News

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

April is traditionally a month of pranks and laughter. But in Nigeria, the joke was on no one except, perhaps, on a nation whose security architecture is under siege from terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.

Far from fearing our security operatives, criminal elements across the country displayed shocking audacity, reminding us that the battle for Nigeria’s soul remains bloody and unresolved.

In a horrific display of lawlessness, notorious bandit leader Bello Turji celebrated Eid in Sokoto by executing kidnapped victims, recording and broadcasting the gruesome act without fear of consequences. Across parts of Katsina, Kaduna, and Zamfara, bandits not only continued their reign of terror but have begun levying taxes and operating parallel governments in areas still supposedly under state control.

Compounding public anxiety, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu made headlines when he advised families of kidnapped victims to “stop paying ransom.” While theoretically sound, the reality is far more brutal. Without swift and credible government intervention, desperate families have no option but to finance their tragedies. Until state forces can decisively rescue captives, this vicious cycle will continue.

In just one month, attacks escalated across Plateau, Kwara, and Benue States, leaving communities in mourning. Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents resurfaced with deadly ambushes, signalling their continued relevance in Nigeria’s security equation.

April’s bloodshed has revealed operational lapses and a deep strategic and moral crisis. The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) must urgently intensify efforts, especially by working discreetly with rescued victims to extract intelligence, boost surveillance systems, and dismantle criminal networks worldwide.

While commendable successes by security operatives, such as rescuing hostages and recovering illegal arms, were recorded, they were dwarfed by the scale of atrocities witnessed within just 30 days.

The Department of State Services (DSS), often criticised and even facing calls for disbandment, must seize this moment to redeem itself. Encouragingly, recent commendations from the Plateau State Government and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna for the DSS’s contributions to curbing insecurity suggest a glimmer of institutional reliability. Their successful arrests of gunrunners and dismantling of kidnapping syndicates are steps in the right direction.

Notably, the DSS also intercepted a British Army Major in Delta State attempting to smuggle 50 AK-47 rifles and ammunition—a major bust, and a signal that the service can perform under pressure. Their ability to withstand calls for the suspect’s release further strengthens public confidence.

Going forward, DSS and ONSA must strengthen collaboration through real-time joint operations, intelligence sharing, and visible outcomes. The Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA) also must integrate its overseas capabilities with ONSA’s domestic strategies. Today’s criminals are sophisticated—our response must be smarter.

Beyond the battlefield, Nigeria’s fight against corruption also demands attention. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) must intensify efforts with ongoing arrests of internet fraudsters and by pursuing justice in high-profile cases involving figures like Betta Edu and Sadiya Umar Farouq.

Regarding Aisha Achimugu’s case, the EFCC must adhere to due process and uphold its promise to act with diligence and integrity. Recent arrests, including that of Bauchi State Accountant General Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, show the commission is active, but visibility and transparency are critical.

Despite receiving accolades, such as the Government Spokesperson Award and the Courage in Justice and Transparency Award from the Nigerian Human Rights Community, EFCC must do more to recover funds stolen through schemes like CBEX. Collaborating with Interpol to dismantle international fraud networks and prevent future scams using forged EFCC certificates will reinforce the commission’s credibility locally and abroad.

Transparency is the only antidote to growing public cynicism about the Commission’s integrity.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), though laudably organising programs like its stakeholders’ meeting on accountability in local government, must now transition from talk to action. Corruption within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) remains rampant. A recent ICPC report showed that over 60% of corruption cases involved diverting healthcare funds—a scandal demanding decisive intervention.

April has ended, but the wounds it inflicted are still fresh. If we’ve learned anything, it is that the fear of the Nigerian state must be restored—not with hollow rhetoric, but through coordinated, courageous, and relentless action.

The enemies of Nigeria no longer fear our uniforms, our institutions, or the name “government.”

The time to act was yesterday. Today is already a dangerous gamble. Tomorrow may be too late.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a PRNigeria Fellow and author. He can be reached via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The World Bank has advised the Federal Government of Nigeria to impose higher excise duties on harmful goods, including alcohol, tobacco, and sugar-sweetened beverages, as a key condition before approving a $750 million loan.

The recommendation is part of broader measures aimed at boosting non-oil revenue and reducing Nigeria’s reliance on petroleum earnings.

The World Bank believes that increasing taxes on these products will help improve public health by discouraging excessive consumption while generating additional government income for development projects.

According to the World Bank, the proposed tax hike will:

1 Enhance public health by reducing the consumption of harmful products.

2 Increase government revenue for critical infrastructure and social programs.

3 Support economic diversification by strengthening non-oil sectors.

This suggestion comes at a time when Nigeria’s economy faces significant pressure, including rising debt, inflation, and declining oil revenues.

The move aligns with global efforts to curb health risks associated with tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks while ensuring sustainable economic growth.

The Federal Government is expected to issue an executive order to implement the new tax policy as part of the loan agreement.

If approved, the measure could mark a major shift in Nigeria’s fiscal strategy, balancing public health concerns with economic recovery efforts.

By Uzair Adam

A Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Baba Ali and one other individual have lost their lives following a violent disturbance in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Kano State Police Command on Monday and signed by its spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.

According to the statement, the unrest began on the evening of Sunday, May 25, after a motorcycle mechanic, Abdullahi Musa, was arrested over allegations of reckless and dangerous riding.

He was suspected to be under the influence of substances and was detained at the Rano Police Division.

Police said the suspect later showed signs of weakness and was taken to the Rano General Hospital, where he died the following morning, May 26, while receiving treatment.In reaction to his death, the Command stated that a group of miscreants attacked the Rano Police Division, looting and setting parts of the building and two vehicles on fire.

Ten additional vehicles were also destroyed during the chaos.

Ali, who was critically injured in the attack, was rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital but died while receiving treatment.

Police confirmed the arrest of 27 suspects linked to the violence, adding that normalcy has been restored in the area.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, PhD, visited the scene and also paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Rano, His Highness, Ambassador Dr. Mohammed Isah Umar (Autan Bawo 19).

He ordered a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the causes of the incident and ensure justice is done.

While condoling with the family of the late DPO, the Command urged residents to remain calm and not resort to self-help, assuring the public of its commitment to peace and order throughout the state.

By Uzair Adam Tension engulfed Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Monday following the death of a young man, Abdullahi Musa, who reportedly died in police custody during interrogation.

It was gathered that Abdullahi was arrested on Sunday for an alleged traffic offence. His sudden death sparked outrage in the community, prompting a protest, mainly by youth.

What started as a peaceful demonstration soon turned violent when protesters stormed the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters and set it on fire.Amid the unrest, a police officer was reportedly injured after being attacked.

The officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when police allegedly opened fire to disperse the crowd, injuring two young men in the process.

“We were protesting peacefully and demanded answers about Abdullahi Musa. But things got out of hand when the police began shooting,” a resident said.

Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the incident and assured that a full investigation would be carried out.

“A thorough investigation will be conducted to uncover the truth, by the Grace of God,” he said.

By Sumayyah A. Ishaq

Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani on Monday commissioned the Kagarko Township Road Project in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna, marking his two-year anniversary in office.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, which was attended by top government functionaries, members of the State Executive Council and the Kaduna State House of Assembly, and traditional, religious, and political leaders, among others, Governor Uba Sani Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that the delivery of the projects will further enhance economic achievements in the Kagarko area of the State.

He further said, “The commissioning of this road project is another fulfilment of our administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable development through the continuous provision of efficient infrastructure”

In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Kagarko Local Government Council, Honourable Muhuyideen A. Umar, said the construction and commissioning of the road stands as another milestone in Governor Uba Sani’s administration’s commitment to infrastructure development that enhances the socio-economic well-being of Kagarko residents.

It would be recalled that prior to the intervention of the Gov Uba Sani administration, the dilapidated Kagarko township road had remained in a state of disrepair for over two decades while motorists and residents navigated in high-risk conditions.

By Maryam Ahmad

An Upper Shariah Court in Kano has sentenced one Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for setting fire to a mosque in Gadan village, Gezawa Local Government Area, leading to the death of several worshippers.

The tragic incident occurred earlier this year when Abubakar reportedly locked the mosque doors and poured petrol before setting the building ablaze during early morning prayers. The attack claimed the lives of multiple worshippers and left others with severe injuries.

Presiding over the case, the judge described Abubakar’s actions as deliberate and heinous, noting that the punishment was in line with Shariah provisions for such offences.

The sentencing has drawn mixed reactions. Some residents welcome the verdict as justice served, while others continue to mourn the devastating loss.

Authorities have urged communities to remain calm and uphold peace and coexistence.

By Anwar Usman

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas has withdrawn a bill aimed aimed at making voting compulsory for all eligible Nigerians.

The bill, which he co-sponsored with Daniel Asama Ago, was meant to change the Electoral Act 2022 to encourage more people to vote and strengthen democracy.

In a statement on Monday, signed by the media aide to the speaker, Musa Krishi, said the decision to pull the bill came after speaking with many people and groups across the country.

“From the start, the goal was to get more people involved in elections and strengthen democracy by boosting voter turnout,” the statement said.

The bill had passed second reading in the House on Thursday but it sparked debate.

Some people supported it, saying it would lead to better voter turnout while others said it would take away personal freedom and would be hard to enforce in a country as diverse as Nigeria.

The speaker, pointed out that countries like Australia, Belgium, and Brazil have high voter turnout thanks to compulsory voting, but stressed that Nigeria must find its own way that suits its people.

Abbas further stated that “Lawmaking is about serving the people, and any new law must respect personal freedom”.

Instead of forcing people to vote, he said the government would look for another alternative that’ll encourage voting, especially among young people and those voting for the first time.

“This withdrawal gives us time to talk more about how to build a culture of voluntary voting that supports our democracy and respects citizens’ rights,” he added.

Many Nigerians had criticized the bill, urging leaders to focus on solving problems like election violence, lack of trust in the system, and poor planning on election days, issues that stop people from voting.

By Muhammad Abubakar

In response to recent media reports suggesting a potential easing of Saudi Arabia’s longstanding alcohol prohibition, a senior Saudi official has categorically denied any plans to lift the ban.

Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud, the Assistant Minister of Tourism, addressed the issue during a panel session at the World Economic Forum in Davos. She emphasized that the Kingdom remains committed to its laws prohibiting alcohol consumption.

“The short answer is that we’re going to continue with our current laws,” she stated, highlighting that Saudi Arabia has successfully attracted tourists without altering its cultural and legal frameworks.

The clarification comes amid speculation fueled by the recent opening of a liquor store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, exclusively serving non-Muslim diplomats. While this move marks a controlled exception, it does not indicate a broader policy shift regarding alcohol availability in the country.

Furthermore, Saudi officials have reiterated that the alcohol ban will remain during major upcoming events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, the Saudi ambassador to the UK, confirmed that alcohol will not be available to fans during the tournament, aligning with the Kingdom’s cultural and religious values.

As Saudi Arabia continues its Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy and promote tourism, officials stress that modernization efforts will proceed without compromising core cultural principles.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has revealed that Saudi Arabian authorities barred him from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage despite granting him a valid visa.

In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Sheikh Gumi wrote: “Alhamdulillahi, I’ve already completed my Hajj 2025 and I’m at home in our beloved country Nigeria.”

He referenced a verse from the Qur’an (Q2:196) to explain that being prevented from performing the pilgrimage due to external circumstances frees one from the obligation after offering a sacrifice, in line with Islamic teachings.

The cleric attributed his denial of entry to his political views, stating: “For some obvious reasons—my views about world politics—the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable about my presence in Hajj after giving me the Hajj visa.”

He expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities. He said, “Thanks to the Nigerian authorities who have pledged to take up the matter immediately with Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy.”

Sheikh Gumi was among several Islamic scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for this year’s pilgrimage.

He reportedly arrived in Medina on Saturday night via Umza Air, but was denied entry by Saudi immigration officials.

Now back in Nigeria, Sheikh Gumi said he would focus on his health and farming activities while urging continued prayers for the safe return of all pilgrims and for peace and prosperity in the country.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Spain has called for international sanctions against Israel following its ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has led to heavy civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian situation.

At a high-level summit in Madrid, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares proposed suspending the EU’s cooperation agreement with Israel, imposing an arms embargo, and targeting top Israeli officials with sanctions. 

Mr Albares also called on world powers to recognise the State of Palestine as a step toward peace.

Spain has joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide, further escalating diplomatic pressure. 

Meanwhile, public protests across major Spanish cities have amplified demands for an end to arms sales and more decisive action against Israel.