News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar and critical thinker, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has raised strong objections to the potential presence of U.S. military forces in Nigeria, calling it a dangerous move that could threaten the nation’s independence.

In a recent statement, Sheikh Gumi cautioned that powerful foreign forces often play a role in creating or fueling conflicts, only to later intervene under the guise of providing assistance. This pattern, he argued, can eventually lead to a loss of national sovereignty and control.

Gumi emphasized that Nigeria must prioritize protecting its sovereignty. He expressed confidence that, if properly equipped and supported, the Nigerian military is capable of addressing the country’s security challenges without foreign military intervention.

The warning comes amid ongoing debates over international security cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and banditry. While some advocate for foreign support, Gumi’s remarks highlight a growing concern among certain circles about the long-term implications of external military presence on Nigeria’s self-determination.

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 Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. The meeting followed a recent attack on the Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement released by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to the President for establishing the “Operation Savannah Shield” security initiative and deploying military reinforcements to the area.

The Governor stated that this decisive action would help restore peace and security to the region.

Prior to the presidential meeting, Governor AbdulRazaq had visited Kaiama to assess the situation on the ground following the attack. He was accompanied on the visit by top security officials and some members of the State Executive Council.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A court in the United Kingdom has sentenced a Nigerian national, Adedapo Adegbola, to life imprisonment for the murder of his former partner, Steph Irons, a 23-year-old university student, in Nottingham, England.

The 40-year-old was handed the sentence by Nottingham Crown Court after he admitted responsibility for Irons’ death, which occurred at her residence in Mapperley on October 21, 2025. Reports indicate that the two met at their workplace and had a brief romantic relationship that later ended.

During court proceedings, prosecutors said Adegbola developed an unhealthy fixation on the victim after the breakup. He allegedly purchased two knives online and later hired a taxi to her home. Investigators said he attacked Irons when she stepped outside to dispose of refuse. He then forced his way into the house and stabbed her multiple times.

Concern arose when Irons’ colleagues received disturbing messages sent from her phone. Police officers who responded to the situation later found her lifeless body in the living room. She was confirmed dead at the scene.

Following the attack, Adegbola fled the area. Authorities said he disposed of blood-stained clothing and other items along routes in Mapperley and Carlton. Nottinghamshire Police tracked his movements across several locations, including Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield, and Hull, before he eventually turned himself in. Although he exercised his right to remain silent during interrogation, detectives pieced together his actions before and after the incident.

The presiding judge ordered life imprisonment and fixed a minimum term of 25 years before parole can be considered.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, who led the investigation, described Irons as a “kind and compassionate young woman” whose life ended in “terrifying circumstances.” He noted that the convict made no effort to obtain medical assistance for the victim after the assault, but instead chose to escape and discard evidence.

In a statement presented to the court, Irons’ mother said the loss of her daughter had shattered the family. Relatives portrayed the deceased student as loving and caring, with aspirations to earn a doctorate degree in clinical psychology.

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 Sabiu Abdullahi

The Republic of Türkiye has denounced the deadly terrorist assault on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, expressing grief over the casualties recorded in the incident.

In a statement released on Thursday through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Turkish government said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by the terrorist attack that took place in Nigeria’s Kwara State.”

“We strongly condemn this heinous attack and extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Nigeria. Türkiye will continue to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja said the attackers struck after residents rejected attempts to subject them to ideological indoctrination.

In a separate statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military described the incident as a “cowardly terrorist attack.” It also conveyed sympathy to bereaved families and affected communities.

Reports indicated that more than 170 residents lost their lives during the Tuesday onslaught.

According to the DHQ, the assailants had earlier approached Woro village seeking approval to “conduct preaching and indoctrination sessions,” a request the villagers declined.

Troops were deployed to the area after security agencies received intelligence about the threat. Military patrols and surveillance operations continued for about two weeks.

“However, weeks after the troops withdrew, the cowardly terrorists returned to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others,” the statement said.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria commended residents of the affected communities for standing firm despite threats. It praised their refusal to abandon their beliefs and constitutional loyalty.

“The AFN mourns with the families of those who have lost loved ones in these and other similar brutal attacks on defenceless citizens defending community values and freedom across Nigeria,” the military said.

The DHQ urged Nigerians to remain resolute and resist extremist indoctrination. It warned that violent groups aim to impose “twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.”

Citizens were also encouraged to cooperate with security agencies. The military stressed that unity and resilience remain vital in confronting terrorism.

It added that security forces, in collaboration with other agencies, have intensified efforts to identify and prosecute those behind the Kwara attack and related acts nationwide.

Amnesty International also reacted to the wave of violence. The organisation condemned what it called a troubling rise in killings and abductions across the country.

It described Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as a “Bloody Tuesday,” following coordinated assaults in several locations.

“Alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties,” Amnesty International had said.

The group cited attacks in Woro and Nuku in Kwara State, Doma Tafoki in Katsina State and Abande in Benue State, where many residents were reportedly killed.

The incident has drawn both local and international concern, with renewed calls for stronger security measures to curb terrorism and protect vulnerable communities.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Elon Musk has stirred debate across social media after declaring that wealth does not automatically bring happiness, despite his position as the richest man in the world.

The Tesla chief executive made the statement on Thursday in a post shared on X, the social media platform he owns.

“Whoever said ‘money can’t buy happiness’ really knew what they were talking about,” Musk wrote.

The post quickly gained traction online. As of the time this report was filed, it had recorded more than 51 million views, about 56,000 reposts and thousands of comments. Reactions remained divided.

Some users supported his view. They argued that financial success does not protect people from emotional struggles or personal difficulties. Others disagreed. They maintained that money improves living standards and creates access to opportunities that can enhance well-being.

Musk did not add details or clarification to his remark.

The billionaire entrepreneur has spoken in the past about the weight of leading global firms, the scrutiny that follows his public role and the demands of running multiple companies.

His fortune has experienced major swings in recent years. Much of the movement has been tied to Tesla’s stock performance and wider market trends.

Beyond Tesla, Musk heads SpaceX and several other ventures. His influence continues to expand across technology, regulatory debates and political discussions in the United States.

Data from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index shows that Musk became the first individual to attain a net worth of $638 billion on December 16, 2025. The index also indicated that his wealth rose by 42.7 per cent within one year from December 2024.

On October 28, Musk, who founded xAI, revealed the introduction of Grokipedia, an online encyclopedia connected to his artificial intelligence projects.

His latest comment has again placed him at the centre of conversations surrounding wealth, fulfilment and the true value of financial success.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Worshippers who were abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali community, along the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area in Kaduna State, have regained their freedom after spending weeks in captivity.

The incident occurred on January 18, 2026. Gunmen invaded the community during church service and took away many worshippers into a nearby forest.

Reports indicated that no fewer than 177 persons were kidnapped in the attack. The development triggered outrage and anxiety among residents and across the state.

Sources said the victims were released late Wednesday night. Heavy-duty vehicles were sighted moving in and out of a forest close to Maro town between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m., raising suspicion that the captives were being transported out of the area.

According to a report, community leaders disclosed that the abducted worshippers were brought out of the forest in the early hours of Friday. However, details surrounding their freedom remain uncertain. It is not clear who secured their release or if any ransom was paid.

The village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development. He said the victims, made up of children, women, and men, are now in government custody.

A security source also verified that the abducted persons had been freed.

The victims were subsequently moved to the Government House in Kaduna, where they are expected to undergo debriefing.

As of the time this report was filed, the Kaduna State Government had not released any official statement on the incident.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Anambra State Police Command has taken into custody a 29-year-old woman, Mrs. Edeh Osinachi, over the alleged physical abuse of a 17-year-old domestic worker in Awka, the state capital.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday. He said officials of the Anambra State Ministry of Education handed the suspect over to the police on February 4, 2026.

Ikenga explained that the transfer of Osinachi to the police formed part of measures aimed at protecting the welfare and safety of students and pupils across the state.

Police said the victim worked as a domestic help under the supervision of the suspect.

According to the statement, the case came to light after school authorities observed serious injuries on the girl’s body during a teaching session. The discovery raised concern among staff members, which prompted further inquiries.

Subsequent findings revealed that the injuries were allegedly inflicted at home.

Ikenga said the teenager accused the suspect of attacking her after alleging that she used a mobile phone without permission. She claimed the suspect became angry and subjected her to severe punishment.

“She alleged that Osinachi, enraged by her action, punished her by pressing a heated electric iron against parts of her body, inflicting serious injuries.”

“During interrogation by the Police, the suspect reportedly confessed to the act,” the statement read.

The Police Command praised the alertness and swift response of the school authorities. It noted that their intervention prevented further harm to the victim.

Ikenga assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and that the suspect would face prosecution in accordance with the law.

He also urged parents and guardians to accept only responsibilities they can properly manage.

While investigations continue, the police warned that negligence can expose children to abuse when they are placed in the care of others.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has expressed regret over his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as renewed attention surrounding recently released Epstein files stirs fresh controversy.

The latest disclosures have revived public and political interest in Epstein’s network of high-profile contacts. Among those facing renewed scrutiny are former US President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who have both been named in the documents and have agreed to testify before a House committee examining Epstein’s activities.

Gates addressed the issue publicly after allegations surfaced in newly released records. Reports claimed he concealed a sexually transmitted disease from his former wife, Melinda French Gates, following alleged encounters with “Russian girls.” Epstein was also alleged to have suggested that Gates attempted to secretly administer antibiotics to his wife.

Gates’ office rejected the accusations, describing them as “absolutely absurd and completely false.” Speaking during an interview with Australia’s Channel 9News, the billionaire dismissed the claims and accused Epstein of attempting to damage his reputation or pressure him.

“Apparently, Jeffrey wrote an email to himself. That email was never sent. The email is false,” Gates said.

“I don’t know what his thinking was there. Was he trying to attack me in some way? Every minute I spent with him, I regret, and I apologise that I did that.”

Melinda French Gates also spoke about the renewed attention during an appearance on NPR’s Wild Card podcast. She said the resurfacing details had reopened painful memories from their 27-year marriage, which ended in divorce in 2021.

“For me, it’s personally hard whenever those details come up, right? Because it brings back memories of some very, very painful times in my marriage,” French Gates told the radio network’s Wild.

She continued: “Whatever questions remain there of what – I can’t even begin to know all of it – those questions are for those people and for even my ex-husband. They need to answer to those things, not me.”

Gates confirmed that he met Epstein in 2011 and shared dinners with him on several occasions. He said the meetings centred on efforts to mobilise wealthy donors for global health projects. He denied visiting Epstein’s private Caribbean island and rejected claims of sexual relations with women linked to the financier.

“The focus was always, he knew a lot of very rich people, and he was saying he could get them to give money to global health. In retrospect, that was a dead end,” Gates said.

“I was foolish to spend time with him. I was one of many people who regret ever knowing him. The more that comes out, the more clear it will be that, although the time was a mistake, it has nothing to do with that kind of behaviour.”

Reflecting on the broader scandal, Melinda French Gates described the situation as a societal reckoning and lamented the trauma suffered by victims.

“No girl should ever be put in the situation they were put in by Epstein and whatever was going on with all of the various people around him. It’s beyond heartbreaking,” she said.

“I remember being those ages the girls were, I remember my daughters being those ages.”

She added that learning about allegations connected to her former husband left her with “just unbelievable sadness,” though she emphasised that her concern remains with those directly affected. “What they went through is unimaginable,” she said.

Political reaction has also emerged. Republican congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina disclosed that she had requested House Oversight Committee chair James Comer to subpoena Gates.

“Mace wrote on X, that she has questions for Bill Gates about Epstein, saying she supported Melinda French Gates’s assertion that her ex-husband must answer lingering questions.

Epstein died by suicide in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. Despite his death, investigations and document releases tied to his activities continue to generate global attention and draw prominent figures back into public focus.