By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has drawn widespread condemnation after posting a controversial video on social media that features an AI-generated scene portraying former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as monkeys.

The video surfaced late Thursday during a flurry of activity on Trump’s Truth Social account. Within less than one hour, the president uploaded dozens of posts on the platform.

One of the materials shared was a compilation video that repeated his long-standing claims that the 2020 presidential election was manipulated. Those allegations have been dismissed in court and through official reviews.

Close to the one-minute point of the footage, an altered segment appears. It shows the Obamas’ faces placed on monkeys’ bodies. The background audio features the song ‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’.

Trump reposted the same video twice. The timing fueled further anger online because the incident occurred during Black History Month.

Users on X and other social media platforms reacted strongly. Many described the clip as racist and degrading. Some critics argued that the post reinforced racist stereotypes historically used against Black people.

The controversial upload formed part of a broader late-night posting spree. During the same period, Trump again promoted discredited narratives about widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election, despite the absence of supporting evidence.

In a separate post that drew attention, Trump shared a screenshot bearing the message, “This can be a great option if things don’t work out,” alongside a fight scene video of martial artist Bruce Lee. He did not clarify the meaning of the message, leaving observers to speculate.

The uproar followed renewed scrutiny of Trump’s remarks about the U.S. electoral process. Earlier in the week, he suggested that Republicans should assume control of election administration in several areas and proposed federal involvement in voting oversight.

“The Republicans should say, ‘We want to take over,’” Trump reportedly said during a conservative podcast released Monday.

During the same conversation with former deputy FBI director Dan Bongino, he added that elections should be “nationalised.”

However, in an interview with NBC News correspondent Tom Llamas on Wednesday, Trump attempted to retract that position.

“I didn’t say nationalise,” he claimed, even though recordings of the earlier remarks circulated widely.

The White House later tried to ease tensions sparked by the statements. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president remains loyal to the U.S. Constitution. She added that he believes previous elections were affected by “fraud and irregularities,” although no verified evidence supports the claim.

Only hours after that clarification, Trump appeared to reinforce his stance while speaking in the Oval Office.

“The federal government should get involved,” he said.

The developments have continued to generate debate across political and civic circles in the United States. Critics argue that both the video controversy and the election comments raise concerns about political rhetoric and democratic norms.

Author: Aisha Musa Auyo

Number of Pages: 184

Date of Publication: 2025

Publisher: Erkan Publishing-Nigeria

I just finished reading Dr Aisha Musa Auyo’s book, Between Hearts and Homes: Reflections on Faith, Love, and Everyday Life. It sure leaves a lasting impression…

The book feels like a heart-to-heart conversation with someone who has literally ‘lived life’, not just studied it.

What stands out immediately is how relatable it is. The tone used is not from a high or detached pedestal. It’s more like the tone of an older sister, a friend, or that person who tells you the truth whether you’re ready for it or not. From body image and self-awareness, to marriage, motherhood, perfume, clothes, and even shawarma cravings, using your cuisine as a comic relief… Everything feels real-life. It’s so easy to see oneself in the stories.

For example, the shawarma story hits hard. We’ve all said things like “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “next time.” But here, “next time” never came. That simple moment teaches a powerful lesson: don’t delay kindness or small acts of love, because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. That’s something everyone can relate to; whether it’s postponing a visit to a parent, delaying a call to a friend, or putting off saying “I love you.”

It’s also commendable that you used practical examples instead of abstract advice. It doesn’t just say “be kind”, it shows kindness through cooking for someone, helping neighbours, respecting professionals, and being intentional in relationships. It doesn’t just say “take care of yourself”; it talks about specifics, perfume, grooming, clothes, and your living space. Even something as simple as keeping your house smelling nice can be a lesson in self-respect and in creating a pleasant atmosphere. That’s everyday wisdom.

Another strong point is how brutally honest you were at some point without sugarcoating things. For instance, pointing out things like:

Openly talking about body shapes and dressing realistically.

Telling people to stop pretending body realities don’t exist.

Warning couples with an AS genotype to reconsider marriage, not out of cruelty, but out of concern for future pain.

That kind of honesty might make some people uncomfortable, but it’s refreshing. It’s not about trying to be politically correct; it’s about trying to be helpful.

Yet, despite the bluntness, the book still keeps a beautiful balance. It blends faith and daily life while tactfully fusing serious medical topics with soft emotional reflections. It also successfully blended romance with responsibility, self-care with modesty and so on.

If I’m being honest, I never knew that the inability to recognise people was a medical condition with a name (prosopagnosia), but that’s one thing I’ve also learnt from your book.

There were interesting discussions about prosopagnosia, sickle cell disease, parenting, and marriage, alongside perfume tips and fashion advice. That balance makes it feel complete, like life itself.

There’s also humour sprinkled throughout. Lines like “Don’t smell like a flower while the house smells like Daddawa” will make you laugh because it’s so true. Or when you mentioned dressing badly makes you look like Muciya da Zani at home, funny, but the message lands. The humour keeps the book light, even when it’s talking about heavy topics like death, genetics, or emotional struggles. Most importantly, the book carries serious ideas beneath the laughter, which made it more fun to read.

Most of all, you were able to pass key messages like: 

Be intentional in love.

Respect your neighbours, you never know when you’ll need them (the button incident was so scary to read. As a mother, I could relate so well).

Take care of your appearance for yourself and your partner.

Understand medical realities before making lifetime decisions.

Be patient with people who behave differently; they might be dealing with invisible conditions (the ID Card scenario of the lady with hearing impairments was quite touching). The personal stories, motherhood, interactions with neighbours, and dealing with loss make the lessons stick. It wasn’t about boring theory but more about fun and practical experiences.

I could go on and on…

In short, the book teaches without preaching, corrects without insulting, and entertains while educating. It’s funny in places, deep in others, and honest throughout. I laughed at some points and reflected at others. It will even make you start rethinking a few habits.

I just love how it generally reminds you that life is made of small moments, how you dress, how you speak, how you love, how you treat people, and that those small things matter more than we realise.

P.S- Meanwhile, I noticed two pages with small errors: one had a typographical mistake, and another contained a repetition. However, these are mere observations and don’t detract from the book’s powerful messages. A more thorough proofreading in future editions would help polish the work and make the reading experience even smoother.

Overall, these are very minor concerns in such an otherwise thoughtful and impactful book as yours. I look forward to more of this. Kudos and more power to your elbow, Ma’am!

Reviewed by:

Eunice Johnson (Southpaw), a UK-based media broadcaster, musician, actor, media consultant, and public relations expert, wrote via eunicejohnson001@yahoo.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar and critical thinker, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has raised strong objections to the potential presence of U.S. military forces in Nigeria, calling it a dangerous move that could threaten the nation’s independence.

In a recent statement, Sheikh Gumi cautioned that powerful foreign forces often play a role in creating or fueling conflicts, only to later intervene under the guise of providing assistance. This pattern, he argued, can eventually lead to a loss of national sovereignty and control.

Gumi emphasized that Nigeria must prioritize protecting its sovereignty. He expressed confidence that, if properly equipped and supported, the Nigerian military is capable of addressing the country’s security challenges without foreign military intervention.

The warning comes amid ongoing debates over international security cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and banditry. While some advocate for foreign support, Gumi’s remarks highlight a growing concern among certain circles about the long-term implications of external military presence on Nigeria’s self-determination.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A civil society organization, Muslim Rights Watch (MRW), has called for the immediate dismissal of Mr. Joash Ojo Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), labeling the appointment a “provocation” against Nigeria’s Muslim population.

In a strongly worded statement, MRW’s spokesman, Mr. Mujahid Abubakar, condemned the selection, describing Mr. Amupitan as an “anti-Muslim radical Christian extremist and hate preacher.” The group argues that the appointment is fundamentally inappropriate for a pluralistic nation and dangerously undermines the neutrality of the electoral umpire.

“In a multi-religious state like Nigeria, appointing a religious extremist and hate preacher as the head of an electoral umpire is fundamentally inappropriate and dangerous for both democracy and social stability,” Abubakar stated.

The organization expressed deep concern that Mr. Amupitan’s alleged track record of “Christian fundamentalism, extremism, and exclusionary rhetoric” directly contradicts the required impartiality of INEC. They warned that his leadership could erode public trust, predetermine electoral outcomes in some regions, and potentially trigger mass protests and violence, particularly in states like Nasarawa and Taraba.

“This appointment is not a mistake. It is a provocation,” the statement read. “It is an open declaration which sends a chilling message to millions of Nigerian Muslims that they are second-class participants in their own democracy.”

MRW concluded by demanding an immediate reversal of the appointment, a public apology from the Presidency, and accountability for officials who endorsed the decision. They asserted that “silence at this moment is not neutrality but complicity.”

The presidency has yet to publicly respond to these allegations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. The meeting followed a recent attack on the Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement released by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to the President for establishing the “Operation Savannah Shield” security initiative and deploying military reinforcements to the area.

The Governor stated that this decisive action would help restore peace and security to the region.

Prior to the presidential meeting, Governor AbdulRazaq had visited Kaiama to assess the situation on the ground following the attack. He was accompanied on the visit by top security officials and some members of the State Executive Council.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A court in the United Kingdom has sentenced a Nigerian national, Adedapo Adegbola, to life imprisonment for the murder of his former partner, Steph Irons, a 23-year-old university student, in Nottingham, England.

The 40-year-old was handed the sentence by Nottingham Crown Court after he admitted responsibility for Irons’ death, which occurred at her residence in Mapperley on October 21, 2025. Reports indicate that the two met at their workplace and had a brief romantic relationship that later ended.

During court proceedings, prosecutors said Adegbola developed an unhealthy fixation on the victim after the breakup. He allegedly purchased two knives online and later hired a taxi to her home. Investigators said he attacked Irons when she stepped outside to dispose of refuse. He then forced his way into the house and stabbed her multiple times.

Concern arose when Irons’ colleagues received disturbing messages sent from her phone. Police officers who responded to the situation later found her lifeless body in the living room. She was confirmed dead at the scene.

Following the attack, Adegbola fled the area. Authorities said he disposed of blood-stained clothing and other items along routes in Mapperley and Carlton. Nottinghamshire Police tracked his movements across several locations, including Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield, and Hull, before he eventually turned himself in. Although he exercised his right to remain silent during interrogation, detectives pieced together his actions before and after the incident.

The presiding judge ordered life imprisonment and fixed a minimum term of 25 years before parole can be considered.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, who led the investigation, described Irons as a “kind and compassionate young woman” whose life ended in “terrifying circumstances.” He noted that the convict made no effort to obtain medical assistance for the victim after the assault, but instead chose to escape and discard evidence.

In a statement presented to the court, Irons’ mother said the loss of her daughter had shattered the family. Relatives portrayed the deceased student as loving and caring, with aspirations to earn a doctorate degree in clinical psychology.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A prominent public affairs analyst, Dr. Bulama Audu Bukarti, has called for the immediate removal of the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan.

Bukarti made the demand during a heated video conversation on “Fashin Baki,” a weekly Hausa political programme, where he expressed strong reservations about the chairman’s neutrality in electoral matters.

“We urgently call on President Tinubu to immediately remove the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan,” Bukarti declared. “If the President refuses to act, Northern politicians should take note: this man will not deliver justice or fairness in elections involving you.”

During the discussion, Bukarti accused the INEC boss of harbouring bias in the conduct of elections, particularly in contests involving candidates from the North.

“Whenever a Hausa or Fulani candidate contests against a non-Hausa/Fulani opponent, he will not conduct free, fair, or credible polls—his public hatred for Hausa and Fulani people is evident and undeniable. In contrast, when a Northerner faces a non-Northerner, he won’t be fair to the Northerner. He has previously dismissed our region’s large population figures as fabricated lies and accused Northern military and police personnel of taking over the institutions to Islamized Nigeria.”

He stressed that concerns about the appointment would have been stronger if the swearing-in had not already taken place.

“Had he not already been sworn in as INEC Chairman, we would have demanded his appointment be blocked outright. Now that the process is complete, it is imperative to press the President: this individual is unfit to lead INEC, as he cannot guarantee impartial elections for Northerners or Muslims.”

Bukarti also responded to possible criticism regarding the motive behind his position. He rejected claims that the call for removal was driven by religious sentiment.

“Anyone claiming this call for his removal stems from religious prejudice is deceiving themselves. The core issue is not his faith, but his deep-seated disbelief in Nigeria’s unity and his passionate hatred toward Northern Muslims. He has accused Northern Muslims of invading and settling in Christian-majority North Central states like Benue and Plateau as ‘settlers,’ while alleging ongoing persecution of Christians in Benue, Plateau, and Taraba states.”

The remarks have since stirred debate across political circles, with observers awaiting reactions from the Presidency and the electoral body.

The video of the programme was made available online, with viewers directed to watch the full discussion in the comment section.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Republic of Türkiye has denounced the deadly terrorist assault on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, expressing grief over the casualties recorded in the incident.

In a statement released on Thursday through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Turkish government said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by the terrorist attack that took place in Nigeria’s Kwara State.”

“We strongly condemn this heinous attack and extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Nigeria. Türkiye will continue to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja said the attackers struck after residents rejected attempts to subject them to ideological indoctrination.

In a separate statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military described the incident as a “cowardly terrorist attack.” It also conveyed sympathy to bereaved families and affected communities.

Reports indicated that more than 170 residents lost their lives during the Tuesday onslaught.

According to the DHQ, the assailants had earlier approached Woro village seeking approval to “conduct preaching and indoctrination sessions,” a request the villagers declined.

Troops were deployed to the area after security agencies received intelligence about the threat. Military patrols and surveillance operations continued for about two weeks.

“However, weeks after the troops withdrew, the cowardly terrorists returned to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others,” the statement said.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria commended residents of the affected communities for standing firm despite threats. It praised their refusal to abandon their beliefs and constitutional loyalty.

“The AFN mourns with the families of those who have lost loved ones in these and other similar brutal attacks on defenceless citizens defending community values and freedom across Nigeria,” the military said.

The DHQ urged Nigerians to remain resolute and resist extremist indoctrination. It warned that violent groups aim to impose “twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.”

Citizens were also encouraged to cooperate with security agencies. The military stressed that unity and resilience remain vital in confronting terrorism.

It added that security forces, in collaboration with other agencies, have intensified efforts to identify and prosecute those behind the Kwara attack and related acts nationwide.

Amnesty International also reacted to the wave of violence. The organisation condemned what it called a troubling rise in killings and abductions across the country.

It described Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as a “Bloody Tuesday,” following coordinated assaults in several locations.

“Alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties,” Amnesty International had said.

The group cited attacks in Woro and Nuku in Kwara State, Doma Tafoki in Katsina State and Abande in Benue State, where many residents were reportedly killed.

The incident has drawn both local and international concern, with renewed calls for stronger security measures to curb terrorism and protect vulnerable communities.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Elon Musk has stirred debate across social media after declaring that wealth does not automatically bring happiness, despite his position as the richest man in the world.

The Tesla chief executive made the statement on Thursday in a post shared on X, the social media platform he owns.

“Whoever said ‘money can’t buy happiness’ really knew what they were talking about,” Musk wrote.

The post quickly gained traction online. As of the time this report was filed, it had recorded more than 51 million views, about 56,000 reposts and thousands of comments. Reactions remained divided.

Some users supported his view. They argued that financial success does not protect people from emotional struggles or personal difficulties. Others disagreed. They maintained that money improves living standards and creates access to opportunities that can enhance well-being.

Musk did not add details or clarification to his remark.

The billionaire entrepreneur has spoken in the past about the weight of leading global firms, the scrutiny that follows his public role and the demands of running multiple companies.

His fortune has experienced major swings in recent years. Much of the movement has been tied to Tesla’s stock performance and wider market trends.

Beyond Tesla, Musk heads SpaceX and several other ventures. His influence continues to expand across technology, regulatory debates and political discussions in the United States.

Data from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index shows that Musk became the first individual to attain a net worth of $638 billion on December 16, 2025. The index also indicated that his wealth rose by 42.7 per cent within one year from December 2024.

On October 28, Musk, who founded xAI, revealed the introduction of Grokipedia, an online encyclopedia connected to his artificial intelligence projects.

His latest comment has again placed him at the centre of conversations surrounding wealth, fulfilment and the true value of financial success.

By Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam

In leadership, enduring influence is never accidental. It is earned through consistent performance, sustained public trust and the wisdom to navigate changing circumstances while remaining anchored to the people’s interests.

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s leadership trajectory increasingly reflects these qualities: steady hands, clear vision and a disciplined commitment to results over rhetoric. Taken together, these attributes point to a governance approach that closely aligns with Kano’s long-term needs and aspirations.

Beyond party affiliations and shifting political alignments, what distinguishes Gov. Yusuf is a leadership style rooted in purpose and institutional responsibility. His governance philosophy has emphasised stability, rebuilding public institutions and people-centred development. At a time when popularity is often mistaken for performance, the administration has demonstrated an understanding that sustainable leadership is anchored in tangible outcomes and policies that translate into visible improvements in everyday life.

This reality has again received a national acknowledgement. Gov. Yusuf’s recognition as The Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year 2025 is not merely a ceremonial distinction but a broader affirmation of a governance model defined by structure, resolve, and service delivery.

As noted by members of the award panel and national commentators, the honour reflects “good governance, courageous leadership, and effective service delivery.” Based on assessments by media professionals and independent observers, the award reinforces what many Kano residents have observed: measurable progress under a leadership style that prioritises substance over spectacle.

One of Gov. Yusuf’s most notable qualities is political maturity. Effective leadership is not defined by rigidity, but by the ability to adapt strategically without losing sight of core objectives. By consistently placing Kano’s strategic interests above transient political considerations, the governor has demonstrated a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s federal system and the importance of constructive engagement within it.

This is not an inconsistency; it is political intelligence. Kano’s historic role as an economic and cultural hub demands a leader who can convert political access into concrete benefits for its people. The national recognition now accorded to Gov. Yusuf’s administration underscores a vital point: this strategic, mature approach is yielding tangible dividends and respect beyond Kano’s borders.

Equally significant is the governor’s inclusive posture. His public conduct and policy direction reflect a unifying outlook that transcends factional divides and appeals to shared civic aspirations. His measured response to criticism is particularly instructive. In an era dominated by reactive politics and constant public rebuttals, restraint has become an uncommon but valuable leadership asset. Rather than engage in prolonged exchanges, the administration has largely allowed policy outcomes and administrative action to speak on its behalf.

This approach signals confidence and reinforces a quiet but powerful message: performance remains the most credible response to doubt. From the standpoint of public trust, these qualities are indispensable. Confidence in governance is built on credibility, consistency, and visible results.

As the dividends of governance become more apparent and cooperation across levels of government deepens, public assurance grows organically. National recognition of this nature further strengthens that confidence, serving as an independent validation that cuts through partisan interpretation and situates Kano’s leadership within a broader narrative of effective governance.

Taken as a whole, the evidence increasingly points in one direction. Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s leadership reflects steadiness, foresight, and an orientation toward lasting impact.

These are the hallmarks of an administration that is not merely responding to the demands of the moment but deliberately positioning Kano on a path of continuity, credibility, and progress. On that measure, one conclusion is becoming increasingly difficult to contest: the governor remains firmly on the right track.

Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam can be reached via: saifaz2005@gmail.com.