News

By Dahiru Kasimu Adamu

The Department of Mass Communication at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), is finalising preparations to host its maiden international conference, a landmark event slated to hold from June 7 to June 10, 2026.

With the theme “Media and National Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” the four-day gathering promises to bring together scholars, media practitioners, and policymakers from across Nigeria and beyond.

According to a statement issued by Dr Danladi Bako, Chairman of the Conference Organising Committee, a distinguished personality will chair the event: Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, former President of the United Nations General Assembly.

Dr Bako further explained that the conference will kick off on June 7 with a pre‑conference lecture to be delivered by Prof. Fatma El‑Sayed of Cairo University, Egypt, at 1:00 p.m.

The main conference will be officially declared open on June 8 at the university auditorium by the Chief Host and Vice‑Chancellor of UDUS, Prof. Bashir Garba.

Expressing the university’s readiness to welcome the international academic community, Prof. Garba said: “We are fully prepared to welcome the international academic community.”

The opening ceremony will also be graced by the Pro‑Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, Professor Attahiru Jega, alongside other members of the Governing Council.

The highlight of the conference will be the keynote lecture delivered by Professor Kehbuma Langmia, a double Fulbright Scholar from Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA.

The conference will critically examine the role of the media and its intersection with artificial intelligence in an increasingly digital world. Some of the sub-themes include: AI & Media Policy, AI for Security & Information Disorder, AI in Rural Communities, AI in Political Communication & Good Governance, AI & National Security, AI & Investigative Journalism, and more.

Dr Bako’s statement noted: “The conference theme, ‘Media and National Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,’ will provide a platform for robust intellectual discussions among lead paper presenters, panellists, academics from various universities, and other stakeholders across Nigeria.”

In a significant academic milestone, the Department of Mass Communication will also unveil the maiden edition of its academic journal, Alkalami: Journal of Communication.

Journalists, media practitioners, public relations and information officers, content creators, and Mass Communication/Journalism students are strongly encouraged to attend and actively participate in this upcoming event.

“The four‑day conference promises to be memorable and rewarding for participants, visitors, and the academic community at large,” Dr Bako assured.

He added that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the event’s success.

The Department of Mass Communication at UDUS was established in 2019 with a focus on producing media and communication graduates who can contribute their quota to the media and communication industry nationwide.

By Uzair Adam

Media Adviser to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Muyiwa Adekeye, has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of denying his principal access to medical treatment while in custody.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Adekeye alleged that El-Rufai, who had been suffering from swollen, reddish and itchy eyes, repeatedly requested medical attention but was denied by officials of the anti-corruption agency.

According to him, although the former governor was taken to an eye clinic on June 4, his condition worsened afterward, causing concern among family members who visited him in detention.

“ICPC officials denied requests by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to see a doctor. He had complained about his eyes, which are visibly swollen, reddish and itchy.

His family drew the attention of the operatives to his condition and his request for a hospital visit,” the statement said.

Adekeye further alleged that despite being aware of El-Rufai’s condition, the commission failed to arrange further medical care and instead misrepresented his position to family members.

He claimed that an official identified as Henry informed a member of the family that El-Rufai did not wish to see a doctor, an assertion the family strongly disputed.

The aide also criticised the commission for allegedly disregarding a court order obtained by El-Rufai’s lawyers to facilitate access to medical treatment while in custody.

“No agency of government is allowed to be indifferent to the medical condition of a person in its custody.

The ICPC must respect the rights of persons in its custody, obey court orders and allow them access to the medical treatment they require,” Adekeye said.

The allegation comes weeks after El-Rufai’s family accused the commission of denying him access to his personal doctor and restricting food deliveries brought by relatives. The ICPC had previously denied the claims.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Reports have emerged that retired General Rabe Abubakar, former spokesman for the Nigerian military, and his wife have been abducted by armed bandits. Sources indicate the couple is urgently appealing for help as they remain in the hands of their captors.

The incident has sparked widespread concern and public outcry, with many expressing shock and fear that a senior military officer could fall victim to kidnapping within the country.

Security analysts say the development underscores the need to review the nation’s security framework and intensify efforts to protect lives and property without further delay.

Citizens are continuing to urge the government and security agencies to take immediate action to secure the victims’ release and bring an end to the growing insecurity across the nation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has criticised the Federal Government over the country’s security challenges, alleging that the administration lacks the determination required to confront terrorism and kidnapping across Nigeria.

Dalung made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, where he assessed the government’s handling of insecurity and broader national issues.

According to him, authorities appear more capable of tracking government critics than pursuing terrorists who continue to carry out attacks across the country.

“Government seems not to have the political will to deal with it. They have all the gadgets to track anybody who criticises the government — they can pick him up in the next five minutes.

“But they don’t have equipment to track terrorists who display huge phones in the forest, behead teachers, abduct schoolchildren, torture them in the forest, produce videos and send,” he said.

Dalung also dismissed a recent appeal by the Minister of Information for national unity against terrorism. He argued that the statement reflected the government’s inability to effectively address the security crisis.

“I think it’s a statement confirming that the federal government has completely and woefully failed. They don’t seem to have any idea of a solution to the ravaging insecurity that is across the country,” he said.

The former minister further claimed that security agencies were not operating in a coordinated manner. He added that armed groups had established what he described as a “parallel forest economy,” enabling them to sustain their activities outside state control.

Dalung also questioned the impact of foreign military support, particularly that of the United States.

“We were told that the Americans are here with us. If the Americans are here with us, what have they been doing? We have not felt their impact,” Dalung said.

He urged the government to move beyond assurances and empower local communities to protect themselves.

Speaking on the political outlook ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dalung said the country was gradually returning to regional political alignments similar to those of the First Republic.

“Nigeria has returned to the politics of the First Republic, where regions now have their political parties. Almost all the zones have presidential candidates. So ultimately, in 2027, we may be facing serious confusion as we advance towards election,” he said.

Dalung also expressed dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s performance after three years in office. He maintained that many Nigerians had yet to experience the benefits of the administration’s reforms.

“Three years into his tenure, it is just blame game and rhetorics of reforms — reforms that no single iota of the benefit has trickled down. Rather, Nigerians are getting impoverished daily.

“The economy is in doldrums. Insecurity remains rhetorical,” he said.

However, political scientist Obafemi George defended the administration during the same programme. He argued that the government should be given more time to implement its policies and pointed to economic indicators as evidence of progress.

George cited Standard & Poor’s recent upgrade of Nigeria’s sovereign credit rating from B- to B as a sign of improving stability. He also linked the worsening security situation in parts of the region to developments in the Sahel following the withdrawal of French troops.

“This current administration has confronted insecurity that is higher than the previous administration, spent more, and recorded more successes in combating insecurity,” he said.

He referenced security operations in Gwoza and Katsina as examples of progress.

George further argued that meaningful national development requires time and patience.

“You know, when you employ someone, you give the person KPIs… and if you look at each of those, in my opinion, I could confidently say that the president ticked the boxes,” he said.

According to him, structural reforms often take years before their full benefits become visible. He cited examples from China, Rwanda and Dubai to support his position.

“I ask people to give me one example of a country in a modern era that has transitioned from being a poor country to a prosperous country in 36 months,” he said.

“One of the things that we are going through that is causing our current pain is because some sacrifices that were meant to have been done years ago weren’t done,” he added.

George also referred to comments previously made by former Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala that Nigeria was “broke.” He argued that an earlier removal of fuel subsidy could have reduced the economic pressures currently facing the country, adding that the ongoing reforms are intended to secure long-term stability.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

An Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has remanded eight pastors in a correctional facility over allegations of staging fake miracles with the aid of hired actors.

The clerics were arraigned on Friday by the Anambra State Government on multiple charges bordering on spiritual deception and financial exploitation. The prosecution, led by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), brought the defendants before the court under the Anambra Homeland Security Law, 2025.

According to the charges, the pastors allegedly wielded fake supernatural powers, used places of worship to commit crimes, and obtained money and other benefits from members of the public under false pretences.

The prosecution told the court that the defendants operated a coordinated scheme involving external agents who allegedly recruited vulnerable individuals and paid them to pose as disabled or afflicted persons during church services. The individuals were said to have acted out sudden miraculous healings and spiritual deliverances before congregations.

State authorities further alleged that the staged events were recorded, packaged and circulated on social media platforms to attract followers, increase church membership and encourage donations from worshippers.

As part of its evidence, the prosecution submitted video-recorded confessions allegedly made by the accused, contained on a flash drive tendered before the court.

While some of the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges, the presiding judge ordered that all eight pastors be remanded in custody pending further proceedings.

The case was adjourned until June 15, 2026, for formal hearing and consideration of bail applications. State authorities said the prosecution forms part of an ongoing crackdown on individuals accused of using religion or traditional practices to defraud and exploit members of the public.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

At least eight security personnel lost their lives after Boko Haram insurgents launched an attack on a Nigerian Army base in Borno State in the early hours of Friday.

The assault targeted the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, under the 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI, located in Biu Local Government Area.

Those killed included five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), according to military authorities.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Haruna Sani, said troops at the base successfully repelled the attack despite difficult weather conditions caused by heavy rainfall.

He said, “Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau under 25 Brigade of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, successfully contained a terrorist attack in the early hours of this morning despite adverse weather conditions and poor visibility occasioned by heavy rainstorms.

“The terrorists launched the attack at approximately 0300 hours and attempted to breach sections of the FOB under the extreme weather conditions.

“Determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers. The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau and reflects the courage and determination of our troops across the theatre.”

Sani, however, confirmed that casualties were recorded among security personnel during the exchange of fire.

He stated, “Regrettably, in the course of the battle, five gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the intense firefight and close-quarter engagement, while some equipment was also affected by the firefight.

“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.

“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside troops, while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition while receiving appropriate medical care.”

The military spokesman said the deceased personnel demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment in the defence of the country.

He also assured that troops remain in control of the base and have continued operations in the area to consolidate their gains.

According to him, “These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure. All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure, with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North-East theatre.”

Meanwhile, local sources told reporters that the insurgents attacked the military position after a heavy downpour and reportedly operated in the area for close to an hour.

The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, also confirmed the incident and suggested that multiple locations came under attack.

“Yes, the attack occurred. They stormed the location and murdered many soldiers. It is not one place that was attacked,” he said.

Kaigama called for stronger security measures and greater community participation in intelligence gathering to help curb terrorist activities.

“The government needs to create avenues for people who are knowledgeable to discuss and review issues of insecurity. Just as they created forest guards, they must create a grassroots liaison initiative that is not controlled by the government. Through those people, some of these attacks can be reduced,” he stated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Galatasaray assistant head coach Ismael Garcia Gomez has described Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen as one of the finest strikers in world football, placing him among the top five in the game.

Gomez highlighted the Super Eagles star’s qualities while speaking about the calibre of players in the Turkish club’s squad.

Osimhen has enjoyed an impressive spell at Galatasaray since arriving from Italian side Napoli. His performances have continued to attract interest from several leading European clubs, with reports linking him to teams such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.

In an interview with Marca, which was quoted by Forza Cimbom, Gomez praised the striker’s overall contribution on the pitch.

“We have very top-level players, but in my opinion, Osimhen is among the world’s top 3–5 strikers.

“He possesses an extremely high level and impressive physical strength: he presses, he defends.

“In addition, he has the ability to influence the opposing defence even in moments when he’s not heavily involved in the game.”

The comments add to the growing recognition Osimhen has received following another strong season that has further strengthened his reputation as one of the most sought-after forwards in European football.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Police Command has rescued a woman and her son who were abducted by gunmen in Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state, while four suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the crime.

The command disclosed that the victims, a 40-year-old woman and her 25-year-old son, were kidnapped after armed men stormed their residence in Kwarin Gadali Hamlet of Pali District during the early hours of June 2, 2026.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, said the incident was reported to the police at about 11:46 a.m. on the same day.

Following the report, officers attached to the Pali Outstation moved to the area and commenced intelligence-based operations to locate the victims and track down the suspects.

According to Habib, a joint security team made up of police officers, military personnel and local security operatives acted on credible intelligence and arrested three suspects identified as Mainasara Alhaji Umaru, 23; Buba Alhaji Umaru, 20; and Muhammadu Usman, 19, at Kuka Village in Duguri District of Alkaleri LGA.

The police spokesman said further investigations led to the arrest of a fourth suspect, Ahmadu Umaru of Dalgade, after one of those initially arrested allegedly provided information linking him to the kidnapping and the whereabouts of the victims.

He stated that security operatives eventually rescued the victims unharmed at about 7:45 p.m. on June 3, 2026, after sustained intelligence-driven efforts.

“The victims have since been taken to the General Hospital, Alkaleri, for medical examination and attention,” the statement read.

Habib added that all four suspects remain in police custody, while the matter has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation.

He also noted that security agencies are continuing efforts to apprehend other members of the gang who are still at large and recover weapons allegedly used during the operation.

By Mansur Hassan, PhD.

Introduction

The political history of Nigeria cannot be adequately discussed without recognizing the contributions of Malam Aminu Kano, one of the greatest advocates of social justice and popular democracy in Africa. Throughout his political career, he dedicated himself to the emancipation of the Talakawa—the ordinary people whose voices were often ignored by the ruling elite.

Malam Aminu Kano believed that government should serve the masses, protect the vulnerable, and create opportunities for all citizens regardless of family background, social status, or ethnicity. His philosophy inspired generations of politicians and activists who continue to advocate for a more just and equitable society.

The Talakawa Philosophy of Malam Aminu Kano

The cornerstone of Malam Aminu Kano’s ideology was the belief that political power should be used to uplift the common people. Through the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), he challenged feudal structures and elite domination, advocating education, political participation, economic empowerment, and social justice.

His vision was revolutionary for its time. He sought a society where every citizen could maximize his or her potential and where leadership was measured by service to the people rather than privilege.

Although Malam Aminu Kano became one of the most influential political figures in Nigeria’s history, circumstances and political realities denied him the opportunity to fully implement his vision through sustained executive power. Nevertheless, he succeeded in laying the ideological foundation for future generations committed to the cause of the Talakawa.

Kwankwasiyya: Reviving the Aminu Kano Legacy

Decades after Malam Aminu Kano’s struggle, Senator  emerged as one of the strongest political heirs to the Talakawa philosophy.

Through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Kwankwaso revived and adapted many of Aminu Kano’s principles to contemporary realities. His administration placed significant emphasis on education, infrastructure development, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social inclusion.

The slogan “Making the son of nobody become somebody” became a practical expression of the Talakawa philosophy. Thousands of young Nigerians from disadvantaged backgrounds benefited from educational opportunities, scholarships, skills acquisition programmes, and public service opportunities.

For many observers and supporters, Kwankwaso transformed what was once an ideological aspiration into a practical governance model, demonstrating that political power can be used as a tool for mass empowerment.

Historical Alliance Between the Core North and the South-East

One of the most important but often overlooked aspects of Nigeria’s political history is the strategic alliance between the Core North and the South-East. Long before contemporary politics, leaders from both regions recognized that national unity and political stability could only be achieved through cooperation and mutual respect.

During the struggle for independence, the partnership between  and Northern political leaders helped shape the emerging Nigerian state. Despite differences in geography, culture, and religion, they shared a common vision of a united and prosperous Nigeria.

The First Republic witnessed significant collaboration between political forces from Northern Nigeria and the Eastern Region, demonstrating that national leadership could transcend ethnic and regional boundaries. These alliances contributed to nation-building efforts and reinforced the principle that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity.

The Second Republic and subsequent democratic transitions also witnessed important bridges between Northern and South-Eastern political actors. One of the most remarkable examples was the statesmanship of , whose commitment to national unity earned him respect across all regions of the country, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

Throughout Nigeria’s democratic evolution, many respected leaders from both regions continued to advocate collaboration rather than division. They understood that neither the North nor the South-East could achieve its aspirations in isolation. Progress was most attainable when both regions worked together in pursuit of common national objectives.

This tradition of cooperation demonstrates a historical reality: whenever the Core North and the South-East found common political ground, they contributed significantly to national development, political stability, and democratic advancement.

The Rise of Two Organic Political Movements

In contemporary Nigerian politics, two grassroots movements have emerged as powerful expressions of popular political participation.

The first is the Kwankwasiyya Movement, rooted in the ideals of social justice, education, empowerment, and the upliftment of ordinary citizens.

The second is the Obidient Movement, inspired by the leadership and political message of , emphasizing accountability, transparency, productivity, and national renewal.

Both movements derive their strength largely from ordinary citizens, especially young people who desire a more inclusive and responsive political system.

The Emergence of the OK Movement

In recent years, discussions surrounding cooperation between supporters of Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have generated considerable interest across Nigeria.

Many supporters view such cooperation as a natural continuation of the historic partnership that has often existed between the Core North and the South-East. They argue that combining the organizational strength of the Kwankwasiyya Movement with the grassroots enthusiasm of the Obidient Movement could create a formidable force for democratic transformation.

This aspiration has inspired the concept of the “OK Movement” (Obi-Kwankwaso Movement), symbolizing unity, inclusion, social justice, youth empowerment, and national development.

Supporters believe that such a movement could revive the spirit of historical North-East political cooperation while providing a platform capable of addressing contemporary national challenges.

Conclusion

The ideological struggle initiated by Malam Aminu Kano remains one of the most significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. His commitment to the emancipation of the Talakawa established a political philosophy centered on justice, equality, and opportunity.

Although he was unable to fully implement his vision during his lifetime, many believe that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has carried forward that legacy through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, transforming many of Aminu Kano’s ideals into practical programmes that empower ordinary citizens.

At the same time, Nigeria’s political history demonstrates the enduring importance of cooperation between the Core North and the South-East. From the era of Nnamdi Azikiwe to the statesmanship of Alex Ekwueme and beyond, such partnerships have repeatedly strengthened national unity and democratic progress.

For supporters of contemporary political realignments, the idea of an Obi-Kwankwaso partnership represents not merely an electoral arrangement but the continuation of a historic tradition of cooperation between two regions whose collaboration has often helped shape the destiny of Nigeria.

The ultimate lesson of Malam Aminu Kano’s philosophy remains timeless: political power achieves its noblest purpose when it empowers the ordinary citizen, protects the vulnerable, and creates opportunities for every Nigerian—regardless of origin—to become somebody in society.

Mansur Hassan, PhD is the President of KSA.
05/06/2026.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has restated the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, trade relations and border security through closer engagement with diplomatic missions and customs administrations across the world.

Adeniyi made the remarks during a diplomatic cocktail reception hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The event attracted ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, senior government officials and security chiefs. Among those in attendance were the Chief of the Air Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the Customs Management Team and representatives of key government agencies.

Speaking at the gathering, the Customs boss expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s international partners for their support in promoting diplomatic and trade relations.

“We recognize and appreciate your contributions to strengthening diplomatic and trade relations. The Service remains committed to providing the support and services required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively in Nigeria,” Adeniyi stated.

He said the NCS has expanded its global engagement through formal collaboration arrangements with more than 20 customs administrations worldwide. According to him, the partnerships are focused on capacity building, knowledge exchange and operational cooperation aimed at improving trade facilitation and border management.

Adeniyi noted that stronger cooperation among customs authorities, diplomatic missions and security agencies has become essential as countries confront evolving challenges in international trade, border security and regulatory compliance.

He also stressed that customs operations now take place within a highly interconnected global system that depends on trust, regular engagement and shared responsibility among stakeholders.

The CGC described the reception as a valuable opportunity to deepen relationships, encourage dialogue and identify new areas of cooperation that will strengthen Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic objectives.

Participants at the event commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its efforts to build stronger institutional partnerships and promote international cooperation that supports economic development.

The reception highlighted the growing role of the NCS in advancing Nigeria’s trade diplomacy agenda while strengthening strategic partnerships that contribute to national security, revenue generation and sustainable economic growth.