By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Sector 2, have neutralised no fewer than 24 terrorists following a fierce encounter during an attack on Kukareta area.

The military disclosed that the engagement followed a “determined terrorist attack on Kukareta location” in the early hours of Thursday.

According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the attack began shortly after midnight and continued until about 03:00 hours. He noted that troops responded immediately with what he described as a coordinated counter-operation that forced the attackers into retreat.

The statement read: the troops “executed a deliberate offensive-defensive action, effectively containing the assault and forcing the terrorists into a disorderly withdrawal.”

It added that the troops inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, confirming that “24 terrorists neutralised so far.”

Following the encounter, troops recovered a large stockpile of weapons and ammunition during ongoing clearance operations. The items include “18 AK-47 rifles, 3 General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), 2 PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, 3 RPG tubes, 2 mortar tubes, 4 hand grenades, 18 AK-47 magazines, and large quantities of belted 7.62mm ammunition for PKT systems.”

The statement also confirmed that two soldiers sustained injuries during the battle and have since received medical attention. It further disclosed that an armoured tank deployed for reinforcement suffered damage after its tyres were destroyed during the confrontation.

It stated that troops have continued to track the withdrawal routes of the fleeing terrorists, where blood trails and abandoned medical supplies were discovered.

The military described the operation as a demonstration of combat strength and preparedness, adding that it reflects the troops’ capacity to deny terrorist groups freedom of movement.

It further assured that operations will continue with sustained pressure aimed at clearing remaining terrorist elements within the theatre of operations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Kano State High Court has handed down a death sentence to a 21-year-old man, Umar Idris, for the killing of a shop owner, Sabiu Umar.

The court found Idris, who lives in Farawa Quarters in Kumbotso Local Government Area, guilty of culpable homicide after proceedings showed that he stabbed the 28-year-old victim to death.

During the trial, prosecution counsel Lamido Abba-Sorondinki told the court that the incident took place on September 2, 2021, at Tsamiya Mariri Quarters in Kano. He said the defendant entered the victim’s shop at about 10:30 p.m. without permission. The shop also served as the victim’s residence. The prosecutor added that Idris took wedding garments meant for the deceased’s bride.

The prosecution explained that the victim raised an alarm after he discovered the act. This led to a confrontation between both men. In the course of the struggle, Idris allegedly attacked him with a knife and inflicted injuries on his neck, shoulder and other parts of his body. The injuries later caused his death.

The prosecution called three witnesses and presented a confessional statement as part of its evidence. Idris, however, denied the allegation.

In his defence, counsel to the accused, Muftau Bello, presented two witnesses and urged the court to show leniency.

While delivering judgment, Justice Sunusi Ado-Ma’aji ruled that the prosecution had established its case beyond reasonable doubt.

“I hereby sentence Idris to death by hanging for stabbing the victim on his neck, shoulder and other parts of his body, which resulted in his death. May the Lord have mercy on his soul,” the judge ruled.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have carried out a series of airstrikes that targeted ISWAP logistics networks along the Lake Chad waterways near Kaniram Island in northern Borno State.

The operation followed intelligence reports which indicated the presence of more than 30 terrorist boats and fighters coordinating movements in the area.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, confirmed the development in a statement. He explained that the military verified the targets in line with established Rules of Engagement before launching the strikes.

According to the statement, the air operations successfully destroyed several boats and disrupted the group’s supply structure in the area. The strikes also affected the group’s movement and operational capacity, as more than 30 fighters were neutralised.

“Surviving elements were observed escaping in disarray, reflecting a breakdown in their cohesion and command structure,” the statement claimed.

In another operation within the Sambisa Forest axis at Sowolwolo, troops carried out additional precision strikes. The exercise led to the destruction of three terrorist gun trucks and the elimination of more fighters in the vicinity.

Further assessment of the operation, supported by intelligence after the strikes, indicated heavy losses on the side of the insurgents. Reports also pointed to evidence of mass burials, especially among ISWAP elements around the Mallam Fatori axis.

The Military High Command praised the troops for their performance and urged them to maintain the momentum in ongoing operations across the region.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Screenings of the documentary Uromi-16: The Story, scheduled for Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano, have been postponed indefinitely due to what the producers described as “credible security concerns.”

In a statement dated April 22, 2026, legal representatives for the producer, A.A. Mustapha & Co., said the decision was taken after a reassessment of the immediate environment for the film’s release. “The safety of all stakeholders, particularly viewers, remains paramount,” the statement said.

The documentary by Sa’id Sa’ad Abubakar details the killing of 16 Kano travellers-hunters in Uromi, Edo State, seen as jungle justice. The victims, reportedly en route, were attacked and killed by a mob after suspicion and community outrage. It also seeks to correct what its makers call widespread misinformation while promoting accountability and justice.

The firm stressed that the postponement does not signal a withdrawal from the project but is a precautionary measure in the public interest. It added that consultations are ongoing with authorities and other stakeholders to address concerns around safety and rights.

Ticket holders will receive refunds within three weeks through the ticketing platform, the statement said, while new dates or alternative release plans will be announced later.

The producers also urged the public to remain calm and law-abiding as efforts continue to ensure the film’s safe rollout.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

There was widespread panic on Tuesday along Jos Road near a primary health care centre in Kaduna State after a fire outbreak exposed a critical lapse in emergency response, as firefighters reportedly arrived at the scene without water in their truck.

An eyewitness who spoke to The Daily Reality said the incident occurred on 22nd April 2026 and quickly escalated into chaos as residents watched flames threaten nearby structures while awaiting an effective firefighting response.

According to the eyewitness, the most alarming aspect of the situation was that the fire service vehicle deployed to the scene had no water, a development that significantly delayed efforts to contain the blaze. The absence of water in the truck left responders momentarily unable to act decisively as the fire continued to spread.

In a desperate response, residents intervened, fetching water from various sources and pouring it into the fire service truck to enable firefighting efforts to commence.

The scene drew large crowds, with confusion and concern growing as locals worked alongside emergency personnel in a bid to prevent further destruction.

The cause of the fire and the extent of damage had not been confirmed at the time of filing this report.

By Uzair Adam

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has nominated Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor of Kano State, forwarding his name to the Kano State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued early Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad.

The statement explained that the nomination aligns with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers a governor to appoint a deputy in the event of a vacancy.

It noted that the position became vacant following the resignation of former Deputy Governor, Abdussalam Gwarzo, on March 27, 2026.

According to the statement, the governor’s decision followed extensive consultations with key political stakeholders, after which he urged the Assembly to grant prompt approval for the nomination.

Garo, 48, is described as an experienced political administrator with over two decades of service across elective and appointed roles.

His career includes stints as State Organising Secretary of his party, Special Adviser to the governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government.

He also previously served as Chairman of ALGON in Kano, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and was the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the 2023 general elections.

The nomination, the statement added, is part of efforts to strengthen governance and maintain effective service delivery in the state.

The deputy governorship seat had, in recent weeks, attracted intense lobbying from political actors seeking the position.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service has recognised Superintendent of Customs Nafisat Balogun after she secured a commercial multi-engine pilot licence in the United States.

The event took place at the Nigeria Customs Technical Hangar Service. Senior officers, management staff, and colleagues attended to celebrate what many described as a landmark achievement. Balogun has now become the first female pilot in the history of the service, a role long dominated by men.

The Managing Director of the Customs Technical Hangar Service, retired Comptroller of Customs Captain Kuhi Mbaya, praised her accomplishment and described her journey as one that could inspire others.

“Our officer, Nafisat Balogun, has transitioned from being a cabin attendant to a fully-fledged commercial pilot. This is a great achievement not only for her but for the entire service,” he said.

Mbaya said her success reflects changing opportunities within the organisation and sets a new standard for others to follow.

“For the first time, we now have a female pilot in the NCS. She has set a record, and it is important that we celebrate and recognise this milestone,” he added.

He urged more women to pursue their goals with confidence, noting that traditional barriers are being removed.

“This achievement shows that there are no limits. The glass ceiling has been shattered, and with determination and consistency, more women can achieve their dreams,” Mbaya said.

He also praised the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for promoting inclusion and supporting the advancement of women in the service.

In her remarks, Balogun expressed gratitude for the recognition and support she received throughout her journey.

“I am truly honoured and humbled by this warm reception. This journey has not been easy, but I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and belief shown in me,” she said.

She credited the leadership of the service for playing a key role in her success.

“I sincerely appreciate the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire management team for their invaluable support. This achievement stands as a testament to that encouragement,” she noted.

Balogun also pledged to uphold high standards in her duties.

“I promise to continue to serve with dedication, integrity, and professionalism,” she said.

Other officers at the ceremony commended her resilience and discipline. They described her achievement as a strong motivation for more women to explore specialised careers within the service and aim for excellence.

By Anas Abbas

The Nigeria Premier Football League has imposed a fine of N15 million on Kano Pillars following incidents of crowd violence during one of their recent league fixtures.

In a statement, the league body found the club guilty of breaching its rules, particularly in relation to poor security arrangements and failure to control supporters, which led to disorder at the match venue.

The NPFL said the situation escalated as fans engaged in unruly behaviour, including acts that disrupted the game and endangered players, officials, and other stakeholders.

As part of the sanctions, the club was handed a N15 million fine, with the league emphasizing its zero-tolerance stance on hooliganism and misconduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

The disciplinary action underscores the league’s commitment to maintaining order, safety, and professionalism across match venues.

Kano Pillars, one of Nigeria’s most prominent football clubs, is expected to comply with the directive, while further measures may be enforced to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Security forces have arrested a notorious commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), over his alleged role in the fatal attack on a police officer in Delta State two months ago.

Troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA, acting under the broader military offensive code-named Operation EASTERN SANITY, raided a terrorist hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, in the early hours of Tuesday, 21 April 2026.

The prime suspect, widely known by his alias “Calamity,” was arrested alongside four other key members of the outlawed group.

According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence linking “Calamity” and his cell to a brazen attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State, on 26 February 2026.

During that assault, the assailants shot dead a police officer and wounded another before escaping with two AK-47 rifles.

Following intensified security sweeps in Delta State, “Calamity” and his men reportedly fled to Ebonyi State, where they set up a new camp to evade capture and continue their violent activities.

Authorities say actionable intelligence led troops directly to the hideout, where the five suspects were apprehended without immediate casualties. At the time of his arrest, “Calamity” was found carrying a black handbag containing five mobile phones and numerous keys. A black Kcsanya motorcycle was also recovered.

The suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing to dismantle their wider network and recover additional weapons.

“This successful operation underscores the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, to neutralize terrorist threats, restore peace, and protect law-abiding citizens across the region,” the statement read.

The military reiterated its call for public support, urging citizens to provide timely information to aid ongoing security operations.

By Aisha Musa Auyo, PhD 

I first learned about a tongue-tie when my third son, Anwar, was admitted to the hospital due to a high fever. I was to share a room with another patient, and I was furious. I told the nurses I would prefer to stay in the corridor rather than share a room. I hate sharing rooms, especially in a hospital.

“The amenity room is fully booked. A patient will soon leave, and you’ll be transferred there,” a nurse told me.

I kept whining and complaining. My husband kept saying I should be patient…..“it’s just for a few days.” In my mind, I was like, you’ll never understand what it means to share a hospital room, because you’ve never experienced it. It’s easier said than done.

I accepted defeat and entered the room. Anwar was crying so loudly that he drew the other patient’s attention. In my mind, I thought, you see why I avoid sharing rooms…. I dislike inconveniencing others. I didn’t think the patient would be able to sleep with that noise.

One of the women attending to the other patient asked me, “Do you know that your son has a tongue-tie?”

I said no. What’s a tongue-tie? I had never heard of it.

She told me to look at his tongue while he was crying and said I would see a tissue-like thread holding it, meaning the tongue isn’t free. When I checked, I saw it was very visible.

I asked her more about it, and she explained that it’s natural for some babies to be born with it. Usually, doctors notice it and remove it shortly after birth. But if it isn’t addressed early, it may require a minor surgery to remove it. Anwar was about six months old then.

I thanked her and asked for the way forward. She recommended a paediatrician.

Before the procedure, I read about tongue-tie from over a hundred sites, and spoke to more than ten doctors… lol. It turned out to be a minor surgical procedure that didn’t take more than a minute, since he was still a baby. It gets more complicated with age.

From my research, I also learned that Anwar’s feeding difficulty was likely caused by a tongue-tie.

Many children with tongue-tie may also experience:

– Speech difficulties, especially with sounds like “t”, “d”, “l”, “r”, “s”, and “th”

– Unclear or slightly slurred speech

– (Though not every child with tongue-tie has speech issues, it can contribute)

Other possible effects include:

– Oral hygiene challenges (difficulty clearing food, increased risk of tooth decay)

– Eating difficulties (trouble licking, swallowing, or moving food around the mouth)

– Dental or jaw development issues (such as gaps or bite alignment problems)

– Social or psychological effects, like reduced confidence due to speech or tongue movement limitations

Anwar’s procedure (frenotomy) was done seamlessly, and everything returned to normal. Alhamdulillah.

After that experience, I made it a point to pay closer attention to babies. I realised it’s quite common, yet not widely known. I’ve made it a personal responsibility to educate parents about it before it becomes complicated.

There’s also a lesson here:

1. Not everything we dislike is bad. Sometimes, what we resist is exactly what we need….or what will benefit us the most.

2. I hate sharing rooms with strangers because I don’t want to inconvenience anyone or feel like a burden. But from that experience, I learned something valuable…. and now I’m sharing it with others. So maybe it’s not so bad after all. Hausa people say, “mutane rahama ne” (people are a blessing).

3. No matter your position, knowledge, number of children, or experience, there’s always something you don’t know. And there’s always something you can learn from others—their experiences, exposure, and expertise.

Anyway, when I gave birth to Azrah, my fourth child, I was subconsciously checking for tongue-tie—and I saw one! Hausa people, again, say: “Mai nema na tare da samu”… Bature yace: “He who seeketh… findeth.”

That was after a full check-up by nurses, doctors, and even a paediatrician. I brought it to their attention, and they confirmed it. The minor surgical procedure (frenotomy) was done four days after birth.

I hated the sight of blood on her tiny mouth, but what could I do? The earlier, the better. Alhamdulillah.

If you’ve learned something from this write-up, kindly share it so others can benefit too.

If you’d like to read more stories and reflections like this, drawn from real-life experiences, you can get my book Between Hearts and Homes for deeper, relatable insights into everyday life.

Aisha Musa Auyo, PhD, is an Educational Psychologist, author, and media professional passionate about translating research into practical impact. She writes on parenting, family, and education, drawing from expertise and personal experience. Aisha is also a parenting and relationship coach and founder of Eesher Auyo’s Empire in Abuja, Nigeria.