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By Muhammad Sulaiman

Al Jazeera journalist Hossam Shabat was killed in an Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza shortly after reporting on the death of his colleague, Mohammed Mansour.

Shabat’s car was bombed on Sunday, marking yet another fatal attack on media workers in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Shabat had just posted about Mansour’s killing when he himself became a victim of Israeli bombardment. His death adds to the growing toll on journalists in Gaza, where at least 208 media workers have been killed since Israel launched its military offensive on October 7, 2023.

The targeting of journalists has drawn widespread condemnation, with press freedom organizations calling for accountability and urgent protection for reporters covering the war.

Al Jazeera has repeatedly accused Israel of deliberately targeting its journalists, a charge Israel denies.

The ongoing war in Gaza has led to unprecedented casualties among civilians and media professionals, raising concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists in conflict zones.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Angry youths in Gombe State have looted Ramadan palliative supplies reportedly meant for distribution by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The incident occurred as part of a Ramadan feeding program launched by Seyi Tinubu during his visits to northern states for Iftar celebrations with residents and political leaders.

Seyi’s initiative, aimed at assisting the less privileged during the holy month, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions on social media.

While some welcomed the gesture, others criticized it, arguing that the north deserved more sustainable support than temporary palliative aid.Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed, son of Bauchi State Governor, voiced his displeasure on Facebook, urging Seyi to implement long-term empowerment programs.

He suggested that the youths in Bauchi needed job opportunities, business startups, and digital skills training rather than food parcels.

“Teach our youths how to fish rather than feed them for one day,” he said.

In Gombe, the distribution of palliative items, including rice, sugar, oil, salt, and pasta, quickly turned chaotic.

Video footage showed youths unloading and carting away cartons of food from a truck, with some throwing the items to others on the ground.

Two trucks containing 3,500 cartons of food had been allocated to the state, but while one was reportedly distributed, the other was intercepted by the angry youths.

Observers have suggested that the distribution might have been sabotaged by those left out of the initial handout event, which took place at the state’s APC Secretariat.

Seyi’s outreach initiative, while framed as part of the Renewed Hope Youth Engagement program, is also seen by some as a strategic political move to strengthen his father’s political foothold in the northern region, where there is still some resistance to his re-election.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A postgraduate class at Bayero University faced an unexpected turnout issue during a recent lecture on social media’s role in popular culture. 

Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu, from the Faculty of Communication, scheduled his M.Sc. Popular Culture lecture for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025. However, when he arrived, he was met with an empty classroom.

In a candid post on his Facebook page, Professor Adamu described the situation, expressing disappointment at the absence of his students, many of whom are mature individuals committed to their education. 

“I will wait one more hour, all by myself,” he wrote, revealing the gravity of the situation as he sat alone in the lecture hall.

The incident raises concerns about student engagement and commitment in higher education, particularly among postgraduate students who are expected to take their studies seriously. 

Professor Adamu’s experience reflects a growing trend of attendance issues in classrooms, prompting discussions among his social media followers about students’ attitudes to learning in Nigerian universities.

As the academic community reacts to this situation, it remains to be seen how institutions will address these challenges in the future.

By Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu

In a move that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has officially parted ways with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and pitched his tent with the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

While party defections are common in Nigerian politics, El-Rufai’s departure from the ruling party carries significant political implications that could alter the dynamics leading up to the 2027 elections.

For a man instrumental in the formation of the APC and a staunch ally of former President Muhammadu Buhari, El-Rufai’s departure raises critical questions. Is this a strategic move to remain politically relevant? A protest against President Bola Tinubu’s leadership? Or does it signal widening cracks within the APC that could deepen in the coming years?

El-Rufai’s political journey within the APC has been marked by loyalty, controversy, and influence. As a key figure in the party’s 2015 victory over the PDP, he was regarded as one of the strongest voices in Buhari’s inner circle.

His tenure as Kaduna governor further solidified his image as a reformist, albeit one who often courted controversy. From restructuring Kaduna’s civil service to his hardline stance on security issues, El-Rufai commanded attention. Under Buhari, he wielded significant influence, not just within Kaduna but on the national stage.

Many expected him to secure a prominent role in Tinubu’s government. However, cracks began to show when he was dropped from the ministerial list, allegedly over security concerns flagged by the National Security Adviser.

El-Rufai’s departure from the APC is not a hasty decision; it represents the culmination of increasing frustration. His rejection as a minister was perceived by many as a calculated marginalization, signaling the start of his estrangement from the ruling party’s core decision-making processes. 

Reports suggest he became increasingly disillusioned with Tinubu’s governance style, particularly in handling economic and security challenges. The former governor is known for his bluntness, and sources indicate that his inability to influence policies within the APC played a significant role in his decision.

While his supporters argue that his move to the SDP is based on principle, critics suggest it is driven by personal ambition—positioning himself for a possible political comeback in 2027.

El-Rufai’s choice of the SDP, rather than the PDP or a new political movement, is intriguing. The SDP remains a relatively small force compared to the APC and PDP, raising questions about whether he genuinely believes in the party’s ideology or sees it as a convenient platform to negotiate his future.

Some analysts believe El-Rufai is playing the long game—joining a smaller party now to avoid confrontations with APC heavyweights while testing the waters for potential alliances with other opposition figures ahead of 2027. Others argue that he has limited options, given his strained relationship with Tinubu’s camp and his unlikelihood of returning to the PDP, a party he once fiercely opposed.

Expectedly, the APC has brushed off El-Rufai’s departure, with the Presidency dismissing it as driven by “inordinate ambition.” Kaduna’s APC leadership has also claimed they are unbothered, arguing that his influence has waned significantly since leaving office. 

However, political observers note that El-Rufai’s defection could have ripple effects. While he may not command a nationwide political structure, his ability to shape narratives, especially in northern politics, should not be underestimated. Some opposition figures, including former Senator Shehu Sani, have downplayed his move, arguing that El-Rufai’s political relevance has diminished.

El-Rufai’s defection is not just about one man leaving a party—it reflects deeper tensions within the APC. Since taking power in 2023, Tinubu has had to balance competing interests within the ruling party, from former Buhari loyalists to his own political allies. The cracks within the party are becoming more visible, and if not managed properly, they could deepen before 2027.

For El-Rufai, the road ahead is uncertain. Aligning with the SDP may be a strategic step, but it remains to be seen whether it will translate into real political leverage. Is this the beginning of a broader coalition to challenge APC dominance, or will it end up as another failed defection story in Nigeria’s political history?

One thing is clear—El-Rufai’s move has reignited conversations about Nigeria’s shifting political landscape. Whether it leads to a major realignment or fizzles out as an individual protest remains to be seen.

Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu, an NYSC serving corps member, writes from the Center for Crisis Communication (CCC) in Abuja.

By Isma’il Gambo Muhammad (IGMB)

Students from the Information and Media Studies department organized a one-day Iftar gathering at the Faculty of Communication, Bayero University, Kano, to promote unity among themselves, their teachers, and the broader university community.

The event took place one day after the last exam of the second semester, aimed at fostering cordial and lasting academic relationships within IMS as one family while celebrating the month of Ramadan, seen as a time of kindness and all forms of goodness and mercy.

The occasion has graciously received the honor of inviting five competent and indigenous lecturers from the department, including the Head of the Department (HOD), Prof. Nura Ibrahim; Level Three Coordinator, Dr. Muhammad Ɗanja;Faculty Examination Officer, Dr. Aliyu Isa Agaye; Level Four Coordinator (IMS), Dr. Saminu Umar; and above all, Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad from the University of Abuja.

Many representatives from various university departments attended, including the Faculty of Computing, Software Engineering, Cyber Security, and some SUG officials from the BUK chapter.

Students voluntarily offered various contributions, including comfort foods, delicious dishes, meats, fruits, and a wide selection of drinks, ensuring that each attendee was sufficiently served.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Muhammad Ɗanja warmly welcomed everyone to the grand occasion. 

In his comments, Prof. Nura Ibrahim stated that IMS is more than just a studentship; it is a family. He mentioned, “As long as all the IMS levels come together to observe the IFTAR next year, I will certainly invite the Vice Chancellor (VC) to the occasion.”

However, in their keynote speeches, all the invited lecturers expressed their heartfelt happiness and gratitude to all the attendees, and they mentioned their ongoing commitment to supporting such a significant gesture in the future.

The lecturers encouraged and inspired the students to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in real-life situations. They concluded by drawing the attention of potential Level Four (SIWES) students to maximize their efforts, broaden their horizons, and seize opportunities for skill acquisition at their respective organizations where they are posted for service. They prayed for the ongoing progress of the Department and its students.

Ultimately, in his closing remarks, Coordinator Muazu Salihu expressed a heartfelt thank you to all the lecturers and fellow students for honoring the invitation and wished everyone a safe journey back to their respective destinations.

By Anas Abbas

As the joyful Sallah festival approaches, local chicken, broiler chicken, and a unique breed known as “merger” producers are expressing concerns over a significant drop in patronage, which raises worries about the future of their businesses.

Traditionally, this festive season witnesses a surge in demand for chicken as families prepare to celebrate with delicious meals. However, this year, many farmers are facing an unprecedented challenge, including the high cost of chicken feed, losses of the chickens due to hot weather conditions, and low patronage.

In an interview with The Daily Reality, Mallam Shuaibu Ismail, a seasoned chicken seller and rearer, expressed his disappointment. “In previous years, we would have sold out most of our stock by now,” he said. “This time, however, the orders have been minimal, and it’s worrying. We rely on this season to sustain our families and businesses throughout the year.”

“Due to economic hardship, people are not supporting the local chicken businesses, and the chickens have been affected by an unexpected disease,” he added.

Jamila Sulaiman, a broiler rearer, expressed, “Sallah is usually a time of joy for us. We prepare for months in advance, but this year, many customers seem hesitant to buy. We hope that as the festival gets closer, people will start to purchase more, as the chickens are dying because of the sunny weather. Yesterday morning, I found three dead,” she stated.

“If people don’t buy, we will be at great risk as the price of broiler feed approaches 26000, compared to last year N8000,” she added.

The reasons for the low patronage are varied. Some producers attribute it to the rising cost of living and inflation, which have made it difficult for families to budget for festive meals. Others believe that changing consumer preferences and increased competition from larger poultry suppliers may also be contributing factors.

Despite these challenges, local rearers remain hopeful that demand will increase as Sallah approaches. “We are optimistic that people will remember the significance of Sallah meat for their families,” said Isuhu Wada.

“Purchasing the chicken benefits us and also boosts our economy, as we will spend the money on something else.”

As the festival approaches, local chicken farmers are urging consumers to support their businesses and keep the spirit of Sallah alive through communal meals and community support.

By AMA Baffa 

The fields of theology and physics go hand in hand in explaining the existence of God and His omnipotence. Theology studies who the divine being—God Almighty—is, His power of creation, and everything He creates. Physics measures everything around us, from the smallest particles to medium-sized ones, up to the heavenly bodies and beyond, which constitute matter. It explores how these elements came about and the general underlying laws of their interactions. 

Whenever God wills to create or transform something in His kingdom, i.e., the universe or multiverse, if it exists, He simply states, “Be, and it is.” The general mechanism He uses, which applies to all His creations, is proportionality and measurement, as emphasized in numerous places in the noble scripture. 

Only what He decides to reveal and when it is revealed is known to mankind. The behavior of the majority of matter in the universe remains a mystery due to its different fundamentals and laws compared to the known matter we belong to, such as dark matter, which may be understood in the future or not at all. Perhaps this is why God says that the creation of the universe is more complex than that of humans.

Whenever there is a breakthrough in physics research, it transforms other areas of knowledge, as Prof. D. J. O’Connor highlighted in his book An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education. He stated, ‘The laws of physics set the framework within which the laws of chemistry may be found. Chemistry establishes a similar framework for biology, and biology does the same for psychology. Similarly, the laws of psychology define the limits within which the specialized sciences of man, such as economics and sociology, can be understood.’

According to some scholars of Qur’anic commentary, the verse that mentions those of God’s servants who possess knowledge and fear Allah refers specifically to the fields of physical science that explain the process of creation.

The universe was created on the principle of duality of existence or opposition, exemplified by the tangible material things understood through science, whose fundamentals lie in mathematics on the one hand, and the ideas comprehended through the liberal arts, whose fundamentals reside in semiotics and language on the other.

Language acts as the vehicle that conveys messages to the brain, enabling contemplation and facilitating logic— the rules of thinking that apply to both natural science and the liberal arts— to be practiced effectively and deeply. The interconnectedness between language and logic cannot be overstated, as they are both extensively employed by theologians and physicists, necessitating significant attention for in-depth understanding.

God is always a step ahead of any description of the laws of nature that science may provide, as He exists in one realm while the universe, as His creation, exists in another. The funniest thing is that when science discovers and describes a phenomenon, it completely removes God from the equation, as if the idea itself, matter, energy, and the processes of their interactions and histories are all self-sufficient without any power behind their existence. 

Yet, they advocate for laws stating that matter and energy can neither be created nor destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. Understanding a mechanism is different from understanding the object’s creator and phenomenon. That being who created them exists beyond their realm, differs from them, and is called God. 

God exists beyond the universe and multiverse and will never be understood through the physical laws of physics and chemistry. The less one understands God, the more ignorant one becomes.

AMA Baffa wrote via amabaffa@yahoo.com.

By Uzair Adam

The Presidency has refuted allegations that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political figures in Rivers State was a power grab, asserting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took action to prevent the state from plunging into chaos.

In a statement on Sunday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, explained that the intervention was necessary to restore stability, arguing that waiting for a complete breakdown of governance would have been reckless.

The political turmoil in Rivers State, fueled by a power struggle between Governor Fubara and State House of Assembly members loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had paralyzed governance.

Despite Supreme Court rulings affirming constitutional authority, tensions persisted. Intelligence reports, according to the Presidency, indicated that militants in the creeks were prepared to attack critical oil infrastructure, threatening national economic security.

“Had President Tinubu failed to act, Rivers State could have descended into violence, with lawmakers and vital oil facilities at risk. Schools and hospitals would have shut down, investors would have fled, and the economic consequences would have been severe,” the statement read.

By March 18, the Presidency said, the crisis had escalated beyond political negotiations, making intervention unavoidable. Critics have described the suspension of Governor Fubara and others as undemocratic, but the Presidency insists it was a temporary measure to reset governance, not an attempt to seize power.

“This is not a power grab,” the statement noted.

“The intervention is temporary, aimed at stabilizing governance. The six-month suspension is designed to de-escalate tensions and restore order.”

The Presidency also accused some critics of hypocrisy, noting that many who condemned the President’s decision remained silent on Fubara’s alleged refusal to cooperate with the legislature.

“Democracy cannot function in lawlessness—anarchy is its enemy,” Onanuga stated.

Citing Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants the President the power to act in times of crisis, the statement referenced past emergency rule measures in Plateau and Borno States as precedents for Tinubu’s decision.

“The President swore an oath to safeguard national stability. Rivers State is a vital economic hub, and any political disruption in its oil sector has nationwide consequences,” it added.

With the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) as the Administrator of Rivers State, efforts are already underway to restore peace and governance. One of his first steps was engaging traditional leaders to find lasting solutions.

The Presidency assured Nigerians that the emergency measures would be lifted once normalcy returns, allowing elected officials to resume their duties.

Defending Tinubu’s decision, the statement quoted philosopher Edmund Burke: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A recent analysis of how medical professionals are spread across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has uncovered some striking differences in the number of doctors available to meet the needs of the country’s growing population.

Leading the pack is Lagos, the nation’s bustling commercial center, boasting an impressive 7,385 doctors. Following closely is the FCT with 4,453 doctors, and then Rivers, which has 2,194 doctors.

Other notable states include Enugu with 2,070 doctors, Oyo with 1,996, and Edo with 1,777, all of which highlight the correlation between urbanization and the demand for healthcare services.

These areas tend to attract more healthcare workers, drawn by the opportunities in metropolitan settings.

However, the report also sheds light on a troubling disparity in healthcare professional availability across different states.

While southern and southwestern states generally enjoy a better doctor-to-population ratio, the northern and northeastern regions are facing a significant shortage of medical personnel.

Taraba, situated in northeastern Nigeria, has the fewest doctors, with only 201, which raises serious concerns about the challenges of providing adequate healthcare in that area.

Other states like Yobe (275 doctors), Adamawa (280 doctors), and Kebbi (273 doctors) further illustrate how the distribution of medical staff is heavily tilted towards more urbanized and economically prosperous regions.

Among the states with lower doctor counts, Zamfara (267 doctors), Jigawa (255 doctors), and Gombe (485 doctors) also highlight a significant gap in healthcare access.

This uneven distribution means that many areas in Nigeria, especially in the north and rural regions, are struggling to deliver quality healthcare services to their communities.

In contrast, southern states like Akwa Ibom (888 doctors) and Abia (829 doctors) show a more favorable situation, underscoring the ongoing challenges in achieving equitable healthcare access across the country.

By Anwar Usman

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it has apprehended a 42 year old Indian woman, Ms. Neetu Neetu, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, with 72 parcels of heroin wraped and packaged as chocolates.

This was revealed disclosed via a statement issued by the Director of Media and Advocacy of the agency, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday, the shipment with 11kg weight was seized from Neetu’s luggage after a search at the arrival hall of the airport.

Based on credible intelligence, the operation took place during the inward clearance of Qatar Airways flight QR1431 from Bangkok, Thailand, via Vietnam and Doha, on March 14, 2025.

On his part, the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) while reacting about the arrest, highlighted a disturbing trend of drug cartels hiring foreign nationals, including white women, to traffic illicit substances through Nigerian borders.

He further stated that, “This growing tactic by drug trafficking organisations has consistently been frustrated by our vigilant officers with the aid of modern technological tools and proactive intelligence”.

Marwa commended the NDLEA officers in MAKIA, Lagos, and Kano Commands for their relentless efforts.

He noted the agency’s dual focus on drug supply and demand reduction.

“Our operatives must not relent in ensuring a balanced and sustained fight against drug abuse and trafficking nationwide,” Marwa urged.