The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed concerns over the worsening economic crisis in Northern Nigeria, attributing it to the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a communique issued by National Publicity Secretary Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba on November 20, the ACF called for a review of these policies, noting their adverse impact on the region.

“The current Federal Government’s policies continue to worsen the precarious conditions in Arewa. Economic reforms, while necessary, should not impoverish the people they aim to serve,” the ACF stated.

The forum also highlighted escalating insecurity, poor educational outcomes, and inadequate electricity supply as major challenges.

It urged the Federal Government to ensure security, address the growing food crisis, and embrace constructive criticism to improve governance.

Furthermore, the ACF advised northern governors to adopt coordinated strategies in critical areas such as security, education, and agriculture to mitigate the region’s challenges.

A man identified as Abidoye Godday was found dead in an Ogun State hotel shortly after returning from the United States.

According to police spokesperson Omolola Odutola, the deceased’s brother, Jimoh Godday, revealed that he discovered Abidoye’s body after receiving no response to his calls and gaining access to the room with a spare key. Drugs, traditional medicines, and a liquid-like substance soaked into the bed were found in the room.

A friend of the deceased, Ogunmonti Ogunwole, disclosed that Abidoye had purchased nine different medications the day before due to health complaints.

The body has been sent to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital morgue for an autopsy, and the case is now with the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry.

Odutola urged the public to avoid self-medication and seek proper medical advice.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, and the removal of key officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, and the Registrar, Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike.

The Governing Council, headed by Ambassador Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, comprised other notable members such as Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, Engr. Amioleran Osahon, and Rtd. Gen. Funsho Oyeneyin.

However, their tenure came under scrutiny following accusations of misconduct in the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor.

Reports revealed that the Council had appointed an individual deemed unqualified for the position, bypassing the established guidelines and due process required for such a critical role.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the Federal Government intervened to prevent a brewing crisis between the university’s Senate and the Governing Council.

The statement emphasized the government’s concern over the Council’s disregard for the university’s governing laws and its role in creating unnecessary tension within the institution.

The 23-year-old university has been a cornerstone of education in the region, making the recent controversies even more alarming.

President Tinubu expressed his commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in educational institutions.

He noted that such lapses undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s academic system and must be addressed to maintain public trust.

The President’s actions also extended to the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State, where Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, was removed.

Salami faced accusations of unlawfully suspending the Vice-Chancellor without adhering to the prescribed procedures.

Despite directives from the Federal Ministry of Education to reverse the suspension, Salami reportedly refused to comply and instead engaged in what the government described as abusive and threatening behavior towards ministry officials, including the Permanent Secretary.

The Federal Government’s intervention underscores its resolve to restore order and integrity within Nigeria’s higher education sector.

President Tinubu has cautioned governing councils to avoid actions that distract from their primary mandate of fostering academic excellence.

He reiterated that his administration is focused on raising the standard of education across the country and will not tolerate acts that compromise this mission.