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By Sabiu Abdullahi

A U.S. Senator, Edward J. Markey, has demanded the immediate removal of President Donald Trump from office. He described the president’s recent remarks as dangerous and without precedent.

In a statement issued in Boston on April 7, 2026, Markey said, “With each passing day, it becomes increasingly apparent that Donald Trump is unstable and a clear and present danger, not just to the American people but to the world. He must be removed from office before he causes incalculable and unfathomable harm.”

He dismissed the idea that limited legislative steps would address the situation. Markey stressed that stronger action was necessary.

“At this point, a war powers resolution, although required under our constitutional order, will not be enough. We have a warmonger in the White House,” he said.

“He has threatened war crimes on an apocalyptic scale and appears eager to commit them, including through the possible use of nuclear weapons. We cannot fund this illegal war. The Congress must act now.”

The senator called on lawmakers to move quickly. He outlined constitutional options available to Congress and the executive branch.

“The House and Senate must return to session. The House must pass articles of impeachment, and then the Senate must vote to convict and remove the President. Or, the cabinet and Vice President, with congressional concurrence, must invoke the 25th Amendment and remove Trump,” he said.

Markey warned that the situation carries serious global implications.

“His threats cannot be dismissed as mere rhetoric. This is as grave a moment as the world has faced in the nuclear era,” he said.

Meanwhile, Republican Congressman Nathaniel Moran has taken a more cautious stance. He distanced himself from extreme rhetoric linked to the rising tension between the United States and Iran.

In a statement released on April 7, 2026, Moran emphasized the importance of strong national defense. He also stressed that military action must follow legal and moral standards.

“The United States of America must always be prepared to use overwhelming military force when necessary to defend our national security interests and protect Americans at home and abroad,” Moran said.

He added that presidential powers must remain within constitutional limits.

“And, a President should have the latitude to make decisions to that end, but only to the extent that those decisions are also consistent with the inherent authority of a Commander-in-Chief under the U.S. Constitution and the provisions of the War Powers Resolution,” he stated.

Moran explained that his earlier support for Trump’s actions on Iran was based on their alignment with national security and legal authority.

“To date, I have supported the President’s decisions relating to the Iranian conflict because they were consistent with these authorities and the ultimate goal of protecting national security interests,” he added.

However, he rejected calls that suggest wiping out an entire society. He said such statements go against American values.

“At the same time, what sets America apart is not only our strength, but how we use it. Our nation has always conducted military operations for just causes and through just and moral means. This must continue in the future; otherwise we forfeit our legitimacy to lead the world,” Moran said.

“So, let me be clear: I do not support the destruction of a ‘whole civilization.’ That is not who we are, and it is not consistent with the principles that have long guided America,” he said.

Reaffirming his position, Moran said, “I have and will continue to support a strong national defense—one that is focused, disciplined, and firmly rooted in protecting the safety and security of the American people. But, how we protect the lives of the innocent is just as important as how we engage the enemy.”

He concluded by stating, “America is great because America is good.”

The remarks from both lawmakers come amid growing political reactions to President Trump’s recent comments on the Iran crisis. The president had earlier warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” as tensions continued to rise.

He also said, “However, now that we have Complete and Total Regime Change, where different, smarter, and less radicalized minds prevail, maybe something revolutionarily wonderful can happen, WHO KNOWS? We will find out tonight, one of the most important moments in the long and complex history of the World. 47 years of extortion, corruption, and death, will finally end. God Bless the Great People of Iran!”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Washington, April 7, 2026 – United States President Donald Trump has said he is unconcerned about accusations of possible war crimes linked to threats of attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure. His remarks came as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise over a looming deadline tied to a proposed agreement.

Trump warned that the US could target key facilities such as power plants, bridges, oil wells, and water desalination sites if Iran fails to comply. Such targets are protected under international humanitarian law.

“I’m not worried about it,” Mr Trump said when asked during a press conference on Monday what he would say to those who allege that striking energy facilities would amount to war crimes. “You know the war crime? The war crime is allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” he added.

When pressed further, the US leader described Iran’s leadership as “animals” and accused them of killing large numbers of protesters.

He also spoke about Iran’s oil resources and suggested he would take control of them under different circumstances. “I’d keep the oil, and I would make plenty of money,” he said.

Trump has already issued a deadline for Tehran to reach a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He warned of severe consequences if the demand is not met. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he wrote: “There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F***in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell.”

At the same briefing, Trump addressed concerns that such attacks could harm civilians. He responded: “It’s suffering. They would be willing to suffer that in order to have freedom.”

The president appeared alongside Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who is facing criticism from US lawmakers. Democrat Yassamin Ansari accused him of supporting unlawful military actions.

“Trump is escalating a devastating, illegal war, threatening massive war crimes and targeting civilian infrastructure in Iran. In the last 48 hours alone, the rhetoric has crossed every line. Pete Hegseth is complicit,” Ansari wrote in a post on X.

“I’ve called for the 25th Amendment and am introducing Articles of Impeachment against Hegseth,” she added.

Criticism also came from other political figures in the United States. Senator Chuck Schumer said: “He’s threatening possible war crimes and alienating allies. This is who he is, but this is not who we are. Our country deserves so much better.”

Senator Chris Murphy described Trump’s remarks as “completely unhinged”.

Marjorie Taylor Greene, once an ally of the president, also reacted strongly. She wrote: “Everyone in his administration that claims to be a Christian needs to fall on their knees and beg forgiveness from God and stop worshipping the President and intervene in Trump’s madness.”

She continued: “Trump threatening to bomb power plants and bridges hurts the Iranian people, the very people Trump claimed he was freeing […] This is not making America great again, this is evil.”

The United Nations has also raised concerns. A spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that international law prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“Even if specific civilian infrastructure were to qualify as a military objective,” Stephane Dujarric said, an attack would still be prohibited if it risks “excessive incidental civilian harm”.

Meanwhile, the White House confirmed that a 45-day ceasefire proposal had been discussed but not approved by Trump. Iran has rejected the temporary arrangement and is instead calling for a permanent end to the conflict.

By Salmanu Isa Darazo


Nigeria’s banking sector has entered a new phase of strength and global relevance following the successful completion of a sweeping recapitalisation exercise spearheaded by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The exercise, which mandated banks to meet new capital thresholds by March 31, 2026, is widely regarded as the most significant reform since the 2005 consolidation era—signalling a bold regulatory shift aimed at repositioning the financial system for long-term economic transformation.


A Strategic Reform Anchored by the CBN

At the heart of the exercise is the CBN’s vision to build a resilient, well-capitalised banking system capable of supporting Nigeria’s ambition of a $1 trillion economy. By enforcing higher capital requirements, ranging from ₦10 billion for regional non-interest banks to ₦500 billion for international commercial banks—the apex bank has effectively reset the industry’s financial architecture.

The results are striking: Nigerian banks collectively raised ₦4.65 trillion, with 33 institutions meeting the new thresholds. Notably, the recapitalisation attracted both local (72.55%) and international (27.45%) investments, underscoring renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial system and regulatory credibility.


Strengthening Stability and Global Competitiveness

Analysts note that the recapitalisation significantly enhances banks’ ability to absorb economic shocks while aligning Nigeria’s financial system with global standards such as Basel III.

Beyond compliance, the reform signals a transition to stronger corporate governance, improved risk management, and enhanced regulatory oversight—all driven by the CBN’s supervisory framework.

This positions Nigerian banks not just as domestic financial intermediaries, but as competitive players in the global financial ecosystem.


Unlocking Financing for National Development

A key outcome of the CBN-led reform is the expansion of banks’ lending capacity. With stronger balance sheets, financial institutions are now better equipped to fund large-scale projects across critical sectors, including infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, and technology.

This increased capacity is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s industrialisation drive and support export diversification—key pillars of the Federal Government’s economic agenda.


CBN’s Role in Policy Coordination and Economic Stability

The recapitalisation also reflects growing synergy between monetary and fiscal authorities. By aligning its policies with government growth objectives, the Central Bank of Nigeria is strengthening policy transmission mechanisms, improving liquidity management, and reinforcing inflation control measures.

This coordinated approach enhances macroeconomic stability while ensuring that financial sector reforms translate into real economic outcomes.


A Foundation for Inclusive Growth

Beyond macroeconomic gains, the reform carries significant implications for financial inclusion. A stronger banking system is better positioned to expand credit access to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), support grassroots economic activities, and deepen financial penetration across underserved communities.

The CBN’s broader objective, analysts say, is to build a financial system that is not only robust but inclusive—capable of delivering growth that is both sustainable and widely shared.










The Road Ahead

While most banks have met the new requirements, those yet to fully recapitalise remain operational and are progressing toward compliance under CBN supervision.

Industry observers agree that the recapitalisation marks a turning point—laying the groundwork for a stronger, more transparent, and globally competitive banking sector.

Conclusion

The recapitalisation exercise is more than a regulatory adjustment—it is a strategic economic intervention led by the Central Bank of Nigeria. By strengthening financial institutions, boosting investor confidence, and aligning with national development goals, the CBN has set the stage for sustained economic growth and stability.

For Nigeria, the message is clear: a resilient banking system is not just desirable—it is essential for the future.

Salmanu Isah Darazo is an analyst and publisher, he can be reached via Salmanudrz@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has called on its citizens to take protective action around critical national assets following renewed threats from the United States, Sky News reports.

The request comes as multiple attacks on Iran’s strategic infrastructure have heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with tensions rising between Tehran, Washington, and Israel.

“Iran has called on young people to form human chains around power plants, after Donald Trump threatened to hit them.”

The announcement coincides with a looming deadline issued by former US President Donald Trump, which has intensified uncertainty about possible military operations.

“Trump’s deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 1am UK time on Wednesday looms.”

Iranian media reported that Kharg Island, a vital hub for oil exports, has been struck again amid the ongoing hostilities.

“Iran’s Kharg Island has been hit by several strikes, according to a report from the Iranian Mehr news agency.”

The island is central to Iran’s economy due to its key role in oil exports.

“The island is an oil export hub for Iran.”

Earlier in the conflict, US strikes avoided causing significant damage to the island’s infrastructure.

“The US bombed the island earlier in the war but Donald Trump made a point of saying at the time that it left Iran’s oil infrastructure alone.”

Nevertheless, Trump has previously hinted at targeting the island for strategic leverage.

“Trump has, at various points, threatened that the US could take the island to control Iran’s oil.”

Recent reports from US media also point to fresh military action targeting facilities on Kharg Island.

“The US has conducted strikes on military targets on Iran’s Kharg ⁠Island, according to American news website Axios, citing an unidentified senior US official.”

Elsewhere in Iran, additional strikes hit transport infrastructure in the central and northern regions.

“We’re receiving reports from Iranian media that a recent Israeli strike struck the Yahya Abad railway bridge in the city of Kashan, in central Iran.”

Authorities confirmed casualties in one incident, highlighting the impact on civilians.

“The Mehr News agency quoted the deputy governor of Isfahan as saying that the strike killed two people.”

Further disruptions occurred on major routes in the north-west and north, following safety warnings issued by Israeli forces.

“Strikes were also reported on the Tabriz-Zanjan freeway in the northwest and a railway in Karaj in the north.”

By Rabi Ummi Umar

On the cool evening of Thursday, April 2nd, 2026, I returned home after an exhausting day of accomplishing my mission in Edo State, popularly known as the “Heartbeat of the Nation” for its rich cultural heritage. 

As I took a moment to unwind and pack my bags for my return journey to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, a thought struck me, echoing a conversation from earlier that would not easily be shaken off.

It circled back to a personal reflection titled “When We Focus on What Truly Matters.” After that heartfelt conversation with a friend, one can’t help but wonder whether we’ve truly been living out the “sermon,” especially in our own lives. 

Yet, those moments of self-doubt reveal something profound: the beauty of life lies in its openness. As long as we remain receptive, each day presents a renewed chance for self-examination and an invitation to learn and grow.

This friend, who is deeply involved in politics, spoke passionately about his thing. While I don’t typically report on government affairs, my discipline as a communicator gives me more than enough to follow along. 

Nonetheless, that specific dialogue shifted my perspective entirely. It made me realise how many others might change their minds if they were privy to the same insights. That realisation is exactly why putting those to paper became an inspiration.

The weeks in Edo allowed me to embrace a spirit of exploration, stepping outside my comfort zone to truly thrive even in spaces I never thought possible or even imagined visiting. It was the unpredictable beauty of life, perhaps why travelling is said to be a form of gaining from the vast body of knowledge.

During Ramadan, there was an event for the “City Boy Movement.” Initially, I assumed it was strictly “for the boys,” and, to be honest, the concept caught my fancy, but I kept an open mind. 

Surprisingly, it was organic and inclusive, spanning 36 states and involving men, women, the elderly, and, interestingly, the physically challenged. While “rice sharing” politics was never something to admire, I walked away that day with a much deeper understanding of the grassroots and its place in politics.

A few weeks later, a conference organised by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Student Welfare and Development, a dear friend, took place. Some attendees like myself were there simply “to see,” but the event was blown away. As someone who values authenticity and integrity over political optics, I found the turnout genuinely impressive. 

Despite being born and raised in Edo and being the daughter of a former SSA to the State Government (2023), I had never witnessed an event of this calibre in the state before. It stood out as a beacon of what is possible if everyone played their part, if and when youths are involved in the scheme of things. 

These encounters brought a realisation that while the state, like many in Nigeria, still faces significant lapses, the progress is undeniable. From new flyovers and school construction to massive infrastructural shifts, the developments in education and youth empowerment are particularly striking. 

This experience made me wonder, if so much is happening here beneath the surface, how many “small wins” are we overlooking in other states? Nigeria, as a whole, is currently weathering a storm that cannot be ignored. 

We are battling banditry, kidnapping, insecurity, and a staggering cost of living. To many, it feels as though things are only getting worse. Yet if you look more closely, there is incremental progress.

Take the education sector, for example. The era of constant Academic Staff Union of Nigeria (ASUU) strikes has finally lost its steam compared to years past. The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) is also there, providing loans and stipends to students; it is systematically reducing the number of students who would otherwise miss tertiary education across the country.

Of course, the heartbreak of insecurity remains. It is illogical and devastating when groups attack villages without demands, leaving only grief behind. In these moments of unrest, it is easy to point fingers solely at President Tinubu. But some of our issues start much closer to home, with us, the citizens.

I remember a friend whose father was assassinated at his doorstep; despite the proximity, every neighbour claimed they “saw nothing.” Another friend was robbed during our university days; when she screamed for help, neighbours simply locked their doors tighter. 

The bitter reality is that we rarely look out for one another. How can we expect a transformation at the top when we refuse to show humanity to those beside us?

We have become a nation of finger-pointers. Many have traded accountability for ignorance, blaming leadership for even the smallest personal failings. Too many youths today avoid research and critical thinking, choosing instead to sit back and complain, a habit that only digs our collective hole deeper.

Yes, there is a mountain of work left to do. But we must acknowledge the work already being done. Our government is trying. From my vantage point, the President is a solution-oriented leader doing his best under immense pressure.

Consider this: when inflation hits, marketers and drivers are the first to hike prices. We understand why. But when the economy stabilises, and costs drop, those prices stay sky-high under the guise of “old stock.” Is that the President’s fault, or are we our own worst enemies?

As Nigerians, we need to have these uncomfortable conversations. The popular saying “change begins with me” is not just a poetic catchphrase; it is a practical necessity. We must be the change we seek if we ever hope to experience the Nigeria we want.

As I head back to Abuja, I am carrying the lessons from Edo with me. We are making progress, but there is still a lot more to do. We all just need to pitch in to get to the utopia we deserve.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a corps member in Abuja. She can be reached via rabiumar058@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A synagogue in Tehran was “completely destroyed” following United States-Israeli airstrikes, Iranian media reported, as overnight attacks across Iran left more than a dozen dead.

“According to preliminary information, the Rafi-Nia Synagogue … was completely destroyed in this morning’s attacks,” reported Shargh newspaper on Tuesday.

Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency said the synagogue collapsed after an adjacent residential building in central Tehran was targeted. Video footage showed civil defence workers amid the rubble, with Hebrew-language books scattered on the ground.

The report added that narrow streets around the attacked building caused significant damage to the exterior and interior of neighboring structures. There was no immediate confirmation of casualties at the synagogue.

In a video shared on Telegram by Iran’s official IRIB News, Homayoun Sameh, a Jewish representative in the Islamic Consultative Assembly, said: “the Zionist regime showed no mercy to this community during the Jewish holidays and targeted one of our ancient and holy synagogues. Unfortunately, during this attack, the synagogue building was completely destroyed and our Torah scrolls were left under the rubble.”

Judaism is among Iran’s legally recognised minority religions, and the country has a small Jewish population, though many fled after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Shargh described the synagogue as “one of the most important places for Khorasan Jews to gather and celebrate.”

The strikes were part of a series of US-Israeli attacks overnight. Local media reported at least 15 people killed across Iran. Mehr stated that six bodies were recovered from rubble in Pardis, east of Tehran, while officials confirmed nine fatalities in an Israeli air attack on a residential area in Shahriar, west of Tehran province.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman Zuru, has passed away.

Zuru died on Monday night in an Egyptian hospital, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. Sources close to the Kebbi State Government confirmed his death, but details of his condition were not released.

Until his passing, Zuru represented Zuru Constituency in the state assembly and was considered a key figure in the legislature.

Confirming the development, an aide to the governor on Communication and Strategy, Idris Zuru, described the news as shocking.

“The death of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman Zuru, came to us as a rude shock. It is a painful loss not only to Kebbi State but to the entire nation,” he said.

He added that further information would be shared by the government.

“We are still gathering full details surrounding his passing. The government will make an official statement and announce burial arrangements in consultation with the family,” Idris Zuru stated.

Additional announcements regarding funeral arrangements are expected from both the state government and the family.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has apprehended five individuals linked to the unlawful discharge of firearms at a social gathering, which resulted in the death of a teenage girl.

Reports show that a stray bullet, allegedly fired by members of a vigilante group, claimed the life of a 14-year-old girl last Saturday inside her family home at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) quarters.

In a statement released Monday, the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI, together with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), arrested the five suspects in the Ngomari general area.

“The incident occurred at about 2:00pm on April 4, when vigilantes, later identified as members of an escorts team attached to the Chairman of a Local Government Area engaged in sporadic firing into the air during a wedding celebration at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters.

“The reckless act led to the death of a young girl. The troops acted swiftly, traced and apprehended five suspects identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).”

Lt. Col. Uba added that the suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has demanded that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, retract his comments against journalist Seun Okinbaloye and issue a public apology, according to a report by TheCable.

IBAN also threatened to boycott all press briefings organised by Wike if he fails to meet the demand.

The threat follows Wike’s statement that he could “shoot” Okinbaloye while criticising the journalist’s opinion on a television programme. Wike later clarified that he did not mean the remark literally.

The association said that despite the subsequent clarification, such language is unbecoming of a public official, as it could intimidate journalists and further worsen the already challenging environment in which they operate.

IBAN urged the minister to retract his statement, tender an apology, and demonstrate support for press freedom, warning that failure to do so would lead them to suspend coverage of all his official activities.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Military forces have dealt a fresh blow to insurgent groups operating in central Nigeria, neutralizing two suspected terrorists and arresting a kidnapper during back-to-back clearance operations in Plateau State.

The raids, conducted by troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE under the special mandate of Operation WUTAN DAJI, targeted known insurgent corridors in Wase Local Government Area on April 4, 2026. Local vigilantes joined the coordinated mission across Babangida, Adua, and Bokayi villages within the dense Dutsen Zaki forest.

A fierce firefight erupted along the Babangida–Adua road, where troops engaged armed terrorists. Two suspects were killed on the spot, while others fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, according to military sources. A subsequent search recovered one locally fabricated firearm, a belt containing 105 rounds of 7.62mm PKT ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a cutlass.

In a separate operation early Sunday, troops in Namu District of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area intercepted four suspected armed individuals based on credible intelligence. A search revealed 100 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition in their possession.

When troops moved to dismantle the suspects’ hideout, they came under heavy fire from the terrorists’ associates. In the ensuing chaos, three of the four apprehended suspects attempted to escape and were struck down by their own accomplices’ gunfire.

Meanwhile, in Shendam Local Government Area at about 9:35 a.m., troops working with local residents arrested a suspected kidnapper at Gidan Mangoro village. The suspect is linked to a kidnapping incident that occurred in the area on April 3.

All suspects are now in custody facing further investigation and potential legal action. The military has called on citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as clearance operations continue.