The Arewa Youths for the Sustenance of Democracy and Good Governance (AYSDGG) has condemned the managing director/chief executive officer of the North West Development Commission (NWDC), Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji, over his unilateral announcement of a scholarship scheme without board approval.
During a press conference held at the Chartwell Hotel, Bauchi yesterday, AYSDGG leader Alhaji Salihu Magaji criticised the MD/CEO for allegedly sidelining the chairman of the Board and other key members in taking a decision of such magnitude.
He urged the minister of regional development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh, to intervene immediately and ensure that the MD adheres strictly to the commission‘s laws and operational guidelines.
Magaji stated, „It is necessary for the minister to call the MD to order and stop him from taking unilateral decisions without the knowledge of the chairman and other board members. Such actions risk triggering an internal crisis within the Commission.“
According to Magaji, the commission is already embroiled in controversy over the scholarship scheme. There are claims that a memo was sent to the chairman, who, in turn, declared he had no knowledge of any such programme.
Describing the MD’s conduct as „high-handed“ and „disrespectful,“ Magaji said the commission’s legal framework mandates that all board members must be carried along in decision-making.
He further stated, „Everyone knows that the chairman, Alhaji Lawan Sama’ila Abdullahi, is a respected elder statesman and administrator. He would never act outside the law, nor remain silent when the law is being violated.“
Magaji questioned the MD’s haste and secrecy in launching the scholarship scheme, particularly one involving overseas study, „Why is the MD rushing this process without the chairman’s awareness? Is it out of greed, disrespect for the procurement law, or a self-serving agenda?“.
He emphasised that scholarship initiatives involving public funds and international travel must follow due process in line with civil service rules and procurement laws.
Magaji urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue supporting Chairman Lawal, whom he described as a „beacon of hope“ and a critical political ally in the North-West.
„Lawal has been instrumental in strengthening the President’s influence in the region. His loyalty and experience are key in countering political instability and opposition threats ahead of 2027,“ he added.
He added that Lawal’s inclusive leadership style and strategic contributions foster unity in the NWDC and reflect the President’s vision of equitable governance.
„We urge President Tinubu to recognise and support this effort. The MD’s actions seek to undermine a public servant dedicated to due process, equity, and transparency,“ Maaji appealed.
Magaji further alleged that the NWDC lacks fundamental structures such as offices, executive directors, procurement officers, and even operational bank accounts, „Instead of addressing these pressing gaps, the MD has jumped into a solo scholarship project. This is not how public institutions are built,“ he said.
He warned against political manipulation and division, especially on sensitive issues like education and regional development, „We call on all citizens of the North-West to stay vigilant and raise their voices lawfully. Unity is our strength.“
Magaji urged the MD to emulate the leadership style of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) managing director, Alhaji Mohammed G. Alkali, who has established regional offices and delivered impactful projects, regardless of political affiliations.
He also condemned recent attacks on Chairman Lawal by a “faceless group” called the Northern Progressives Forum (NPF), accusing them of being tools used by the MD’s camp.
„The chairman is the number one figure in the NWDC and deserves respect. The actions of these groups only expose the lack of discipline and disregard for the rule of law within the MD’s circle,“ he concluded.
