By Uzair Adam

Gunmen have abducted the Secretary of Kibiya Local Government Area in Kano State after storming his residence in a late-night attack.

Chairman of the Councillors in the area, Hon. Sabo Yusuf Usman, confirmed the incident to the BBC, saying it occurred in the early hours of Friday in Dinya town.

According to him, the attackers struck at about 1:00 a.m. while the secretary was asleep.

He explained that the gunmen first woke the secretary’s son, who was sleeping in the outer compound, and forced him to knock on the door under the pretense of being unwell.

He said the boy told his father he had a stomach ache when asked what was wrong, prompting the secretary to open the door.

The gunmen then immediately carted away both the father and the son.

Usman added that the attackers later released the son and fled with the secretary before security operatives arrived at the scene.

Kibiya Local Government Area has not been widely associated with security threats in the past.

However, areas such as Tsanyawa and Shanono, which share a border with Katsina State, have experienced a series of bandit attacks in recent times.

By Shamwil (Justice)

It all began in Sabon Gari Market, Kano, inside our small but busy pharmaceutical shop, Kuka Medicals. That afternoon was bright and dusty, filled with the usual noise of traders calling out prices and customers bargaining for goods. 

I was behind the counter, arranging boxes of medicines, when she walked in, Christiana. I never imagined that moment would change the rest of my life. She was dressed simply, yet there was something about her that captured attention instantly. Her presence was calm, graceful, and confident. 

When our manager called me to write her sales invoice, I didn’t think much of it. But as I wrote her name on the receipt and looked up, our eyes met for the first time. A strange spark passed between us, silent yet powerful, one that words could never describe.

“What’s your name?” she asked softly. “Shamwil”, I answered. Her voice was clear and warm, the kind that stays in your mind long after you’ve heard it. I told her, and she repeated it slowly, as if she wanted to remember it forever. Then I asked for hers, and she said, “Christiana.” The name itself felt like poetry when she said it.

We spoke briefly about medicines, antibiotics, syrups, and how counterfeit drugs were becoming a problem in the market. I was amazed by how much she knew. She talked with the precision of a trained pharmacist, mentioning drug names, compositions, and even the companies that produced them. Our manager watched her with admiration, nodding in respect. That day, I realised she was not only beautiful but also incredibly brilliant.

When she finished shopping, she smiled, waved at me, and left. That simple wave stayed with me for days. Her scent lingered in the air, soft, pure, and unforgettable. That night, I found myself thinking about her voice and the calm expression in her eyes. I didn’t realise then, but a new chapter of my life had just begun.

Weeks passed before I heard from her again. One evening, my phone rang with an unknown number. I picked it up, and there it was, that same gentle voice. “You didn’t expect me to call, did you?” she said, laughing softly. That first call lasted for hours. From that day on, Christiana became a part of my daily life. We talked every day, laughed together, and shared stories that slowly tied our hearts closer. What began as a friendship soon turned into real, deep, and pure love.

Christiana was unlike anyone I had ever known. She had a beauty that didn’t depend on makeup and a confidence that didn’t need pride. Her skin was smooth and glowing, her height perfect, her movements graceful like flowing water. Her voice was calm and musical, and her pointed nose gave her face an angelic glow. Everything about her was elegant and natural. She was the kind of woman who didn’t need to try to be special; she simply was.

Our love grew stronger with each passing day. We called each other every morning and night, exchanged sweet messages, and dreamed about the future. Sometimes she visited me at the shop, bringing food or simply sitting beside me while we talked about life. Time always flew whenever she was around. She made everything around me feel peaceful and alive.

But love, as beautiful as it was, came with its battles. When her parents found out about us, their reaction was harsh and painful. To them, I was not good enough. I was a poor Hausa Muslim boy, and she was their only daughter, an Igbo Christian from a wealthy family. They couldn’t accept our love. They called her names, scolded her, and forbade her from seeing me again. Yet Christiana refused to give up. She told them love has no tribe, no religion, and no boundary. Her father stopped speaking to her for months, but she remained strong, fearless, and loyal.

Christiana’s love was the purest I’d ever known. She cared for me when I was sick, worried whenever I didn’t answer her calls, and even risked sneaking out at night just to see me for a few minutes. We would stroll quietly under the streetlights of Sabon Gari, talking about our dreams, the home we’d build, the children we’d raise, and the life we’d live together. I believed we had forever. I believed nothing could come between us. But life has a way of breaking even the strongest hearts. 

I never thought Christiana could die for my love. The news came like thunder in a clear sky. Death took her suddenly, without warning, without mercy. The moment I heard it, I felt something inside me collapse. The world went silent. My hands went cold. I couldn’t breathe. The love of my life was gone, just like that.

Even now, I can still hear her laughter in my mind, smell her perfume in the air, and see her smile in my dreams. Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night thinking she’s still alive, that she’ll call, that she’ll visit, that I’ll see her walk through the shop door again. But every morning reminds me that she is gone, forever.

Christiana didn’t just leave me; she took a part of me with her. She left behind love, memories, and silence, the kind of silence that breaks a man from the inside. Love can be the sweetest thing on earth, but it can also be the most painful. Christiana was both my blessing and my heartbreak. She was the light that entered my life, and the darkness that refused to leave when she passed away! 

I will never stop speaking and penning about you, Christiana. History will be so kind to you!  

Shamwil (Justice) wrote via ibrahimshamawilu@gmail.com.

By Dr. Umar Musa Kallah

As missiles continue to criss-cross the skies over Iran and Israel, and as the devastating consequences of the February 28, 2026, coordinated United States–Israeli strikes reverberate across the region ,  claiming the life of Iran’s Supreme Leader and exacting a heavy toll on civilians on every side, it is imperative that we, as Nigerians who hold faith dear, approach these events with clarity rather than confusion. The images of suffering from Tehran, Tel Aviv and beyond remind us that war spares no one. As a Muslim who abhors violence in all its forms and yearns only for peace to reign across the globe, for the sake of everyone, regardless of creed. I write not to inflame passions, but to illuminate.

Let us begin with precision. Judaism is an ancient monotheistic religion, spanning more than three millennia. It is anchored in the Torah, the prophetic tradition and an enduring covenant between the Divine and the Jewish people. At its core, Judaism is a spiritual and ethical path, one that calls believers to prayer, justice, charity and moral conduct. It is faith, pure and profound.

Zionism, by contrast, is a modern political ideology that emerged in the late 19th century amid the harsh realities of European antisemitism and pogroms. Conceived largely by secular thinkers such as Theodor Herzl, it sought to establish a national homeland for Jews in historic Palestine as a safeguard against persecution. While some religious Jews later embraced a variant known as Religious Zionism, the movement itself remains fundamentally political, an expression of national self-determination rather than religious doctrine. Importantly, Zionism does not equate to Judaism, just as nationalism does not equate to any faith. And crucially, Zionism is not an ideology directed against Muslims; it is a political project whose ramifications, displacement, conflict and geopolitical realignments,  have touched the entire human family, inflaming tensions that now threaten wider instability, economic disruption and the loss of innocent lives far beyond the Middle East.

History bears witness to a different reality before these political currents reshaped the landscape. For more than fourteen centuries, Jewish communities thrived as protected minorities “People of the Book” , under Muslim rule in lands from Baghdad to Cordoba, from Fez to Tehran. They contributed as scholars, physicians, merchants and counsellors. Iran today still hosts one of the largest Jewish populations outside Israel, with citizens enjoying legal recognition, synagogues and parliamentary representation. Similar communities once flourished across the Muslim world. Their peaceful coexistence endured until the political realities surrounding the establishment of the State of Israel, coupled with ensuing wars and nationalisms, altered longstanding neighbourly relations. Zionism transformed the narrative; it did not define the faith.

Even now, Jewish voices are not uniform. Many observant and secular Jews  from organisations such as Jewish Voice for Peace to progressive rabbis and ordinary families have openly opposed escalation, calling for restraint and compassion toward Iranian and Palestinian civilians alike. Iranian Jews themselves have largely distanced themselves from the conflict, prioritising their safety and loyalty to their homeland. Faith and political allegiance, once again, prove distinct.

To my Christian brothers and sisters across Nigeria, whose devotion often finds heartfelt expression in solidarity with “Israel,” I offer this reflection with utmost respect and sincerity. The modern State of Israel is a sovereign nation whose population is approximately 74 per cent Jewish, 18 per cent Muslim and merely 2 per cent Christian. Its policies and security concerns are those of a state, not a church. Judaism, as the elder sibling in the Abrahamic family, gave the world the Hebrew Scriptures that Christians revere as the Old Testament. Yet Judaism does not perceive Christianity as Christians perceive it: practising Jews do not accept Jesus as the Messiah or the Son of God, nor do they regard the New Testament as scripture. They await their own promised redeemer. This theological distinction is not a source of animosity but a simple fact of differing paths within the same monotheistic heritage.
Understanding this does not diminish Christian love for the Holy Land or the Jewish people; rather, it prevents the conflation of ancient faith with contemporary politics. Supporting the legitimate security needs of any nation is one matter; assuming the State of Israel embodies Christian doctrine is quite another. Zionism is the political vehicle of Jewish national aspirations in the modern era, related to Judaism by heritage, yet separate in essence and execution. Clarity here fosters wiser solidarity, rooted in truth rather than assumption.

In this hour of missiles and mourning, as a Muslim who prays daily for the cessation of all bloodshed, I beseech every Nigerian  Muslim, Christian and beyond  to rise above partisan slogans. Let us distinguish religion from politics, faith from ideology. Let us condemn violence wherever it appears, whether in state actions or retaliatory strikes, and advocate instead for dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of all minorities, including Iran’s Jewish citizens. True peace will serve every soul on this earth : Jew, Muslim, Christian and those of other persuasions alike.

May the Almighty, in His infinite mercy, grant wisdom to leaders, solace to the bereaved and swift healing to a wounded region. May bombs fall silent, so that mothers from every shore may once again embrace their children in safety. For in the end, the greatest victory belongs not to any flag or doctrine, but to humanity itself, united under the banner of peace.

That is the fervent prayer of one Nigerian Muslim who believes, without reservation, that only understanding and compassion can light the path forward.

Dr Umar Musa Kallah, a writer and community advocate, can be reached via yakubunasirukhalid@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has begun to impact Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery announced a fresh increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), pushing it to about N1,245 per litre.

The latest adjustment reflects rising global crude oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly the ongoing hostilities involving major oil-producing countries.

Industry analysts say the surge in international oil benchmarks has significantly raised production and replacement costs for refiners.

Sources within the petroleum industry indicated that the new price was communicated to marketers and depot operators, with immediate effect across distribution channels. The increment marks another upward review in a series of price changes recorded within a short period.

Data from recent market trends show that petrol prices at the refinery have been on a steady rise in recent weeks,climbing from about N774 per litre to over N1,100 within days before reaching the current level.

Experts attribute the persistent increases to volatility in global crude oil markets, foreign exchange pressures, and supply uncertainties linked to the Middle East crisis. The situation has driven crude prices above the 100 dollar per barrel mark, further intensifying cost pressures on refiners.

The development is expected to have a ripple effect nationwide, as fuel marketers adjust pump prices in line with the higher depot cost. Analysts warn that the increase could worsen inflationary pressures, raising transportation costs and the prices of goods and services across the country.

Despite expectations that local refining would stabilise fuel prices, the latest hike underscores Nigeria’s continued exposure to global oil market dynamics, even with increased domestic production capacity.

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, has called on citizens to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The former minister of aviation is among the 65 ambassadors recently cleared for deployment earlier in March.

In a statement released on Friday, Fani-Kayode extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and abroad. He also expressed optimism about the current administration, stating that “Tinubu is on the right path to transform the nation”.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of the Ramadan fast observed by Muslims worldwide.

Fani-Kayode encouraged Nigerians to uphold the values practiced during Ramadan, such as patience, compassion, generosity, and unity. He stressed that these qualities are important for peaceful coexistence and national unity, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The envoy also voiced confidence in the country’s future under Tinubu’s leadership. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to good governance and national development.

He offered prayers for peace, stability, and progress in the country, while wishing Muslims a happy Eid celebration.

United States President Donald Trump has criticised NATO members for failing to support Washington and Israel in the ongoing war with Iran, as tensions continue to disrupt global energy supplies.

The Strait of Hormuz remains largely inaccessible amid the conflict. The waterway is a key route for global oil and gas shipments. The situation has raised concerns across international markets, with no clear end to the fighting.

In a post shared on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump described NATO countries as “COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”

He faulted the alliance for refusing to participate in the military effort against Iran. He also accused them of complaining about rising oil prices despite staying out of the conflict.

“Now that fight is militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to ⁠pay, but don’t want to help open ⁠the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so ⁠little risk,” he wrote.

Trump has repeatedly urged key allies to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Iranian control. Many of those countries were not consulted before the war began.

The conflict, which started on February 28 following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has caused widespread destruction. Thousands of people have died, while millions have been displaced. It has also triggered instability in global financial markets.

Amid the developments, NATO confirmed it is modifying its mission in Iraq. This followed reports that personnel had been temporarily withdrawn due to the security situation.

“We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq,” alliance spokesperson Allison Hart said.

NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, also confirmed that mission personnel in Iraq had been relocated to Europe.

“I would like to thank the Republic of Iraq and all the Allies who assisted in the safe relocation of NATO personnel from Iraq,” the statement reads.

European leaders have, however, signalled reluctance to join the conflict. Speaking after a European Union summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for diplomacy.

“I have ‌not heard anyone here express a willingness to enter this conflict – quite the opposite.”

He added that respecting international law and reducing tensions remained “the best we can do”.

The war has dominated discussions among European leaders, especially its impact on energy prices. Reports indicate that there is no unified position within the European Union on how to respond to the crisis.

Officials have warned that energy costs may continue to rise in the coming months, as uncertainty persists over supply routes and market stability.

Switzerland has halted the approval of licences for weapons exports to the United States due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, citing its policy of neutrality.

The Swiss government announced the decision on Friday. It said the measure would remain in place for the duration of the war.

“The export of war materiel to countries involved ⁠in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorised for the duration of the conflict,” the government said.

“Exports of war materiel to the USA ‌cannot currently be authorised,” it added.

The development comes as the US-Israel war on Iran approaches its third week. The conflict has worsened the humanitarian situation across the Middle East and pushed global energy prices higher.

Swiss authorities have also shut their airspace to US military flights connected to the war. Last weekend, officials rejected two requests from the US for overflight linked to Iran operations, although three others were approved.

Switzerland’s neutrality law guides decisions on arms transfers. A federal act adopted in 1996 requires export licences for military equipment. The law is based on respect for human rights and the country’s neutral stance.

Since the war began on February 28, Switzerland said it has not issued any new export licences to the United States.

The government noted that it has not granted definitive licences for arms exports to Israel for several years. The same position applies to Iran.

Existing licences issued to the US will now undergo periodic review by a panel of experts. The group will assess whether further action is needed under neutrality rules.

Officials also confirmed that exports of dual-use goods and certain military items will face regular checks.

“A restrictive approach is already in place with regard to Israel,” the government said.

Data from Swiss authorities show that the United States was the second-largest buyer of Swiss arms last year. The total value of exports stood at $119 million.

Switzerland has taken similar steps in the past. It blocked the transfer of Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022. It also imposed restrictions on flights and arms exports during the US-led Iraq war in 2003, although those measures were later lifted.

Switzerland has halted the approval of licences for weapons exports to the United States due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, citing its policy of neutrality.

The Swiss government announced the decision on Friday. It said the measure would remain in place for the duration of the war.

“The export of war materiel to countries involved ⁠in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorised for the duration of the conflict,” the government said.

“Exports of war materiel to the USA ‌cannot currently be authorised,” it added.

The development comes as the US-Israel war on Iran approaches its third week. The conflict has worsened the humanitarian situation across the Middle East and pushed global energy prices higher.

Swiss authorities have also shut their airspace to US military flights connected to the war. Last weekend, officials rejected two requests from the US for overflight linked to Iran operations, although three others were approved.

Switzerland’s neutrality law guides decisions on arms transfers. A federal act adopted in 1996 requires export licences for military equipment. The law is based on respect for human rights and the country’s neutral stance.

Since the war began on February 28, Switzerland said it has not issued any new export licences to the United States.

The government noted that it has not granted definitive licences for arms exports to Israel for several years. The same position applies to Iran.

Existing licences issued to the US will now undergo periodic review by a panel of experts. The group will assess whether further action is needed under neutrality rules.

Officials also confirmed that exports of dual-use goods and certain military items will face regular checks.

“A restrictive approach is already in place with regard to Israel,” the government said.

Data from Swiss authorities show that the United States was the second-largest buyer of Swiss arms last year. The total value of exports stood at $119 million.

Switzerland has taken similar steps in the past. It blocked the transfer of Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022. It also imposed restrictions on flights and arms exports during the US-led Iraq war in 2003, although those measures were later lifted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has issued a strong warning to officials of the United States and Israel, stating that they are no longer safe anywhere in the world after recent attacks linked to both countries.

The warning came from a senior Iranian military spokesperson, Abolfazl Shekarchi, who said the risks faced by their adversaries may extend beyond traditional battle zones.

In a statement aired on Iranian state television, Shekarchi said, “From now on, based on the information we have about you, even parks, recreational areas and tourist destinations anywhere in the world will no longer be safe for you.”

The statement signals a sharp rise in tensions, as Tehran suggests it could widen the scope of its response to what it views as hostile actions.

The development follows a series of reported strikes connected to the United States and Israel. Iranian authorities have since pledged a firm response, which has added to fears of further escalation.

Observers say the latest remarks reflect growing concern over a possible expansion of the conflict, as threats continue to intensify between the sides.

The situation has also been fueled by reports of Israeli operations that led to the killing of senior Iranian officials, which has further deepened hostilities.

Meanwhile, the crisis appears to be drawing in more regional actors. The leader of Yemen’s Houthi Movement, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, has announced support for Iran in the ongoing confrontation with the United States and Israel.

In a televised address monitored on Friday, Al-Houthi accused Washington of supporting Israel’s military actions in the region. He warned that any US involvement against Iran would be seen as a direct threat to Yemen and the broader “Islamic nation.

“Because he considers it the biggest obstacle in the way of accomplishing his plan,” Al-Houthi said.

He added, “Therefore, any attack or US aggression supporting the Israeli enemy against Iran within the framework of the goal itself, is a throw to empower the Israeli enemy from controlling the entire region. And this is what cannot be silenced.”

The comments mark a notable escalation from the Iran-aligned group, which has previously targeted shipping routes in the Red Sea and launched attacks linked to Israeli interests. Analysts warn that the growing rhetoric and alliances could push the region closer to a wider conflict.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has congratulated residents of the state on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Governor Yusuf described Eid-el-Fitr as a period for gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment to the values of faith, unity and compassion demonstrated throughout Ramadan.

He urged residents to celebrate the Sallah festivities peacefully and responsibly, cautioning against any actions that could disrupt the peace and stability of the state.

The governor stressed the need to sustain tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among the people, regardless of their differences.

He also called on parents and guardians to guide their children to be law-abiding and to conduct themselves properly during the celebrations.

Governor Yusuf further encouraged residents to show kindness and support to the less privileged, in line with Islamic teachings, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He also assured that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a hitch-free celebration across Kano State.