By Mansur Hassan, PhD.

Introduction

The political history of Nigeria cannot be adequately discussed without recognizing the contributions of Malam Aminu Kano, one of the greatest advocates of social justice and popular democracy in Africa. Throughout his political career, he dedicated himself to the emancipation of the Talakawa—the ordinary people whose voices were often ignored by the ruling elite.

Malam Aminu Kano believed that government should serve the masses, protect the vulnerable, and create opportunities for all citizens regardless of family background, social status, or ethnicity. His philosophy inspired generations of politicians and activists who continue to advocate for a more just and equitable society.

The Talakawa Philosophy of Malam Aminu Kano

The cornerstone of Malam Aminu Kano’s ideology was the belief that political power should be used to uplift the common people. Through the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), he challenged feudal structures and elite domination, advocating education, political participation, economic empowerment, and social justice.

His vision was revolutionary for its time. He sought a society where every citizen could maximize his or her potential and where leadership was measured by service to the people rather than privilege.

Although Malam Aminu Kano became one of the most influential political figures in Nigeria’s history, circumstances and political realities denied him the opportunity to fully implement his vision through sustained executive power. Nevertheless, he succeeded in laying the ideological foundation for future generations committed to the cause of the Talakawa.

Kwankwasiyya: Reviving the Aminu Kano Legacy

Decades after Malam Aminu Kano’s struggle, Senator  emerged as one of the strongest political heirs to the Talakawa philosophy.

Through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Kwankwaso revived and adapted many of Aminu Kano’s principles to contemporary realities. His administration placed significant emphasis on education, infrastructure development, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social inclusion.

The slogan “Making the son of nobody become somebody” became a practical expression of the Talakawa philosophy. Thousands of young Nigerians from disadvantaged backgrounds benefited from educational opportunities, scholarships, skills acquisition programmes, and public service opportunities.

For many observers and supporters, Kwankwaso transformed what was once an ideological aspiration into a practical governance model, demonstrating that political power can be used as a tool for mass empowerment.

Historical Alliance Between the Core North and the South-East

One of the most important but often overlooked aspects of Nigeria’s political history is the strategic alliance between the Core North and the South-East. Long before contemporary politics, leaders from both regions recognized that national unity and political stability could only be achieved through cooperation and mutual respect.

During the struggle for independence, the partnership between  and Northern political leaders helped shape the emerging Nigerian state. Despite differences in geography, culture, and religion, they shared a common vision of a united and prosperous Nigeria.

The First Republic witnessed significant collaboration between political forces from Northern Nigeria and the Eastern Region, demonstrating that national leadership could transcend ethnic and regional boundaries. These alliances contributed to nation-building efforts and reinforced the principle that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity.

The Second Republic and subsequent democratic transitions also witnessed important bridges between Northern and South-Eastern political actors. One of the most remarkable examples was the statesmanship of , whose commitment to national unity earned him respect across all regions of the country, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

Throughout Nigeria’s democratic evolution, many respected leaders from both regions continued to advocate collaboration rather than division. They understood that neither the North nor the South-East could achieve its aspirations in isolation. Progress was most attainable when both regions worked together in pursuit of common national objectives.

This tradition of cooperation demonstrates a historical reality: whenever the Core North and the South-East found common political ground, they contributed significantly to national development, political stability, and democratic advancement.

The Rise of Two Organic Political Movements

In contemporary Nigerian politics, two grassroots movements have emerged as powerful expressions of popular political participation.

The first is the Kwankwasiyya Movement, rooted in the ideals of social justice, education, empowerment, and the upliftment of ordinary citizens.

The second is the Obidient Movement, inspired by the leadership and political message of , emphasizing accountability, transparency, productivity, and national renewal.

Both movements derive their strength largely from ordinary citizens, especially young people who desire a more inclusive and responsive political system.

The Emergence of the OK Movement

In recent years, discussions surrounding cooperation between supporters of Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have generated considerable interest across Nigeria.

Many supporters view such cooperation as a natural continuation of the historic partnership that has often existed between the Core North and the South-East. They argue that combining the organizational strength of the Kwankwasiyya Movement with the grassroots enthusiasm of the Obidient Movement could create a formidable force for democratic transformation.

This aspiration has inspired the concept of the “OK Movement” (Obi-Kwankwaso Movement), symbolizing unity, inclusion, social justice, youth empowerment, and national development.

Supporters believe that such a movement could revive the spirit of historical North-East political cooperation while providing a platform capable of addressing contemporary national challenges.

Conclusion

The ideological struggle initiated by Malam Aminu Kano remains one of the most significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. His commitment to the emancipation of the Talakawa established a political philosophy centered on justice, equality, and opportunity.

Although he was unable to fully implement his vision during his lifetime, many believe that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has carried forward that legacy through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, transforming many of Aminu Kano’s ideals into practical programmes that empower ordinary citizens.

At the same time, Nigeria’s political history demonstrates the enduring importance of cooperation between the Core North and the South-East. From the era of Nnamdi Azikiwe to the statesmanship of Alex Ekwueme and beyond, such partnerships have repeatedly strengthened national unity and democratic progress.

For supporters of contemporary political realignments, the idea of an Obi-Kwankwaso partnership represents not merely an electoral arrangement but the continuation of a historic tradition of cooperation between two regions whose collaboration has often helped shape the destiny of Nigeria.

The ultimate lesson of Malam Aminu Kano’s philosophy remains timeless: political power achieves its noblest purpose when it empowers the ordinary citizen, protects the vulnerable, and creates opportunities for every Nigerian—regardless of origin—to become somebody in society.

Mansur Hassan, PhD is the President of KSA.
05/06/2026.

By Muhammad Masud

Nigeria’s electricity sector is undergoing a gradual but important transformation. For decades, the country’s power system has relied predominantly on centralised generation, with consumers depending on a combination of grid electricity and various forms of conventional thermal generation to meet their energy needs. More recently, declining solar technology costs and growing concerns about energy reliability have accelerated investment in distributed renewable energy systems across commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors.

Against this backdrop, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has introduced the Draft Net Billing Regulations, a policy framework that could significantly reshape the relationship between consumers and the electricity grid. While the regulation appears to focus primarily on billing arrangements for renewable energy users, its broader implications extend to investment, grid operations, energy security, and the future architecture of Nigeria’s electricity market.

Understanding Net Billing

At its core, net billing allows customers who generate renewable electricity to export excess energy to the distribution network and receive credits in return. Rather than allowing surplus electricity to go unused, customers can monetise the energy they produce but do not immediately consume.

Under the proposed framework, electricity imported from the grid is charged at the applicable retail tariff, while electricity exported to the grid is compensated at a separate export tariff determined by the regulator. This differs from traditional net metering schemes, where exported electricity may be credited at the same rate as imported electricity.

The regulation applies to renewable energy systems ranging from 50 kWp to 5 MWp, making it particularly relevant to commercial buildings, industrial facilities, universities, hospitals, shopping centres, and large residential estates.

In practical terms, the regulation formally creates a new category of electricity customer: the “prosumer”a customer who both consumes and produces electricity.

What This Means for Consumers

The regulation introduces a significant opportunity for organisations already investing in renewable energy.

Historically, many solar installations were designed solely to offset electricity consumption. During weekends, holidays, or periods of reduced operational activity, excess electricity often had little economic value. Under the proposed net billing framework, surplus generation becomes a potentially revenue-generating asset.

For businesses, this could improve the financial viability of renewable energy investments by creating an additional revenue stream alongside reduced electricity purchases. The ability to export excess energy may shorten project payback periods, improve investment returns, and encourage larger-scale renewable energy deployments.

The framework also provides consumers with greater flexibility in managing their energy portfolios. Rather than sizing renewable energy systems strictly around instantaneous demand, organisations may have greater confidence in investing in larger systems that maximise available rooftop or land resources.

Most importantly, net billing creates an economic incentive for consumers to become active participants in the electricity market rather than remaining passive recipients of electricity.

What This Means for Investors

From an investment perspective, the Draft Net Billing Regulation may be one of the most important developments in Nigeria’s distributed energy sector in recent years.

The regulation creates opportunities across multiple segments of the value chain, including:

* Renewable energy developers.
* Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors.
* Equipment suppliers.
* Metering providers.
* Energy service companies.
* Battery storage developers.
* Infrastructure and private equity investors.

One of the biggest barriers to renewable energy investment is regulatory uncertainty. Investors require confidence that connection procedures, technical requirements, compensation mechanisms, and approval processes are clearly defined and consistently applied.

By establishing a structured framework for renewable energy exports, NERC is providing the regulatory certainty necessary to unlock private sector investment.

If implemented effectively, the regulation could stimulate substantial growth in commercial and industrial solar deployment across Nigeria while attracting additional capital into the broader distributed energy ecosystem.

What This Means for the Electricity Grid

While the consumer and investment benefits are relatively straightforward, the implications for the electricity grid are more complex.

On one hand, distributed renewable generation can provide significant operational benefits. Electricity generated closer to the point of consumption reduces transmission and distribution losses, alleviates pressure on network infrastructure, and can improve local supply reliability.

Distributed generation can also contribute to addressing Nigeria’s long-standing supply deficit by supplementing electricity supplied from centralised power stations.

However, increasing renewable penetration introduces important technical considerations that must be carefully managed.

Unlike conventional synchronous thermal generation, solar photovoltaic systems are inverter-based resources. Conventional generators contain large rotating masses that naturally provide inertia, fault current contribution, and frequency support to the power system.

Solar PV systems do not inherently provide these characteristics.

As inverter-based renewable penetration increases, the system may experience:

* Reduced system inertia.
* Faster frequency deviations following disturbances.
* Lower fault current levels.
* Greater voltage management challenges.
* Increased complexity in protection coordination.

These issues do not necessarily prevent renewable integration, but they require careful planning and investment in supporting technologies.

Has Grid Stability Been Adequately Considered?

The Draft Net Billing Regulation includes several provisions intended to protect network stability.

These include:

* Technical feasibility assessments before connection.
* Anti-islanding protection requirements.
* Voltage control standards.
* Bi-directional metering requirements.
* A limit restricting renewable exports to 30% of the average load on a distribution feeder.

These measures help address distribution level operational concerns and reduce the risk of localised network problems.

However, as renewable deployment grows, broader system-level challenges may emerge.

The regulation does not currently place significant emphasis on system inertia, fault-level support, synthetic inertia provision, or grid-forming inverter requirements. While this is understandable given the current scale of renewable penetration, these considerations may become increasingly important as Nigeria moves toward higher levels of distributed renewable generation.

Over time, maintaining system stability may require complementary investments in:

* Synchronous compensators.
* Grid-forming inverter technologies.
* Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
* Advanced network monitoring and control systems.
* Enhanced grid code requirements.

The conversation therefore extends beyond renewable adoption to the future technical resilience of Nigeria’s power system.

The Opportunity to Build a Smarter Electricity System

Perhaps the most significant longterm opportunity presented by net billing is the transition from a passive electricity network to an active energy ecosystem.

Historically, electricity flowed in a single direction from generators to consumers. Net billing introduces two-way power flows, allowing consumers to contribute electricity back into the network.

This creates the foundation for future innovations, including:

* Distributed energy markets.
* Virtual power plants.
* Battery aggregation.
* Electric vehicle integration.
* Demand-side flexibility programmes.
* Local energy trading platforms.

In many respects, net billing is not simply a renewable energy policy. It is a first step toward a more decentralised and intelligent electricity system.

Challenges to Successful Implementation

Despite its potential benefits, successful implementation will require overcoming several challenges.

Distribution companies will need to modernise metering infrastructure and billing systems capable of accurately measuring imported and exported electricity. Technical capacity will be required to assess connection requests and manage increasingly complex distribution networks.

The attractiveness of the framework will also depend heavily on the export tariff established by the regulator. If compensation rates are too low, investment uptake may be limited. Conversely, tariffs that are appropriately structured can accelerate renewable energy deployment while maintaining the financial sustainability of distribution companies.

Public awareness and stakeholder engagement will also be critical. Many potential participants remain unfamiliar with net billing, application procedures, and technical compliance requirements.

What Is the Minimum Required to Participate?

For eligible organisations, participation generally requires:

* A renewable energy system with a minimum capacity of 50 kWp.
* Compliance with applicable technical standards.
* A bi-directional meter capable of recording imports and exports.
* Technical approval from the local distribution company.
* Registration under the NERC framework.
* Inspection and certification by the relevant authorities.

For many commercial and industrial consumers already operating solar installations, participation may require only modest upgrades rather than entirely new investments.

Conclusion

The Draft Net Billing Regulation represents far more than a new billing mechanism. It signals a shift in the way electricity is generated, consumed, and valued within Nigeria’s power sector.

By enabling consumers to become active participants in electricity supply, the regulation has the potential to unlock private investment, improve energy security, and accelerate renewable energy deployment. At the same time, it raises important questions about the future operation of a grid increasingly supported by inverter-based renewable resources.

As Nigeria gradually transitions from a system dominated by centralised synchronous thermal generation towards one incorporating larger volumes of distributed renewable energy, attention must extend beyond customer participation and investment incentives. Equal focus must be placed on grid stability, frequency response, voltage control, system inertia, and network resilience.

Ultimately, the success of net billing will not be measured solely by the number of renewable energy systems connected to the network. It will be measured by how effectively Nigeria balances innovation, investment, consumer participation, and grid reliability in building the electricity system of the future.

Muhammad Masud

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has restated the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, trade relations and border security through closer engagement with diplomatic missions and customs administrations across the world.

Adeniyi made the remarks during a diplomatic cocktail reception hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The event attracted ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, senior government officials and security chiefs. Among those in attendance were the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management Team and representatives of key government agencies.

Speaking at the gathering, the Customs boss expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s international partners for their support in promoting diplomatic and trade relations.

“We recognize and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” Adeniyi stated.

He said the NCS has expanded its global engagement through formal collaboration arrangements with more than 20 customs administrations worldwide. According to him, the partnerships are focused on capacity building, knowledge exchange and operational cooperation aimed at improving trade facilitation and border management.

Adeniyi noted that stronger cooperation among customs authorities, diplomatic missions and security agencies has become essential as countries confront evolving challenges in international trade, border security and regulatory compliance.

He also stressed that customs operations now take place within a highly interconnected global system that depends on trust, regular engagement and shared responsibility among stakeholders.

The CGC described the reception as a valuable opportunity to deepen relationships, encourage dialogue and identify new areas of cooperation that will strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic objectives.

Participants at the event commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its efforts to build stronger institutional partnerships and promote international cooperation that supports economic development.

The reception highlighted the growing role of the NCS in advancing Nigeria’s trade diplomacy agenda while strengthening strategic partnerships that contribute to national security, revenue generation and sustainable economic growth.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United Kingdom has introduced new immigration regulations that may stop universities from recruiting foreign students if they fail to meet stricter compliance standards.

The Home Office announced the policy on Thursday. The new measures focus on reducing rising asylum claims linked to study, work, and tourist visas. Officials said foreign students make up the largest share of such claims.

Under the new framework, any university where more than five percent of student visa applications are refused risks losing its licence to recruit international students. The earlier threshold stood at 10 percent.

The Home Office said it monitors both visa refusal rates and the institutions linked to affected applicants.

Universities also face sanctions if a large number of students withdraw or fail to complete their programmes.

The updated policy requires foreign students to record at least a 95 percent enrolment rate and a 90 percent completion rate. These figures previously stood at 90 percent and 85 percent.

The Home Office explained its concern over poor compliance in the sector. It stated:

“High drop-out rates can indicate students have entered the illegal working economy rather than studied whilst high visa rejection rates or low enrolment figures suggest some institutions have not done enough due diligence on applicants,” the Home Office said.

The changes come about three months after the UK introduced an “emergency brake” on study visas for applicants from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan. The restriction followed a rise in asylum claims that officials described as an “unsustainable threat”.

According to the Home Office, asylum claims from students have dropped by 30 percent over the past year due to stricter enforcement.

The ministry also said it had contacted 306,000 students whose visas are due to expire. It warned that it will reject unfounded asylum claims quickly and that individuals without the right to remain must leave the country or face removal.

By Aisha Mohammed Usman 

The Abduction of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd) and His Wife Should Concern Every Nigerian.

Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd) spent decades serving Nigeria, helping to protect its people and defend its sovereignty. A respected military leader known for his professionalism and patriotism, he represents the sacrifice and dedication of countless Nigerians who have devoted their lives to national service.

Now, the reported abduction of Major General Abubakar and his wife has sparked widespread concern. Beyond the pain endured by their family, this incident is a troubling reminder of the insecurity facing the nation and a matter that should concern every Nigerian who values service, sacrifice, and justice.

At a time when public conversations are often dominated by criticism of leadership failures, we must ask ourselves an important question: Have we become a society that only speaks about bad leaders while remaining silent about the good ones?

There is no doubt that Nigeria faces significant leadership challenges. Citizens have every right to demand accountability, transparency, and effective governance. However, while we criticise those who fail us, we must also recognise, celebrate, and support those who have devoted their lives to serving others. Recognition is not merely praise; it is encouragement. It sends a message that integrity, sacrifice, and dedication still matter.

Major General Rabe Abubakar represents those values.

Among his many distinguished accomplishments, Major General Rabe Abubakar served as Nigeria’s Director of Defence Information, a position that placed him at the forefront of military communications and national security engagement. Throughout his career, he became widely respected for his professionalism, patriotism, and commitment to strengthening the relationship between the Armed Forces and the Nigerian people. Even after retirement, he remained an influential voice, mentor, and statesman whose counsel and experience continued to benefit both military and civilian communities.

For decades, he served Nigeria with distinction. Like many military officers, he endured the hardships that come with wearing the uniform—extended periods away from family, exposure to danger, and the immense responsibility of protecting lives and national interests. While millions of Nigerians slept peacefully at night, brave men and women in uniform stood watch, often under difficult and dangerous conditions, safeguarding the nation.

Yet what makes Major General Rabe Abubakar particularly remarkable is that his service did not end with retirement. Through mentorship, community development, youth empowerment, and civic engagement, he continued contributing to the growth and progress of society. His influence extended far beyond military assignments. He became a mentor to many, a trusted voice in his community, and a source of inspiration to both military personnel and civilians alike.

His impact can be felt not only through the positions he held but through the countless lives he touched. From his hometown and village to communities across Nigeria, he has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is ultimately about service to humanity.

It is therefore particularly distressing that a man who devoted his life to defending Nigeria, together with his wife, reportedly became a victim of the insecurity he spent years working to combat.

Alongside him is his wife, who has undoubtedly shared in the sacrifices that military families endure throughout the years of service to the nation. Behind every distinguished military officer is a family that bears the burden of long absences, uncertainty, and the demands of national duty. Their ordeal is therefore not only a tragedy for two individuals but also a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by military families across Nigeria.

According to reports, Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife were travelling to Katsina for a family wedding when they were abducted in the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Their driver reportedly survived despite sustaining a gunshot injury, while the retired General and his wife were taken away by armed men. Security agencies and military authorities have since commenced efforts to secure their safe rescue and return.

To those holding Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife captive, this is an appeal to your humanity. Whatever circumstances may have led to this situation, there remains an opportunity to choose compassion over cruelty. This retired General dedicated his life to protecting fellow Nigerians. He served his country with honour and distinction. We appeal for his immediate and safe release, alongside that of his wife.

To the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities, Nigerians are looking to you with hope and expectation. Every available resource must be deployed to ensure the safe rescue and return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife. The nation owes a special duty of care to those who have spent their lives safeguarding its people and institutions.

Beyond this particular incident, there is a broader lesson for all of us. We must learn to celebrate our heroes while they are still with us. Too often, recognition comes only after tragedy strikes. We must speak about the people making positive contributions to our communities. We must highlight examples of integrity, sacrifice, and patriotism. We must encourage the next generation to believe that service to the country remains a noble calling.

A society that constantly criticises but never appreciates risks discouraging those who are striving to do the right thing. Good leaders need support. Good examples need visibility. Good deeds deserve recognition.

Major General Rabe Abubakar is one such example.

At a time when insecurity continues to challenge communities across the country, Nigerians must unite in support of all lawful efforts to secure the safe return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife. Beyond differences of ethnicity, religion, region, or political affiliation, this is a moment that calls for collective concern, compassion, and national solidarity.

As Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, this is a moment to stand together. It is a moment to pray for his safe return, support his family, and reaffirm our commitment to the values he represents.

The story of Major General Rabe Abubakar is ultimately a story of duty, sacrifice, and service. It is a reminder that true leadership is measured not by titles or ranks but by the positive impact one leaves on the lives of others.

As we await the safe return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife, let us remember a simple truth: a nation that honours its heroes strengthens its future, while a nation that forgets them risks losing the very values that hold it together.

May Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife return home safely. May justice prevail, amin.

And may Nigeria never stop celebrating those who serve her faithfully.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Significant progress has been recorded in the bid to establish state police in Nigeria, with a constitutional amendment expected to be presented shortly following months of high-level consultations among the executive, the National Assembly, and security agencies.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing State House correspondents after a consultative meeting on state police convened by the Presidency at the State House, Abuja.

Gbajabiamila noted that deliberations on the proposed framework began several months ago following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that the process had since gained considerable traction.

He, however, cautioned that establishing state police requires careful consideration of constitutional and legal issues and cannot be implemented hastily.

“We started deliberations in the last three or four months on how to go about the establishment of state police as directed by Mr President,” Gbajabiamila said.

“Establishing state police is not something that you do with the snap of the fingers. There is a lot involved in terms of constitution and legalities, and thank God we have now gained a lot of traction. Hopefully, the amendment will come shortly, and the details of the amendment will come after that.”

According to him, discussions have advanced to the point of considering the necessary constitutional amendments, with the enabling legislation to follow afterwards.

“Right now, what we are looking at is the constitutional amendment itself, and then the enabling law would follow thereafter. That is what we have been deliberating on in the last couple of hours,” he added.

The Chief of Staff highlighted broad national support for the initiative, emphasising that the debate is no longer about whether state police should be established but about creating the appropriate legal and institutional framework for its operation.

He said President Tinubu, who has consistently advocated for state police as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, would receive a comprehensive report on the meeting’s outcome.

The meeting is part of a series of consultations convened by the Federal Government to develop a workable framework for the establishment of state police, an initiative aimed at strengthening internal security, improving local intelligence gathering, and enhancing the capacity of sub-national governments to address emerging security challenges across the country.

President Tinubu has maintained in recent months that state police is a necessary response to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges, advocating that a decentralised policing structure would strengthen grassroots security, enhance intelligence gathering, and improve the protection of lives and property across the country.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi; and the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, among other senior government officials.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Yoruba nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, has threatened to publicly reveal the names of politicians he accuses of sponsoring kidnapping gangs operating in parts of Oyo State.

Igboho specifically alleged that some political figures are backing the abductors who recently seized students and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a strongly worded warning, the activist declared that he would expose the sponsors’ identities unless they immediately cease their criminal activities.

“The sponsors behind these kidnappings will no longer hide,” Igboho said. “If they do not stop now, I will make their names known to the public.”

His threat comes amid growing concerns over rising insecurity and abductions for ransom across southwestern Nigeria.

By Uzair Adam

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has argued that any vote cast for former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2027 election would ultimately work in favour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.

Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, Okonkwo said the opposition must unite behind a single candidate if it hopes to defeat the incumbent president in the next general election.

According to him, a divided opposition would only increase Tinubu’s chances of securing another term in office.

“Whether directly or indirectly, anyone dividing opposition votes is helping Tinubu. When coalition and opposition votes are split, it places Tinubu in a stronger position to win,” he said.

Okonkwo also criticised Obi’s reported withdrawal from coalition discussions within the ADC, alleging that the former Anambra State governor was unwilling to participate in a competitive primary election.

“Nobody compelled Peter Obi to join the ADC. He joined voluntarily, but just a week before the deadline, he withdrew and explained his reasons.

“You cannot avoid a primary election and still expect to lead a country facing serious challenges. Leadership requires confronting challenges, not running away from them,” he stated.

The former Labour Party spokesperson further claimed that Senator Victor Umeh had previously suggested that the South-East’s best chance of producing a Nigerian president would be through a political alliance with northern leaders.

“When we were joining the ADC, Victor Umeh told me clearly that the best opportunity for the Igbo to produce a president was to align with the North, with Peter Obi serving as vice president,” Okonkwo alleged.

He further claimed that Umeh had informed him that Obi was not receptive to such advice.

“I asked him if he had discussed it with Obi. He said yes, but described Obi as stubborn, saying he would rather continue pursuing his own approach,” Okonkwo added.

Reiterating his position, Okonkwo urged opposition supporters to carefully consider the implications of their choices ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

“To be clear, anyone voting for Peter Obi in 2027 is indirectly voting for Tinubu. Remember that I said this,” he maintained.

His remarks come amid ongoing consultations and coalition talks among opposition parties and political stakeholders seeking a united front ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

By H. A. Dandajeh

I was in Ajah, Lagos State, a few weeks ago, where I observed a large number of beggars, mostly women and children, ranging 5 – 13years, from Northern Nigeria, occupying the road divider along Addo Road under the Ajah bridge.

The situation was quite disturbing. Apart from being an eyesore, the persistent manner in which many of them approached unknown vehicles in search of alms was deeply concerning. Some kids were left fighting within themselves and some provocatively dancing to the street music with obviously no parent to send them to schools and no one to discipline them for bad behavior and wrongdoings.

I asked someone where these individuals sleep, how their safety and security are guaranteed, and whether the women are protected from harassment by street gangs and other criminal elements? No clear answers were forthcoming.

The Lagos State Government’s efforts to sanitize and regulate public spaces within the state especially with the escalating rate of insecurity shouldn’t be questioned. The Lagos authorities are not going after genuine Northern traders, but beggars who can easily be compromised as vulnerable security threats.

Beyond issues of aesthetics of Lagos, there are important concerns relating to public safety, human dignity, child welfare and education that must not be ignored.

We cannot continue to tolerate the commercialization of intentional, avoidable and unjustified begging in some parts of Northern Nigeria and then criticize other regions when they take decisive measures to protect their communities and maintain public order.

As a society, we can, and must, do better. We owe it to ourselves to create environments that uphold human dignity, encourage productivity, and provide vulnerable individuals with sustainable opportunities rather than leaving them exposed on the streets.

Every parent must be held responsibly accountable to his family!

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A tragic road accident involving a military vehicle and a commercial Hummer bus has claimed six lives along the Girei–Song Highway in Adamawa State.

The fatal crash occurred on Wednesday afternoon and involved a military gun truck travelling from Gombi to Yola and a commercial bus heading from Yola to Mubi with five passengers on board.

Witnesses said the collision happened at about 1:50 p.m. and caused the bus to overturn before it caught fire. The flames reportedly consumed the vehicle and killed all its occupants.

Among those who lost their lives were four members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), a soldier and another passenger.

The Adamawa State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, SP Suleiman Ngurore. He said the accident took place around the Narehi area in Girei–Song Local Government Area.

According to him, “Tragically, all five passengers aboard the Hummer bus were burnt to death after the vehicle caught fire following the collision.

“Preliminary identification shows that four of the deceased were members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posted to Adamawa State.”

Ngurore identified two of the deceased corps members as Suleiman Juliet and Usman Shuaibu, both natives of Kaduna State. He added that authorities were still working to establish the identities of the remaining victims.

The police spokesperson also disclosed that a soldier travelling in the military vehicle died as a result of the crash.

He said police officers and emergency personnel responded promptly to the scene, while the remains of the victims were taken to the Specialist Hospital in Yola.

Ngurore stated that efforts were ongoing to identify all those affected and notify their relatives. He added that more information would be released as the investigation progresses.