By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Abba Kabir Yusuf has relieved Engr. Buba Galadima of his position as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic.

The decision was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

In his place, the Governor approved the appointment of the Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, Emir of Gaya, as the new Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council.

According to the statement, the removal followed a restructuring process aimed at aligning the Polytechnic with the administration’s Kano First Agenda and ongoing reforms to enhance institutional performance. Although members of the Governing Council are expected to serve a three-year tenure, Galadima’s appointment was terminated before its expiration as part of the reform measures.

Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Galadima for his contributions during his tenure and urged the new Chairman to deploy his experience and leadership in repositioning the Polytechnic for improved academic and administrative excellence.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has declared that the successful holding of the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival signals the return of stability to Kebbi State and the nation at large, as over 50,000 fishermen from Nigeria and neighbouring countries participated in the four-day cultural extravaganza.

Speaking at the grand finale in Argungu on Saturday, the President witnessed a local fisherman, Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area, emerge as the overall winner after landing a 59kg catch. Usman went home with N1 million and two brand new cars.

The festival, which returned after a six-year hiatus, featured cultural displays, water competitions, traditional boxing, and dancing, drawing participants and spectators from across the region.

“This festival has endured for 83 years and stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence among our people,” Tinubu told the gathering. “The organisation, security arrangement, and internal outlook of the event demonstrate what is possible when leadership is purposeful and inclusive.”

The President used the occasion to reassure Nigerians that the fight against banditry and insurgency is being won, attributing the peaceful conduct of the festival to sustained investments in security and community engagement.

“I am pleased to note that significant progress has been made in combating insecurity across Kebbi and other parts of our nation,” he said. “The relative peace we are witnessing today in this region is not accidental. It is the result of sustained investment in security, intelligence gathering, and community engagement.”

Tinubu pledged stronger federal support for agriculture, tourism, and rural development, noting that events like Argungu can only thrive in a conducive security atmosphere. He commended Governor Nasir Idris for what he described as purposeful leadership in organising the historic event.

Before attending the festival, the President commissioned several infrastructure projects in Birnin Kebbi, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secretariat Complex, a new modern motor park, a three-lane dual carriageway, and the Kauran Gwandu College of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences.

Governor Idris, in his remarks, outlined his administration’s achievements across infrastructure, health, education, and agriculture, including the recruitment of over 1,800 health workers, construction of thousands of classrooms, and free distribution of fertilisers and improved seedlings to farmers.

The Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, described the President’s presence at the festival as “a profound identification with the core values of courage, reconciliation, peace, and friendship” that the 61-year-old festival represents.

In the keenly contested fishing competition, Abdullahi Garba from Argungu secured second place with a 40kg fish, winning N750,000, a brand new car, and a Hajj seat. The third position was jointly claimed by two contestants from Jigawa and Kogi states with a 33kg catch each, earning them N1 million and a motorcycle apiece.

All four winning fish were presented to President Tinubu as souvenirs at the conclusion of the event.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

First Lady Remi Tinubu has justified her husband, President Bola Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket, saying Muslims outnumber Christians in Nigeria. She made the remarks during her visit to the United States.

A pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Mrs Tinubu told The Free Press that the decision for a Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 election was political.

Explaining the choice, she said, “Let’s face it, the Muslims are more than us. If a southerner wants to run for president, politics is a game of numbers. You have to pick another Muslim. You can’t pick a Christian.”

The first lady also highlighted her role in the Presidential Villa, saying she attends to the interests of both Christians and Muslims. “I’m a Christian in the presidential villa. I take care of the interests of Christians, and I also take care of Muslims. That is what life should be. We have to respect everybody, irrespective of religion,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu, who attended the National Prayer Breakfast in the U.S., added that her trip was partly to address claims circulating on social media about alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria. She said the campaign followed her husband’s government navigating the country out of economic challenges marked by rising food prices and a declining naira.

In another interview with The Hill, Mrs Tinubu described global concerns over Christian persecution in Nigeria as “based on propaganda.”

She also urged the U.S. to intensify military strikes against terrorists and bandits in northern Nigeria, describing previous Christmas Day military actions ordered by former President Donald Trump as a “blessing” to the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have arrested a suspected gunrunner during an intelligence-led operation in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The operation took place on February 12, 2026, after security forces received credible intelligence. Troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Wukari acted promptly and apprehended the suspect, identified as 48-year-old Abubakar Ibrahim, who hails from Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Security personnel carried out a detailed search during the mission. The exercise led to the recovery of six PKT machine guns, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cash sum of ₦170,000. Officers also recovered a Peugeot 504 vehicle, a Q Seven mobile phone, seven bottles and wraps of perfume, as well as two small containers of Vaseline.

The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.

Authorities said the interception prevented illegal weapons from getting into the hands of criminal elements. They added that the development supports ongoing efforts to address insecurity and strengthen public safety in the state.

The Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, praised the troops for their vigilance and professionalism. He urged them to maintain the momentum in line with the mandate given by the Chief of Army Staff. He also commended residents for providing useful intelligence that aided the operation’s success.

“The Brigade remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, and to restore lasting peace and stability across Taraba State,” he stated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing Festival commenced on Saturday at Mata Fada in Argungu town, Kebbi State, with the heaviest fish weighing 59 kilograms.

The Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday afternoon, noting the remarkable size of the catch recorded at this year’s outing.

“61st Argungu fishing festival, biggest fish caught 59Kg,” Dare said.

The annual cultural event attracted thousands of fishermen, tourists, and culture enthusiasts from different parts of Nigeria and outside the country. Excitement heightened as a large crowd of the anticipated 40,000 participants rushed into the river shortly after noon. This happened before the formal opening ceremony and ahead of the arrival of President Bola Tinubu.

Reports from the venue indicated that in the fishing contest, “Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area emerged overall winner with a 59kg catch.

“Abdullahi Garba from Argungu placed second with a 40kg fish, while third position was jointly claimed by Nasir Garba and another contestant, who each landed a 33kg catch.”

While announcing the winners, the Kebbi State Deputy Governor stated that the champion would receive “two Toyota vehicles donated by the Sokoto State Government, bags of WACOT rice and a cash prize of ₦1 million.

“The second-place winner received a car, a Hajj slot and ₦1 million, while the joint third-place winners were awarded two motorcycles each and ₦750,000.”

Earlier, President Tinubu arrived in Birnin Kebbi, the Kebbi State capital, where he inaugurated two major projects. The projects included the newly built State Secretariat and the renovated Central Motor Park. He later proceeded to Argungu to formally declare the festival open.

The Argungu Fishing Festival dates back to 1934. It was established to celebrate peace between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom. Over time, the festival has grown into an internationally recognised cultural event that features fishing contests, traditional music, dance, wrestling, arts, crafts, and other cultural displays.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to produce a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sani Zaria, before it on February 18 over allegations linking him to a coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

The order followed proceedings on Friday before Justice Peter Lifu, who presided over a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the cleric. Zaria has remained in custody since December 2025.

Earlier in January, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the arrest of 16 military officers during the first week of the month in connection with an alleged attempt to overthrow the current administration.

Court documents showed that the cleric was first arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission before he was transferred to the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency.

Respondents in the suit include the EFCC, DIA, the attorney-general of the federation, and Jaiz Bank Plc.

The applicant is asking the court to order his release. He argued that his continued detention has no lawful basis.

During the hearing, the federal government was unable to present a valid court order authorising his detention. The development drew criticism from the bench.

Justice Lifu had earlier instructed the DIA to produce any detention order or provide legal justification for holding the cleric under applicable laws, including provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

The judge faulted the length of the detention. He subsequently ordered the intelligence agency to produce the cleric in court. The appearance, the court noted, will allow consideration of his bail application pending the continuation of the case.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has said he deliberately chooses to appear “weak” in order to sustain peace and stability in the state.

The governor spoke on Friday in Lagos while receiving the 2025 Man of the Year Award presented by New Telegraph.

During his remarks, which focused on the burden of leadership, political disputes, and reconciliation, Fubara dedicated the honour to his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it. I also dedicate this award to somebody who discovered me, not minding the situation — the honourable minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike,” he said.

“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness. Today is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know that for believing in me, you have a share of special pain.

“Some people have described these pains as weakness, while others say it is being strong. But I choose to be weak for a lot of reasons, weak because I want peace. Weak because we need to survive.

“Weak because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation. Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”

Fubara thanked his family and residents of Rivers State for their patience and composure despite the prolonged political crisis in the state.

The development comes amid efforts to ease tensions between the executive arm and the Rivers State House of Assembly. Recently, President Bola Tinubu intervened and facilitated a truce between both sides after months of political strain, impeachment threats, and divisions within the legislature. Many lawmakers in the assembly are known allies of Wike.

The rift between the two political figures has played out publicly in recent months. Wike had opposed Fubara’s re-election ambition. He accused the governor of failing to honour an earlier peace agreement reached before the lifting of emergency rule in the state.

Earlier in the week, the FCT minister expressed optimism that the crisis between the executive and legislative arms would be resolved permanently following the president’s intervention.

Peace conditions linked to the dispute had earlier surfaced. One of the demands was the reinstatement of Sergeant Awuse, traditional ruler of Emohua kingdom, as chairman of the state’s council of traditional rulers. Fubara removed Awuse from the position in June 2024 and replaced him with Chike Worlu Wodo. Another demand involved the nomination of new commissioners.

In a fresh move, the governor dissolved the Rivers State Executive Council on Thursday. A day later, he forwarded a list of commissioner nominees to the state assembly for screening and confirmation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected Boko Haram fighters carried out fresh assaults in parts of Borgu and Agwara Local Government Areas of Niger State late Friday night.

The attacks were disclosed by security reporter and analyst, Comrade Zakari Y. Adamu Kontogora, through a post on his Facebook page where he detailed the incident.

He reported that the armed men moved across several communities. They opened fire on residents and set houses ablaze during the raids.

Quoting security operatives who spoke with his newspaper, he said no fewer than 21 people lost their lives after the gunmen invaded Konkoso community.

The sources also revealed that the assailants extended their attacks to nearby settlements such as Pissa, Zango and Tungan Maƙeri. Casualties were recorded in the affected villages. Properties were destroyed as homes and shops were burnt.

Residents were said to be gripped by fear as the attackers reportedly remained within the general area as of the time this report was filed.

There has been no official statement yet from security authorities regarding the incident or the number of casualties recorded.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have circulated a video showing a large number of women and children said to have been abducted from Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The footage, which lasts one minute and 17 seconds, was published by Sahara Reporters. It shows dozens of female captives and minors assembled in an open location while an unidentified speaker questions them. The face of the speaker was not shown in the clip.

During the exchange, the speaker asked the victims, “Where were you abducted?”

They responded, “From Woro.”

He followed up with another question, “Which local government?” and they replied, “Kaiama.”

“Which state?” he pressed.

“Kwara,” the captives answered in unison.

The speaker then asked, “How many are you?” Two women answered, “176.”

After the responses, the unidentified speaker accused the Federal Government of downplaying the number of abductees.

“You can see that your infidel government lied to people that you are not more than 30,” he said.

The video ended shortly after the remark.

As at the time this report was filed, neither the Federal Government nor the Kwara State Government had confirmed the authenticity of the footage or the number of victims mentioned by the insurgents.

Security agencies have also not released any official statement in reaction to the claims.

The incident has sparked renewed anxiety over insecurity in Kwara State. The North-Central state has not been widely known as a major centre of Boko Haram operations when compared with states in the North-East.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has asked President Bola Tinubu to remove the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the date fixed for the 2027 presidential election.

The party made its position known on Saturday through a statement issued by its Kano State Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Karaye.

In the statement, the party said the presidential poll has been scheduled for 20 February 2027. It noted that the date falls within the Ramadan fasting period observed by Muslims.

The NNPP described the timing as unacceptable. It argued that the development could affect the turnout of Muslim voters across the country.

“This is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise the majority Muslim population in the country,” the party stated.

The party also accused the INEC Chairman of displaying what it termed religious bias in the choice of the election date.

It therefore urged the President to take immediate action by removing the electoral body’s chairman. The party said such a step would promote fairness and rebuild trust in the electoral system.

“For any election to be accepted by the Muslim majority in the country, the President must replace him with a more credible Christian who will ensure justice and fairness for all,” the statement added.