News

By Uzair Adam

Professor Mainasara Yakubu Kurfi, a former Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Bayero University, Kano, and a current lecturer at the institution, has announced the passing of his father.

The Daily Reality reports that he shared the news via a post on his Facebook page, revealing that his father died on Thursday night.

Professor Kurfi added that the funeral prayer was scheduled for Friday morning in Kurfi town, Katsina State.

“Inna lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi raji’un. With a heavy heart, I share the news that my beloved father passed away on Thursday night,” the professor wrote, while also praying for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness upon his father’s soul.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Kano State Hisbah Board has arrested 24-year-old Shamsu Yakubu after a disturbing video showed him allegedly licking a goat’s genitals. The footage, which circulated widely on TikTok, sparked outrage among viewers and residents.

Yakubu reportedly asked someone to film the act in a bid to gain social media fame. “I did it to trend on social media and become famous,” he admitted in the video. 

However, under interrogation by Hisbah officials, he denied fully committing the act, saying, “I swear to Allah, I did not lick the goat’s genitals. I only put my mouth around the area.”

Hisbah officials were alerted after concerned residents, angered by the video, threatened to take matters into their own hands. A community leader intervened and reported the incident to the authorities.

Speaking on the arrest, Deputy Commander-General of the Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminuddeen Abubakar, expressed dismay over the act, calling it a violation of religious and moral values. “Sadly, a Muslim man will use his mouth to lick the genitalia of a goat, without regard to religious teachings,” he said.

Sheikh Aminuddeen revealed that both the suspect and the goat will undergo medical testing. “We will test both for possible diseases before prosecution,” he stated, adding that Yakubu would also face psychiatric and drug evaluations.

He warned others against seeking online popularity through indecent behaviour, saying, “Anybody caught bathing in dirt or charcoal under the guise of fame will be arrested and dealt with accordingly.”

The incident has reignited conversations around the influence of social media on youth behaviour, with some calling for stricter regulations and moral guidance to curb extreme acts done for clout.

By Anas Abbas

The Centre for Democratic Studies at Bayero University Kano held its 23rd Annual Symposium on Thursday morning, honouring the 42nd memorial anniversary of the esteemed Mallam Aminu Kano. 

The event, which took place at the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies, was centred on the theme “The Politics of Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Expectations and Realities.”

Prominent figures from the political and academic spheres graced the symposium, including Professor Abubakar Adamu Rashed, who delivered the opening remarks, and Professor Badayi, who served as a co-discussant. Other notable attendees included Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, and Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila.

In his address, Professor Rashed underscored Mallam Aminu Kano’s legacy, describing him as “not just a politician from Kano, but a revolutionary figure for Nigeria and Africa.” He highlighted Mallam Aminu’s strong opposition to colonial taxation and his belief that the lumpen proletariat should be exempt from taxation.

The guest speaker, Professor Kabiru Isa Dandago, a distinguished professor of accounting at Bayero University, presented a thought-provoking paper titled “The Politics of Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Expectations and Realities.” He advocated for the acceptance of a proposed development levy included in the tax reforms bill, suggesting a uniform rate of 4% across the board.

Professor Dandago proposed allocating 50% of the development revenue to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), with 20% directed towards the National Economic Recovery Fund (NELFund). The remaining 30% would be distributed among various initiatives, including NITDA, NASENI, cybersecurity projects, and police trust funds.

He expressed concern over multinational companies’ inadequate contributions to the tax reforms outlined in the bill. Professor Dandago called for substantial enhancements in the bill’s content to ensure that the renewed tax system effectively delivers the intended benefits for Nigeria.

The symposium served as a vital platform for discussing pressing issues surrounding tax reforms in Nigeria, echoing Mallam Aminu Kano’s enduring legacy in advocating for social justice and equity.

By Uzair Adam

A late-night fire outbreak has razed the shop of a popular TikToker, Rahama Saidu, located along UDB Road in Tarauni Local Government Area of Kano State.

The incident occurred just hours after officials of the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) demolished parts of the shop, citing illegal structural extensions.

Although the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, an eyewitness who spoke to journalists at the scene on Thursday night alleged that the blaze may have been triggered by a spark from welding activities in a nearby shop.

According to the eyewitness, a neighbouring shop owner had engaged welding engineers to carry out repairs on his property, which was also affected by the demolition.

“After the demolition, Rahama came and cleared all her belongings from the shop. Unfortunately, this fire broke out not long after,” the source added.

Aside from Rahama’s shop, a photographer’s store in the same area was also affected by the inferno.

Security operatives were later seen cordoning off the area to prevent any possible looting.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Kaduna State Government has rescued a 7-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, after his father, Sani Tanimi Maishago, allegedly poured hot water on his legs as punishment for stealing biscuits in Lere Local Government Area.

According to reports, the father tied Abubakar’s legs before scalding him and, with the help of the boy’s stepmother, locked him in a room for over 20 days without proper food or medical care.

By the time authorities intervened, the child’s legs had become severely infected, with maggots infesting the wounds.

Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, visited Abubakar at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, where doctors were forced to amputate both legs below the knee to save his life.

“We will ensure justice is served as a deterrent to others,” Salisu stated, confirming that the father and stepmother have been arrested and will face prosecution.

Dr. Abdulkadir Musa, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, said Abubakar will need artificial limbs to aid his mobility, urging parents to avoid extreme punishments that cause irreversible harm.

The case highlights Kaduna State’s zero-tolerance policy toward child abuse, with officials vowing to pursue strict legal action.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been named the Best Corporate Spokesperson Team at the 5th edition of the National Spokespersons Awards, which took place at the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre, Abuja Continental Hotel.

The event followed the conclusion of the Nigeria Spokespersons Summit, a two-day gathering that drew participation from serving and former Ministers of Information, including Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, and Labaran Maku.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, was also present.

Distinguished speakers featured at the summit included Chief Segun Osoba, a former Ogun State governor and seasoned media professional; Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chair of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reform; Prof. Tonnie Iredia, Founder of the Tonnie Iredia University of Communication; Dr Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Managing Director of NECCI Consult; Mallam Mahmud Jega, Editor-in-Chief of 21st Century Chronicle; and Chief Adetokunboh Modupe, Chairman and CEO of TPT International.

The award ceremony began at 7:40 p.m., starting with a red carpet session, cocktail hour, and opportunities for networking.

It then transitioned into formal presentations that celebrated outstanding performance in public communication.

The National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, received the award on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

While expressing his gratitude, he said the recognition highlights the commitment and professionalism of the Customs communication team.

“This award is not about one person—it represents the dedication and synergy of our entire public relations team. We have built a culture of collaboration and strategic engagement, focused on transparency, reputation management, and stakeholder communication,” he said.

Maiwada also mentioned that the Service was honoured during the 2024 edition of the awards.

“Winning again this year confirms that we are consistently raising the bar. We are committed to fostering trust and credibility through accurate and impactful public engagement,” he added.

Other institutions were also recognised at the ceremony, underscoring the relevance of communication and public relations in the operations of public bodies.

Organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the event was themed “Voice of Influence, Champions of Change.”

Speeches were delivered by NIPR President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ike Neliaku, and Honourable Joshua Audi Gana, among other notable figures.

As the ceremony concluded, the Nigeria Customs Service restated its resolve to pursue excellence in public communication and strengthen its engagement with stakeholders.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea has officially commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria for its pivotal role in the apprehension of Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, a wanted drug baron. Jeff, 59, had eluded authorities for 17 years while orchestrating the shipment of illicit drugs valued at billions of naira across the globe.

His arrest by NDLEA operatives in Lagos on February 12, 2025, marks a significant victory in a long-standing investigation that had troubled South Korean authorities. Jeff was identified as a key figure in an international drug network responsible for smuggling narcotics into South Korea. An Interpol red notice had been issued against him, and the NIS sought the NDLEA’s assistance in locating and apprehending him.

Following his arrest, a delegation from the NIS, led by Director Taeyong Cho, visited NDLEA Chairman Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) on April 16, 2025, to express their gratitude. In a letter, Cho praised the NDLEA’s exemplary cooperation, stating, “Without the NDLEA’s invaluable support, our long-standing efforts to bring Kevin Jeff to justice might have been in vain.”

The NIS also requested Jeff’s extradition to South Korea to face pending drug charges. Marwa assured the delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, emphasizing, “You can count on us to work together toward a drug-free world.” He expressed hope for enhanced collaboration between the two agencies, including potential training opportunities for NDLEA officers in South Korea.

This successful operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in the fight against drug-related crimes and highlights Nigeria’s role in global drug enforcement efforts.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its partnership with Access Bank in a bid to strengthen trade facilitation and improve financial system alignment following the rollout of its Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), known as B’odogwu.

On Monday, April 14, 2025, officials from both organizations held a virtual meeting aimed at aligning operational structures and expanding cooperation.

The session was led by Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs overseeing ICT and Modernisation, Kikelomo Adeola.

She was joined by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, and Assistant Comptroller Bukola Omoniyi from the ICT/Modernisation Department.

Discussions centered on improving coordination between Customs and financial institutions.

Key areas of focus included streamlining payment procedures, enhancing data sharing, and enabling real-time processing of trade transactions using the B’odogwu platform.

DCG Adeola highlighted the importance of collaboration in the current phase of post-deployment consolidation.“The deployment of B’odogwu marks a new era in Customs administration,” she said.

“Our next priority is to strengthen partnerships with financial institutions like Access Bank to fully unlock the platform’s potential for automation, transparency, and trade efficiency.”

She explained that B’odogwu, which was developed locally, has already restructured Customs operations by merging procedures, automating declarations, and enabling real-time monitoring of transactions.

“To achieve optimal functionality, all players within the trade value chain must be fully integrated. This engagement with Access Bank is not just timely—it is strategic,” she noted.

Reacting to the Customs Service’s efforts, Olatunbosun Oladunke, Head of Global Trade at Access Bank, praised the agency’s digital initiatives and pledged continued cooperation.

“The B’odogwu platform represents a major leap in digital trade processing. Access Bank is fully aligned with the NCS vision and is committed to ensuring system compatibility—particularly in trade finance and payment automation,” he said.

In the same vein, Olakunle Aderinokun, Head of Media and Public Relations at Access Holdings/Access Bank, showed the value of engaging stakeholders and building public awareness.

“Public buy-in is critical to the success of any reform. We will collaborate with the Service to drive awareness of B’odogwu and educate stakeholders on the value it brings to the trading ecosystem,” he stated.

This engagement is part of the NCS’s larger goal to speed up its trade modernisation plan by fostering transparency, building strong partnerships, and embracing innovation.

With B’odogwu already in use, the agency is moving closer to achieving a fully digital, integrated, and internationally compliant customs system that aligns with Nigeria’s economic goals.

By Maryam Ahmad

In a landmark decision, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer exclusively to biological sex, thereby excluding transgender women from the legal definition of “woman” under this legislation.

The unanimous ruling stems from a legal challenge by the feminist group For Women Scotland against a 2018 Scottish law that included transgender women in quotas for women’s representation on public boards. The Court determined that such inclusion would render the Equality Act incoherent, as it would create two sub-groups within those who share the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.

Supporters of the ruling, including author J.K. Rowling, hailed it as a victory for women’s rights and legal clarity. Conversely, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups such as Stonewall expressed deep concern, warning that the decision could lead to increased exclusion of transgender individuals from essential services and spaces.

While the ruling clarifies the legal definition of “woman” under the Equality Act, it does not diminish existing protections against discrimination for transgender individuals based on gender reassignment. The practical implications of this decision will depend on future implementation and interpretation by institutions and policymakers.

By Muhammad Abubakar

A devastating attack has claimed the lives of over 50 people in Bassa, Plateau State, triggering national outrage and renewed calls for decisive government intervention. The latest wave of violence occurred just a day after a visit to the region by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general election.

Obi, who had praised the resilience of Plateau’s people during his visit, expressed deep sorrow over the killings, calling them “heartbreaking” and “unacceptable.” In a strongly worded statement, he condemned what he described as a “deliberate, systematic pattern of coordinated attacks,” echoing similar concerns raised by Governor Caleb Muftwang.

“This is not the time for press statements,” Obi said. “It is time for concrete, strategic action. The people of Plateau need more than sympathy—they need security.”

He urged the federal government to immediately deploy reinforced security operations and actionable intelligence to identify and dismantle the criminal networks behind the atrocities.

Obi also called for swift justice for the victims, emphasizing that peace and dignity are the rights of every Nigerian citizen.

The incident marks another grim chapter in the ongoing violence plaguing Plateau State and raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current security measures. Obi extended his condolences to the grieving families and prayed for strength for the people of Plateau and eternal rest for the departed.