Month: June 2026

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has criticised renowned Hausa musician Dauda Kahutu Rarara over comments made regarding his decision to highlight Nigeria’s security challenges on the international stage.

The disagreement followed Davido’s appearance at the FIFA 2026 World Cup Countdown Concert in Los Angeles, where he drew attention to the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. During the event, the singer wore a jacket bearing the inscription “BRING THEM HOME” alongside the names of the victims.

Rarara, a prominent supporter of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), faulted the move and accused Davido of portraying Nigeria negatively before a global audience.

Reacting through his official X account on Wednesday, Davido defended his actions and argued that citizens should not remain silent about insecurity and other national challenges.

According to him, “First of all, anyone who truly loves Nigeria will not remain silent about the insecurity problems troubling the country, nor will they try to stop others from expressing their concerns about it.

“A lack of compassion, putting personal interests first, acting as a political stooge, and prioritising selfish motives over the welfare of the people are not things to be proud of.

“Be patriotic and loyal to your country. Stop placing politics above the truth, and fear God in everything you do. @kahuturarara.”

Davido maintained that speaking about insecurity should not be interpreted as an attack on Nigeria. He said drawing attention to the suffering of citizens is part of the responsibility of patriotic Nigerians who want solutions to the country’s problems.

Before Davido’s response, Rarara had criticised the singer for discussing Nigeria’s security situation before an international audience. The musician described the move as harmful to the country’s image abroad.

In a video circulated online, Rarara said, “People of the world, friends near and far, especially Nigerians, I greet you all. I wish you all the best. Ladies and gentlemen, please be patient with me today. I have come with something I have never said or done before. I am not someone who usually makes statements like this.”

He explained that he decided to speak out because of Davido’s handling of the issue surrounding the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The exchange has generated widespread reactions on social media, where many users continue to debate whether public figures should openly discuss Nigeria’s challenges before international audiences or focus on promoting a positive image of the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a fresh review of interconnection rates for telecommunications operators across the country, a move that could lead to higher costs for voice calls and SMS services if approved.

Interconnection rates, also known as Mobile Termination Rates (MTR), are charges paid by one telecom operator to another when a customer places a call to a subscriber on a different network. The current rates stand at between ₦3.90 and ₦4.70 per minute.

Industry stakeholders discussed the planned review during a consultative meeting on mobile termination rates held in Lagos on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, KPMG partner, Wole Adenekan, said interconnection rates should reflect the actual cost of providing services. According to him, rates that are set too low may discourage investment in telecommunications infrastructure.

“A mis-set MTR can enable dominant operators to foreclose smaller competitors through high termination barriers. A cost-reflective rate supports a level competitive playing field,” he said.

Adenekan also noted that consumers could eventually bear the burden of excessive termination charges through higher retail service costs.

He explained that economic realities have changed significantly since the last review in 2018. He cited the depreciation of the naira, rising inflation, higher energy expenses and increasing equipment costs as factors that have altered operators’ cost structures.

The KPMG official further stated that the expansion of 5G technology and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) services have transformed network usage patterns and service delivery models. He added that messaging and voice services provided by Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms have reduced dependence on traditional telecom interconnection services.

According to him, the local interconnection rates established in 2018 have not been revised, while the 2022 review focused only on international termination rates.

In her remarks, the Head of Competition and Tariff Unit at the NCC’s Policy Department, Omotayo Mohammed, described the review as an important economic measure aimed at ensuring the commission’s regulatory framework keeps pace with developments in the telecommunications sector.

She said: “Our existing national interconnection rate regime was set out in the Commission’s Interconnection Rate Determination of June 1, 2018, and was subsequently adjusted through an amendment to the Mobile International Termination Rate (ITR) in September 2022.

“The Commission has historically maintained a regular cycle of periodic reviews to keep its frameworks relevant.

“However, the years since our 2018 determination have been marked by unprecedented and rapid change. The Nigerian telecommunications market has undergone considerable transformation, reflected in swift expansion, shifting market dynamics, the commercial deployment of advanced technologies such as 5G, and the emergence of new ecosystem players including Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

“At the same time, both global and domestic macroeconomic conditions have shifted considerably. Changes in exchange rate regimes, and inflation rates have substantially altered the cost structures associated with providing communications services in Nigeria.

“For regulation to remain effective in a fast-moving market, our frameworks must evolve in step with it. Pursuant to Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, the Commission is therefore acting on its mandate to ensure that telecommunications tariffs and charges remain reasonable, cost-reflective, and non-discriminatory”.

Mohammed added that the exercise will also assess existing retail pricing controls and asymmetry arrangements to ensure that consumer interests remain protected while maintaining fair competition within the sector.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Katsina State Government has announced the rescue of four kidnap victims by Nigerian Army troops during ongoing operations against wanted bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his criminal network.

The rescued individuals identified as Musa Yakuba, 62; Alhaji Sa’adu Dayi, 68; Mukhtar Danja, 36; and Salisu Danja, 50—were freed during sustained military operations in areas where the gang is believed to be operating.

According to a statement released Wednesday by the state’s Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, all four victims sustained gunshot wounds during their captivity and received immediate medical attention upon rescue.

The operation comes weeks after troops successfully rescued the wife of late Major General Rabe Abubakar. Officials noted that the newly rescued victims had previously appeared in a photograph with the late general.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda praised the professionalism and bravery of the security forces, stating that their relentless efforts continue to yield results in the fight against banditry and kidnapping across the state.

Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, assured citizens that security forces remain on the trail of Fulani and other criminal elements, vowing that operations will persist until all perpetrators of terror against innocent citizens face justice.

“We remain fully committed to protecting lives and property,” Mu’azu said, adding that the government will continue collaborating closely with security agencies to deny criminals any safe haven in the state.

By Anas Abbas

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approached the Court of Appeal in Abuja, seeking an order to suspend the implementation of a Federal High Court judgment that directed the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties.

At a hearing before a three-member panel of the appellate court on Tuesday, INEC expressed support for applications filed by the affected parties challenging the lower court’s decision.

The electoral body argued that it was unaware the judgment would be delivered, insisting that an earlier order of the Court of Appeal had halted the planned delivery of the ruling.

Counsel representing INEC told the court that the commission only became aware of the judgment through media reports, maintaining that no formal notice was issued regarding its delivery.

The commission therefore backed requests for a stay of execution pending the determination of the appeal.

Lawyers representing the ADC also faulted the ruling, describing it as a threat to judicial order and urging the appellate court to intervene. The party’s legal team argued that the lower court proceeded despite being aware of an order suspending the judgment, and called on the Court of Appeal to take urgent steps to preserve the integrity of the judicial process.

Other affected parties warned that enforcing the judgment could create uncertainty ahead of upcoming by-elections scheduled in several states. They urged the appellate court to prevent possible disruptions by suspending the implementation of the ruling while the appeal is being considered.

The Court of Appeal was still receiving submissions from parties involved in the matter at the time of filing this report. The case follows a Federal High Court judgment ordering INEC to deregister the ADC and four other political parties over alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.

By Anas Abbas

A court in Katsina State has sentenced a woman to death after finding her guilty of aiding bandits operating in parts of the state.

The convict was prosecuted for providing assistance to armed criminal groups, an offence the court ruled contributed to insecurity and violence affecting communities across the region. After reviewing the evidence presented during the trial, the court held that the prosecution had established its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Delivering judgment, the presiding judge stated that anyone who supports criminal groups, either directly or indirectly, bears responsibility for the consequences of their actions. The court consequently imposed the death penalty on the defendant in accordance with the relevant provisions of the law.

The case is one of several ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle banditry and related crimes in Katsina and other northwestern states. Security agencies have intensified operations against armed groups blamed for killings, kidnappings, and attacks on rural communities.

Officials say the judgment sends a strong message that individuals who provide logistical, financial, or other forms of support to criminal networks will face severe legal consequences.

The conviction comes amid renewed calls for stronger collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and the judiciary to address the persistent security challenges facing the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A 26-year-old housewife, Fatima, is in police custody in Kano State after allegedly stabbing her husband, Auwalu, to death on Sunday in the Rimin Kebe quarters of the metropolitan area.

The couple, who had been married for less than two months, reportedly engaged in a heated argument that turned violent. Neighbors said the marriage was not one of mutual affection, with the wife having consistently expressed reluctance to the union.

According to a local resident who spoke on condition of anonymity, the deceased emerged from their home crying for help after the attack.

“Fatima struck his throat with a knife. He came out shouting that it was his wife who stabbed him. He was rushed to the police station and later to a hospital, but he died before arrival,” the source told.

The suspect was promptly arrested by officers from the Zango Police Division in Dantamashe.

“Their marriage is less than two months old. The wife is presently under police custody,” the source added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Christian elders from Borno and Adamawa states have appealed to the Federal Government to deploy forest guards to Sambisa Forest as part of efforts to strengthen security and intensify the fight against insurgency in the North-East.

The appeal was made in Abuja after a three-day fasting and prayer programme organised by Marghi leaders. The gathering also focused on prayers for the safe return of schoolchildren reportedly abducted in parts of Borno and Oyo states.

The elders called on the authorities to “flood Sambisa Forest with forest guards now” to help flush out terrorists and reduce attacks on communities in the region.

Their appeal follows the reported abduction of between 42 and 51 children, most of them toddlers and primary school pupils, by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Mussa town of Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on May 15, 2026. The incident affected communities within the Mussa, Birri and Shikarkir areas.

Reports also indicated that bandits attacked Ahoro-Esinele and nearby communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on the same day. About 46 people, including pupils, secondary school students and a toddler, were allegedly taken away during the attack.

Speaking for the Marghi community in Abuja, Elder Gambo Kadir said the security situation in the affected areas is more severe than many people realise. He claimed that numerous incidents are never officially documented.

Kadir noted that local government areas such as Madagali, Gwoza, Askira/Uba and Chibok have faced repeated attacks for more than a decade. He said the recent abduction in Mussa highlights the continuing security challenges confronting residents.

He also criticised the government’s strategy against insurgency. According to him, suspected terrorists are being rehabilitated instead of facing stronger measures.

The community leader further disclosed that another abduction was reported in Kirchiga town in Borno State shortly after the incident in Mussa.

The elders urged the Federal Government to increase the presence of security personnel in communities located around Sambisa Forest, especially in Madagali, Askira/Uba, Chibok and Gwoza.

They also called for improved intelligence gathering and the deployment of modern technology to support efforts aimed at rescuing abducted victims and tackling insurgency across the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that NATO has been unable to achieve its objective of defeating Russia through the conflict in Ukraine, as he renewed criticism of the Western military alliance.

Putin made the remarks at the Kremlin during a meeting with military personnel involved in what Moscow describes as its special military operation. The event formed part of activities marking Russia Day.

According to the Russian leader, his country is confronting what he called the collective West, led by NATO, with several nations backing actions against Russia.

”It was them (NATO) who started the war,” he emphasized. “I have said this many times, we did not initiate the conflict when the special military operation began (in 2022).”

Putin maintained that developments in Ukraine before the outbreak of hostilities forced Russia to take action. He argued that what he described as NATO’s “coup d’etat in Ukraine” and the deployment of military systems prompted Moscow to protect residents of Crimea in 2014, which later contributed to fighting in eastern Ukraine.

“We did not wake up one day and decided that we would start a war tomorrow,” he said. “For eight years, we attempted to achieve a peaceful settlement.”

The Russian president also recalled efforts by Moscow to encourage dialogue between Ukrainian authorities and residents of southeastern Ukraine. He said Russia repeatedly received assurances that existing agreements would be implemented.

Putin further claimed that recent statements from Western officials showed that the Minsk Agreements were used to give Kyiv time to strengthen its military capabilities before continuing the conflict.

He also criticized countries that joined NATO, alleging that some did so “in the hope of securing their share of the benefits.”

Addressing ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Ukraine and several European countries, Putin said Russia remains open to discussions. However, he stressed that any agreement must take into account Moscow’s “long-term” interests.

”There is only one piece of advice we can offer our adversaries: do not fight Russia. Never attempt to do so,” he warned. “Those (talks) must be genuine negotiations, not ultimatums.”

The comments come as diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict continue, more than four years after the war escalated in 2022.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, has attributed Nigeria’s long-running electricity problems to what she described as poor public policy, despite the country’s abundant oil and gas resources.

Badenoch made the remarks during a recent interview with The Spectator, where she reflected on her upbringing and discussed a range of issues.

According to her, the presence of natural resources alone does not guarantee development if government policies fail to support their effective use.

“My belief that we need to drill our oil and gas comes from growing up in a country… Nigeria is an oil-producing country that has never had electricity,” she said.

“It is very easy to have resources under the ground, but stupid public policy means that you can’t use them,” she added.

Her comments come at a time when Nigeria continues to face persistent power supply shortages despite reforms and the privatisation of the electricity sector over the years.

Available data shows that the country’s electricity generation has largely remained between 3,500 and 5,000 megawatts, a figure many analysts consider inadequate for a population estimated at more than 250 million people.

Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently assured Nigerians that his administration would continue efforts to tackle the challenges facing the power sector.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Mrs. Abubakar, wife of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, following a fierce gun battle with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The rescue operation, conducted under the ongoing Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, was launched after intelligence reports confirmed the abduction of the retired senior officer’s wife and other family members.

Military sources told Zagazola that troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga village during a search-and-rescue mission. The armed group came under heavy military pressure and fled the scene.

“The bandits shot her and fled when we made contact at Tunga village. We have rescued Mrs. Abubakar. She is bleeding, we have given her first aid and are moving her for urgent medical attention,” a military source said.

The victim was immediately stabilized by troops before being evacuated to a medical facility for further treatment.

Military authorities have since intensified follow-up operations in the area, with troops maintaining a coordinated pursuit of the fleeing bandits and suspected kingpins linked to the attack and abduction.

Security sources assured that the ongoing clearance operation under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III will continue until all criminal hideouts are dismantled. The military remains committed to tracking down those responsible and ensuring they face justice.