Month: February 2026

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Hundreds of far-right protesters gathered in Manchester city centre on Saturday for an anti-Islam march organised by Britain First, a political group known for its hardline stance on immigration. The demonstration drew a larger counterprotest, which led to tense confrontations between the two sides.

Chants of “send them back” echoed through an underpass as the march began. Protesters waved Union Jack flags and voiced anti-immigration slogans, while also making critical remarks about British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Some participants appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.

According to Aljazeera, in response, a larger group of antifascist demonstrators assembled nearby. They carried antiracist placards and waved different flags, including the Palestinian flag. Many said they turned out to oppose what they described as hate-driven rhetoric.

Ruby, a 20-year-old student from South London, travelled for five hours to attend the counterprotest. She described her decision as a “no-brainer” and asked that her surname be withheld due to fear of repercussions. She explained that her grandparents, who came from Montserrat as part of the Windrush generation, now feel increasingly unwelcome in the UK. According to her, they believe racism is returning to levels seen in the 1950s.

Another protester, Llowelyn, 16, from Wales, shared similar concerns. She said her father, who is of British Guyanese descent, has faced more racial abuse in recent years than before.

Tension grew before the marches began. Some far-right activists livestreamed their activities as they entered areas occupied by counterprotesters. A counterprotester identified as John confronted them while police officers monitored the situation. He told Al Jazeera, “They come here to cause a ruckus and make money of it online, but I come here to protect the left. These guys [far-right agitators] try and intimidate … minorities because they think they are a master race”.

The situation escalated when the Britain First march, led by Paul Golding, moved through the city under police escort. Verbal abuse followed as marchers encountered counterprotesters. One protester shouted, “Leftie scum,” at three individuals who staged a sit-down protest. Riot police intervened and moved them away for safety.

Clashes intensified when both groups came into close contact. Protesters from the far-right group used flag poles to push counterprotesters, while some individuals broke through police lines. Officers struggled to maintain control as insults and opposing chants filled the air.

Pia Feig, a member of Jewish Action for Palestine, criticised the decision to allow the march. She said, “We, as Jews and internationalists, are having to confront Britain First, the fascists who are organising on the streets, who have been permitted to market their divisive, racist, dictatorial positions on our streets,”

Another counterprotester, Audrey, who works as a teacher, accused the police of favouring the far-right. She said officers always “protected” such groups after she was pushed during the confrontation.

A police officer, who spoke anonymously, explained that managing the situation was challenging. He noted that both groups frequently changed their routes. He added that officers also had to handle a separate rally in support of Ukraine and provide security at major football matches taking place over the weekend.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army (NA)/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have intercepted a suspected gun-runner and recovered a large cache of ammunition in Taraba State. The operation took place on 21 February 2026 during a stop-and-search exercise at Sarkin Kudu in Ibi Local Government Area.

According to the Army, the arrest followed actionable and credible intelligence. Vigilant troops on sentry duty flagged down an Audi vehicle with registration number RBC 798 DV (Abuja). A thorough search of the car led to the arrest of Mr. Monday Reuben, a 48-year-old man from Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

Items recovered from the suspect include:

Two AK-47 rifles

One hundred and ninety-seven empty magazines

One box of 7.62 x 51mm NATO ammunition containing 250 rounds

Fourteen packs of 9mm Parabellum ammunition totaling 700 rounds

Nineteen rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition

₦2,440,000 in cash

One wallet with four identification cards and four ATM cards

One Android phone and one Itel keypad phone

One power bank

Eight bottles of perfume

One rechargeable touch light

Assorted local charms


All recovered items and the suspect are now in custody and will be handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and necessary action.

Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Micheal Akaliro, Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 OPWS, praised the troops for their alertness and diligence. He said, “The Brigade must maintain the tempo as it strives to fulfill the mandate given by the Chief of Army Staff, which is to rid Taraba State of all forms of criminality and threats to lives and property.”

He added that the Brigade will continue to implement its reward and sanction policy, noting that officers and soldiers involved in the operation “will be duly recognized and rewarded for their professionalism and commitment to duty.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Security operatives in Kebbi State successfully repelled a late-night attack by suspected bandits along the Maje border road, averting what authorities described as a coordinated attempt to breach security under the cover of darkness.

The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 pm on February 20, 2026. Armed men, reportedly linked to the Lakurawa criminal network, advanced toward police positions while moving a herd of cattle, a tactic believed to conceal their movement.

Operatives from the Nigeria Police Force Counter Terrorism Unit, who were on high alert, confronted the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat.

Kebbi State Police Commissioner, Umar Mohammed Hadeija, confirmed that the prompt response of officers prevented any casualties and further destruction.

“Our operatives were vigilant and professionally responded to the attack. The bandits were repelled and forced to flee. Although some temporary security structures were damaged, no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded,” he said in a statement released on Saturday.



The commissioner added that additional security personnel had been deployed along the border corridor and assured residents that the situation remained “calm and fully under control.”

He also issued a warning to herders and livestock owners against moving cattle at night or under circumstances that could provide cover for criminals.

“We urge herders and livestock owners to desist from night grazing or movement of cattle in a manner that creates suspicion or provides cover for criminals. Security agencies will take firm and lawful action against any unlawful activity linked to such practices,” he stated.



Police Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, reaffirmed the command’s dedication to combating criminal activities in border communities.

“The Kebbi State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state. We will not relent in our efforts to dismantle criminal groups threatening the peace of our communities,” he said.



Residents have been encouraged to continue with lawful activities without fear, as security agencies maintain patrols and surveillance along vulnerable routes.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A man has lost his life following a dispute at a snooker centre located in the Ombi 1 area of Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The report was provided by security expert, Zagazola Makama.

The incident came to light at about 6:00 a.m. on February 21, after a resident, Akulu Sunday, reported the matter to the authorities. He explained that his tenant, Precious Chinedu Madu, was allegedly attacked during a disagreement with Ismail Abubakar, who manages the facility.

According to available information, the victim was hit with a stick during the altercation.

He was rushed to a hospital in Lafia for urgent medical attention. However, a doctor later confirmed him dead on arrival.

Security operatives have arrested the suspect in connection with the incident. An investigation is ongoing to establish what led to the confrontation.

Officials said more details would be made public as the inquiry progresses.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A man who appeared as a leader of Arewa youths has issued a warning of possible retaliation following reports of attacks on northerners in parts of southern Nigeria.

In a video shared online, the youth leader expressed outrage over what he described as repeated assaults on northerners in Rivers and Enugu states. He warned that failure to bring those responsible to justice could lead to reprisals.

“Very soon, we will avenge the killing of Northerners killed in Rivers State,” he said. “If our people are not brought to justice, we are going to retaliate.”

He stated that several northern youths had been killed in Port Harcourt and other areas.

Despite his strong remarks, he appealed for restraint. He urged northern youths to remain calm and allow security agencies to handle the situation. He also called on authorities to act quickly to prevent further tension.

“We have Igbos living in Abuja. The majority of businesses in northern Nigeria are owned by Igbos, and they are living in peace,” he said.

The leader further stated that some prominent Ijaw figures in Port Harcourt had spoken out against the violence.

Meanwhile, the Hausa community in Rivers State recently alleged that four of its members were killed during a protest at the Oil Mill Market in the Rumuokwurusi area of Port Harcourt.

The Chairman of the Hausa Community in the state, Musa Saidu, made the claim after visiting the affected area with other northern leaders. He said several shops owned by northerners were looted and destroyed.

“About four northern traders were killed during the protest at Oil Mill Market. I visited the area with some journalists and saw that many shops had been looted,” Saidu said.

He urged residents from the North to remain peaceful. He described them as law-abiding citizens engaged in legitimate businesses.

The unrest followed the killing of an indigene, Nchelem Samuel Festus, who was allegedly stabbed by a northern commercial motorcyclist in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area.

Festus was said to have been accused of attempting to steal a motorcycle from a shop owned by northerners. During an attempt to recover the motorcycle, a dispute broke out. The motorcyclist allegedly stabbed him, and he later died from the injuries.

The incident, which occurred on February 10, triggered protests. Demonstrators accused northern commercial motorcyclists of crimes such as rape and kidnapping. They also blocked the road leading to the Port Harcourt International Airport and demanded a ban on their operations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force Southeast under Operation UDO KA have thwarted a suspected kidnap attack and rescued five victims during a swift response on February 20, 2026.

The incident took place around 6:55 p.m. at the 9th Mile axis within the 82 Division Area of Responsibility. Security sources said the troops acted on a distress call that indicated a suspected attack by IPOB/ESN elements targeting commuters heading towards Anambra State.

Military personnel moved quickly to the location and confronted the armed group. On arrival, they engaged the attackers with force, which forced the suspects to retreat into nearby bushes.

The operation led to the safe rescue of five kidnapped individuals. None of the victims sustained injuries. Troops also recovered the vehicle used to convey them, which was found intact.

After the rescue, security forces intensified patrols across the area. The move is aimed at tracking down fleeing suspects and preventing any attempt by the attackers to regroup. Authorities said the continued presence of troops has helped to reassure residents and commuters while weakening criminal activities in the area.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its determination to protect lives and secure major routes across the Southeast. It also called on members of the public to support security agencies by sharing timely and credible information to help sustain peace and stability in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

At least 50 people have been killed after armed men launched a deadly overnight attack on a community in northwestern Nigeria’s Zamfara State, according to officials and residents.

The incident occurred in Tungan Dutse village, located in the Bukkuyum area. Witnesses said the attackers arrived on motorcycles late Thursday night. The assault continued into Friday morning. During the attack, houses were set ablaze and several women and children were taken away.

A lawmaker representing Bukkuyum South, Hamisu A. Faru, confirmed the scale of the killings. “They have been moving from one village to another … leaving at least 50 people dead,” he said.

Faru also noted that the number of abducted persons remains uncertain. He explained that authorities are still working to determine how many people are missing.

Residents said there were early warning signs before the attack. One of them, Abdullahi Sani, stated that villagers had informed security operatives after seeing more than 150 motorcycles carrying armed men a day earlier. However, no preventive action was taken.

“No one slept yesterday; we are all in pain,” Sani said, adding that three members of his family lost their lives.

The latest violence highlights the ongoing insecurity affecting parts of northern and western Nigeria, where armed groups continue to carry out attacks on communities.

In a related development, reports indicate that at least 46 people were killed last week in separate attacks in the Borgu area of Niger State. The deadliest incident occurred in Konkoso village, where dozens of residents were reportedly shot or killed in brutal circumstances.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has strengthened its security partnership with the United States. This follows concerns raised by former US President Donald Trump, who accused Nigeria of failing to curb killings and threatened possible intervention.

On December 25, US forces carried out air strikes in Sokoto State in coordination with Nigerian authorities. Earlier this week, Nigeria’s military confirmed the arrival of about 100 US personnel to support local forces.

According to Defence Headquarters spokesperson Samaila Uba, the US troops will provide “technical support” and “intelligence sharing” to assist in tackling “terrorist organisations”, along with “associated equipment”.

He added that the foreign troops will not participate directly in combat operations but will operate under Nigerian command.

By Umar Saleh Burra 

‎Residents of Burra District in Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State have renewed their appeal to telecom companies to establish a fully functional telecommunications network within their community.

‎With an estimated population of over 80,000 people, the Burra District remains without access to reliable mobile network services. Community members report that the only available network provider in the area delivers inconsistent and poor connectivity, making communication extremely difficult for residents.

‎Speaking on behalf of the community, Umar Saleh Burra, the absence of a stable telecommunications network has significantly affected economic activities, healthcare communication, education, security coordination, and access to digital financial services. Business owners lament that unreliable connectivity disrupts transactions and limits opportunities for growth.

‎“Students face challenges accessing online educational resources, while families struggle to maintain contact with relatives and essential services. 

‎Community leaders emphasised that in today’s digital age, telecommunications services are not a luxury but a necessity. They noted that expanding network coverage to the Burra District would enhance socio-economic development, promote financial inclusion, improve emergency response systems, and strengthen overall community connectivity.

‎“We are law-abiding citizens who contribute to the economic and social development of our state. We humbly appeal to Nigerian telecom companies and relevant authorities to consider establishing network infrastructure in Burra District,” Saleh stated.

‎The people of Burra are also calling on political leaders, policymakers, and relevant regulatory agencies to support this request and facilitate collaboration with telecom companies to address the communication gap affecting the district.

‎As Nigeria continues to expand its digital economy, communities like Burra urge telecommunications providers to extend coverage to underserved rural areas to ensure inclusive national development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has restated its resolve to reinforce its strategic defence relationship with Pakistan as both countries confront changing security threats.

This is contained in a statement issued by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, on 20 February 2026.

The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, gave the assurance on Friday, 20 February 2026, when he hosted Pakistan’s Defence Adviser to Nigeria, Colonel Kamran Mushtaq, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

General Shaibu described the military ties between Nigeria and Pakistan as strong and mutually beneficial. He pointed to wider prospects in joint exercises, intelligence cooperation, defence technology and operational support as key areas that require further attention. He said stronger collaboration in these fields would improve coordination between both armies and raise their ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.

The Army Chief also praised the long-standing relationship between the two forces. He referred to their similar experiences in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. He stressed the value of sustained professional military education and capacity development. According to him, several Nigerian officers have undergone advanced courses in Pakistan, while arrangements are underway for Pakistani officers to attend programmes at the National Defence College. He added that closer intelligence ties and strategic defence procurement are essential to improve Nigeria’s operational preparedness and combat strength.

In his remarks, Colonel Mushtaq delivered goodwill messages from Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces. He commended the Nigerian Army for its discipline and achievements in various operations. Drawing on Pakistan’s experience of more than two decades in counter-terrorism campaigns, he expressed his country’s willingness to expand cooperation through specialised training, technical support and the supply of key equipment such as advanced surveillance and communication systems.

Both delegations reaffirmed their dedication to joint professional training and exchange initiatives. They noted that such programmes are crucial for improving operational coordination and strengthening their joint response to regional and cross-border security challenges.

By Uzair Adam

Barely one year after a devastating blaze ravaged parts of Fatima Simra Multipurpose Market at Dakata Industrial Layout in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State — and only weeks after a similar incident at Singa Market — another fire has swept through the commercial hub, destroying more than 100 shops and leaving traders counting losses estimated at over N1 billion.

The Daily Reality reports that the Chairman of the market, Dauda Haruna Chula, said he received a distress call at about 4:00 a.m. informing him of the outbreak.

He stated that, “I was called around 4:00 a.m. and told about the devastating fire at our market. Because I was not nearby at the time, I immediately contacted those who were close to the market and asked them to alert the relevant authorities to help contain the situation.”

Chula explained that the exact cause of the fire had yet to be determined, noting that conflicting accounts were circulating among traders and residents.

He said investigations were ongoing to verify the true source of the blaze.

“As of now, we cannot ascertain the real source of the fire. There are different versions of what might have caused it, and we are working to verify the facts,” he added.

The market is widely known for groundnut oil production and for trading in rubber materials and other consumables such as food items and bread, many of which are highly flammable.

Chula said oil producers were among the worst affected, disclosing that more than 100 makeshift shops were completely burnt to ashes.

He estimated the losses at over N1 billion, stressing that most of the victims are small-scale traders who depend on daily earnings to support their families.

“This market is the only source of livelihood for many of our members,” he said, calling on Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to urgently intervene.

He lamented that a N100 million support earlier promised after the previous fire incident had yet to be fulfilled.

“We are still waiting for the N100 million that we were promised after the last fire. Up till now, nothing has been given, and here we are again facing another tragedy,” Chula said.

While appreciating ASPIRA Nigeria Limited and both the state and federal fire services for their efforts in containing the blaze, the chairman maintained that a quicker response could have reduced the scale of destruction.

In a separate account, one of the victims, Malam Auwal Mahrazu, whose stall was completely razed, said the fire started around 3:00 a.m. during a night shift.

He explained that some workers were attempting to clear a grinding filling machine that had become clogged.

“Sometimes when we are working and the filling machine gets congested, we burn it slightly and then wash it to clear the blockage so work can continue smoothly,” he said.

According to him, the workers briefly left the area, possibly to prepare for their pre-dawn meal, only to return and find the flames spreading to nearby stalls.

“Before they came back, the fire had started catching other places. They tried to stop it, but it was beyond control,” Mahrazu recounted.

He claimed that more than 200 makeshift stalls were affected, though the intervention of firefighters prevented the fire from spreading further.

Another trader, Isa Abubakar, described the incident as a divine test, saying his entire shop was razed.

“This is nothing but a test from Allah. Only God truly knows how it started,” he said, while commending fire service personnel for battling the flames for hours.

Abubakar urged Governor Yusuf to implement lasting measures to curb recurring fire outbreaks in Kano markets.

Similarly, Abdulkadir Aliyu said he had yet to recover from the previous incident before the latest disaster struck.

He appealed to the government to fulfill its earlier financial pledge, lamenting that no assistance had been provided so far.

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Yusuf, confirmed that the agency received information about the incident but noted that a comprehensive report was yet to be compiled.

The latest inferno has intensified concerns over fire safety in Kano’s major markets, where traders operate in densely packed wooden structures and deal in highly combustible materials.