Month: September 2025

By Salama Ishaku

The issue of phone snatching has become a serious threat to the peace and safety of many Nigerian communities. What was once considered a petty crime has now grown into a menace that leaves people living in fear. From major cities to smaller towns, countless residents have sad tales of how their phones were forcefully taken from them in broad daylight or under the cover of night.

The danger lies not only in the theft of valuable devices but also in the violent methods often employed by the culprits. Victims are sometimes attacked with sharp objects, beaten, or even fatally injured when they resist. What should have been a simple theft frequently escalates into a tragic encounter that leaves lasting trauma on individuals and families.

Phone snatching has become particularly rampant in busy areas such as motor parks, traffic hold-ups, markets, and dark alleys. Motorcyclists, popularly known as “okada riders,” are often linked with this crime, as they swiftly snatch phones from unsuspecting victims before disappearing into thin air. Such incidents happen so quickly that passers-by hardly have time to react, making the criminals more daring.

For many victims, the loss of a phone is not just about the cost of the device. Mobile phones have become essential tools for daily life — for business, banking, communication, education, and even healthcare. Losing one means losing access to vital contacts, financial accounts, and sensitive information. The emotional toll of such an experience is equally devastating.

The root causes of this menace are not far-fetched. High unemployment, drug abuse, and the quest for quick money drive many young people into such crimes. Peer pressure and lack of proper parental guidance also play significant roles. Sadly, society has reached a point where criminal acts like phone snatching are sometimes seen as normal, even celebrated in certain circles.

Law enforcement agencies have made efforts to curb this trend, but the problem persists. In some cities, special patrol teams have been deployed to hotspots, leading to several arrests. However, weak prosecution and poor follow-up often mean that offenders return to the streets to continue their trade. Without stronger deterrents, phone snatching will only continue to thrive.

Community members also have a responsibility in tackling this menace. Vigilance and cooperation with security agencies can make a difference. Neighbourhood watch groups, street lighting, and community awareness campaigns can discourage criminals and protect residents. People must also be cautious with phone use in public places, especially in vulnerable locations.

Technology can also be harnessed in the fight against phone snatching. Tracking applications, biometric locks, and quick reporting systems can make stolen devices less useful to thieves. Mobile phone companies and service providers should work with security agencies to disable stolen phones, thereby reducing the incentive for theft.

Beyond policing and technology, addressing the root causes of crime remains key. Job creation, youth empowerment, and rehabilitation programmes for drug users can gradually reduce the number of young people turning to phone snatching. Government, non-governmental organisations, and religious bodies must work hand in hand to provide alternatives for at-risk youths.

In conclusion, the menace of phone snatching is a social ill that cannot be ignored. It disrupts lives, instils fear, and tarnishes the image of communities. A united response — involving government, security agencies, community members, and individuals — is the only way forward. Every Nigerian deserves the right to walk freely without fear of losing their phone or their life to criminals.

Salama Ishaku writes from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

By Salama Ishaku

The unauthorized selling of traditional medicine is gradually becoming a menace that begs for our collective attention. Across many towns and cities, traders openly display unlicensed herbal products, often with loud proclamations about their supposed healing powers. While traditional medicine has long been a part of our culture, the unregulated and indiscriminate sale of these substances poses serious risks to public health and safety.

At motor parks, street corners, and crowded markets, it is common to see hawkers peddling mixtures in bottles and sachets, claiming they can cure anything from malaria and typhoid to infertility and diabetes. Some even promise instant solutions to chronic conditions that modern medicine struggles with. These exaggerated claims lure unsuspecting citizens, particularly the poor and vulnerable, who are desperate for relief.

The danger, however, lies in the fact that most of these so-called remedies are not scientifically tested or approved by relevant health authorities. Without proper regulation, there is no guarantee of their safety, dosage, or effectiveness. Some of the concoctions are prepared in unhygienic conditions, exposing users to infections and long-term complications.

Equally worrisome is the way sellers often discourage people from seeking professional medical care. By instilling false confidence in their products, they convince patients to abandon prescribed treatment in favour of unproven alternatives. This not only worsens health outcomes but also contributes to avoidable deaths that could have been prevented through timely medical intervention.

Another aspect of this menace is the use of harmful substances. There have been reports of herbal mixtures laced with high doses of alcohol, caffeine, or other chemicals to create instant effects. Such practices endanger consumers who unknowingly ingest toxic elements in the name of treatment. The lack of labelling and dosage instructions further increases the risk of overdose.

The proliferation of unauthorized traditional medicine sellers also undermines the credibility of genuine traditional healers who practise responsibly and adhere to cultural ethics. By mixing quackery with legitimate herbal practices, the public perception of traditional medicine as a whole is eroded. This makes it difficult for serious practitioners to gain recognition and collaborate with modern healthcare providers.

Mr. President and relevant health agencies must recognise that this problem requires urgent attention. Stronger regulatory measures need to be introduced to monitor and control the sale of traditional medicine. Sellers should be licensed, and products subjected to scientific testing to ensure they are safe for human consumption.

Public sensitisation is also essential. Citizens must be educated about the dangers of patronising unverified medicine sellers. Awareness campaigns through radio, television, social media, and community outreach will go a long way in discouraging reliance on unsafe remedies. People should be encouraged to seek medical advice from qualified professionals rather than fall prey to street hawkers.

Equally important is the need to strengthen the healthcare system. Many Nigerians resort to traditional sellers not out of choice but because hospitals are often inaccessible, expensive, or overcrowded. By improving affordability and access to quality healthcare, the dependence on unauthorized herbal remedies will naturally reduce.

There is also a need for collaboration between traditional and modern medicine. With proper regulation, research, and training, traditional knowledge can complement modern healthcare instead of competing with it. This would preserve our cultural heritage while safeguarding the health of citizens.

Communities themselves must take responsibility by reporting illegal sellers to the authorities. Religious and traditional leaders should also lend their voices in discouraging the spread of unregulated products. Tackling this menace is a collective duty, not one for government alone.

In conclusion, while traditional medicine has its place in our society, the unauthorized and reckless selling of herbal products is a ticking time bomb. The longer we ignore it, the greater the health risks we invite upon ourselves. For the safety of our nation, decisive action must be taken now to regulate traditional medicine, protect citizens, and uphold public health standards.

Salama Ishaku writes from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

By Sonia Wa Sarki

I write to call the attention of the newly established National Almajiri Commission and other relevant agencies saddled with the responsibility of tackling the crisis of out-of-school children. The issue has lingered for too long and demands urgent, pragmatic action if Nigeria is to make meaningful progress in education and human development.

For decades, the North has struggled with the twin challenge of the Almajiri system and the rising number of children who are completely out of school. This has created a dangerous cycle of illiteracy, poverty, and social vices. Every street corner in many northern cities tells the same story: barefooted children, bowls in hand, begging for alms instead of sitting in classrooms.

According to UNICEF reports, Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world, with over 10 million children excluded from basic education. A significant percentage of these children are from the northern part of the country. This reality is not only a unfortunate but also a time bomb that threatens national security, peace, and development.

The Almajiri system, once rooted in noble intentions of imparting Islamic education, has today become synonymous with neglect, child labour, and poverty. Many parents, unable to cater for their children, send them off to distant towns under the care of teachers who lack the resources to provide proper welfare. The result is a generation of children abandoned to hunger, street begging, and exploitation.

The consequences of this neglect are glaring. Many of these children grow up without formal education, lacking the skills necessary to compete in today’s world. Worse still, they become easy recruits for criminal gangs, violent groups, and extremist movements. Nigeria cannot afford to ignore the dangerous implications of having millions of idle, uneducated, and hopeless youths roaming the streets.

The creation of the National Almajiri Commission is a welcome development, but it must not become another toothless bureaucracy. The commission must develop a clear strategy to integrate Quranic education with modern subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and vocational training. This will give the children both spiritual grounding and the practical skills needed to survive in today’s society.

Government at all levels must also invest massively in building functional schools across the North. The lack of infrastructure is one of the reasons many children remain out of school. Where schools exist, they are often overcrowded, understaffed, and poorly equipped. Education must be made accessible, attractive, and affordable for every child.

Equally important is the role of parents. Many parents deliberately withdraw children from school, either due to poverty, cultural beliefs, or ignorance. Sensitisation campaigns are necessary to change attitudes and emphasise the importance of education. No society can progress when its children are left behind.

Religious and traditional leaders must also rise to the occasion. For too long, the Almajiri menace has been treated with silence or indifference. Leaders who wield influence in communities must use their voices to advocate reforms, encourage enrolment in schools, and support initiatives aimed at ending child neglect.

Addressing this menace also requires economic empowerment. Poverty is at the root of the problem. Many families send their children to beg simply because they cannot provide food, clothing, and shelter. Empowering households with jobs, microloans, and skills training will reduce the burden and keep children in school.

Another critical step is the enforcement of child rights laws. Nigeria has the Universal Basic Education policy, but its implementation remains weak. States must enforce compulsory education and punish parents or guardians who neglect their children’s education. Without enforcement, policies remain mere paperwork.

Civil society organisations and international partners also have a role to play. Collaboration is key in building model schools, providing teacher training, and supporting child welfare. With proper synergy between government, NGOs, and communities, the tide can be turned.

The media must equally sustain the spotlight on this issue. The plight of the Almajiri and out-of-school children should not only make news during special events but remain a central theme in public discourse. Awareness is the first step towards action.

In conclusion, Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable development while millions of its children are excluded from education. The Almajiri crisis and the epidemic of out-of-school children must be treated as a national emergency. Education is the foundation of progress, and leaving children on the streets is nothing short of mortgaging the country’s future.

The time to act is now. The National Almajiri Commission and all stakeholders must rise above lip service and deliver real, tangible solutions. The future of the North—and indeed Nigeria—depends on it.

Sonia Wa Sarki writes from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially returned to office following the end of the six-month emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu.

Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who served as Sole Administrator during the period, formally handed over to Fubara and addressed the state for the last time in a broadcast.

Tinubu had suspended Fubara half a year ago and placed Rivers under federal control.

On Thursday, the president lifted the emergency rule and reinstated the governor.In his farewell message, Ibas said: “My dear citizens of Rivers State, it’s with gratitude in my heart and humility in my spirit that I address you today for the final time as administrator of our beloved State.

“Six months ago, Tinubu entrusted me with this solemn responsibility of steering Rivers State through an extraordinary moment in its history.

“Today, I can say with conviction that the grace of God and through our collective effort the mandate has been accomplished.

“Law and order has been restored, local governments elections have been conducted and chairmen elected by the people now serve in office.

“Statutory boards and commissions have been reconstituted and are performing their duties, the state budget has been passed by the National Assembly providing a legitimate physical framework for governance.

These are milestones of progress that belong to all of us that reflect the resilience of the people determined never to let their state slip into paralysis.

“One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.

“As I reflect on this assignment, I do so with deep appreciation, I have met outstanding men and women across this state bureaucracy, diligent in their duties and devoted to our state. I have benefited from the wise guidance and counsel of statesmen who spoke truth at all moments.

“Now as I hand back the reigns of leadership to Sim Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect and I urge all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility.

“No matter how competent and clear a vision may be, it can only come to fruition and thrive with the active support of citizens. For me, this is the closing of another chapter in life devoted to service at sea, diplomacy and now in governance.”

The handover ends Ibas’ brief but eventful stewardship of Rivers State, while Fubara resumes his role as the elected leader of the oil-rich state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has officially ended the state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight tonight, reinstating Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state’s legislative assembly to their full powers.

The announcement, made in a national address on Wednesday, brings a close to a six-month period of direct federal intervention triggered by a crippling political war between the executive and legislative branches that brought governance in the oil-rich state to a standstill.

In his statement, President Tinubu justified the initial emergency proclamation on March 18, 2025, citing a “total paralysis of governance.”

He detailed a deep-rooted crisis where a faction of 27 lawmakers, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, was locked in a bitter struggle with Governor Fubara, who was backed by only four assembly members.

This impasse prevented the governor from presenting an appropriation bill, cutting off funds for state operations and leading to a breakdown of public order, including vandalism of critical oil infrastructure.

The President noted that the Supreme Court itself had acknowledged there was “no government” in the state.

“Considered objectively, we had reached that situation of total breakdown,” Tinubu stated, defending his decision to invoke Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution as necessary to avert “anarchy.”

While acknowledging over 40 court challenges to his decision, which he called a normal feature of democracy, the President expressed gratitude to the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and citizens of Rivers State for their support during the emergency period.

The key reason for lifting the order, he revealed, was a “groundswell of a new spirit of understanding” among all stakeholders in the state, indicating a readiness for a return to functional democratic governance.

“Therefore, I do not see why the state of emergency should exist a day longer,” Tinubu declared.

With the emergency lifted, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and all members of the State House of Assembly are to resume their offices from Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The President concluded with a stern warning to all state governments across the federation, urging them to learn from the Rivers crisis and prioritize harmony to deliver the dividends of democracy.

All eyes will now be on Port Harcourt to see if the warring political factions have truly reconciled or if the power struggle will resume where it left off six months ago.

By Salihi Adamu

Writing A Glimpse of Takai in the History of Kano has been a personal journey for me. Growing up, I have read stories about Takai’s rich history and its impact on the Kano emirate. However, I noticed that there wasn’t a single book that told the story of Takai in a way that was easy to understand. This book is my attempt to fill that gap.

As I researched Takai’s history, I discovered many interesting stories and facts. I learned about the town’s founding, its role in the Kano Civil War, and its cultural heritage. I also met with people from Takai who shared their experiences and insights with me. Through these interactions, I gained a deeper understanding of the town’s history and its people. This book is a reflection of what I have learned, and I hope it will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Takai.

This book is not a complete history of Takai. Instead, it’s a collection of stories and facts that give readers a glimpse into the town’s past. I have endeavoured to make the book accessible to a diverse range of readers, from those interested in history to those seeking to learn more about Takai.

One of the challenges I faced while writing this book was deciding what to include and what to leave out. Takai’s history is complex and multifaceted, with many stories that could be told. I have tried to focus on the most important events and themes, while also leaving room for further research and exploration.

I hope that A Glimpse of Takai in the History of Kano will inspire readers to learn more about Takai and its people. I also hope that it will contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of the town’s history and culture.

I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this book, from the people of Takai who shared their stories with me to my family and friends who supported me throughout the writing process. Ultimately, this book is a labour of love, and I am proud to share it with readers. 

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confirmed that it has received instructions from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) levy on imported goods.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Service expressed appreciation to the Ministry for its intervention and assured that it remains committed to aligning with government fiscal policies.

Following the directive, the NCS disclosed that it has commenced consultations with the supervisory Ministry to obtain guidance on alternative steps to sustain uninterrupted service delivery to stakeholders.

According to the Service, it is hopeful that ongoing talks with the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders will produce solutions that balance public concerns with its statutory duties.

It added that the objective is to serve the national interest, boost revenue generation, and support economic growth through efficient customs administration.

Addressing media reports that the 4% FOB was a recent creation of the Service, the statement clarified: “The National Assembly established the 4% FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates ‘not less than 4% of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices’ as a statutory funding mechanism for the Service’s operations.”

The NCS further reassured stakeholders, including the trading community, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that operations will remain unaffected.

It pledged to continue offering efficient service, uphold international standards, and contribute to national economic growth through effective revenue collection and trade facilitation.

The statement was signed by Abdullahi Maiwada, Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Zamfara State Police Command has verified that eight worshippers were abducted during morning prayers in Gidan Turbe, Tsafe Local Government Area.

Those taken away by the attackers include Liman Yahaya, Dan Garfi, Malam Damu, Bello Natsuhuwa, Yakubu Isa, Audu Minista, Yaquba Ado, and Sabi Usman.

This clarification followed a report circulating online that claimed as many as 40 worshippers were seized in the assault.In a statement issued on Tuesday, the police spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, dismissed the exaggerated figure and confirmed that only eight persons were abducted.

He explained, “The attention of the Zamfara State Police Command has been drawn to a recent report alleging that 40 persons were abducted while observing morning prayers on Monday, September 15, 2025.

“Contrary to the figure reported, the incident occurred at about 05:07 hrs when suspected bandits invaded the Gidan Turbe area of Tsafe LGA and abducted eight individuals.”

Abubakar stressed that the police were collaborating with security agencies and local stakeholders to rescue the victims. He added, “The Zamfara State Police Command is actively working with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.

“We urge members of the public and the media to always verify information from official sources before dissemination so as not to cause unnecessary panic.”

Reassuring the public, he emphasized the command’s determination to safeguard lives and property. According to him, “The Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and will continue to intensify efforts towards combating all forms of criminal activities across the state.

“We appeal to residents to remain calm and report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest police station or through our emergency lines.”

The attack adds to a rising number of assaults on worship centres in Northern Nigeria. Only last month, an incident at a mosque in Lafiagi, Kwara State, left one worshipper dead.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal Government has filed a criminal lawsuit against activist and politician Omoyele Sowore, as well as the parent companies of Facebook and X, for the alleged cyberbullying of President Bola Tinubu.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025, was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mohammed Abubakar, on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Justice.

According to the five-count charge, Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters, is accused of making a false claim against the President by referring to him as “a criminal” in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

The specific charge alleges that on or about August 25, Sowore used his handle, @YeleSowore, to publish a message that read: “THIS CRIMINAL @ OFFICIAL PBAT ACTUALLY WENT TO BRAZIL TO STATE THAT THERE IS NO MORE CORRUPTION UNDER HIS REGIME IN NIGERIA. WHAT AUDACITY TO LIE SHAMELESSLY!”

The prosecution contends that Sowore knew this message to be false and posted it with the intention of causing “a breakdown of law and order” among Nigerians with divergent views on the President.

The charges are brought under Section 24 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.

The lawsuit follows a recent request by the Department of State Services (DSS) for the social media platforms to remove the post in question.

Both Meta (Facebook Inc.) and X Corp. have been joined as defendants in the case.Sowore was the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2019 and 2023 elections.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to two Nigerians, Farouk Gumel and Tobi Amusan, for their recent exceptional accomplishments on the international stage.

In a press release issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Gumel on his appointment as the Chairman of the Botswana Sovereign Wealth Fund Limited.

Tinubu described the appointment as a recognition of Gumel’s expertise and dedication, noting that it reflects the high esteem in which Nigerian professionals are held globally.

The President highlighted Gumel’s role as Vice Chairman for Africa at the Tropical General Investment (TGI) Group and his contributions to Nigeria’s food security efforts.

“I am confident he will excel and further cement Nigeria’s reputation for excellence in global finance,’’ the President stated.

The President also celebrated hurdler Tobi Amusan for winning a silver medal in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

He praised her relentless drive, resilience, and unwavering spirit, calling her achievement a source of immense national pride.

“Tobi has once again demonstrated that with patriotic fervour, coupled with hard work and determination, any height is surmountable,” Tinubu said.

The President wished both individuals continued success in their endeavours and assured them of the federal government’s full support.