National

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has faulted a proposed bill before the United States Congress that seeks to impose sanctions on its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over alleged religious freedom abuses.

The legislation, introduced by five US lawmakers in the House of Representatives, is titled to address concerns about religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria. The bill seeks to compel the US Secretary of State to present a detailed report on efforts to tackle the situation.

If passed into law, the proposal would mandate the Departments of State and Treasury to apply sanctions such as visa restrictions and asset freezes on individuals or organisations accused of “severe religious freedom violations” in Nigeria.

Among those listed in the bill are Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, alongside Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, and groups described as Fulani ethnic nomad militias.

Reacting in a statement issued on Wednesday, NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed the allegation. He described the move as politically motivated and unfair to the party’s leader.

“We see this development as a contrived action against an innocent man who clearly has no relationship with religious fundamentalism in Nigeria,” the statement reads.

“His record is there in the public domain, either in public office or in private life, and it is advisable for people to investigate such things properly before reaching such conclusions.”

Johnson linked the development to Kwankwaso’s earlier reaction to the redesignation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” by former US President Donald Trump over claims of religious persecution.

Kwankwaso had cautioned against what he termed oversimplified portrayals of Nigeria’s security challenges. He stressed the country’s sovereignty and noted that violence in Nigeria involves criminal elements across regions.

Riley Moore, one of the sponsors of the bill, had questioned Kwankwaso’s role in religious matters. He cited the full implementation of Sharia law in Kano State during Kwankwaso’s tenure as governor.

The NNPP spokesperson, however, criticised the US lawmaker’s position. He argued that the party leader has consistently spoken about insecurity in Nigeria.

“Is Rep Moore being fair or selective? Isn’t the US in a good relationship with Qatar and Saudi (both Sharia countries)?”

“Isn’t it strange that it is Kwankwaso, an opposition leader that has spoken out so many times about the insecurity under this administration, that the United States now seems to be turning on?”

Johnson added that Kwankwaso made significant security gains during his time as governor. He said Boko Haram activities were eliminated in Kano under his watch and noted that the former governor maintained cordial relations with Christian leaders.

“These are the facts, which we think should guide the Congress and its leaders, particularly Reps Riley Moore and Chris Smith, to do a thorough investigation on the credibility of our leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, so that justice is done to his noble name and cleared of such undue embarrassment,” Johnson added.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a decisive move, the Nigerian Senate has formally amended its records to clarify the method for transmitting election results, endorsing electronic transmission as the primary method while establishing a manual backup.

The amendment, ratified during a plenary session on Wednesday, February 4th, pertains to the contentious Section 60(3) of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The resolution was initiated by a motion from the Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Tahir Monguno.

Under the adopted framework, election results from polling units are to be transmitted electronically. However, the Senate introduced a critical contingency: in the event of any technical failure or communication glitch, the manually completed Form EC8 will serve as the primary document for collation.

This form, which contains the polling unit results, must be duly entered, stamped, and signed by the presiding election officer and counter-signed by party agents before being used for further tallying.

The session saw a moment of procedural tension when Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe called for a division—a formal process requiring each senator to vote individually on the clause. This move, however, was withdrawn shortly after Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged his request.

The amendment seeks to balance technological advancement with practical safeguards, aiming to bolster the integrity of the result collation process while accounting for Nigeria’s inconsistent network coverage.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra has declared a total end to the Monday sit-at-home exercise across the South-East. The order takes effect from Monday, February 9, 2026.

IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful, made this known in a statement released on Sunday. He said the directive was issued by the group’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The sit-at-home protest began in August 2021. It was introduced to protest Kanu’s rendition to Nigeria and his detention. During the period, markets, schools, banks and offices usually shut down every Monday.

Powerful said the new directive means residents should resume normal activities. He stressed that there is no reason for anyone to remain indoors on Mondays.

The statement read in part, “The IPOB, under the supreme leadership of Nnamdi Kanu, hereby announces to the entire world that the Monday sit-at-home across the South-East is officially and permanently cancelled with effect from tomorrow, Monday, February 9, 2026.

“This directive comes directly from Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu himself, who has once again staked everything on the line to ensure that our children return to school every Monday and that our people go about their lawful businesses without fear, intimidation or molestation.

“Any person in doubt should visit Sokoto Correctional Centre to confirm with him. We can no longer hide under ‘Onyendu cannot be reached to confirm’ to persist with our recalcitrance or docility. Monday sit-at-home is over. That era is gone!

“There is now no need, excuse or justification for anyone to stay at home on Mondays. All markets, schools, offices, transport services and economic activities must resume fully and normally from tomorrow. This is the clear and unequivocal order of the Supreme Leader of IPOB.”

The group also warned against any attempt to continue enforcing the order.

The statement added, “Kanu has made it abundantly clear that any individual or group attempting to enforce sit-at-home from this moment forward is acting against his direct command. Such persons are enemies of our people and the Biafran cause. They will be pursued to the ends of the earth and confronted until they are completely defeated.”

IPOB alleged that some actors may try to create fear or stage attacks to force compliance. It urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding.

“Let it be known that any person or group identified as enforcing or enabling sit-at-home will be confronted wherever they are. Our people must remain vigilant, calm and law-abiding.

“At the same time, IPOB wishes to make it clear that no state governor has the right to threaten, demolish or forcibly shut down the businesses of traders who, out of conscience, choose to sit at home in solidarity with our leader.

“Any attempt by Governor Soludo or any other governor to intimidate our people with demolition threats or forced market closures will be firmly resisted,” the statement added.

The group further spoke on market projects and trader relocation.

According to the statement, “Any renovation, reconstruction or improvement of markets that involves temporary relocation must be carried out only with the consent of all stakeholders, adding that adequate temporary trading sites must be provided before any such projects commence.

“Our enemies have in the past succeeded in instigating crises and planting seeds of discord among our people. We must not allow them to succeed again. We are one people, united by a common destiny. Our struggle is for freedom, dignity and justice for all, not just for Biafrans.

“We therefore call on all our people across the South-East to come out tomorrow, open their shops, go to work and send their children to school without fear.

“The era of Monday sit-at-home is over.”

By Uzair Adam

Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 17 Brigade, Katsina, have recovered 529 rustled livestock following a gun battle with suspected terrorists in Kafur Local Government Area of the state.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 17 Brigade, Capt. Abayomi Adisa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday.

According to him, the operation was carried out by troops of the Forward Operating Base, Malumfashi, after credible intelligence revealed terrorist activities around Kasuwan Sabo in Kafur LGA.

He said the operation, conducted on February 7, 2026, was led by the Commanding Officer of FOB Malumfashi, Lt. Col. M. M. Isa, and targeted terrorists believed to have infiltrated Katsina from neighbouring Zamfara State.

Adisa added that the criminals were allegedly led by Idi Abasu Aiki, said to be a younger brother of notorious bandit leader, Ado Aliero.

He explained that the terrorists opened fire upon sighting the advancing troops, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.

However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the assailants to flee into nearby bushes while abandoning part of the stolen livestock.

“The troops immediately launched a hot pursuit and caught up with the fleeing terrorists between Burdugau and Unguwan Matau villages in Malumfashi LGA, where the criminals were forced to abandon all the remaining rustled animals,” he said.

After a thorough sweep of the area, the troops recovered 529 animals, comprising 290 cows, 238 sheep and one donkey, as well as one motorcycle.

Adisa noted that 14 cows were killed during the exchange of fire after the terrorists allegedly used them as shields.

He stressed that no casualty was recorded among the troops during the operation, describing their conduct as professional and effective.

The recovered animals, he said, were handed over to relevant authorities for identification and eventual return to their rightful owners, under the supervision of the Chairman of Kafur LGA, Suraju Nature, and the Divisional Police Officer, Superintendent of Police Aminu Salihu.

Adisa further disclosed that the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen.

Paul Koughna, commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, while reassuring residents of sustained military operations against criminal elements in the area.

He added that troops of FOB Malumfashi have continued aggressive patrols to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure lasting security in the area.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has suspended one of its senior prosecutors, Samuel Chime, over allegations of bribery linked to the sabotage of corruption cases.

The action followed the outcome of an internal investigative panel constituted by the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, after multiple petitions were submitted by civil society organisations, non-governmental groups, and concerned individuals accusing Chime of misconduct and financial inducement.

Sources within the commission disclosed that the EFCC leadership expressed strong displeasure over the development, warning that such behaviour could damage the agency’s credibility.

One official said, “Chime was suspended after extensive internal probe revealed that he had compromised some cases due to financial inducements.” Another insider added that “the commission might end up dismissing him, but he has been begging the chairman, and pleading for clemency.”

Chime had served as lead prosecutor in several high-profile cases across different Federal High Courts, including matters involving former public officials and alleged fraud suspects in Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt.

Following his suspension, the EFCC has requested adjournments in the affected trials, informing courts that the prosecutor had “proceeded on a sick leave,” a move aimed at safeguarding the commission’s public image.

Further findings from petitions accused him of duplicating charges in separate courts to frustrate defendants, an act said to contradict established prosecutorial standards and EFCC policy.

Consequently, the commission has directed other prosecutors to review both pending and concluded cases previously handled by Chime as investigations continue.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has handed over the sum of $23,000 recovered from an alleged international romance fraud suspect to the British High Commission in Abuja for onward return to the victim in the Cayman Islands.

Police authorities said the money was retrieved from Achufusi Obioma, a Nigerian national who was under investigation for allegedly defrauding a resident of the Cayman Islands through an online romantic relationship scam.

In a statement issued on Friday, Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed that the complaint was first received by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.

He explained that the recovered funds were later transferred to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service through Shaun McLeary, who represented the British High Commission in Abuja.

“The repatriation followed a request received from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service seeking assistance of the INTERPOL NCB Abuja to investigate a Nigerian national, Achufusi Obioma Ikenna, who defrauded a resident of the Cayman Islands through an online romance scam,” the statement reads.

“Acting on the request, INTERPOL NCB Abuja conducted discreet, intelligence-led investigations which led to the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the sum of $23,000.

“Following the completion of all necessary documentation and in collaboration with international partners, the recovered funds were formally handed over to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, through the British High Commission in Abuja, represented by Mr. Shaun McLeary, for secure delivery to the victim. Meanwhile the suspect will be arraigned at the conclusion of investigation.

“This successful repatriation underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s sustained commitment to intelligence-driven policing, effective international collaboration, and the disruption of transnational cybercrime networks.”

The Cayman Islands is a self-governing British Overseas Territory located in the western Caribbean.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A civil society organization, Muslim Rights Watch (MRW), has called for the immediate dismissal of Mr. Joash Ojo Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), labeling the appointment a “provocation” against Nigeria’s Muslim population.

In a strongly worded statement, MRW’s spokesman, Mr. Mujahid Abubakar, condemned the selection, describing Mr. Amupitan as an “anti-Muslim radical Christian extremist and hate preacher.” The group argues that the appointment is fundamentally inappropriate for a pluralistic nation and dangerously undermines the neutrality of the electoral umpire.

“In a multi-religious state like Nigeria, appointing a religious extremist and hate preacher as the head of an electoral umpire is fundamentally inappropriate and dangerous for both democracy and social stability,” Abubakar stated.

The organization expressed deep concern that Mr. Amupitan’s alleged track record of “Christian fundamentalism, extremism, and exclusionary rhetoric” directly contradicts the required impartiality of INEC. They warned that his leadership could erode public trust, predetermine electoral outcomes in some regions, and potentially trigger mass protests and violence, particularly in states like Nasarawa and Taraba.

“This appointment is not a mistake. It is a provocation,” the statement read. “It is an open declaration which sends a chilling message to millions of Nigerian Muslims that they are second-class participants in their own democracy.”

MRW concluded by demanding an immediate reversal of the appointment, a public apology from the Presidency, and accountability for officials who endorsed the decision. They asserted that “silence at this moment is not neutrality but complicity.”

The presidency has yet to publicly respond to these allegations.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A prominent public affairs analyst, Dr. Bulama Audu Bukarti, has called for the immediate removal of the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan.

Bukarti made the demand during a heated video conversation on “Fashin Baki,” a weekly Hausa political programme, where he expressed strong reservations about the chairman’s neutrality in electoral matters.

“We urgently call on President Tinubu to immediately remove the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan,” Bukarti declared. “If the President refuses to act, Northern politicians should take note: this man will not deliver justice or fairness in elections involving you.”

During the discussion, Bukarti accused the INEC boss of harbouring bias in the conduct of elections, particularly in contests involving candidates from the North.

“Whenever a Hausa or Fulani candidate contests against a non-Hausa/Fulani opponent, he will not conduct free, fair, or credible polls—his public hatred for Hausa and Fulani people is evident and undeniable. In contrast, when a Northerner faces a non-Northerner, he won’t be fair to the Northerner. He has previously dismissed our region’s large population figures as fabricated lies and accused Northern military and police personnel of taking over the institutions to Islamized Nigeria.”

He stressed that concerns about the appointment would have been stronger if the swearing-in had not already taken place.

“Had he not already been sworn in as INEC Chairman, we would have demanded his appointment be blocked outright. Now that the process is complete, it is imperative to press the President: this individual is unfit to lead INEC, as he cannot guarantee impartial elections for Northerners or Muslims.”

Bukarti also responded to possible criticism regarding the motive behind his position. He rejected claims that the call for removal was driven by religious sentiment.

“Anyone claiming this call for his removal stems from religious prejudice is deceiving themselves. The core issue is not his faith, but his deep-seated disbelief in Nigeria’s unity and his passionate hatred toward Northern Muslims. He has accused Northern Muslims of invading and settling in Christian-majority North Central states like Benue and Plateau as ‘settlers,’ while alleging ongoing persecution of Christians in Benue, Plateau, and Taraba states.”

The remarks have since stirred debate across political circles, with observers awaiting reactions from the Presidency and the electoral body.

The video of the programme was made available online, with viewers directed to watch the full discussion in the comment section.

By Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam

In leadership, enduring influence is never accidental. It is earned through consistent performance, sustained public trust and the wisdom to navigate changing circumstances while remaining anchored to the people’s interests.

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s leadership trajectory increasingly reflects these qualities: steady hands, clear vision and a disciplined commitment to results over rhetoric. Taken together, these attributes point to a governance approach that closely aligns with Kano’s long-term needs and aspirations.

Beyond party affiliations and shifting political alignments, what distinguishes Gov. Yusuf is a leadership style rooted in purpose and institutional responsibility. His governance philosophy has emphasised stability, rebuilding public institutions and people-centred development. At a time when popularity is often mistaken for performance, the administration has demonstrated an understanding that sustainable leadership is anchored in tangible outcomes and policies that translate into visible improvements in everyday life.

This reality has again received a national acknowledgement. Gov. Yusuf’s recognition as The Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year 2025 is not merely a ceremonial distinction but a broader affirmation of a governance model defined by structure, resolve, and service delivery.

As noted by members of the award panel and national commentators, the honour reflects “good governance, courageous leadership, and effective service delivery.” Based on assessments by media professionals and independent observers, the award reinforces what many Kano residents have observed: measurable progress under a leadership style that prioritises substance over spectacle.

One of Gov. Yusuf’s most notable qualities is political maturity. Effective leadership is not defined by rigidity, but by the ability to adapt strategically without losing sight of core objectives. By consistently placing Kano’s strategic interests above transient political considerations, the governor has demonstrated a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s federal system and the importance of constructive engagement within it.

This is not an inconsistency; it is political intelligence. Kano’s historic role as an economic and cultural hub demands a leader who can convert political access into concrete benefits for its people. The national recognition now accorded to Gov. Yusuf’s administration underscores a vital point: this strategic, mature approach is yielding tangible dividends and respect beyond Kano’s borders.

Equally significant is the governor’s inclusive posture. His public conduct and policy direction reflect a unifying outlook that transcends factional divides and appeals to shared civic aspirations. His measured response to criticism is particularly instructive. In an era dominated by reactive politics and constant public rebuttals, restraint has become an uncommon but valuable leadership asset. Rather than engage in prolonged exchanges, the administration has largely allowed policy outcomes and administrative action to speak on its behalf.

This approach signals confidence and reinforces a quiet but powerful message: performance remains the most credible response to doubt. From the standpoint of public trust, these qualities are indispensable. Confidence in governance is built on credibility, consistency, and visible results.

As the dividends of governance become more apparent and cooperation across levels of government deepens, public assurance grows organically. National recognition of this nature further strengthens that confidence, serving as an independent validation that cuts through partisan interpretation and situates Kano’s leadership within a broader narrative of effective governance.

Taken as a whole, the evidence increasingly points in one direction. Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s leadership reflects steadiness, foresight, and an orientation toward lasting impact.

These are the hallmarks of an administration that is not merely responding to the demands of the moment but deliberately positioning Kano on a path of continuity, credibility, and progress. On that measure, one conclusion is becoming increasingly difficult to contest: the governor remains firmly on the right track.

Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam can be reached via: saifaz2005@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Senate has voted down a proposal seeking to amend the Electoral Act to make the electronic transmission of election results compulsory.

The decision was taken on Wednesday when lawmakers rejected an amendment to Clause 60, Subsection 3, of the Electoral Amendment Bill. The proposal aimed to remove the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) discretion over how election results are transmitted.

If approved, the amendment would have legally required INEC presiding officers to electronically upload results from every polling unit directly to the Result Viewing Portal (IREV) in real time. This process was to occur immediately after Form EC8A had been duly signed and stamped by the presiding officer, with party agents countersigning the document.

However, the Senate chose to maintain the existing and widely debated provision of the Electoral Act.

Under the current law, “the presiding officer shall transfer the results, including the total number of accredited voters and the results of the ballot, in a manner as prescribed by the Commission.”

By retaining this clause, lawmakers have allowed INEC to continue determining whether electronic transmission will be used. Critics insist that this flexibility created gaps that were allegedly exploited during the 2023 general elections.

The Senate’s decision has sparked strong reactions across the country, with many Nigerians and civil society organisations expressing disappointment. These groups had backed the amendment, describing it as a vital safeguard against manual manipulation of results at collation centres.

Analysts described the move as a setback for democratic development in Nigeria.

“We thought the National Assembly would learn from the failures of 2023 where the IREV portal became a source of national embarrassment,” Gerald Ede said. “By rejecting mandatory transmission, the Senate has essentially given a green light for the status quo of ‘manual miracles’ and result manipulation to continue.”

Supporters of the amendment had viewed mandatory real-time transmission as a crucial measure to rebuild public trust in elections.

The rejection comes at a time when calls for comprehensive electoral reforms are growing, particularly reforms designed to reduce human interference in the electoral process.

Opponents of the Senate’s position argue that leaving the “manner” of transmission to INEC’s discretion, especially given its past record of “technical glitches” during key stages of result collation, could fuel further electoral disputes and weaken the legitimacy of elected officials.