By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Days after the NIPR Week, Kaduna State has again stepped into the spotlight as the host of the Kaduna State Traditional Rulers Strategic Forum, a high-level gathering focused on peace, leadership, and national cohesion.

Held under the theme, “Kaduna State Peace Model: Traditional Leadership and National Stability,” the forum underscored the vital role of traditional institutions in fostering sustainable peace across communities.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, highlighted the far-reaching impact of the Kaduna State Peace Model. He noted that deeper collaboration between the government and traditional rulers has strengthened conflict resolution mechanisms, restored public trust, and reinforced social harmony across the state.

“Kaduna is not just hosting conversations—it is offering a model,” Maiyaki said. “A model where tradition meets governance to build lasting peace and national stability.”

The forum reaffirmed the state’s commitment to leveraging indigenous leadership structures as a cornerstone of security and national unity.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) permission to arrest former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouk.

The anti-graft agency is investigating the former minister over an alleged N746.6 million and $1.3 million fraud case linked to her ministry.

In a statement posted on its X (formerly Twitter) account, the EFCC said Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie also issued a warrant for the arrest of the ministry’s permanent secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali.

According to the commission, the court order followed the refusal of the accused persons to appear before the court on Thursday. Although the defendants’ lawyer requested an adjournment citing illness and other reasons preventing Sadiya from attending, the court rejected the plea.

The EFCC noted that it had filed the case on December 15, 2025, but had been unable to serve the court summons on the accused persons personally.

Sadiya Farouk served as minister under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. She is married to former Nigerian Chief of Air Staff, AVM Sadiq Abubakar (retired).

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Pope Leo has warned that global affairs are being dominated by a small group of powerful leaders, as tensions continue between him and former United States President Donald Trump.

The pontiff made the remarks during a visit to Cameroon, where he criticised world leaders for using religion to advance their own interests. He said such actions often serve “military, economic and political gain.”

He said: “The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild.

“They turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.”

Pope Leo, who is 70 and the first American to hold the position, has spoken frequently about the ongoing conflict in Iran. His comments have drawn criticism from Trump and some figures within the former administration.

Earlier in the week, Trump criticised the Pope over his position on the Middle East. He said the pontiff was “WEAK on crime and terrible for foreign policy”.

“Will someone please ⁠tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least ‌42,000 innocent, completely unarmed protesters ‌in the last two ⁠months, and that ⁠for Iran to have a nuclear bomb is absolutely ‌unacceptable,” he said on Wednesday.

Trump also shared an AI-generated image that portrayed him in a religious light. The post sparked backlash, including from some Catholic supporters in the United States.

In what appeared to be a response, Pope Leo delivered further remarks on Thursday, condemning the misuse of religion by political leaders.

“Woe to those who manipulate religion ⁠and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.

“It is a world turned upside down, an exploitation of God’s creation that must be denounced and rejected by every honest conscience.”

The Pope spoke in Bamenda, a major city in Cameroon’s English-speaking region. The area has experienced prolonged violence between government forces and separatist groups. Reports indicate that thousands of people have lost their lives in the conflict.

Trump had first criticised the Pope before his African visit and repeated his comments days later. Some senior figures aligned with the former president also backed his stance.

US Vice-President JD Vance questioned the Pope’s position during an event in Georgia, where he faced interruptions from the audience.

“How can you say that God was never on the side of those who wield the sword?” Mr Vance asked. “Was God on the side of the Americans who liberated France from the Nazis? Was God on the side of the Americans who liberated Holocaust camps?”

Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House of Representatives, also reacted to the situation. He said the Pope should “expect some political response” over his comments on the Middle East crisis.

Despite the criticism, Pope Leo has indicated that he will continue to speak on the conflict in Iran, though he has avoided direct replies to Trump in recent days.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Police Force has transferred a wanted suspect, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom over alleged links to murder and drug trafficking offences.

Authorities disclosed that the extradition followed a request from the United Kingdom in September 2024. The request asked Nigerian authorities to locate, arrest, and hand over the suspect. The process was handled through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placide, explained in a statement on Thursday that Adebiyi had been declared wanted in connection with the killing of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018. He said the suspect allegedly fled to Nigeria after the incident to avoid arrest.

Placide also stated that the suspect faced accusations of supplying crack cocaine, described as a Class-A controlled drug, within the UK between October 2017 and March 2018.

He said, “The suspect was arrested on 23rd January 2025 by operatives of the INTERPOL NCB Abuja, following which extradition proceedings were initiated at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025.”

The police noted that the Federal High Court in Lagos approved the extradition request on February 16, 2026, in line with existing legal provisions.

The statement added, “Pursuant to the court order and the execution of a surrender warrant by the relevant Nigerian authorities, the fugitive was formally handed over to United Kingdom law enforcement officials on 14th April 2026 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport for diligent prosecution.”

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to cooperation with international partners. He stressed that the country would not provide refuge for individuals evading justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A South African court has handed a five-year prison sentence to Julius Malema over the unlawful discharge of a rifle at a political rally.

Malema, who heads the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), received the judgment on Thursday. Magistrate Twanet Olivier delivered the sentence after the court convicted him in connection with a 2018 incident.

The case followed an earlier ruling that found the outspoken opposition figure guilty on several counts. These offences include unlawful possession of a firearm and discharging a weapon in a public place, according to reports by Al Jazeera.

The trial attracted strong political reactions across the country. Large numbers of EFF supporters gathered outside the court परिसर to express support for their leader. Many of them appeared in the party’s trademark red berets. The turnout highlighted divisions linked to the case.

Malema, 45, remains a central figure in South Africa’s political scene. He leads the fourth-largest party in parliament. His movement draws backing from many young citizens who remain concerned about economic hardship and inequality years after apartheid ended in 1994.

The law provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years for such offences. Any prison term that exceeds 12 months, if upheld after the appeal process, could prevent Malema from retaining a seat in parliament.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A group of officers recruited into the Nigeria Police Force in 2018 has written to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, over a delay in their promotion, which they say has affected their earnings and career growth.

In a petition dated April 15, 2026, and addressed to the IGP at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the officers requested a review of their promotion timeline and salary structure. They argued that their case differs from that of other intakes.

The officers opened their letter with a message of goodwill. They said, “On behalf of 2018 Recruits Intake, we the undersigned, wish to congratulate the Inspector General of Police on your appointment as the 23rd Indigenous Inspector General of Police… may God grant you wisdom and strength to lead the Nigeria Police Force.”

They stated that they have served with dedication since joining the force. According to them, their efforts have not been reflected in their advancement.

“It is pertinent to state that members of the 2018 intake have served diligently and meritoriously since enlistment, discharging our duties with commitment, loyalty, and professionalism in line with the core values of the Nigeria Police Force,” the letter read.

The officers pointed to a delay in their promotion, which they said came much later than expected. They explained that the exercise was carried out on May 23, 2023, almost a year behind schedule.

“Despite our dedication, there appears to be a delay/disparity in the implementation of our promotion timelines when compared with other intakes. The said promotion was only implemented on the 23rd of May, 2023, resulting in a delay of approximately eleven (11) months beyond the recognized promotion timeline,” the letter said.

They noted that the situation has affected their welfare and financial position. They linked their salaries and benefits directly to their promotion status.

“This situation has inadvertently affected our career progression, morale, and financial standing, as our salaries and entitlements are directly tied to our promotion status,” they said.

The officers appealed to the police leadership to correct what they described as an anomaly. They asked for an adjustment of their promotion dates and a review of their pay.

“We respectfully appeal for the adjustment of our promotion dates and the corresponding review of our salaries,” they stated.

They also outlined steps they expect the authorities to take. These include directives to the appropriate departments to implement changes and settle any outstanding arrears.

“Approve the adjustment of promotion dates for officers of the 2018 Regular Recruits Intake, direct the Police Accounts and Budget to effect the corresponding salary adjustments and arrears where applicable,” they said.

Copies of the petition were sent to the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Finance and Administration at the Force Headquarters.

The officers reaffirmed their commitment to the Nigeria Police Force and expressed hope that their concerns would receive prompt attention.

“We remain loyal, disciplined, and committed to the service of our great nation and the Nigeria Police Force. We trust in your kind consideration and fatherly intervention in this matter,” they added.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal Government has provided further clarification on the airstrike carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in the Jilli area of Gubio Local Government Area, Borno State, on April 11, 2026.

The government stated that the strike was not a random or careless attack; rather, it was deliberately aimed at terrorist hideouts.

In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, he emphasized that the operation was part of Operation HADIN KAI and was conducted based on credible intelligence.

The Jilli area, commonly known as “Daulaye Market” (a terrorists’ market), has long been under the control of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters. It is where they collect illegal taxes from residents, purchase supplies, and plan their attacks.

The statement further revealed that on April 12, 2026, troops arrested a 15-year-old boy named Tijjani in the Ngamdu area. Tijjani confessed to ferrying money and other supplies for ISWAP terrorists between Jilli and other locations, demonstrating how terrorist leaders exploit underage children to carry out harmful activities.

Similarly, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, confirmed that the Jilli and Gazabure markets had been shut down five years ago due to terrorist occupation.

Although the government defended the military action, it extended condolences to the families of those affected. The Minister stated:
“The life of every Nigerian is important, and we deeply regret the loss of civilian lives that may have occurred.”

To ensure transparency and justice, the Federal Government has ordered an independent investigation into the planning and execution of the airstrike to identify any errors.

Currently, the government is collaborating with emergency management agencies—NEMA and SEMA—to provide relief to the families and injured persons in Borno and Yobe states.

The government also urged civilians to avoid restricted areas and continue to cooperate with security forces to bring an end to the insurgency.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A female medical doctor, Ere Siana Sintei Ogbachi, has passed away after developing complications shortly after she gave birth to triplets at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) in Okolobiri, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

Sources within the family said she initially showed signs of recovery after the delivery. Her condition later worsened unexpectedly.

She was then transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa for advanced treatment.

Despite efforts by medical personnel, she was confirmed dead in the early hours of April 14, 2026.

In a statement issued by Meshack N. Sintei, the family described the loss as devastating. They noted that all attempts to save her life did not succeed.

The statement added that doctors at FMC Yenagoa worked continuously to stabilise her condition as it declined, but she did not survive. It also explained that her vital signs kept dropping despite close monitoring.

The late doctor was described as a dedicated health professional, a wife, and a mother to her newborn triplets. She was a member of the Nigerian Medical Association and a graduate of the Niger Delta University.

Her death has drawn reactions from colleagues and members of the medical community, many of whom described the incident as deeply tragic.

The family also thanked friends, colleagues, and supporters for their sympathy and solidarity during the difficult period.

The Nigerian Army on Wednesday held a burial ceremony for Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, Captain Ismail, and other soldiers who lost their lives in a recent insurgent attack in Borno State.

The funeral took place at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, where the fallen personnel received full military honours in recognition of their service to the nation.

The officers were killed on April 9 after suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters launched coordinated assaults on military positions in Benisheikh. The town lies in Kaga Local Government Area along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, a key route in the North-East.

The Army, in a statement on its official Facebook page, described the ceremony as one marked by deep emotion and national reflection.

The statement read:

“In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony, the nation on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, laid to rest late Brigadier General Omo Braimah, Captain Ismail, and other gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

“The burial, held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State, was marked by deep sorrow, honour, and reflection,” the statement read.

The military further explained that the ceremony reflected the respect given to personnel who died in active service. It noted that the honours accorded the deceased represented recognition of their commitment to national security.

The statement added:

“Their sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the heavy price paid daily by members of the Armed Forces to safeguard the peace, unity, and security of Nigeria,” it said.

Dignitaries present at the burial included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and several senior military officers. They described the deceased soldiers as patriots who showed courage in defence of the country.

Religious rites were observed for the repose of the souls of the fallen officers and soldiers. Military officials also read out citations highlighting their service records before their families and colleagues.

The Army stated that the grief expressed by families reflected the human toll of ongoing security operations in the North-East. It added that the bravery of the deceased would remain a source of honour within the Armed Forces.

By Muhammad Sani Ilyasu

Over the past few days, Kano’s political atmosphere has been gripped by what should have been a routine decision — the selection of a Deputy Governor. Instead, it has dragged, stretched, and unsettled expectations. As the Hausa proverb reminds us, wankin hula yana neman kai. Sooner or later, the moment of decision arrives, and when it does, it reveals more than preference. It reveals judgment.

But truthfully, this is not a difficult decision.
Once the list of nominees from the old APC bloc surfaced, one name did not merely appear — it stood apart. Alhaji Rabiu Suleiman Bichi. Not because of sentiment, and certainly not because of noise, but because of something far more scarce in today’s politics: substance.

This is a man shaped by governance, not just politics. He has moved through the system at its highest levels — serving as Secretary to the State Government, managing policy at the governor’s office, and working across institutions where decisions are not announced for applause but executed for impact. That kind of experience does not shout. It shows. And in moments like this, it matters enormously.

Yet the weight of this decision extends well beyond qualifications. The governor did not simply make a political realignment — he justified it with a principle: putting Kano first. That declaration raised the stakes. It transformed every subsequent decision into a test of consistency. Because once Kano becomes the stated priority, convenience must give way to capacity, and politics must submit to judgment.

You cannot declare Kano first and then treat this appointment as negotiable. The office of Deputy Governor is not ceremonial. It is not a token for balancing interests or rewarding loyalty. It is a quiet but powerful engine of governance — where coordination happens, where pressure is absorbed, and where experience prevents the kind of costly mistakes that erode public trust. It is not a place for learning on the job. That is precisely why Rabiu Suleiman fits this moment.

Rabiu Sulaiman Bichi carries a rare combination that politics often separates: administrative competence and genuine political experience. As a founding figure of the Kwankwasiyya movement, a former PDP State Chairman, and later Director-General of the APC’s 2023 campaign in Kano, he has operated credibly across political lines without losing his footing. That is not inconsistency. It is relevance across eras — the mark of someone who understands how power works without being consumed by it.

More importantly, he brings reach. His network — spanning national and international circles — is not ornamental. It is functional. It is the kind of capital that attracts serious partnerships, aligns policy with opportunity, and positions Kano beyond its immediate boundaries. At a time when states compete not only internally but on a broader stage, that kind of exposure is not a luxury. It is a strategic asset.

And then there is the other side of the equation — the part many would rather avoid, but which cannot responsibly be ignored. Leadership is defined not only by what is built but by what is tolerated. To elevate a deputy whose public record is clouded by ongoing court cases involving serious allegations of corruption and financial misconduct is not merely a political risk. It is a statement — and a loud one.

Because once made, that choice will not remain local. It will travel. It will shape perception, invite institutional scrutiny, and define the governor’s seriousness in the eyes of allies, investors, and the wider Nigerian public. You cannot stand on reform and lean on controversy. That is not balance. It is contradiction. And Kano cannot afford contradiction at this level of governance.

This is not a moment for experimentation. It is a moment for clarity — a moment to demonstrate that governance here is still anchored on competence, credibility, and consequence. In Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, that clarity already exists. Which is why this decision, despite the delay, remains straightforward.

If Kano truly comes first, the answer is already known. Anything else is not a strategy. It is a misstep.

Muhammad Sani Ilyasu writes from Maryland, United States of America and can be reached via msaniiliyasu@gmail.com