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.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has acknowledged receipt of a formal petition alleging medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in the treatment of Alhaji Nuhu Dantani, who died at the facility on March 31, 2026.

In an official letter dated April 17, 2026, and signed by the Director of Administration, Idriss Omar, on behalf of the Chief Medical Director, Prof. A. Ahidjo, the hospital management confirmed that an internal investigation has been initiated into the circumstances surrounding the death.

The petition was filed by Hamza N. Dantani Esq. of Potent Attorneys in Abuja, who is acting on behalf of the deceased’s family. The legal complaint cites systemic failure and demands accountability for the loss of the elder statesman, who was admitted under Hospital Number 760494.

In the hospital’s response addressed to the family’s legal counsel, management extended “heartfelt condolences” and acknowledged the severity of the allegations.

“We understand the gravity of the concerns raised and wish to assure you that the Hospital takes allegations of medical negligence and unprofessional conduct seriously,” the statement read in part. “A thorough investigation into the matter has been initiated, and appropriate steps will be taken to ensure that justice is served.”

The hospital has not disclosed the details of the specific clinical incident or the nature of the alleged negligence pending the outcome of the investigation. The case has highlighted patient safety protocols at one of Northeast Nigeria’s largest tertiary healthcare institutions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigeria Police Academy campus in Erinja, Yewa South Local Government Area, Ogun State, with a N15 billion special take-off grant.

The approval fulfils the Nigeria Police Academy (Establishment) Act, 2021, which provides for the expansion of the academy’s main campus in Wudil, Kano State, into multiple campuses across the country.

The intervention fund will be drawn from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TetFund) 2026 allocation. It will finance priority infrastructure, academic facilities, student accommodation, and core training assets.

A high-level consultative meeting involving the Minister of Police Affairs, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) recommended the Erinja location.

The meeting considered student intake capacity, funding realities, academic quality assurance, and the long-term needs of the Nigeria Police Force, which is currently recruiting more personnel.

President Tinubu said the expansion would strengthen institutional governance, modern policing education, and national security.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the unconditional release of Sheikh Sani Abdulkadir Zaria, a prominent Islamic cleric, whose detention and bank account restriction were declared a gross violation of his fundamental human rights.

Delivering judgment on Monday, April 20, 2026, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/55/2026, Justice Peter O. Lifu held that the actions of the security agencies contravened several provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

The court ordered the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the State Security Service (SSS) – the 2nd and 5th respondents – to pay the sum of N4 million jointly and severally to the applicant for the “gross violation of his fundamental human rights.”

Justice Lifu further directed both agencies to issue a written apology to the cleric through publication, in accordance with Section 35(6) of the Constitution.

The court also declared as “unlawful” the restriction placed on the applicant’s bank account – number 0005620270 domiciled with Jaiz Bank Plc – by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the bank itself, noting that the action was taken without a court order.

Consequently, the court ordered Jaiz Bank to lift the restriction on the account forthwith. Each of the two respondents (EFCC and Jaiz Bank) was ordered to pay N1 million to the applicant.

The Attorney-General of the Federation, the 3rd respondent, was mandated by the court to ensure full compliance with the judgment.

The applicant was represented by a team of lawyers led by Sunusi Musa, SAN, while the EFCC was represented by O.O. Adeola, Esq. Jaiz Bank had A.S. Gobir, Esq., as its counsel. The 2nd and 3rd respondents were absent and unrepresented.

The party seeking to be joined was represented by Prof. Yemi Akinyeye George, SAN, and A.T. Kehinde, SAN.

The judgment, signed by Justice Lifu and certified true copy issued by Registrar Olagunju Toshi, takes immediate effect.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

In recent times, Kannywood, the Hausa film industry, has continued to evolve with productions that spark both entertainment and reflection. Kaddara stands out as one such seasonal series that is profoundly produced and emotionally engaging. Although I have only watched two episodes so far, the quality and depth are already evident.

What makes the series particularly compelling is its bold attempt to explore complex human behaviour within marriage. It presents not just a story, but a mirror through which society can examine itself. The character of Haidar, played by Adam A. Zango, introduces a troubling but important conversation.

If a woman, by fate or circumstance, finds herself married to someone like Haidar, her life may gradually become defined by suspicion. No matter how responsible, careful, or committed she is, she may still live under constant scrutiny. This raises a sincere question. Do such men still exist in our society today?

One cannot help but ask why a man would choose to marry a woman he does not trust. Marriage, by its very nature, is built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. When suspicion becomes the foundation, the relationship is already standing on fragile ground.

Another striking element of Khaidar’s character is his decision to prevent his wife, Maimuna (played by Nafisa Abdullahi), from working. This is not just a personal preference. It directly dismisses the years of effort, sacrifice, and resources invested in her education. It reduces her potential to nothing more than a perceived threat.

His justification is rooted in fear. He claims that allowing her to work would expose her to the gaze of other men, including her employer. This line of thinking raises an important concern. Is this truly protection, or is it insecurity disguised as control?

This leads to a deeper question about the purpose of knowledge. Is education only valuable when it results in employment? Is impact measured solely by financial contribution or professional visibility? These are questions that go beyond the storyline and touch on societal values.

The truth is that knowledge is never wasted. Even outside formal employment, an educated person contributes meaningfully to family, community, and society. However, denying someone the opportunity to apply that knowledge based on unfounded fears is neither fair nor balanced.

Haidar further justifies his actions by referencing a hadith about the concept of dayyuth. According to his interpretation, a man who lacks protective jealousy over his wife risks severe spiritual consequences. This is where the conversation becomes even more critical.

The concept of protective jealousy in Islam is often misunderstood. It is meant to preserve dignity and moral boundaries, not to justify oppression or excessive control. When taken out of context, it can easily be weaponised against those it is supposed to protect.

Scholars have long clarified that a dayyuth is a person who knowingly accepts clear immorality without concern. It does not refer to a man who simply allows his wife to live, grow, and function within ethical boundaries. There is a clear difference between awareness of wrongdoing and baseless suspicion.

What Kaddara presents, whether intentionally or not, is a reflection of how religious teachings can be misapplied. It highlights a reality where some individuals use fragments of knowledge to justify actions that contradict the broader principles of justice and balance.

If Maimuna were a sister, the advice would be simple yet firm. Marriage should not strip away dignity, purpose, or peace of mind. There must be room for dialogue, understanding, and growth. Where suspicion replaces trust, there must be honest reflection and, if necessary, intervention.

In the end, Kaddara is more than a series. It is a conversation starter. It challenges viewers to question not just the characters on screen, but the norms and beliefs that exist within society. And perhaps that is its greatest strength.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigerian Army troops have dealt a significant blow to terrorist logistics networks in Kogi State, capturing multiple couriers and intercepting a large stash of ammunition in two separate operations over the past three weeks.

The first strike occurred on March 29, 2026, along the Jamata–Owara road in Lokoja LGA. Soldiers stopped a motorcycle whose rider was flagged as a suspected terrorist supply agent.

Recall that The Daily Reality had reported that troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have stepped up operations over the past three months.

A detailed search revealed the bike had been fitted with a secret compartment designed to smuggle ammunition. That arrest, which intelligence sources linked to a high-profile terrorist cell, paved the way for deeper penetration into the network.

The breakthrough came on April 20, 2026. Acting on a tip, troops set up a snap checkpoint on the Obajana–Kabba road. There, they flagged down a Toyota bus traveling from Makurdi to Obajana. Inside were two suspects—Mallam Zubairu Abubakar and Adamu Abubakar Abdullahi.

A meticulous search of the vehicle turned up a sack containing 314 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, hidden with the apparent aim of reviving a previously dismantled supply chain.

Behind the driver’s seat, soldiers also found three AK-47 magazines. Other items seized included two mobile phones, a driver’s license, a National Identification Number slip, and an ID card.

Both suspects were taken into custody along with the recovered materials and handed over to the 12 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation.

The army noted that these interceptions follow the earlier capture of Mathew Elisha (alias Nasara), a known ammunition courier on security watch lists.

Together, the operations have seriously disrupted terrorist freedom of movement and logistics in the region, according to Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, acting army public relations officer for 12 Brigade.