Month: April 2025

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Kano State Hisbah Board has arrested 24-year-old Shamsu Yakubu after a disturbing video showed him allegedly licking a goat’s genitals. The footage, which circulated widely on TikTok, sparked outrage among viewers and residents.

Yakubu reportedly asked someone to film the act in a bid to gain social media fame. “I did it to trend on social media and become famous,” he admitted in the video. 

However, under interrogation by Hisbah officials, he denied fully committing the act, saying, “I swear to Allah, I did not lick the goat’s genitals. I only put my mouth around the area.”

Hisbah officials were alerted after concerned residents, angered by the video, threatened to take matters into their own hands. A community leader intervened and reported the incident to the authorities.

Speaking on the arrest, Deputy Commander-General of the Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminuddeen Abubakar, expressed dismay over the act, calling it a violation of religious and moral values. “Sadly, a Muslim man will use his mouth to lick the genitalia of a goat, without regard to religious teachings,” he said.

Sheikh Aminuddeen revealed that both the suspect and the goat will undergo medical testing. “We will test both for possible diseases before prosecution,” he stated, adding that Yakubu would also face psychiatric and drug evaluations.

He warned others against seeking online popularity through indecent behaviour, saying, “Anybody caught bathing in dirt or charcoal under the guise of fame will be arrested and dealt with accordingly.”

The incident has reignited conversations around the influence of social media on youth behaviour, with some calling for stricter regulations and moral guidance to curb extreme acts done for clout.

By Anas Abbas

The Centre for Democratic Studies at Bayero University Kano held its 23rd Annual Symposium on Thursday morning, honouring the 42nd memorial anniversary of the esteemed Mallam Aminu Kano. 

The event, which took place at the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies, was centred on the theme “The Politics of Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Expectations and Realities.”

Prominent figures from the political and academic spheres graced the symposium, including Professor Abubakar Adamu Rashed, who delivered the opening remarks, and Professor Badayi, who served as a co-discussant. Other notable attendees included Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, and Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila.

In his address, Professor Rashed underscored Mallam Aminu Kano’s legacy, describing him as “not just a politician from Kano, but a revolutionary figure for Nigeria and Africa.” He highlighted Mallam Aminu’s strong opposition to colonial taxation and his belief that the lumpen proletariat should be exempt from taxation.

The guest speaker, Professor Kabiru Isa Dandago, a distinguished professor of accounting at Bayero University, presented a thought-provoking paper titled “The Politics of Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Expectations and Realities.” He advocated for the acceptance of a proposed development levy included in the tax reforms bill, suggesting a uniform rate of 4% across the board.

Professor Dandago proposed allocating 50% of the development revenue to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), with 20% directed towards the National Economic Recovery Fund (NELFund). The remaining 30% would be distributed among various initiatives, including NITDA, NASENI, cybersecurity projects, and police trust funds.

He expressed concern over multinational companies’ inadequate contributions to the tax reforms outlined in the bill. Professor Dandago called for substantial enhancements in the bill’s content to ensure that the renewed tax system effectively delivers the intended benefits for Nigeria.

The symposium served as a vital platform for discussing pressing issues surrounding tax reforms in Nigeria, echoing Mallam Aminu Kano’s enduring legacy in advocating for social justice and equity.

By Uzair Adam

A late-night fire outbreak has razed the shop of a popular TikToker, Rahama Saidu, located along UDB Road in Tarauni Local Government Area of Kano State.

The incident occurred just hours after officials of the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) demolished parts of the shop, citing illegal structural extensions.

Although the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, an eyewitness who spoke to journalists at the scene on Thursday night alleged that the blaze may have been triggered by a spark from welding activities in a nearby shop.

According to the eyewitness, a neighbouring shop owner had engaged welding engineers to carry out repairs on his property, which was also affected by the demolition.

“After the demolition, Rahama came and cleared all her belongings from the shop. Unfortunately, this fire broke out not long after,” the source added.

Aside from Rahama’s shop, a photographer’s store in the same area was also affected by the inferno.

Security operatives were later seen cordoning off the area to prevent any possible looting.

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

Pollution poses one of the greatest threats to human existence, yet it remains highly underestimated. All over the world, air, water, and land are being contaminated by industrial waste, plastic, toxic emissions, and deforestation. 

The impact is devastating—rising diseases, extreme climate shifts, and dwindling biodiversity. Yet, many people treat it as a distant problem, failing to see that the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil that grows our food are already contaminated.

With rapid industrialisation, urban expansion, and population growth, pollution has reached critical levels, threatening ecosystems and human survival. The consequences are already here—millions of lives are lost to pollution-related diseases annually, while climate change escalates natural disasters. 

Without urgent action, the world may be heading toward irreversible environmental collapse.

The Invisible Killer in the Air

Air pollution remains one of the deadliest forms of contamination, responsible for nearly 7 million preventable deaths yearly. Toxic substances such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides fill the atmosphere due to vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and deforestation. 

Respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer are rising sharply, even in developing nations where pollution regulations are weak.

A recent World Health Organisation (WHO) campaign has garnered support from nearly 50 million individuals, highlighting the growing global concern over pollution’s impact on health. 

Advocates call for cleaner energy, stricter environmental policies, and large-scale sustainable infrastructure. Without such efforts, air pollution will continue to rob millions of their health and shorten lifespans worldwide.

Poisoned Waters and a Dying Ecosystem

Water pollution is another crisis unfolding before our eyes. Industrial waste, plastic pollution, and chemical runoffs have turned once-thriving rivers and oceans into toxic dumps. 

Marine life is being suffocated by plastic debris, while communities reliant on rivers and lakes for drinking water are facing increasing cases of waterborne diseases. The situation is especially severe in developing countries, where clean water is still viewed as a luxury rather than a basic right.

Land pollution is also eroding our ability to produce safe food. Improper waste disposal, deforestation, and unregulated pesticide use are depleting the soil, making it more difficult to grow crops. This issue coincides with the rise of global hunger, further exacerbating the suffering of millions.

Nigeria’s Battle Against Pollution and Disease

While the world grapples with pollution, Nigeria confronts a dual crisis—environmental contamination and disease outbreaks. The country is currently facing an alarming rise in Lassa fever cases, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) implementing emergency measures to contain its spread. 

This outbreak, linked to poor sanitation and rodent infestation, is a stark reminder of how environmental degradation fuels public health disasters.

The parallel concerns of pollution and infectious diseases demand urgent intervention. Nearly 50 million individuals worldwide have signed petitions demanding stronger policies to combat pollution, but actions on the ground remain insufficient. 

If nations like Nigeria fail to address these twin threats, millions more could be at risk.

The Fight to Save Our Planet

The crisis may seem overwhelming, but solutions exist. Governments must enforce stricter environmental laws, encourage the adoption of clean energy, and invest in waste management systems. Individuals also have a role to play—reducing plastic use, supporting eco-friendly products, and advocating for policy changes.

Nigeria, in particular, must strengthen its disease surveillance systems and healthcare access, especially in rural areas where pollution-related illnesses are rampant. Public health campaigns must be intensified, educating citizens about preventive measures against pollution-induced diseases and outbreaks like Lassa fever.

There is no more time for complacency. The battle for a cleaner planet is also a fight for human survival. Every moment wasted brings us closer to a world where clean air, safe water, and healthy food become privileges rather than rights. The time to act is now.

Maimuna Katuka Aliyu is a correspondent of PR Nigeria in Abuja.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Kaduna State Government has rescued a 7-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, after his father, Sani Tanimi Maishago, allegedly poured hot water on his legs as punishment for stealing biscuits in Lere Local Government Area.

According to reports, the father tied Abubakar’s legs before scalding him and, with the help of the boy’s stepmother, locked him in a room for over 20 days without proper food or medical care.

By the time authorities intervened, the child’s legs had become severely infected, with maggots infesting the wounds.

Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, visited Abubakar at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, where doctors were forced to amputate both legs below the knee to save his life.

“We will ensure justice is served as a deterrent to others,” Salisu stated, confirming that the father and stepmother have been arrested and will face prosecution.

Dr. Abdulkadir Musa, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, said Abubakar will need artificial limbs to aid his mobility, urging parents to avoid extreme punishments that cause irreversible harm.

The case highlights Kaduna State’s zero-tolerance policy toward child abuse, with officials vowing to pursue strict legal action.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been named the Best Corporate Spokesperson Team at the 5th edition of the National Spokespersons Awards, which took place at the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre, Abuja Continental Hotel.

The event followed the conclusion of the Nigeria Spokespersons Summit, a two-day gathering that drew participation from serving and former Ministers of Information, including Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, and Labaran Maku.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, was also present.

Distinguished speakers featured at the summit included Chief Segun Osoba, a former Ogun State governor and seasoned media professional; Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chair of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reform; Prof. Tonnie Iredia, Founder of the Tonnie Iredia University of Communication; Dr Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Managing Director of NECCI Consult; Mallam Mahmud Jega, Editor-in-Chief of 21st Century Chronicle; and Chief Adetokunboh Modupe, Chairman and CEO of TPT International.

The award ceremony began at 7:40 p.m., starting with a red carpet session, cocktail hour, and opportunities for networking.

It then transitioned into formal presentations that celebrated outstanding performance in public communication.

The National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, received the award on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

While expressing his gratitude, he said the recognition highlights the commitment and professionalism of the Customs communication team.

“This award is not about one person—it represents the dedication and synergy of our entire public relations team. We have built a culture of collaboration and strategic engagement, focused on transparency, reputation management, and stakeholder communication,” he said.

Maiwada also mentioned that the Service was honoured during the 2024 edition of the awards.

“Winning again this year confirms that we are consistently raising the bar. We are committed to fostering trust and credibility through accurate and impactful public engagement,” he added.

Other institutions were also recognised at the ceremony, underscoring the relevance of communication and public relations in the operations of public bodies.

Organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the event was themed “Voice of Influence, Champions of Change.”

Speeches were delivered by NIPR President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ike Neliaku, and Honourable Joshua Audi Gana, among other notable figures.

As the ceremony concluded, the Nigeria Customs Service restated its resolve to pursue excellence in public communication and strengthen its engagement with stakeholders.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea has officially commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria for its pivotal role in the apprehension of Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, a wanted drug baron. Jeff, 59, had eluded authorities for 17 years while orchestrating the shipment of illicit drugs valued at billions of naira across the globe.

His arrest by NDLEA operatives in Lagos on February 12, 2025, marks a significant victory in a long-standing investigation that had troubled South Korean authorities. Jeff was identified as a key figure in an international drug network responsible for smuggling narcotics into South Korea. An Interpol red notice had been issued against him, and the NIS sought the NDLEA’s assistance in locating and apprehending him.

Following his arrest, a delegation from the NIS, led by Director Taeyong Cho, visited NDLEA Chairman Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) on April 16, 2025, to express their gratitude. In a letter, Cho praised the NDLEA’s exemplary cooperation, stating, “Without the NDLEA’s invaluable support, our long-standing efforts to bring Kevin Jeff to justice might have been in vain.”

The NIS also requested Jeff’s extradition to South Korea to face pending drug charges. Marwa assured the delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, emphasizing, “You can count on us to work together toward a drug-free world.” He expressed hope for enhanced collaboration between the two agencies, including potential training opportunities for NDLEA officers in South Korea.

This successful operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in the fight against drug-related crimes and highlights Nigeria’s role in global drug enforcement efforts.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its partnership with Access Bank in a bid to strengthen trade facilitation and improve financial system alignment following the rollout of its Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), known as B’odogwu.

On Monday, April 14, 2025, officials from both organizations held a virtual meeting aimed at aligning operational structures and expanding cooperation.

The session was led by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs overseeing ICT and Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola.

She was joined by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, and Assistant Comptroller Bukola Omoniyi from the ICT/Modernisation Department.

Discussions centered on improving coordination between Customs and financial institutions.

Key areas of focus included streamlining payment procedures, enhancing data sharing, and enabling real-time processing of trade transactions using the B’odogwu platform.

DCG Adeola highlighted the importance of collaboration in the current phase of post-deployment consolidation.“The deployment of B’odogwu marks a new era in Customs administration,” she said.

“Our next priority is to strengthen partnerships with financial institutions like Access Bank to fully unlock the platform’s potential for automation, transparency, and trade efficiency.”

She explained that B’odogwu, which was developed locally, has already restructured Customs operations by merging procedures, automating declarations, and enabling real-time monitoring of transactions.

“To achieve optimal functionality, all players within the trade value chain must be fully integrated. This engagement with Access Bank is not just timely—it is strategic,” she noted.

Reacting to the Customs Service’s efforts, Olatunbosun Oladunke, Head of Global Trade at Access Bank, praised the agency’s digital initiatives and pledged continued cooperation.

“The B’odogwu platform represents a major leap in digital trade processing. Access Bank is fully aligned with the NCS vision and is committed to ensuring system compatibility—particularly in trade finance and payment automation,” he said.

In the same vein, Olakunle Aderinokun, Head of Media and Public Relations at Access Holdings/Access Bank, showed the value of engaging stakeholders and building public awareness.

“Public buy-in is critical to the success of any reform. We will collaborate with the Service to drive awareness of B’odogwu and educate stakeholders on the value it brings to the trading ecosystem,” he stated.

This engagement is part of the NCS’s larger goal to speed up its trade modernisation plan by fostering transparency, building strong partnerships, and embracing innovation.

With B’odogwu already in use, the agency is moving closer to achieving a fully digital, integrated, and internationally compliant customs system that aligns with Nigeria’s economic goals.

By Musa Idris Panshekara 

Everyone who cares about the future of our society must be terribly worried about some social media users’ behaviours in the name of trendsetting. One of the most trending topics these days is a video clip of a young boy pouring ashes and filthy charcoal over his head.

The youngster vividly states his motive and goal without considering the negative impact of the dust on his health. Earlier this week, another woman appeared, adopting the same style as the young boy. Who copies the other’s style is unbeknownst to me; however, they share the same approach.

Moreover, another young man comes out of the blue – licking a goat’s vagina and uttering his goal of doing the animalistic behaviour. He briskly and shamelessly urged his followers to share it for him to trend. Unfortunately, many people have been sharing and reacting to the post, forgetting that they are indirectly helping to popularise the malicious and extra-moral behaviour contained in the clip.

Nevertheless, setting a goal and working to achieve it is never a sin; rather, the nature of the goal is what matters. Nowadays, youth are desperately seeking popularity blindly, regardless of the means they employ.

Whoever lived in the two or three decades back will undoubtedly know how discipline and moral training are diminishing in our society. By reflecting on the current situation of our youth and the trajectory of their future, if deep thought is given to the scenario, there will be a great challenge in the near future. Our youth lose direction, and they are the so-called leaders of tomorrow. No concrete foundation has been made, yet they are eager for overnight success and popularity.

However, almost no one is safe – as long as there is a smartphone in your house, the moral discipline of your family is at stake of demoralisation. Most children have more interest in comical videos, and many comedians are now pornographising their videos to gain more viewers and followers, which is becoming normal. Thus, everyone can be victimised unknowingly and unintentionally.

How can these bad attitudes be stopped from spreading? Who is responsible for doing so? These two questions can occupy the minds of every good individual who seeks the betterment of society. Thus, if these two important questions were asked, people might have different opinions. But, to me, it is a collective responsibility, while providing individual responsibility remains constant.

We use our phones for personal reasons and have complete control over whom we follow and unfollow on social media. We have the power to decide which posts to like or share. No one besides ourselves has total control over these actions. Therefore, I urge everyone to take immediate action on this issue to shape, clarify, and prepare the future for our born and unborn children.

May Allah guide us to the straight path.

Musa Idris, HND. (Laboratory science technology microbiology), CERT. (Animal production technology), CERT.(Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics investigation), wrote from Panshekara, Kumbotso LGA, Kano.

By Maryam Ahmad

In a landmark decision, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer exclusively to biological sex, thereby excluding transgender women from the legal definition of “woman” under this legislation.

The unanimous ruling stems from a legal challenge by the feminist group For Women Scotland against a 2018 Scottish law that included transgender women in quotas for women’s representation on public boards. The Court determined that such inclusion would render the Equality Act incoherent, as it would create two sub-groups within those who share the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.

Supporters of the ruling, including author J.K. Rowling, hailed it as a victory for women’s rights and legal clarity. Conversely, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups such as Stonewall expressed deep concern, warning that the decision could lead to increased exclusion of transgender individuals from essential services and spaces.

While the ruling clarifies the legal definition of “woman” under the Equality Act, it does not diminish existing protections against discrimination for transgender individuals based on gender reassignment. The practical implications of this decision will depend on future implementation and interpretation by institutions and policymakers.