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By Fatima Ishaq Muhammad

Kano, known for its deep Islamic practices and royal traditions, witnessed a historic and uneasy moment during the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations as two rival Emirs led separate congregational prayers in different parts of the city.

This development demonstrated the woeful crisis over the leadership of the Kano traditional Emirate, which, indeed, remained one of the most powerful traditional institutes in northern Nigeria.

Moreover, on one side was Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, reinstated in May 2024 by the Kano State Government after being dethroned in 2020. Aminu Ado Bayero was installed as Emir on the other side after Sanusi’s removal. He still maintains that he remains the rightful occupant of the royal seat.

During the Eid celebrations, Emir Sanusi II led prayers at the Kofar Mata Eid Ground, traditionally recognized as the seat of the Emir’s religious leadership.

Meanwhile, Emir Aminu Bayero held his prayers at a different location, with loyalists gathered around him. For the first time in recent memory, Kano experienced two major Eid congregations, each holding up to a divided royal allegiance within the ancient city.

This unprecedented situation did not happen in isolation, but it resulted from the recurring tussle over the Kano Emirate, rooted in politics and personal rivalries.

Sanusi II’s removal in 2020 by the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje was widely termed as punishment for his massive outspoken criticism of the government.

His reinstatement by the current government of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has been challenged in court by Bayero’s supporters, creating legal and political uncertainty over who the legitimate Emir of Kano is.

The split Eid prayers skyrocketed across Kano and beyond, symbolizing the Emirate’s division and disunity of authority.

What should have been a day of religious unity became a visible sign of division in the state’s leadership. Thankfully, no major disturbances were reported, though tensions remain high.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the traditional Durbar festival, which usually follows the Eid prayers, was banned by the police for security reasons.

The ban disappointed many residents, as the Durbar is integral to Kano’s cultural identity and economic life.

As the legal battles escalate, many residents and observers fear that the division within Kano’s traditional leadership could escalate unless a clear resolution is provided by the courts or through dialogue among key stakeholders.

For now, Kano remains a city with two Emirs, two congregations, and a divided loyalty, awaiting clarity on the future of one of northern Nigeria’s most important royal institutions.

Fatima Ishaq Muhammad via fatimaishaq021@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A lecturer at the Kano State Polytechnic, Aisar Salihu Musa, has publicly praised the state’s Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, for what he described as a massive improvement in security presence in areas previously known for phone snatching and violent gang activities.

In a Facebook post published on Friday, Musa expressed his appreciation. He said, “Honestly, we must thank the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori. May Allah reward him with goodness.”

He noted that several locations in Kano where residents had long complained about phone thefts and gang fights—especially during the evening hours—are now witnessing visible deployment of security personnel.

“Most places that were once hotspots for phone snatching or gang clashes in the evening now have two police patrol vehicles stationed there. You will also see the anti-thuggery squad supporting them,” the lecturer wrote.

He recalled that in just the last two days, he personally visited at least four neighborhoods and saw the new security arrangement in action.

These included Dorayi (both ‘Karshen Waya’ and the burnt fuel station area), Kabuga, Sharada, Kofar Mata, and Kofar Fanfo.

While expressing hope that other areas like Kurna, Rijiyar Lemo, Hotoro, and Gadan Kaya would also benefit from similar interventions, Musa urged that the initiative be sustained and that suspected miscreants continue to be arrested and hidden away from public harm.

Recounting a personal experience, he described how he once had to pick up a package at night in a location known for gang violence.

“As I approached, I remembered the stories about gang fights in that area. I felt very uneasy. I’ve made a vow never to go to any place at night if there’s no adequate security,” he wrote.“But then I saw two police vehicles at the location. I felt a huge sense of relief. It was at that moment that I truly understood the importance of security officers in our communities.”

He concluded with a moral reflection that says “Anyone who cannot appreciate people when they do good will find it difficult to thank God.”

Musa commended Commissioner Bakori once more and prayed for continued peace and protection in Kano and beyond.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An incident was reported to have occurred at the premises of Mamuda Agro Company located in Challawa, Kano State, where a worker was allegedly stabbed to death by a supervisor.

The victim, whose identity has not yet been officially released, was described by Comrade Mukhtar Yunusa Lambu—who claims to be a relative of the deceased—as “a younger brother and a close family member.”

In a Facebook post published on Wednesday, Comrade Mukhtar wrote: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. This servant of Allah was my younger brother and relative. He was killed at Mamuda Agro Company in Challawa where a supervisor stabbed him, which led to his death.”

According to Mukhtar, the company later transported the deceased’s body home using one of its vehicles. He also made an appeal to relevant authorities for justice.

“We are calling on the leadership, especially the Governor of Kano State, the Chairman of Kumbotso Local Government, and the Councillor of Panshekara Ward, to intervene and ensure justice is served,” he wrote.

He concluded with prayers for the deceased, asking God to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in paradise.

Efforts to reach the management of Mamuda Agro Company for comment were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will only announce his running mate for the 2027 presidential election after officially accepting the party’s nomination during the All Progressives Congress (APC) convention in 2026.

This clarification was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in an exclusive interview with Daily Trust on Thursday.

Amid growing speculations over the absence of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s name in recent endorsements for Tinubu, Onanuga dismissed any insinuations of a planned replacement, describing the situation as “a non-issue.”

“In a presidential system, the candidate comes first, and then a running mate is picked. That’s what happened under Buhari—he was nominated first before selecting a running mate. The same process will apply here,” he said.

Onanuga stressed that a decision will only be made after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases its timetable, prompting the party to hold its convention.

He also rejected the idea that Tinubu’s history of changing deputies during his tenure as Lagos State governor hints at plans to drop Shettima.

“Those were different political circumstances. In his first term, he and his deputy, Kofo, had issues and she had to leave. Femi Pedro replaced her, but later defected in the second term to pursue a governorship ambition. It’s wrong to frame this as a pattern of discarding deputies,” he explained.

Addressing the speculation of a strained relationship between Tinubu and Shettima, Onanuga dismissed such claims as baseless rumors.“From what I know, they have an excellent working relationship. The idea that there’s friction is just beer parlour gossip. Some even claim Seyi Tinubu is the vice president—it’s all nonsense,” he said.

When asked if the APC would repeat the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2027, Onanuga said the issue has lost relevance.

“There’s no Islamisation agenda. Christians are living freely, and the president even attended the Pope’s inauguration in Rome. Many of the speculated running mates are also Muslims—it’s not a matter of concern anymore,” he said.

Responding to criticisms over early endorsements before the official campaign season, Onanuga said it was a necessary reaction to opposition attacks.

“If the so-called coalition hadn’t started attacking the administration, we would’ve waited until next year. But we had to respond and show readiness. You can’t expect the president to stay silent while others plot openly,” he said.

He noted that the endorsements reflect public confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, even if the campaign has not yet formally begun.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A provocative billboard has appeared in Tel Aviv, calling on United States President Donald Trump to take military action in support of Israel amid rising tensions with Iran.

The sign boldly reads, “Mr President, finish the job!”

The call comes as pressure mounts for the United States to play a more active role in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

Although President Trump has reportedly approved a series of military plans — including the potential use of bunker-buster bombs — officials say he has not yet made a final decision on whether American forces will be directly involved in the conflict.

The situation remains tense as Washington weighs its options while closely monitoring developments in the Middle East.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The U.S. Army has suspended Colonel Nathan McCormack following controversial remarks in which he described Israel as “our worst ‘ally,’” igniting a firestorm of political and military reaction.

In a statement made during a closed-door security forum that was later leaked online, Col. McCormack reportedly said: “Israel is our worst ‘ally.’ We get literally nothing out of the ‘partnership’ other than the enmity of millions of people in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”

The Pentagon confirmed McCormack’s suspension on Tuesday, stating that the remarks are under formal review for possible violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Department of Defence policies on political expression.

“While service members are entitled to personal opinions, public statements by active-duty officers that could affect diplomatic relations are taken seriously,” a Defence Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Col. McCormack, a senior officer with experience in multiple overseas deployments, has not yet commented publicly, but sources close to him say he stands by his critique and views it as a matter of strategic honesty.

His suspension has drawn sharply divided reactions. Critics called his comments inflammatory and damaging to U.S.-Israel relations, while supporters praised his candour, arguing that Washington’s unconditional support for Israel has long gone unquestioned within military circles.

The incident adds to a broader debate in Washington over the costs and consequences of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, especially amid ongoing international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Iran.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The United States government has announced a new policy requiring student visa applicants to make their social media profiles publicly accessible as part of the application process.

According to the Department of State, the move is intended to enhance security screening and allow immigration officials to better assess the backgrounds of applicants. The policy will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories, including the F-1 visa commonly used by international students.

Critics have raised concerns about privacy and potential bias, warning that the rule could discourage free expression online. Supporters, however, argue that it strengthens national security and helps identify potential threats.

The new requirement is expected to take effect later this year, with applicants needing to provide their social media handles and ensure that posts are visible for review.

By Uzair Adam 

The Gaya Emirate Council in Kano State has withdrawn the traditional title of Wazirin Gaya from Alhaji Usman Alhaji, a former Secretary to the State Government during the administration of ex-Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The Daily Reality gathered that, although the council did not give detailed reasons, the decision may be linked to Alhaji’s recent public criticism of the Abba Kabir Yusuf-led government over alleged excessive borrowing, claims the government has since refuted.

In an official letter addressed to the former titleholder, the Secretary of the Gaya Emirate Council, Alhaji Bello Halilu, stated that the title was withdrawn due to “certain unavoidable circumstances,” adding that the decision takes immediate effect.

“The Council deeply appreciates the contributions and commitment of Alhaji Usman Alhaji during his period of service as Wazirin Gaya,” the letter read in part.

It further acknowledged his support for the traditional institution and his role in promoting the Emirate’s cultural heritage, stressing the council’s resolve to uphold the sanctity and integrity of traditional titles.

The public was urged to take note of the development.

Alhaji, who also serves as the National President of APC Patriotic Volunteers, had recently challenged the Kano State government to account for a $6.6 million external loan allegedly obtained between June and December 2023, according to figures from the Debt Management Office (DMO).

He also accused the administration of mismanaging N5 billion in ecological funds and rated the government’s performance poorly over the past two years.

By Uzair Adam 

Amid growing security concerns across the country, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting in Abuja with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar.

The meeting, chaired by the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, took place at the NGF Secretariat. 

Among the governors in attendance were those of Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, Plateau, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Kogi, Ondo, Imo, Cross River, Ogun, and Edo states.

Although the agenda was not officially disclosed, the gathering is believed to be connected to the escalating insecurity in parts of the country, particularly the recent deadly attack in Yelewata, Benue State.

Earlier in the day, President Bola Tinubu visited Benue and met with stakeholders at the Government House in Makurdi, where he condemned the killing of over 100 residents in Yelewata. 

He directed the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, to apprehend those responsible.

Sources confirmed that the Abuja meeting involved briefings from the NSA and the Minister of Defence. 

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, traditional rulers, and former state governors were also present at the Makurdi meeting.

President Tinubu queried the lack of arrests and urged the heads of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) to ramp up intelligence efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

North Korea has issued a forceful condemnation of Israel’s recent military operations targeting Iran, describing the actions as “a crime against humanity” and warning they could plunge the Middle East into deeper chaos.

In a statement published by the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, a spokesperson for the North Korean Foreign Ministry voiced strong concern over what was described as deliberate attacks on Iranian civilian, nuclear, and energy infrastructure.

The spokesperson said the operations by Israeli forces reflect “state-sponsored terrorism” and pose a grave threat to regional stability.

“The killing of civilians in Israeli attacks was an unpardonable crime against humanity,” the statement read.

Pyongyang also criticized Washington and its Western allies, accusing them of backing Israel’s actions and inflaming an already volatile situation.

“The present grave situation witnessed by the world clearly proves that Israel, supported and patronised by the US and the West, is a cancer-like entity for peace in the Middle East and a chief culprit of destroying global peace and security,” the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

The North Korean government also advised the United States and Europe against further involvement in the conflict.

It claimed that international opinion is watching closely as these powers, in its words, “fan up the flames of war” while blaming Iran for defending itself.

“The international community is strictly watching the US and Western forces fanning up the flames of war, taking issue with the legitimate sovereign right and exercise of the right to self-defence of Iran, the victim,” the spokesperson added.

The warning came as U.S. President Donald Trump declared that his administration had exhausted its patience with Iran.

His remarks followed a firm rejection by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of U.S. calls for an unconditional surrender. Khamenei also warned Washington of “irreparable damage” if it chose to interfere.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump recently approved military plans targeting Iran but decided to pause implementation, reportedly in hopes that Tehran might reconsider its nuclear ambitions.

North Korea has cautioned that the ongoing escalation—fueled by Israeli aggression and Western involvement—risks pushing the region toward what it described as “an uncontrollable catastrophic phase.”

As tensions continue to rise, Pyongyang’s statement adds yet another voice to the chorus of global concern over the deepening crisis in the Middle East.