potential rival rather than a professional technocrat, fearing his rising popularity and national recognition.

Engr. Ramat, a young and dynamic technocrat with a spotless record, is known for his integrity, technical depth, and reform-driven mindset. He also enjoys the strong backing of Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political & Other Matters, one of the most influential figures in the current administration.

Barau, aware of both Ramat’s growing reputation and Masari’s influence, reportedly views his confirmation as a direct threat to his 2027 governorship ambitions.

A Familiar Pattern of Political Suppression

Observers say this isn’t the first time Senator Barau has used his office to undermine promising politicians from Kano State. His record reveals a consistent pattern of political manipulation aimed at weakening perceived rivals.
1- He allegedly engineered the removal of Abdullahi T. Gwarzo as Minister of State for Housing, replacing him with Hon. Abdullahi Atah, a less influential politician.

2- He reportedly blocked Dr. Nasiru Gawuna and Murtala Garo from securing meaningful federal appointments under President Tinubu’s administration.

3- When Maryam Shatti was offered the position of Managing Director of NWDC, Barau allegedly influenced her removal and replaced her with Prof. Shehu Ma’aji, a political lightweight but loyalist.

4- Earlier this year, he was accused of attempting to remove Hon. Abba Bichi as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, claiming he was “romancing the opposition” –though many saw it as an attempt to suppress a rising star.

5- He has also been linked to moves blocking members of the NNPP-led Kwankwasiyya faction from decamping to the APC, fearing that a united Kano APC bloc could undermine his own control of the party’s structure.

The Ramat Factor –A Political Earthquake Waiting to Happen

Many insiders believe that if Barau succeeds in blocking Ramat’s confirmation, it could trigger serious political consequences both in Abuja and Kano. Such a move would almost certainly damage his relationship with Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, who is said to have played a key role in securing Ramat’s nomination.

It would also open a new chapter of political hostility in Kano, where stakeholders are already growing weary of Barau’s tactics of exclusion and control. As one northern lawmaker reportedly remarked:

“Barau has turned politics into personal warfare. Everyone who shines around him becomes an enemy overnight.”

If the situation escalates, many believe it could mark the beginning of Barau’s political decline, as influential figures within the presidency and the APC may begin to distance themselves from what they see as a destructive brand of politics.

What’s at Stake

This unfolding drama goes beyond personalities. It touches on the very integrity of Nigeria’s political and governance process. Engr. Abdullahi Ramat’s nomination represents competence, youth, and reform-minded leadership –qualities Nigeria desperately needs in its power sector. Blocking such a candidate purely for personal reasons would not only undermine meritocracy but also send a dangerous message that ego trumps excellence.

As the Senate prepares to revisit the confirmation list, all eyes are now on the leadership to see whether justice, fairness, and national interest will prevail or whether personal politics will once again overshadow progress.

One thing remains clear: Kano is watching. The Presidency is watching. And history will record who stood for development — and who stood in its way.

By Ibrahim Musa
Political Analyst & Columnist
[email protected]

https://naijacurrents.com/power-politics-paranoia-how-senator-barau-jibrin-is-desperately-fighting-to-block-engr-abdullahi-ramats-confirmation-as-nerc-chairman-ibrahim-musa/

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