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Amnesty International has denounced a deadly attack carried out by armed men on the Irigwe community of Angwan Magaji in Kamaru Ward, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where nine people lost their lives and 11 others sustained injuries.

According to the human rights organisation, the attack took place late on June 16, 2026. It stated that among those killed were two children aged five and four.

The organisation also reported that several victims were killed during the assault, while three women were allegedly attacked inside their homes during the night.

Amnesty International disclosed that efforts were still underway to locate some residents who remained unaccounted for after the incident.

Reacting to the development, the organisation described the attack as one of the most severe recent incidents recorded in Southern Kaduna.

“This is perhaps one of the deadliest recent attacks in the southern part of Kaduna State, with yet another rural community shattered by an attack in the later hours of the night,” Amnesty International said.

The organisation expressed concern over the continuing security challenges in the area. It noted that communities in Southern Kaduna have continued to face killings, abductions and other violent attacks.

Amnesty International called on authorities to take immediate action to safeguard residents and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

It further warned that repeated attacks and the inability to prosecute suspected perpetrators remain a major threat to the right to life of people living in the affected communities.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A court in the United Kingdom has found former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, not guilty of all bribery charges brought against her after a trial that attracted significant international attention.

The verdict was delivered on Wednesday at Southwark Crown Court in London after jurors reportedly spent more than 46 hours considering the case.

Mrs Alison-Madueke, who headed Nigeria’s petroleum ministry between 2010 and 2015 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, had faced six charges. The allegations included five counts of accepting bribes and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery.

British prosecutors had accused the former minister of receiving expensive benefits from individuals in the oil and gas industry. According to the prosecution, the benefits were allegedly provided in return for favourable treatment and influence over the award of contracts in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

During the proceedings, prosecutors claimed that Mrs Alison-Madueke enjoyed what they described as “a life of luxury” in London. They alleged that businessmen linked to Nigeria’s oil sector financed luxury purchases, property renovations and other expenses on her behalf.

The former minister consistently rejected the accusations. She told the court that she neither accepted bribes nor had direct authority over the award of government contracts.

During one of the hearings, she stated: “I can state categorically that at no point did I ask for, take or receive a bribe of any sort… and did not abuse my office.”

Mrs Alison-Madueke also explained that a logistics company was established in London to coordinate official engagements because of what she described as shortcomings in the financial arrangements of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) at the time. She further maintained that official expenses incurred on her behalf were reimbursed by the corporation.

The acquittal marks the end of a case that began after British authorities launched corruption investigations into her activities more than a decade ago. The former minister was formally charged in 2023.

Mrs Alison-Madueke, 65, was among the most prominent figures in Nigeria’s oil industry during her time in office. She also served as president of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) between 2014 and 2015.

Although she has now been cleared of the charges in the UK, she still faces several corruption-related cases in Nigeria. Nigerian courts have previously ordered the forfeiture of assets worth billions of naira linked to her.

The London trial also involved oil industry executive Olatimbo Ayinde, who was accused of bribery-related offences connected to the former minister.

The ruling represents a significant development in one of the most closely watched international corruption cases involving a former Nigerian public official.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has criticised renowned Hausa musician Dauda Kahutu Rarara over comments made regarding his decision to highlight Nigeria’s security challenges on the international stage.

The disagreement followed Davido’s appearance at the FIFA 2026 World Cup Countdown Concert in Los Angeles, where he drew attention to the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. During the event, the singer wore a jacket bearing the inscription “BRING THEM HOME” alongside the names of the victims.

Rarara, a prominent supporter of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), faulted the move and accused Davido of portraying Nigeria negatively before a global audience.

Reacting through his official X account on Wednesday, Davido defended his actions and argued that citizens should not remain silent about insecurity and other national challenges.

According to him, “First of all, anyone who truly loves Nigeria will not remain silent about the insecurity problems troubling the country, nor will they try to stop others from expressing their concerns about it.

“A lack of compassion, putting personal interests first, acting as a political stooge, and prioritising selfish motives over the welfare of the people are not things to be proud of.

“Be patriotic and loyal to your country. Stop placing politics above the truth, and fear God in everything you do. @kahuturarara.”

Davido maintained that speaking about insecurity should not be interpreted as an attack on Nigeria. He said drawing attention to the suffering of citizens is part of the responsibility of patriotic Nigerians who want solutions to the country’s problems.

Before Davido’s response, Rarara had criticised the singer for discussing Nigeria’s security situation before an international audience. The musician described the move as harmful to the country’s image abroad.

In a video circulated online, Rarara said, “People of the world, friends near and far, especially Nigerians, I greet you all. I wish you all the best. Ladies and gentlemen, please be patient with me today. I have come with something I have never said or done before. I am not someone who usually makes statements like this.”

He explained that he decided to speak out because of Davido’s handling of the issue surrounding the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The exchange has generated widespread reactions on social media, where many users continue to debate whether public figures should openly discuss Nigeria’s challenges before international audiences or focus on promoting a positive image of the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a fresh review of interconnection rates for telecommunications operators across the country, a move that could lead to higher costs for voice calls and SMS services if approved.

Interconnection rates, also known as Mobile Termination Rates (MTR), are charges paid by one telecom operator to another when a customer places a call to a subscriber on a different network. The current rates stand at between ₦3.90 and ₦4.70 per minute.

Industry stakeholders discussed the planned review during a consultative meeting on mobile termination rates held in Lagos on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, KPMG partner, Wole Adenekan, said interconnection rates should reflect the actual cost of providing services. According to him, rates that are set too low may discourage investment in telecommunications infrastructure.

“A mis-set MTR can enable dominant operators to foreclose smaller competitors through high termination barriers. A cost-reflective rate supports a level competitive playing field,” he said.

Adenekan also noted that consumers could eventually bear the burden of excessive termination charges through higher retail service costs.

He explained that economic realities have changed significantly since the last review in 2018. He cited the depreciation of the naira, rising inflation, higher energy expenses and increasing equipment costs as factors that have altered operators’ cost structures.

The KPMG official further stated that the expansion of 5G technology and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) services have transformed network usage patterns and service delivery models. He added that messaging and voice services provided by Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms have reduced dependence on traditional telecom interconnection services.

According to him, the local interconnection rates established in 2018 have not been revised, while the 2022 review focused only on international termination rates.

In her remarks, the Head of Competition and Tariff Unit at the NCC’s Policy Department, Omotayo Mohammed, described the review as an important economic measure aimed at ensuring the commission’s regulatory framework keeps pace with developments in the telecommunications sector.

She said: “Our existing national interconnection rate regime was set out in the Commission’s Interconnection Rate Determination of June 1, 2018, and was subsequently adjusted through an amendment to the Mobile International Termination Rate (ITR) in September 2022.

“The Commission has historically maintained a regular cycle of periodic reviews to keep its frameworks relevant.

“However, the years since our 2018 determination have been marked by unprecedented and rapid change. The Nigerian telecommunications market has undergone considerable transformation, reflected in swift expansion, shifting market dynamics, the commercial deployment of advanced technologies such as 5G, and the emergence of new ecosystem players including Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

“At the same time, both global and domestic macroeconomic conditions have shifted considerably. Changes in exchange rate regimes, and inflation rates have substantially altered the cost structures associated with providing communications services in Nigeria.

“For regulation to remain effective in a fast-moving market, our frameworks must evolve in step with it. Pursuant to Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, the Commission is therefore acting on its mandate to ensure that telecommunications tariffs and charges remain reasonable, cost-reflective, and non-discriminatory”.

Mohammed added that the exercise will also assess existing retail pricing controls and asymmetry arrangements to ensure that consumer interests remain protected while maintaining fair competition within the sector.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Katsina State Government has announced the rescue of four kidnap victims by Nigerian Army troops during ongoing operations against wanted bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his criminal network.

The rescued individuals identified as Musa Yakuba, 62; Alhaji Sa’adu Dayi, 68; Mukhtar Danja, 36; and Salisu Danja, 50—were freed during sustained military operations in areas where the gang is believed to be operating.

According to a statement released Wednesday by the state’s Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, all four victims sustained gunshot wounds during their captivity and received immediate medical attention upon rescue.

The operation comes weeks after troops successfully rescued the wife of late Major General Rabe Abubakar. Officials noted that the newly rescued victims had previously appeared in a photograph with the late general.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda praised the professionalism and bravery of the security forces, stating that their relentless efforts continue to yield results in the fight against banditry and kidnapping across the state.

Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, assured citizens that security forces remain on the trail of Fulani and other criminal elements, vowing that operations will persist until all perpetrators of terror against innocent citizens face justice.

“We remain fully committed to protecting lives and property,” Mu’azu said, adding that the government will continue collaborating closely with security agencies to deny criminals any safe haven in the state.

By Anas Abbas

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approached the Court of Appeal in Abuja, seeking an order to suspend the implementation of a Federal High Court judgment that directed the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties.

At a hearing before a three-member panel of the appellate court on Tuesday, INEC expressed support for applications filed by the affected parties challenging the lower court’s decision.

The electoral body argued that it was unaware the judgment would be delivered, insisting that an earlier order of the Court of Appeal had halted the planned delivery of the ruling.

Counsel representing INEC told the court that the commission only became aware of the judgment through media reports, maintaining that no formal notice was issued regarding its delivery.

The commission therefore backed requests for a stay of execution pending the determination of the appeal.

Lawyers representing the ADC also faulted the ruling, describing it as a threat to judicial order and urging the appellate court to intervene. The party’s legal team argued that the lower court proceeded despite being aware of an order suspending the judgment, and called on the Court of Appeal to take urgent steps to preserve the integrity of the judicial process.

Other affected parties warned that enforcing the judgment could create uncertainty ahead of upcoming by-elections scheduled in several states. They urged the appellate court to prevent possible disruptions by suspending the implementation of the ruling while the appeal is being considered.

The Court of Appeal was still receiving submissions from parties involved in the matter at the time of filing this report. The case follows a Federal High Court judgment ordering INEC to deregister the ADC and four other political parties over alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.

By Anas Abbas

A court in Katsina State has sentenced a woman to death after finding her guilty of aiding bandits operating in parts of the state.

The convict was prosecuted for providing assistance to armed criminal groups, an offence the court ruled contributed to insecurity and violence affecting communities across the region. After reviewing the evidence presented during the trial, the court held that the prosecution had established its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Delivering judgment, the presiding judge stated that anyone who supports criminal groups, either directly or indirectly, bears responsibility for the consequences of their actions. The court consequently imposed the death penalty on the defendant in accordance with the relevant provisions of the law.

The case is one of several ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle banditry and related crimes in Katsina and other northwestern states. Security agencies have intensified operations against armed groups blamed for killings, kidnappings, and attacks on rural communities.

Officials say the judgment sends a strong message that individuals who provide logistical, financial, or other forms of support to criminal networks will face severe legal consequences.

The conviction comes amid renewed calls for stronger collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and the judiciary to address the persistent security challenges facing the region.

By Zainab Haruna Abba

Social media has become an integral part of teenagers’ lives, but its impact on their well-being and mental health is a topic of concern.

Social media allows teenagers to connect with friends and family, share their thoughts and experiences, and access information and resources. It can also provide a platform for self-expression and creativity. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change.

The impact of social media on teenagers can be significant. It’s not just a case of losing sleep and getting distracted during the day; social media can have far-reaching adverse effects on a teen’s mental health.

As the adolescent brain is still developing, it’s more vulnerable to time online. And since teens can sometimes struggle to self-regulate their screen time, their exposure and the risk of harm increases. As a result, teens’ social media use often correlates with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, envy and loneliness.

However, parents can take steps to encourage responsible use of social media and limit its negative effects. Setting reasonable limits on social media use is crucial. Parents should talk to their teens about avoiding interference with important activities such as sleep, meals, or homework. Establishing a bedtime routine that avoids electronic media use and keeping cellphones and tablets out of bedrooms is also essential.

Monitoring teens’ social media accounts regularly is vital. Parents should let their teens know they will check their accounts and follow through. Explaining what’s not okay to share or do online, such as gossiping, spreading rumours, bullying, or damaging someone’s reputation, is also important.

Encouraging face-to-face contact with friends is particularly important for teens who are vulnerable to social anxiety disorder. Parents should talk openly about social media and its potential impact, sharing their experiences and habits and asking teens how they use it and how it makes them feel.

Reminding teens that social media is full of unrealistic images can help mitigate negative effects. Parents can also help protect their teens by setting guidelines and teaching responsible use.

An estimated 4.9 billion people worldwide are expected to use social media in 2023. For teens who grow up with technology, those digital platforms are woven into the fabric of their lives.

“Social media is here to stay,” said Mary Alvord, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Maryland and adjunct professor at George Washington University and a member of the APA panel. That doesn’t mean we have to accept its dangers, however. “Just as we decide when kids are old enough to drive, and we teach them to be good drivers, we can establish guidelines and teach children to use social media safely,” Alvord said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has closed its Brazilian office due to a dispute with Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes over censorship.

According to X, Judge de Moraes threatened to arrest its legal representative in Brazil unless the company complied with his directives to censor certain content. 

Despite the office closure, X confirmed that its platform remains accessible to users in Brazil.

The dispute began when Judge de Moraes ordered X to block accounts accused of spreading misinformation, primarily supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. 

X owner Elon Musk criticised the judge, leading to daily fines of $19,774 and potential legal consequences for X’s Brazilian representatives.

Musk is now under investigation for alleged obstruction of justice and other charges. 

X stated, “As a result, to protect the safety of our staff, we have made the decision to close our operation in Brazil, effective immediately.

The responsibility lies solely with Alexandre de Moraes. His actions are incompatible with democratic government.” 

Musk posted on X, “There was no question that Moraes needs to leave. If we had agreed to (Mr. Moraes) @alexandre’s (illegal) secret censorship and private information handover demands, there was no way we could explain our actions without being ashamed.”

By Ishaka Mohammed

If I had had enough money a few days ago, I would have bought a new phone because of a certain feature I seriously wanted. However, I got an alternative from the internet. A free Android application brightened my gloomy day, so I call it my app of the year.

My wireless microphone couldn’t capture my voice during video recording but worked well with pure audio recording. I tested the mic on two Android phones and got the same results. 

I complained to the guy from whom I bought the mic, but he ghosted me for several days after informing me that it worked well when he tested it. I knew this guy through a friend, so I thought he was a retailer, not knowing he was a shopping agent. 

I later met with the retailer, who stressed that the one-month warranty period had elapsed. However, he examined my phone and said I needed a more advanced one to be able to use a wireless mic for video recording. He proved his point beyond doubt by testing the same mic on his phone and other mics on mine.

It was a difficult situation for me. After examining my options, including the cost of using effective noise reduction apps or getting a quiet open space to shoot videos, I almost resolved to stop creating audiovisual content for a while.

But I later watched a YouTube video on a related challenge and tested the recommended app and bingo! My problem was solved.

Open Camera is a free, offline app written by Mark Harman. It might save somebody’s neck the way it did mine. It’s on the Play Store.