News

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.

By Anwar Usman

Sokoto State government has revealed its commitment to peace and security and expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with armed groups who are ready to surrender their weapons and embrace reconciliation.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security, Col Ahmed Usman (rtd).

The government, in a statement, noted that “many historical conflicts have not ended solely through the use of force, but through meaningful dialogue, reaffirming that the state is open to negotiating with bandits who demonstrate a genuine commitment to surrender and reintegrate peacefully into society.”

It also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the service chiefs, security personnel, for their unwavering efforts in protecting the region.

“Their sacrifices are deeply appreciated. May Allah bless the souls of our fallen heroes and grant comfort to their families,” the statement read.

While commending the federal government over the proposed deployment of forest guards across the region, the Sokoto State Government stressed the importance of integrity and community trust in the recruitment process.

The government, however, reaffirmed its unwavering support for all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the state.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a significant move, Meta has announced plans to begin displaying advertisements in WhatsApp, its popular messaging platform. The decision marks a major shift in WhatsApp’s business model, which has long promised an ad-free experience for its users.

Meta officials stated that the ads will initially appear in the app’s Status feature—similar to Instagram Stories—and may later expand to other areas, such as the chat list. The company says this step is aimed at helping businesses reach customers more effectively, while generating new revenue from WhatsApp, which boasts over 2 billion users worldwide.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. While some view it as an inevitable evolution of the platform, others fear it may compromise user privacy and the simplicity that made WhatsApp popular.

Meta has yet to confirm an official launch date but assured users that end-to-end encryption in personal chats will remain intact.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State Police Command has issued a firm warning to residents against the use of traditional performances, particularly Kidan Gangi, as a cover for displaying weapons in public.

Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, cautioned that while Kidan Gangi remains a cultural heritage, some individuals have turned it into an excuse to openly exhibit dangerous weapons and intimidate members of the public.

He said the Command would no longer tolerate such behaviour, as it poses a serious threat to peace and public safety in the state.

The police boss also condemned the increasing trend where youths upload videos to TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), showcasing weapons and engaging in acts associated with gangs.

“Such acts not only glamorise violence but also encourage criminal behaviour among impressionable young people,” CP Bakori said.

He added that anyone caught brandishing weapons in public, inciting violence, or hiding arms at home would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

“Parents and guardians must monitor their children’s activities closely and report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities,” he warned.

The police also cautioned local blacksmiths against fabricating weapons for cultural displays or gang use.

CP Bakori noted that anyone aiding or abetting such acts would be investigated and brought to justice.

This development comes after the police conducted a three-day raid between June 13 and 15, during which 51 suspects were arrested.

Officers also recovered dangerous weapons and illegal drugs from various locations across the state.

The Command vowed to be committed to maintaining law and order.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Hours ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Benue State, the Makurdi–Lafia–Abuja highway was shut down after a devastating flood rendered the road unusable.

Reports show that rising floodwaters submerged the key access route into Makurdi, causing major disruption to motorists and passengers who found themselves stranded.

Many were forced to either delay their travel plans or seek safety in nearby areas.

The timing of the incident has sparked concern, especially as it occurred during increased security and logistical activity in anticipation of the President’s one-day visit to sympathize with the people of Benue following the recent massacre in Yelewata.

The affected road is one of the major corridors linking the state capital to the Federal Capital Territory, and its closure has raised fresh questions about the state of infrastructure and emergency response in Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season.

Details about the impact on the President’s itinerary remain unclear at the time of filing this report.

By Uzair Adam

The Muslim Corpers’ Association of Nigeria (MCAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic killing of over 200 people in a brutal attack on Friday night in Yelawa, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The Daily Reality reports that the development was disclosed in a statement by the National Executive Council of MCAN on Tuesday.

MCAN, in the statement signed by its National PRO, Hadi-Almu Umar Faruk, condemned the attack in strong terms and called on government authorities to ensure justice is served.

It described the massacre as a “heinously inhumane act of violence” and emphasized that the sanctity of human life is a divine trust that must be protected.

“No cause can ever justify such wanton bloodshed. A society where life can be taken with impunity is a society in crisis,” the statement said.

MCAN also urged media organizations across Nigeria to give balanced attention to cases of insecurity in other parts of the country, especially the Southeast, Northwest, and Northeastern zones, where lives continue to be lost regularly.

“Balanced and comprehensive reportage is not only a journalistic duty but a powerful tool in awakening national conscience and mobilizing the collective will to act against injustice,” it stated.

In addition, the association advised all Muslim corps members serving in volatile states like Benue, Borno, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, Imo, and Zamfara to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and stay connected with local MCAN units for safety.

MCAN, in the statement, offered prayers for peace and protection across Nigeria.

By Uzair Adam

Nigeria has recorded a surge in Lassa fever cases, with 11 new infections confirmed in the 23rd week of 2025, raising the total death toll this year to 143.

The latest cases were reported in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Taraba States, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The Daily Reality gathered that tne healthcare worker was among those newly infected.In its latest situation report, the NCDC disclosed that the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) now stands at 18.9 percent—higher than the 17.8 percent recorded during the same period last year.

The Centre described this as worrying, noting it reflects a greater proportion of deaths among confirmed cases.

So far, 18 states have reported at least one confirmed case across 96 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states accounting for 90 percent of all infections.

Ondo alone contributes 31 percent of the total.Most of the affected individuals are between 21 and 30 years old, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

Despite a general decline in cases compared to 2024, the infection of a healthcare worker highlights ongoing risks.

To address the outbreak, the NCDC has activated a multi-partner Incident Management System.

This includes enhanced surveillance, training for clinicians in hotspot areas, and integration of Lassa fever messaging into broader public health communication.

The agency’s Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, stressed the importance of early presentation at health facilities.

“Late presentation remains a major challenge, contributing to the high fatality rate. Nigerians should seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear,” he urged.

Response efforts include distributing personal protective equipment, Ribavirin, and hygiene materials to affected states and treatment centres.

Healthcare workers have also been trained in case management in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States with support from the World Health Organization (WHO).

However, challenges persist. These include low awareness in high-burden communities, inadequate sanitation, poor health-seeking behaviour, and the high cost of treatment.

The NCDC is continuing public awareness campaigns, community sensitisation, and collaboration with both local and international partners to strengthen disease prevention, surveillance, and treatment.

Nigerians are advised to maintain strict hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and support community-led efforts to improve sanitation.

The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to a coordinated national response aimed at containing the disease.

By Anas Abbas

The Joint Task Force for Operation Whirl Stroke (JTF-OPWS) has committed to reinstating peace in the troubled communities of Benue State.

This assurance was given by Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, the Commander of JTF-OPWS, in a statement released on Tuesday by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the acting Media Operation Officer at the headquarters.

Maj. Gen. Gara made this promise during an operational tour of key areas affected by the ongoing military campaign in the state.

He urged the troops to uphold their confidence, remain vigilant, and adhere to high professional standards in their operations.

The commander highlighted that the task force is employing a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies aimed at dismantling criminal elements that threaten peace in the region.

He underscored the importance of unwavering commitment, resilience, and discipline as essential components of their counter-terrorism and counter-banditry efforts.

Reassuring the public, Gara stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will not waver in their mission until peace and normalcy are fully restored.

He vowed that all individuals involved in violence and insecurity would be identified and brought to justice according to existing laws and military protocols.

“The era of impunity is over. We are here to reassure our people that the military remains dedicated to protecting lives and property, and that no criminal will escape punishment,” he declared.

During his tour, Maj. Gen. Gara assessed troop morale, operational readiness, and logistical support for the units.

He also engaged with field commanders to review real-time intelligence and ongoing operations aimed at eliminating armed militias, bandits, and other non-state actors.

The commander visited several locations during his tour, including Naka, Gwer West, Otukpo, Agatu, and APA Local Government Area.

This commitment from the JTF-OPWS aims to foster a safer environment for all residents of Benue State as they work towards restoring peace and stability.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

U.S. intelligence assessments have concluded that Iran is not currently pursuing a nuclear weapon, despite heightened regional tensions and fears of escalation. According to officials cited by CNN, Iran would still need up to three years to produce and deliver a nuclear warhead to a target of its choosing, should it decide to take that path.

These revelations come amid a dramatic military conflict between Israel and Iran that erupted earlier this month. On June 13, Israel launched a wide-ranging preemptive military campaign—codenamed Operation Rising Lion—against Iran, targeting over 100 sites including nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Tehran.

The Israeli strikes killed at least 224 people and injured more than a thousand, many of them civilians. Civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and power stations, was also severely damaged.

Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise 3, unleashing a massive barrage of over 150 ballistic missiles and more than 100 drones against Israeli military bases and infrastructure. Dozens of Israelis were injured, several seriously.

Despite the intensity of the conflict, U.S. intelligence officials maintain that Iran has not made the political decision to weaponize its nuclear program. While uranium enrichment activities continue, they have not reached a threshold indicating imminent nuclear arms development.

The ongoing war has raised concerns among international observers, with legal experts warning that elements of the Israeli offensive may violate international law. As both sides continue exchanging fire, diplomatic efforts face severe obstacles, and fears grow of further escalation in an already volatile region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated the importance of using data to drive public relations, as it joined communication professionals from across Africa to mark the 50th anniversary of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) at the 36th Annual Conference held in Mombasa, Kenya.

The event, which took place from June 9 to 13, 2025, at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort, attracted over 500 delegates including academics, policymakers, corporate executives, and development partners.

Themed “Transforming Africa through Safe and Responsible Digital Communication”, the gathering focused on shaping the future of public relations on the continent.Representing the NCS was Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service’s National Public Relations Officer.

He delivered a presentation titled “Leveraging Data Analytics for Effective Public Relations Practice in the Nigeria Customs Service.” In his remarks, he explained that public institutions must embrace data to build public confidence and communicate reforms clearly.

“Public relations has moved from the era of assumptions to a profession guided by evidence. At Nigeria Customs, we are applying data analytics not just to shape narratives, but to measure impact, evaluate stakeholder perception, and make informed communication decisions,” AC Maiwada stated.

He credited the Service’s shift to a proactive communications strategy to the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. Maiwada noted that the NCS now employs media intelligence tools, real-time feedback systems, and sentiment analysis to strengthen its relationship with the public.

“The future of public sector communication lies in our ability to listen, adapt and engage purposefully. As gatekeepers of public trust, we cannot afford to be reactive. We must lead with clarity, backed by verifiable data,” he added.

The conference also served as a platform to formally announce Nigeria as the host of the 2026 edition of the APRA summit.

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed the country’s readiness through the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Onilu.

“Nigeria is deeply honoured by the confidence reposed in us to host APRA 2026. This is a historic opportunity not just to celebrate excellence, but to deepen our collective resolve to use communication as a force for good across the continent,” Onilu said.

Key figures at the conference included APRA President Arik Karani, Immediate Past President Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, President of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management Prof. Justin Green, World Communication Forum Association President Maxim Behar, and Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) President Dr. Ike Neliaku.

In a goodwill message, International Public Relations Association (IPRA) President-elect Esther Cobbah encouraged PR professionals to use their craft to promote unity and advance equity, trust, and development across Africa.Dr. Neliaku also led a key panel session, where he presented a paper titled “Navigating Good Governance and Development in Africa Through Responsible Digital Communication.”

He urged governments to invest in strategic communications and called on practitioners to treat trust and reputation as essential assets in the digital era.

The active participation of the Nigeria Customs Service at APRA 2025 reflects its commitment to modernising its image and public engagement approach.

With Nigeria set to host the next APRA conference, the NCS is expected to play a central role in shaping Africa’s future communications agenda, anchored in innovation, accountability, and data-driven storytelling.