By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has ordered the remand of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), alongside his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and their son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, pending the hearing of their bail applications.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik gave the order on Friday, February 27, 2026. She directed that Malami and his son be held at the Kuje Correctional Centre, while Asabe is to be kept at the Suleja Medium Correctional Centre.

The defendants were re-arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after the case was reassigned from Justice Emeka Nwite to Justice Abdulmalik.

They are facing an amended 16-count charge that borders on conspiracy, procurement, concealment, and laundering of alleged illicit funds totaling N8,713,923,759.49, contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

At the start of proceedings, prosecution counsel, Chief J.S. Okutepa (SAN), informed the court that the matter was appearing before Justice Abdulmalik for the first time. He sought permission for the amended charges to be read. He also pointed out corrections in Counts 11 and 12 to align the numerical figures with the amounts already written in words.

Defence counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), did not oppose the corrections but asked the prosecution to make a formal application. The court granted the request to amend the figures.

Count one of the charge reads: “That you Abubakar Malami, SAN, and Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, between July 2022 and June 2025, in Abuja, procured Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal the unlawful origin of the sum of N1,014,848,500.00 (One Billion, Fourteen Million, Eight Hundred and Forty-Eight Thousand, Five Hundred Naira) in a Sterling Bank Plc account, when they reasonably ought to have known that the sum constituted proceeds of unlawful activities, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 21(c) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act”.

Count five reads: “That you Abubakar Malami, SAN, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami and Hajia Bashir Asabe, an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, sometime in September 2024, in Abuja, conspired to disguise the unlawful origin of the aggregate sum of N1,049,173,926.13 (One Billion, Forty-Nine Million, One Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Nine Hundred and Twenty-Six Naira, Thirteen Kobo) paid through the Union Bank Plc account of Meethaq Hotels Limited, Jabi, between November 2022 and September 2024, contrary to Section 21 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and punishable under Sections 18(2)(a) and 18(3) of the same Act”.

Count six reads: “That you Abubakar Malami, SAN, and Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, between November 2022 and October 2025, indirectly took control of the aggregate sum of N1,362,887,872.96 (One Billion, Three Hundred and Sixty-Two Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Seven Thousand, Eight Hundred and Seventy-Two Naira, Ninety-Six Kobo) paid through the Union Bank Plc savings account of Meethaq Hotels Limited, when they reasonably ought to have known that the funds constituted proceeds of unlawful activities, contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The three defendants pleaded “not guilty” to all charges. The prosecution then asked the court to fix a trial date and remand them in custody.

The defence told the court that the defendants had earlier been granted bail by Justice Nwite and had complied with all conditions. Counsel said, “My Lord, the defendants were granted bail when they were first arraigned before Justice Nwite and the conditions were perfected. They have not flouted any of the conditions. The Federal High Court is one. We pray that the existing bail should continue.”

In response, the prosecution acknowledged the earlier bail but argued that the court could either adopt the previous terms or impose new ones. He said, “Your lordship has the discretion to either adopt the terms earlier granted or subject them to fresh bail conditions to ensure their attendance in court. The conditions can be transferred to this court since it is the same Federal High Court.”

In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik held that the earlier bail no longer stood following the reassignment of the case. She said, “I am of the view that the earlier bail has been terminated. In that wise, I order that fresh bail applications be filed before this court.”

The court rejected an oral bail request by the defence and directed that a formal application be submitted due to the nature of the allegations.

Justice Abdulmalik also ordered the prosecution to allow defence counsel access to the defendants to prepare for trial. The case was adjourned to March 6, 2026, for hearing of bail applications and the commencement of trial.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops under the Joint Task Force South East, operating under Operation UDO KA, have carried out a major ground assault on a known stronghold of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Mother Valley, Nkwere area of Anambra State.

The operation took place on February 26, 2026. The force included personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Troops advanced on foot through difficult terrain for more than three hours. They encountered resistance but succeeded in taking control of the area.

Security sources said the armed group used locally made improvised explosive devices and opened heavy fire in an attempt to stop the advance. Troops pushed through the resistance. One suspected IPOB member was neutralised. Others fled the scene with gunshot wounds.

The operation also led to the recovery of weapons and supplies. Items recovered include two pump-action guns, a locally made firearm, a tear gas launcher, gas cylinders, and other equipment. Troops also destroyed structures identified as part of the group’s main base in the valley. These included power installations such as solar panels and a generator.

In a separate action linked to the operation, security operatives arrested two suspected members of the group. One suspect was reportedly caught while trying to plant an explosive device. The second suspect was accused of monitoring troop movements.

Troops also recovered two vehicles, including a saloon car and a black Toyota Sequoia, from a location described as a parking area used by the group.

The suspects are in custody and are expected to face further investigation. Security forces said clearance operations will continue in the area to prevent any regrouping.

Authorities said the operation reflects ongoing efforts by the military to dismantle armed groups in the South-East. They assured residents of continued security presence and urged law-abiding citizens to remain calm.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor announced his decision on Friday during a statewide broadcast, where he revealed that members of his cabinet and other PDP officials in the state moved with him to the APC.

Fintiri explained that the decision was taken in the interest of development in Adamawa State, stressing that his priority remains the progress and welfare of the people.

He stated that the defection was a collective move, as his administration and party structure in the state aligned with the new political direction.

Further details on the development are expected to emerge.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A social media activist, Adamu Bello Karofi, has called on the Bauchi State Governor to take urgent measures to curb the rising wave of killings, kidnappings, and banditry in the state.

In a post on his Facebook page, Karofi advised the governor to provide local communities with firearms similar to those used by bandits, specifically citing AK-47 and AK-49 rifles.

He suggested that young people in affected towns should receive weapons training and be armed.

Karofi expressed concern over what he described as the Nigerian government’s failure to protect lives and property.

“Everyone can see how bandits have overpowered most states in the Northwest. We fear the same will happen in our Bauchi State,” he wrote.

He argued that the only deterrent against banditry is armed citizens. “Bandits only understand weapons. If townspeople are armed, there will be peace, because what the West calls a ‘balance of power’ will be restored,” Karofi added.

The activist concluded his post by praying that the governor would heed his advice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has affirmed that no external power can prevent Muslims from observing Shariah.

The Secretary-General of SCSN, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, made the statement in response to a report recently submitted to former President Donald Trump by a United States congressional committee.

The report, presented by Riley Moore, representative for West Virginia’s 2nd congressional district, and Chris Smith, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Sub-committee, investigated alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria. It highlighted Shariah and blasphemy laws as key concerns.

According to the US lawmakers, “Blasphemy laws in Nigeria’s northern states are used to silence speech and dissent, target Christians and minorities, and justify so-called ‘convictions’ without due process.” The report also recommended repealing these laws, establishing a US–Nigeria security pact, and imposing penalties or visa bans on violators.

However, the Council rejected the claims, saying the report inaccurately portrayed Nigeria as a scene of “Christian genocide” and questioned the inherent rights of Muslims to practise Shariah.

“For clarity, Shariah constitutes a comprehensive way of life for Muslims, encompassing spiritual, moral, social, and legal dimensions. It is the divinely ordained framework through which Muslims regulate their personal and communal affairs,” the Council said in a statement.

The Council further emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing citizens to conduct personal matters according to their faith. Shariah courts operate lawfully within constitutional limits, serving only Muslims. Any attempt to criminalize or dictate how Shariah is practised, it added, undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and constitutional order.

“The Council therefore rejects any external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs. Nigeria is a sovereign, multi-religious nation with a plural legal system and complex security challenges. Simplistic and bias driven narratives imported from abroad do not advance peace or justice; rather, they risk inflaming tensions, deepening mistrust, and undermining peaceful coexistence.”

The Council also condemned the notion of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, calling it false and misleading. “The violence confronting the nation stems from terrorism, banditry, organized criminality, and governance deficits. The government appears either indifferent or incapable of resolving the security problem which has claimed the lives of Muslims and Christians alike,” the statement said.

It reiterated its condemnation of all killings, regardless of the victims’ or perpetrators’ identity, urging the government to decisively tackle insecurity.

“Finally, as Muslims observe this blessed month of Ramadan, the council calls on the Ummah to intensify prayers, supplications, and acts of righteousness, seeking Allah’s intervention for peace, security, justice, and unity in Nigeria. We urge all Muslims to remain law-abiding, steadfast in faith, and committed to peaceful coexistence with all Nigerians.”

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our faith is not negotiable, our Constitution is clear, and our sovereignty must be respected by other nations and protected by our government.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Polytechnic Bauchi has dismissed a circular circulating on social media which claims to impose restrictions on male and female students during the Ramadan period.

In a statement signed by Tanimu Ibrahim Gambo, ACEO, Public Relations, on behalf of the Registrar, the school management said the document is false and did not originate from the Office of the Registrar or any official channel of the school.

“The attention of the Management of the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi has been drawn to a malicious and misleading circular currently circulating on social media platforms, said to have been issued from the Office of the Registrar of the Polytechnic.”

The statement also rejected the claims contained in the document, stressing that they are unfounded.

“The said circular, which makes spurious claims regarding restrictions on male and female students during the month of Ramadan, is entirely false, baseless, and did not emanate from the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi or any of its officials.”

The institution further clarified its position on student interactions and religious inclusiveness. It explained that it remains a co-educational federal institution that allows proper academic and social engagement within laid-down rules. It also noted that it accommodates people from different religious and cultural backgrounds and does not enforce any single religious practice in its policies.

Management added that neither the Registrar nor any official of the Polytechnic would issue such a directive. It urged members of the public, including students, parents, and stakeholders, to ignore the circular completely. The statement described it as the work of individuals who intend to damage the reputation of the institution.

It also advised the public to always confirm information through the Polytechnic’s official communication channels.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of worshippers following an attack on a mosque in Didinkowa village, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Gunmen, believed to be members of the Lakurawa group, reportedly stormed the mosque on the evening of Wednesday, February 25, during a ‘tafsir’ session held after the Ramadan fast. The assault left at least five people dead and 19 others injured, some of them critically.

A witness recounted the scene after the attackers fled, saying, “there was pool of blood in the mosque after the attackers left.”

Reacting to the development, Amnesty International Nigeria expressed concern over the worsening security situation. The organisation said residents are now living in fear as attacks continue to threaten their safety.

The group criticised the Nigerian authorities for failing to address the persistent violence. It stated, “Consistently, the Nigerian authorities have failed to end these killings and protect people’s lives, property, liberty and physical integrity.”

Amnesty International Nigeria also referenced earlier assurances by Bola Ahmed Tinubu on ending insecurity, noting, “President Bola Tinubu claims he has repeatedly tasked security agencies to end the killing so that Nigerians can go to bed with their eyes closed, but clearly nothing has changed.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops attached to Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke have prevented a kidnapping incident along the Enugu–Otukpo Road and rescued three victims without any loss of life.

The development occurred on February 25, 2026, when soldiers stationed at the Forward Operation Base in Otukpo were on a night patrol. They received credible intelligence that suspected kidnappers had intercepted an 18-seater Benue Links bus with registration number TYK 221 YK. The vehicle was said to be carrying four passengers alongside a minor when the attack happened.

Security operatives moved quickly to the location and tracked the suspects along their escape route. Their swift action forced the kidnappers to abandon three of the victims. Although there was no direct confrontation during the operation, troops recovered a mobile phone believed to belong to the suspects at the scene.

The Force Commander praised the soldiers for their resilience, alertness, and effectiveness. He noted that their timely intervention helped avert what could have developed into a serious security situation.

He also urged motorists to remain vigilant. According to him, drivers should take note of unusual situations such as a lack of vehicular movement within a two-kilometre stretch and stop when necessary to assess their surroundings. He further advised road users to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security post to enable a quick response.

The statement was issued by Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Lieutenant and Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, on February 26, 2026.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced January 16, 2027, as the new date for Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections. The commission also set February 6, 2027, for governorship and state houses of assembly polls.

The electoral body had earlier scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections were to hold on March 6, 2027. However, the timetable was adjusted after the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the introduction of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The development marks a significant shift in the country’s electoral calendar, as preparations are expected to align with the revised legal framework. More details are expected to follow.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Hundreds of youths in Kaduna State took to the streets on Tuesday, calling on the government to prosecute former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations of financial misappropriation during his tenure.

The protesters, who gathered at major junctions in the state capital, specifically demanded that the former governor be held accountable for the diversion of public funds. Among the allegations cited was the mismanagement of a ₦350 million loan obtained by his administration, which the protesters claim was unaccounted for.

The demonstration, organized by youth groups under the auspices of concerned citizens, also called on security agencies to disregard what they described as a counter-protest staged by a faction of youths allegedly sponsored to distract from the ongoing probe.

The protesters specifically named Bashir Saidu, Jafaru, and Hafiz Bayero as individuals sponsoring a separate, smaller protest aimed at diverting public attention from the investigation into El-Rufai’s administration.

The calls come amid growing pressure on the Kaduna State Government to ensure thorough investigation and possible prosecution of officials accused of financial crimes in the last administration.