By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced January 16, 2027, as the new date for Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections. The commission also set February 6, 2027, for governorship and state houses of assembly polls.

The electoral body had earlier scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections were to hold on March 6, 2027. However, the timetable was adjusted after the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the introduction of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The development marks a significant shift in the country’s electoral calendar, as preparations are expected to align with the revised legal framework. More details are expected to follow.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Hundreds of youths in Kaduna State took to the streets on Tuesday, calling on the government to prosecute former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations of financial misappropriation during his tenure.

The protesters, who gathered at major junctions in the state capital, specifically demanded that the former governor be held accountable for the diversion of public funds. Among the allegations cited was the mismanagement of a ₦350 million loan obtained by his administration, which the protesters claim was unaccounted for.

The demonstration, organized by youth groups under the auspices of concerned citizens, also called on security agencies to disregard what they described as a counter-protest staged by a faction of youths allegedly sponsored to distract from the ongoing probe.

The protesters specifically named Bashir Saidu, Jafaru, and Hafiz Bayero as individuals sponsoring a separate, smaller protest aimed at diverting public attention from the investigation into El-Rufai’s administration.

The calls come amid growing pressure on the Kaduna State Government to ensure thorough investigation and possible prosecution of officials accused of financial crimes in the last administration.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) linking it to a reported shooting involving ADC members in Edo State, describing the claims as unfounded and premature.

In a press statement signed by Felix Morka, National Publicity Secretary of the APC in Abuja on February 26, 2026, the APC said the opposition party had rushed to conclusions without allowing security agencies to investigate the incident.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is, undoubtedly, its own nemesis. It needs no external help to achieve its political demise. The party is doing a good job crippling itself even before it has time to stand on its feet.”

The ruling party criticised the ADC leadership, accusing it of making reckless claims and disregarding due process.

“In its press statement of February 25, 2026, the ADC claimed that the APC was responsible for the shooting incident involving its members in Edo State. That is utterly delusional. Accusing the APC even before any investigation is carried out by law enforcement is particularly senseless, and shows the ADC as a party that lacks focus and without regard for the due process of law.”

The APC added that such allegations suggest that the ADC had assumed multiple roles in the matter.

“By its baseless conclusion, the party has declared itself to be the accuser, investigator, prosecutor, and judge in its own cause.”

The party questioned the ADC’s capacity to manage national issues, especially security concerns.

“Nigerians must wonder how a party that cannot manage a single incident with proper guidance, maturity, and in line with legal and constitutional process can be trusted to manage the complexities of Nigeria’s security environment.”

It also faulted the ADC’s reference to alleged acts of terrorism, describing the claim as irresponsible.

“The ADC’s reference to ‘cases of acts of terrorism by the ruling APC against our party’, in its presser, is reckless and unjustifiable.”

The APC maintained that such remarks show a lack of awareness of the country’s security challenges and the sacrifices of security personnel.

“It’s flippant accusation clearly shows that the ADC is out of touch with the prevailing realities of the country’s war on terror, and insensitive to the patriotic sacrifices of our troops in the frontlines in defence of our lives and liberty.”

While condemning political violence, the party called for a proper probe into the Edo incident.

“Make no mistake, violence of any kind in our political space is unacceptable and must be condemned by all well meaning Nigerians. Our great Party roundly condemns the reported shooting incident in Edo state. We call on police and other law enforcement authorities to carry out an expeditious investigation into the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The APC further suggested that investigators should examine internal issues within the ADC.

“Investigation of this incident should begin with a thorough scrutiny of the ADC, its leaders and members as prime suspects.”

It alleged that internal disputes within the ADC could be linked to the incident.

“Among other leads, law enforcement investigation should focus on widely reported violent clashes and confrontations among its factional leaders over control and access to certain meetings of the party.”

The party insisted it had no involvement in the incident and stated that it remains focused on recent electoral successes.

“To be clear, the APC has absolutely no role or responsibility in the unfortunate shooting incident. We are too busy taking stock of our recent  big wins in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) municipal elections, and the Rivers and Kano states constituency elections to pay any attention to a fringe and inconsequential meeting of ADC political wanderers in Edo state.”

The APC also took a swipe at the ADC’s performance in recent elections.

“The ADC should be just as busy trying to fathom its back-to-back dismal and disgraceful performance in previous and recent by-elections in the country despite its nuisance rants.”

The party expressed appreciation to voters and reaffirmed its commitment to governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We are grateful to Nigerians for the solid and growing support of our great Party. We particularly appreciate the electorate in the FCT, Kano and Rivers states for their eloquent vote of confidence in our Party, and in the visionary and transformative leadership of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR.”

It concluded by restating its focus on national development.

“Our Party and Mr President remain focused on building a stronger, more resilient and prosperous country for the good of all Nigerians.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Worsening insecurity has disrupted religious activities in parts of Kwara State, as many Muslim faithful now avoid night congregational prayers during the ongoing Ramadan.

Investigations revealed that residents in Edu and Patigi local government areas have stopped attending Maghrib, Isha’i and Tarawih prayers in mosques due to rising security threats and restrictions on movement.

According to a report by SaharaReporters, communities affected include Gbugbu town, Kpanpkanragi village in Edu Local Government Area, as well as Gamalegi, Lataworo, Motokun and Agboro in neighbouring Patigi Local Government Area.

Residents said mosques that were usually filled during Ramadan evenings now witness low turnout. Many worshippers prefer to remain indoors because they fear possible attacks while returning home at night.

A source in Gbugbu explained that fear has altered long-standing religious practices.

“Everyone knows our mosques used to fill every night in Ramadan. But now people are afraid. Many families pray inside their homes because going to the mosque after sunset is risky,” the source said.

Another resident from Kpanpkanragi village linked the situation to repeated attacks in riverine areas of Kwara North.

“People have been attacked on roads and in nearby villages. Nobody wants to take chances anymore. Once it gets dark, people now avoid leaving their house. We all saw what happened in Gbugbu when the terrorists invaded the town during this Ramadan,” he said.

Locals also pointed to the curfew imposed in Edu and Kaiama local government areas as a major factor. Authorities introduced the restriction after recent attacks by armed groups in the region.

Residents said the curfew has made it difficult for people to gather for evening prayers, which are central to Ramadan observances.

One resident noted that the measure, though aimed at improving security, has affected religious life.

“The curfew means people must stay indoors early. Even those willing to attend Tarawih prayers cannot risk being stopped or caught outside. So mosques remain nearly empty at night,” he said.

In Motokun community, a worshipper described the situation as unusual.

“We have never experienced a Ramadan like this. Tarawih prayers used to overflow outside the mosque. Now only a few elderly people come, and even they leave quickly out of fear,” he said.

Residents blamed frequent incidents of killings, kidnappings and armed attacks in Edu, Kaiama and nearby communities for the growing panic. Many villagers now limit their movements even beyond the official curfew hours.

Meanwhile, a separate attack was reported in Dadinkowa town in Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where suspected members of the Lakurawa group stormed a mosque during prayers.

Gunmen reportedly opened fire on worshippers, killing four people on the spot and injuring several others. Sources said the attackers arrived heavily armed and targeted the mosque directly.

The injured victims were later taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have seized a large consignment of illegal drugs and arrested several suspects in separate operations carried out across the state.

The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, made this known in a statement issued on 25 February in Asaba. He said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to tackle drug trafficking and violent crimes in the state. The Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, oversaw the exercise.

According to the statement, officers attached to the Eagle Net Special Squad intercepted a white J5 bus along the Asaba–Agbor Expressway near Northwest Filling Station on 13 February at about 10:30 p.m. The vehicle was stopped during a routine search.

A detailed inspection led to the discovery of 1,520 packets of Tramadol and Swinol tablets. The substances had been hidden beneath company machines inside the bus.

Police arrested the driver, Ebuka Dominion, 30, from Aguta Local Government Area of Anambra State, along with the motor boy, Emmanuel Terdule, 30, from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

Investigators said early findings indicate that the drugs were meant for distribution. Further intelligence obtained during interrogation led to the arrest of Peter Akpan, 47, from Mbiaya in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He is believed to be the owner of the seized consignment.

Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the drug network.

In a separate operation on 22 February at about 3:20 p.m., operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team arrested a 23-year-old suspect linked to a series of robbery incidents in Warri.

The suspect later took officers to a bush in the Jedo area of Warri. A locally made gun buried at the location was recovered.

Police said the suspect admitted to being a member of the Aye Confraternity. He also confessed to participating in several door-to-door robbery operations within the Warri area.

Authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the gang.

The development comes amid rising concern over drug abuse in Delta State. Recently, community leaders raised alarm over the increasing rate of narcotics consumption among young people.

“We consider this development a matter of urgent public interest requiring coordinated and sustained intervention by all tiers of government and law enforcement agencies,” the elders under the aegis of the Aniocha–Oshimili Elders’ Association stated.

Data from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency also shows the scale of the challenge. The agency’s Delta State Command reported last year that it seized illicit drugs valued at over N3 billion.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A serene evening of religious devotion turned into a scene of horror in the Daɗin Kowa area of Maiyama Local Government Area on, when suspected bandits stormed a mosque and opened fire on worshippers attending a nightly Qur’anic Tafsir session.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailants, believed to be members of the Lakurawa gang, invaded the community just as the Islamic lecture was concluding. The gunmen, who arrived on motorcycles, reportedly surrounded the mosque and unleashed a hail of bullets on the congregation, sending worshippers fleeing in panic.

The attack left four people dead at the scene. Several others sustained varying degrees of injury and have been rushed to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment. The names of the deceased have not yet been officially released as relatives work to identify their loved ones.

The incident has plunged the community into deep mourning. Residents described the attack as a senseless act of violence against innocent people engaged in peaceful worship during the holy month of Ramadan.

Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Meanwhile, local religious and community leaders have called for calm and urged the government to step up security measures to prevent further atrocities.

In the wake of the tragedy, prayers have poured in for the victims.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts, reinforcing the federal government’s drive to enhance local industrial capacity and value addition in the agricultural sector.

The new directive extends the prohibition from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027. This move, according to a State House statement, aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting domestic processing, improving livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global value chain for agricultural products.

In a bid to streamline implementation, President Tinubu has directed the Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, along with the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit (PFSCU), to develop and coordinate a unified national framework for the shea nut value chain. The framework aims to harmonize industrialization, trade, and investment priorities.

Furthermore, the President has ordered the withdrawal of all waivers permitting the export of raw shea nuts and has sanctioned a new export mechanism managed by the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX). Any future export of surplus raw materials must now be conducted exclusively through the NCX in accordance with approved guidelines.

To support producers and processors, the President has also authorized the Federal Ministry of Finance to establish a dedicated NESS Support Window. This will facilitate a Livelihood Finance Mechanism aimed at boosting production and processing capacity.

Shea nuts, harvested from trees prevalent in Nigeria’s Savanna belt, are processed into shea butter—a high-demand ingredient in cosmetics and cooking oil. Government data indicates that processed shea butter commands prices 10 to 20 times higher than raw nuts, underscoring the economic rationale for the policy.

The federal government reiterated its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and local manufacturing through policies that strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in international agricultural markets.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Bill Gates has apologised to staff of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation over his past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, describing the association as a serious error.

The billionaire made the remarks during a town hall meeting on Tuesday, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

Gates admitted that meeting Epstein and maintaining contact with him was a poor decision. He said it was a “huge mistake to spend time with him.”

The connection between both men first became public in 2019. More details have now surfaced after the release of documents by the US Department of Justice concerning Epstein.

One of the documents included an email in which Epstein alleged that Gates had a sexually transmitted infection and sought antibiotics to secretly give to his then-wife, Melinda Gates. Gates has denied the allegation.

The documents also outlined several interactions between the two men, including meetings, phone calls, and discussions related to philanthropy.

Gates also expressed regret for involving members of his foundation in meetings with Epstein. He further disclosed that he had two affairs but insisted he had no role in Epstein’s criminal activities.

“One of the women was a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and the other a Russian nuclear physicist,” he said.

“I apologize to other people who are drawn into this because of the mistake that I made,” Gates said, according to a recording reviewed by the Journal.

Gates explained that he first met Epstein in 2011. He said he did not properly examine his background at the time, even though Epstein had already pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor. He added that their meetings continued until 2014 and included time spent abroad. However, he said he “never stayed overnight” or visited Epstein’s private island.

The relationship continued despite concerns raised by Melinda during their marriage. In a recent interview, she said the release of new documents brought back “painful times” and added that she was “so happy to be away from all the muck”.

By Anas Abbas

The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Kuchiako, Kuje, Abuja, on Wednesday admitted additional documentary evidence in the ongoing trial of former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Professor Usman Yusuf, over an alleged N90.4 million fraud.

Presiding judge, Chinyere E. Nwecheonwu, ruled that the documents tendered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were admissible in law, noting that there was no objection from the defence counsel, O.I. Habeeb, SAN.

The documents were presented through the second prosecution witness, James Balami, Director of Procurement at the NHIS, during earlier proceedings held on January 5, 2026. At Wednesday’s sitting, prosecution counsel Francis Usani formally applied for their admission in evidence.

Justice Nwecheonwu subsequently admitted and marked as exhibits of Certified True Copies (CTCs) of letters dated November 11, 2016, marked E1–E32. Also admitted were the CTC of the NHIS Procurement Plan for 2016, marked F1–F4; the CTC of the 2017 Procurement Plan, marked G1–G5; and the CTC of the NHIS Procurement Act 2016, marked H1–H2.

While being led to evidence, the witness told the court that he honoured an invitation by the EFCC and submitted relevant documents to the Commission. He added that he made five separate statements to investigators.
“After I took those documents to the Commission, I made statements. The statements were not made in one day. I can recognize the statements. There are five,” he said.

However, an attempt by the prosecution to tender the witness’s extra-judicial statements was opposed by the defence. Following arguments from both sides, the court adjourned proceedings to May 13 and 14, 2026, for a ruling on the admissibility of the statements and for continuation of trial.
Yusuf is facing a five-count charge filed by the EFCC bordering on alleged embezzlement, conferring undue advantage, and fraud amounting to N90,439,178.00. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the trial continues.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Umar Namadi has taken custody of Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim, the teenage girl from Jigawa State who had been held by the Department of State Services (DSS) after she was abducted and impregnated by an officer of service.

The handover took place at the DSS headquarters in Abuja late Wednesday night, with the governor assuring that her case will be addressed through legal means.

He stated that matters surrounding her alleged abduction would be handled in court and expressed confidence that justice would prevail. The governor also stressed that Walida belongs to Jigawa State and that the government will ensure her protection and support as she recovers from her ordeal.

The DSS Director General, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, formally handed her over in the presence of senior officials, including members of the Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, civil society groups, and legal representatives. However, Walida’s parents were absent during the process, which ended around 10:40 pm.

Walida was reportedly abducted from Hadejia Local Government Area in 2023 by a woman identified as Mariam. She was allegedly subjected to sexual exploitation before relocating to Abuja, where she stayed with a DSS operative, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi. She later gave birth to a baby girl in November 2025.

Her case gained renewed attention after an interview published on February 21, 2026, in which she detailed her experiences. Her disappearance had earlier caused deep distress to her family, with her father reportedly performing funeral rites after believing she was dead.

Efforts by her family to secure her release initially failed, leading to legal action. Although a court in Jigawa ordered that she be released to her parents, the DSS challenged the ruling, citing ongoing investigations.

Public concern grew following the report, prompting several groups, including the Muslim Rights Concern, the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria, and the Muslim Students’ Organisation of Nigeria, to demand that she be moved to a neutral location. Speaking for the coalition, Ustaz Yunus Salahudeen said the issue extends beyond religion and involves justice, constitutional order, and human rights. He added that her disappearance caused her family “unimaginable distress.”

Addressing journalists, Governor Namadi said Walida would remain under the care of the Jigawa State government while legal issues are resolved. “Our concern is that Walida had been abducted,” he said, adding that the controversy will be tabled before a law court for adjudication. “It is a state matter and will be treated as such,” he said.

He also confirmed that her baby would remain under government custody. On her immediate location, the governor said, “Taking her into our custody does not automatically mean that she will be taken back to Jigawa. Walida will be kept in Abuja for now. She will be provided with adequate security. Her case is a state matter and will be treated as such.”

On her age, he said the court would determine the matter.

Explaining the DSS position, Ajayi said the agency acted in line with the law. “It is unfortunate that people don’t learn from history in Nigeria. Our major concern is about the safety and the future of Walida. She is a young woman who has the right to live, and we have the responsibility to ensure she is safe while the matter is being investigated,” he said.

He added, “I invited the governor, which is the right thing to do, and he has seen what we are doing. It is an inter-agency investigation, and we deliberately invited various groups to be part of what we are doing. We also invited the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to ascertain her mental status.”

Ajayi confirmed that although Walida has been released to the state government, the DSS and other agencies will remain involved. “We have the capacity to investigate the matter,” he said.

He also disclosed that Ifeanyi remains in custody and will face prosecution if found culpable. “He will face the music when found wanting. We have rules guiding our operations,” he said.

A representative of the NSCIA, Barrister Haroun Muhammad, noted that the council intervened to ease tensions. “The matter is capable of throwing the country into chaos. It can deepen the unfortunate existing division between Muslims and Christians, and whatever happened here today will send the right or wrong signal to society,” he said.