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By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it will conduct a thorough investigation into the raining of airstrikes on two villages in Sokoto on Wednesday.

According to the community members, the incident, which happened around 7am at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area (LGA), resulted in the loss of 10 civilians and left many other people injured.

Animals were also reportedly killed, with the communities saying some of their houses were destroyed by the impact of the airstrikes.

The residents said the fighter jet was targeting Lakurawa terrorists in the areas, but in the process, dropped explosives on some innocent people.

However, in a statement, the joint media coordinator for the operation, Abubakar Abdullahi, said the airstrikes targeted locations confirmed to be the base of the Lakurawa terrorist group.

He said that, all military operations are based on “thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions” to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.

On the other hand the NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, while reacting on the issue insisted that the airstrikes were carried out based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance.

He, however, assured that reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly investigated.

By Hussein Adoto 

After the palliative distribution tragedy in Nasarawa, I published an article in a national newspaper where I noted that “distribution events, especially those intended to provide aid or relief, tend to draw large crowds, making effective crowd control essential.” 

However, the Nasarawa tragedy wasn’t the first. I wrote: “In February, the Nigerian Customs Service had to suspend its sale of seized bags of rice after seven people died at one of its centres in Yaba, Lagos. Some two years ago, 31 people died at a stampede at the King’s Assembly in Rivers State during the distribution of palliatives to church members; seven more were injured.” I wrote that in March this year.

We are now in December and have recorded at least three stampedes in one week. First is the one that consumed 35 kids in Ibadan. On Saturday, another stampede was recorded in Maitama, Abuja, where at least 10 people died trying to get food. In Okija, Anambra state, three people died due to another stampede. They all went for bags of food and returned home in body bags. Sad.

Sadly, worsening poverty has pushed people into desperately hustling for freebies, to the point of getting stampeded. One would expect that in a war zone like Gaza, where more than 100 people were killed and 700 more injured in a stampede in March this year. Yet here in Nigeria, a country not under siege, our outcomes mirror those of a war zone.

How did we get here? This is one of the most trying periods for Nigerians, and I say this as someone who witnessed the pangs of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recession before it. Although we are told this trying time is a phase that will soon pass, it is dragging on for too long, leaving a litany of crushed souls in its wake. The palliative measures, however meagre, are welcome and necessary to ease our sore bowels. 

Still, the repeated tragedies that trail these events highlight a deeper negligence that we have normalised. Crowd control has always been our problem in Nigeria, and it doesn’t matter whether the event is a palliative distribution, a political rally, or a concert. We tend to be unruly. 

Security officials sometimes shove and cane crowds at political gatherings to make way for VIPs. I saw a video a while ago where a former governor was shoved to make way for the new one. On campuses and in open-air university programmes, the situation is similar. Students shove, push, and tug to no end. It is worse on the days of GNS exams.

Is it not this week that a video of Nigerians crowding aircraft boarding stairs emerged? Even a conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2022 ended in chaos as “learned” lawyers scrambled for souvenirs. Now, if we are like that on an average day, how worse can we be when we are poor, hungry, and desperate?

I’m glad the Nigeria Police Force has warned against the unorganised distribution of palliatives. Hopefully, this will tame the gathering of rabid freebie seekers and distributors. It needs to. This cycle of desperation, chaos, and death must end. We can’t keep endangering people in the name of helping them. 

Charity organisations should estimate the number of people they can serve and focus only on those people. Budgeting for 500 people while targeting thousands with publicity campaigns is risky, if not criminally negligent. By focusing on a manageable number of beneficiaries, these organisations can distribute their palliatives without dealing with an overwhelming crowd.

Secondly, they should divide the distribution into chunks. They can do this by age, gender, or community. Instead of gathering everyone, young and old, male and female, into one combustible whole, they can divide them into crowds of tens and fifty instead of hundreds and thousands. That way, even if the crowd gets unruly, the outcome won’t be as tragic as it is. 

The venue itself must also reflect proper organisation. Hosting hundreds of desperate people in a small, gated space with one or two entry and exit points is a recipe for trouble. Crowds kept in areas without shade, water, and seating will likely devolve into chaos. Therefore, managing these factors will prevent an avoidable tragedy. 

Meanwhile, we can’t rely on quick, short-lived palliatives to quench the country’s raging thirst for sustenance. To give Nigerians a modicum of respite, the underlying factors of inflation and underemployment must be addressed immediately.

As desperate times in the country make Nigerians desperate for freebies, we must not allow them to become victims of their desperation. If they don’t see the danger of being unruly, palliative distributors should anticipate and prevent that danger. This starts with treating Nigerians with dignity instead of seeing them merely as a queue to be managed.

Hussein Adoto writes from Ilorin via bellohussein210@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

A fighter jet targeting terrorists in Lakurawa on Wednesday morning mistakenly bombed two peaceful communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which left many feared dead and several others injured.

The affected villages, Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, were hit around 7 am, according to local accounts.

The chairman of Silame LGA, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, described the incident as devastating, and stated that the victims were innocent residents.

“The villagers were sitting peacefully when the bombs started dropping on the communities. They were innocent and peace-loving people who had no criminal record.

“It is early for me to confirm the number of people either killed or injured because we are still assessing the development,” Daftarana said.

More updates to follow.

By Anwar Usman

The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has felicitated with the Christian faithfuls in the state as they mark the 2024 Christmas celebration.

In a message released on Wednesday, Yusuf expressed joy and gratitude alongside the Christian community for the divine mercies that have allowed them to witness another festive period.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, the governor called on Christians to embrace mutual respect and peaceful coexistence as they celebrate.

“As you relish the season, I urge you to embrace the spirit of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” Yusuf said.

The governor emphasized the importance of unity, love, and brotherhood, reiterating that Nigeria’s progress hinges on fostering harmony across diverse communities.

“There is a need to strengthen the spirit of brotherhood, foster unity, and encourage love in spite of diversities, as that’s the only driving force to progress in the country,” he said.

He urged all residents to reflect on the virtues of humanity, love, honesty, kindness, and forgiveness championed by Jesus Christ and to make use of the lessons of the season.

While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, Yusuf highlighted ongoing efforts to improve social services and infrastructure across the state.

“My administration remains committed to the fulfilment of all campaign promises, focusing on the provision of social and infrastructure development to improve the living conditions of our people,” Yusuf stated.

He reiterated his dedication to revitalising Kano’s education sector, noting significant strides in reversing infrastructure decay and strengthening workforce capacity under the declared state of emergency on education.

The statement further revealed that “the governor also donated the sum of N20 million to selected Christian groups for the celebration of the 2024 Christmas in Kano”.

By Anwar Usman

The Katsina State Police Command has announced the successful disruption of a kidnapping attempt and rescue of 10 victims.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed this in a statement signed and made available to journalists on Wednesday.

According to the statement: “On 24 December 2024, at about 20:30 hrs, some suspected armed bandits, wielding dangerous weapons and shooting sporadically, attacked a commercial vehicle at Kwanar Makera along the Katsina–Magama Jibia road in Jibia Local Government Area, Katsina State, in an attempt to kidnap ten (10) occupants of the vehicle.

“Upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia swiftly led a team of operatives to the scene. The team engaged the bandits in a gun duel, successfully thwarted the kidnapping attempt, and rescued all ten ten victims.

“Four among the rescued victims sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the attack and were rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment.

“Efforts are still ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects as the investigation continues.

“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, psc(+), applaud the officers for their exceptional display of gallantry and dedication to duty. Furthermore, the Commissioner urged the members of the public to provide useful information on suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station for prompt and decisive action.”

By Uzair Adam

The Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Saleh Usman, has announced the appointment of Alhaji Alidu Shutti as the acting Secretary of the commission, effective immediately.

This follows the voluntary retirement of the former Secretary, Dr. Abdullahi Kontagora, on December 6.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Mrs. Fatima Sanda-Usara, Assistant Director of the Information and Publications Division, it was revealed that Shutti, who had served as the Director of Inspectorate and Compliance at NAHCON since 2023, would hold the acting position until a substantive secretary is appointed.

Shutti’s career with NAHCON spans from 2007 to the present, during which he has held several key positions, including Head of the Tour Operators Division, Assistant Director of the Licensing Division, and Deputy Coordinator of the Makkah Office in 2022 and 2023.

With a Masters in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies, and a Diploma in Journalism, Shutti has also enhanced his expertise in Hajj operations by attending numerous seminars in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.

Known for his in-depth understanding of Hajj and Umrah operations, Shutti’s experience is expected to facilitate a smooth and successful 2025 Hajj operation.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The Governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Umar Namadi, mourns the loss of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi Umar, who died in the early hours of Wednesday, December 25 2024.

The late Hajiya Maryam was a respected matriarch known for her compassion and dedication to her family and community. Her passing has left a significant void in the lives of her loved ones and the people of Jigawa State.

Under Islamic traditions, the burial rites are scheduled to take place later today at 4:30 PM in her hometown of Kafin Hausa. The family has called on well-wishers to join them in offering prayers for her eternal peace.

In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, the Governor prayed for Allah’s mercy to grant his mother eternal rest in Jannah and comfort the bereaved family.

The people of Jigawa State stand united with the Governor in mourning, reflecting on the cherished memories and legacy of Hajiya Maryam Namadi Umar.

May her soul rest in peace.

By Uzair Adam

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, revealed that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) achieved significant success in 2024, with 30,313 suspects arrested for various criminal activities and 1,581 kidnap victims rescued.

This was disclosed during a strategic meeting with senior officers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.In addition to these accomplishments, the NPF recovered 1,984 firearms and 23,250 rounds of ammunition throughout the year.

The IGP praised the police for their dedication, particularly in reducing crime and engaging with the community to foster trust and collaboration.

He noted the importance of continued innovation in technology and operational strategies in 2025 to build on these successes.

Looking ahead, the IGP stressed that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to prioritize safety and security during the festive season, ensuring a peaceful environment for citizens across the country.

By Faizah Suleiman

In Kano State, phone theft has become more than a petty crime. It’s a nightmare for residents who can barely go about their day without clutching their phones nervously. From bustling markets to quiet streets, no place seems safe anymore. The once vibrant and lively atmosphere of Kano is now shadowed by fear as criminals prey on unsuspecting victims.

But why has phone theft spiralled out of control, and what can we do about it? For many residents, phone theft stories are no longer distant tales but personal experiences. Abdullahi Musa, a trader at Kurmi Market, recalls how his phone was snatched in broad daylight.

“I was talking to a customer when two men on a motorcycle came out of nowhere. Before I could react, my phone was gone, and they disappeared into the crowd,” he said.

Sadly, Abdullahi’s story isn’t unique. It’s part of an alarming trend that affects students, workers, and businesspeople alike. These criminals are smart, fast, and ruthless, and they’ve turned Kano into a hunting ground. You might wonder why this is happening so often in Kano. Well, the reasons aren’t far-fetched.

First, economic hardship has pushed many young people into crime. With unemployment rates soaring, some see phone theft as a way to survive. A recent survey showed that 78% of Kano residents feel unsafe using their phones in public. This fear isn’t paranoia. It’s a reality.

Then, there’s the issue of the thriving black market. Places like Sabon Gari are notorious for dealing in stolen phones. These criminals know they can easily sell a stolen phone, often within hours.

Losing a phone isn’t just about losing a device; it’s about losing a lifeline. For many in Kano, their phones hold contacts, bank details, business deals, and even educational materials. A lost phone means a significant setback.

“I saved for months to buy that phone,” lamented Fatima Ahmed, a university student. “When it was stolen, I didn’t just lose my device; I lost my school notes, assignments, and peace of mind.”

It’s a vicious cycle. The more phones are stolen, the more fear spreads, and the more cautious people become, yet the thieves always seem one step ahead.

To their credit, the authorities haven’t been sitting idle. The Kano State Police Command has ramped up hotspot operations, recovering hundreds of stolen phones in 2024 alone. There’s also been a push for awareness campaigns, encouraging residents to secure their phones and activate tracking features like IMEI.

But there’s a problem. Many victims feel the response isn’t fast enough, and even when thieves are caught, they often face light punishments. This lack of consequences only emboldens the criminals.

So, how do we stop this? It will take the collaboration of everyone: government, police, communities, and individuals.

• We need more community policing. Vigilante groups working with the police can monitor neighbourhoods and markets.

• Harsher penalties must be imposed on those caught stealing phones. If the punishment is severe enough, it could deter others.

• The government should clamp down on illegal sales of secondhand phones. If stolen phones can’t be sold, the incentive to steal them disappears.

• As residents, we also have a role to play. We can make a difference by avoiding phone use in crowded areas, enabling phone tracking, and reporting suspicious activity.

Phone theft in Kano is more than just an inconvenience. It’s a threat to our security and peace of mind. It’s time we took a stand. The next time you see someone holding their phone tightly, remember: it’s not just a gadget they’re protecting; it’s a part of their life. Let’s work together to make Kano safe again.

Faizah Sulaiman wrote from Kano via suleimanfaizah01@gmail.com.

By Mujahid Ibrahim

This life has a strange way of teaching lessons we never expect. To be precise, for at least two years, now, I had grown accustomed to the comfort of moving around the city in my little car. This has already become my everyday norm. But as petrol prices began to rise in the country, as many other fellow lower class citizens, I found myself reevaluating my choices. Moving by car was sometimes cheaper than hiring an okada or a Keke Napep but unnecessary trips were adding up. This pushed us to begin to consider using a bicycle; cost-effective, healthy, and, I thought, practical.

On this particular evening of 22/12/2024, a friend Saifullah had invited me to a dinner in his house, The venue was just about 3 kilometers away, and I decided to leave the car behind and ride my bicycle instead. “Why not?” I thought. “It’s a short distance, and I’ll save money on fuel.” Little did I know, that simple decision would lead to a night I would never forget.

The dinner was delightful—filled with warm conversations with associates, and moments of reflection.

I left there around 8:00pm, I decided to stop by a mini-market at Wunti to pick up a few essentials before heading home.

My mind, however, was already preoccupied with excitement. Earlier that day, an interview with Prof. IBK by Bello Sagir Imam had been released, and I couldn’t wait to listen to it.

Pedaling through the busy streets around 8:30 p.m., I felt the urge to play the interview right away so that by the time I reached home, I reasoned, I would have finished listening and could dive straight into reading a book gifted to me by a dear friend, Tea Isah. It was an insightful work by Ibn Rushd on the relationship between science, religion, and philosophy.

As I passed beneath the Wunti Flyover, currently under construction, I stopped under the bridge to take out my phone and earphones. The area wasn’t quiet; the bustle of vehicles and pedestrians surrounded me. I felt a sense of safety in the activity, but it was short-lived. Suddenly, the sound of a motorcycle pierced through the hum of the evening.

A brand-new white Moto B sped from behind me, its riders veering dangerously close. Before I could react, the motorcycle screeched to a halt, and two men dismounted swiftly.

“Give us your phone!” one of them barked, his voice sharp and filled with menace.

Startled, I looked up, my heart racing. One of them took a step closer, revealing a knife glinting in the dim light. “If you resist, we’ll stab you,” he threatened. The weight of his words left no room for defiance. ‘Ba zan zura ido yaro karami, ya burma min wuka ba.’ I handed over my phone without resisting at the moment.

But they weren’t done. “The bag,” the other demanded, motioning to the small bag I was holding from my shopping trip. I hesitated for a second too long, and the knife came closer. Without another word, I surrendered the bag, my mind racing with a mix of surprise and disbelief.

In moments, they mounted the motorcycle and sped off through the bustling street, heading toward Gwallaga Juma’at Mosque and approaching the Nasarawa Roundabout.

A kind-hearted bike rider nearby noticed what had happened and offered to help. He tried to chase them, but they escaped into the chaos of the night. I stood there, behind the flyover, feeling a mix of helplessness and gratitude to Allah. Though shaken, I was unharmed. My phone, my bag, and my essentials were gone, but my spirit remained intact. I kept pronouncing “Yaa Allah” and repeatedly saying it several times.

What else should I do? I pedaled home in silence, the incident replayed in my mind. I felt anger, sadness, and frustration, but also a growing sense of determination and thankful to Allah for saving me. This wasn’t just about “me”. How many others had faced similar dangers on these streets? I don’t know. How many more would, if nothing changed?

To the Bauchi State Government, under Gov. Bala Muhammad, the “Modern Bauchi City” deserves better. Rising petrol prices all over the country is already pushing many of us to make such tough decisions as trekking long distances, or riding bicycles as in my own case. However, those choices shouldn’t expose us to danger. Even before the completion of the project, we need safer streets, better lighting in vulnerable areas, and a stronger presence of law enforcement. These flyovers are meant to a symbol of progress, not a haven for crime.

To those in authority, especially the security forces, I urge: please pay attention to these areas especially during night hours. To my fellow citizens, I plead: be vigilant, monitor strength movements around you, stop using phones while on streets, unless it becomes necessary and look out for one another. And to those who find themselves in moments of loss or fear, remember; resilience is our greatest strength. Trust Almighty Allah only after doing your best.

That night under the bridge, Uhmm! I lost possessions, but I gained a purpose. Alhamdulillah that it was not easy for them in my case.

Mujahid Ibrahim wrote in from Bauchi and can be reached via littlemujahid4gmail.com.