At the one-year anniversary of the SAWABA Initiative for Humanitarian Development in Abuja, veteran activists Hajia Najatu Muhammad and Professor Ruqayyatu Rufai delivered powerful messages urging Nigerian youths to reject corruption and reclaim their future.
The event, which honoured distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to justice, activism, and good governance, drew inspiration from the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU)—a historic movement founded in 1950 by Mallam Aminu Kano, dedicated to fighting feudalism, colonial oppression, and corruption.
Speaking during the event at the weekend, Najatu Muhammad challenged young Nigerians to break free from political manipulation, emphasizing their power as the majority.
“You are over 75% of Nigeria’s population, yet you serve those who exploit you. The choice is yours—just say no!”
She condemned the misuse of religion in politics, stressing that both Islam and Christianity stand for justice.
“Jesus Christ fought against corruption. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) stood for justice. Why do we allow leaders to manipulate us with religion?”
Najatu urged youths to demand accountability, warning that leadership is about service, not personal wealth.
“Where is Buhari today? Power fades, but service to humanity endures.”
Former Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Rufai, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition she received, pledging her support for SAWABA’s mission of grassroots empowerment and social justice.
“SAWABA is not just an organization; it is a movement that has stood the test of time, advocating for justice and the betterment of our society,” she stated.
Rufai revealed that she initially considered sending her two sons to represent her but changed her mind, recognizing the significance of the occasion.
“I am very happy to be here today, and I assure you that whatever support I can provide, Insha’Allah, I will do it,” she added.
Renowned human rights activist Deji Adeyanju delivered a fiery speech condemning the culture of impunity in governance and the disregard for human rights.
“I don’t accept awards because I don’t want to share a platform with corrupt individuals who have destroyed Nigeria,” he declared.
Reflecting on his 29 years in activism, Adeyanju recounted multiple arrests, including nine detentions under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. He called on Nigerians to actively resist oppression, stating:
“We tolerate too much in this country. Nigerians must stop accepting oppression and fight for their rights.”
Adeyanju also criticized the appointment of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), calling it unconstitutional and demanding his removal. He stressed that true leadership is about service, not titles, urging professionals to uphold ethical values.
“Until we become citizens of integrity, Nigeria will never develop,” he concluded, earning a standing ovation.
Chairman of the occasion, Senator Abdul Ningi, reinforced the need for youth empowerment, urging young Nigerians to resist oppression and take control of their future.
“Nigeria’s youth are the majority. But if you refuse to act, you will continue to suffer under corrupt leadership,” he warned.
He recalled historical political struggles, citing how resistance prevented President Olusegun Obasanjo from securing a third term. He declared:
“No leader is greater than the nation. Those who attempt to exploit Nigeria must be held accountable.”
Encouraging SAWABA to persist in its mission, he noted: “Activists are thrown into prison because they refuse to bow to intimidation. But prison is not the end—it is the price of fighting for justice.”
Veteran politician Buba Galadima reflected on Nigeria’s political evolution, lamenting that many oppressive systems dismantled by NEPU are re-emerging.
Despite decades in politics, Galadima revealed that he has never held a ministerial or executive office and still lives in the same two-bedroom house in Abuja for 35 years, rejecting corruption.
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