By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has alleged the involvement of the Federal Government in the recent blockade of the palace of Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, by security operatives.

The Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, expressed the government’s displeasure during a radio interview, condemning the move as an attempt to destabilize the state.

“We woke up to find the palace entrance sealed off by the police. When we inquired, they said it was an order from above.

“It’s evident that some people with Abuja’s backing are determined to disrupt Kano’s peace,” Bichi stated.

He noted that Kano remains committed to maintaining peace, warning against any attempts to provoke unrest.

Bichi further confirmed the Emir’s decision to accompany the newly appointed District Head of Bichi, Wamban Kano, Munir Sanusi, to assume his post.

Meanwhile, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who led the Friday prayer at the Kano Central Mosque outside the palace, urged residents to remain calm and avoid violence.

“I caution against falling into the traps of those who seek to see Kano in turmoil. They desire chaos, destruction, and loss of innocent lives,” the Emir advised.

The barricade by security operatives, including police and DSS, reportedly aimed to prevent the Emir from traveling to Bichi or attending a meeting with economists on proposed tax reforms.

The incident has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as interference in traditional affairs, while others see it as a political maneuver.

By Uzair Adam

In response to the global circulation of the newly identified XEC COVID-19 variant, now detected in 29 countries, the federal government has instructed chief medical directors and medical directors of tertiary hospitals nationwide to activate heightened surveillance systems.

The Daily Reality gathered that the directive emphasizes the need for vigilance in identifying COVID-like symptoms among patients.

This directive was communicated through a circular dated December 5, 2024, and bearing reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46. Signed by Dr. O. N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, the letter highlighted the variant’s demonstrated growth advantage over other strains, prompting concerns about its potential public health implications.

Titled “Letter of Conveyance in Respect of the Newly Detected XEC COVID-19 Strain,” the circular stated, “I am directed to inform you of a newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant, which has been reported in Australia and has already spread to 29 countries globally.

“You may wish to know that this variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health.”

The government urged hospital committees to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance data sharing and monitoring protocols.

The letter also stressed the importance of timely communication between stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health, to ensure effective response measures.

Dr. Anuma concluded the directive by reaffirming the permanent secretary’s commitment to supporting the health sector in mitigating risks associated with the new variant.

By Haroon Aremu

As a concerned young Nigerian, it’s disheartening to witness lawmakers and esteemed legal practitioners grapple with fundamental constitutional principles—especially regarding the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

It is astonishing that those tasked with crafting laws and interpreting them could exhibit such a glaring misunderstanding of the legal framework that governs their actions. The recent attempts by the Nigerian Senate to remove Mr. Danladi Umar, Chairman of the CCT, serves as a case in point.

In their misguided effort, the Senate invoked Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution, mistakenly applying it to the CCT. This section is pertinent to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and other executive bodies, but it has no bearing on the CCT, which operates under a different constitutional framework. As noted by PRNigeria’s fact-checking team, the remedial actions regarding judicial bodies such as the CCT require broader legislative consensus than the Senate alone can muster – specifically, a two-thirds majority from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, a detail curiously overlooked by the lawmakers.

Further complicating matters, the Senate suggested Mr. Abdullahi Usman Bello as Umar’s potential successor. However, it must be emphasized that Mr. Bello was appointed to lead the CCB, not the CCT. Moreover, constitutional stipulations require that the CCT Chairman possess qualifications akin to those of a judge of a superior court—qualifications which Mr. Bello notably lacks. This misstep reflects either a profound ignorance or a blatant disregard for the constitution.

It’s also alarming to observe the Senators conflating the roles of the CCB and the CCT, erroneously linking Umar’s situation to that of Bello. Their claims regarding the 9th Assembly’s investigations into Umar also deserve scrutiny, especially given that they appear to stem from a petition filed by a security guard concerning an unrelated incident —ironically, even after an anti-corruption agency had already cleared him of any wrongdoing.

Adding a layer of complexity to the situation is the media’s role in disseminating information. While there was widespread coverage of the Senate’s resolutions, many outlets failed to substantiate or fact-check their claims against the Constitution. This lapse in journalistic vigilance contributes to the propagation of misinformation, thereby undermining public trust in our governance systems.

The situation becomes even more troubling when senior lawmakers defend their misguided actions. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly delineates that the appointment of the CCT Chairman and its members must follow the National Judicial Council’s recommendations, which should be informed by the Federal Judicial Service Commission. Thus, any motion to remove the CCT Chairman necessitates formal attention from both legislative chambers, not simply the Senate.

To complicate an already delicate situation, the newly elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe (SAN), boldly claimed that the Senate adhered to constitutional protocols. Such statements from a figurehead of the legal profession raise questions about the level of legal literacy within our ranks.

Even more alarming was the endorsement from renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. By supporting the Senate’s push for Umar’s removal, Falana and others reveal a troubling trend where senior legal practitioners sidestep constitutional requirements, jeopardizing the sanctity of Nigeria’s judicial and legislative systems.

In light of these developments, distinguished legal scholars such as
Professor Mamman Lawan Yusufari, a former Dean of the Faculty of Law at Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Yemi Akinseye-George, the Executive Director of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies, and Dr. Wahab Shittu have denounced the government’s handling of the CCT issue. They described these actions as blatant violations of constitutional mandates, calling on the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to provide guidance to President Bola Tinubu on adhering to constitutional pathways for such significant personnel decisions.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Yunus AbdulSalam further criticized the misinterpretation of the Constitution, labeling it alarming and indicative of a dangerous lack of diligence within both the executive and legislative branches. He remarked, “Their unconstitutional and desperate attempt to remove the CCT Chairman undermines the spirit of the Constitution and poses a serious threat to democratic integrity.”

It takes a whole week before the Senate admitted and corrected the procedural error by invoking the correct constitutional provisions, including Paragraph 17(3) of the Fifth Schedule and Section 22(3) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act.

This entire debacle serves as a clarion call for lawmakers to strictly observe constitutional provisions. Legal protocols should never be compromised for political convenience. Moreover, the media must enhance its accountability in fact-checking claims that significantly influence national governance.

The independence of the judiciary and the integrity of the legislative process are cornerstones of Nigeria’s democracy; they must be protected from missteps and oversights, both from lawmakers and in media coverage. This incident reinforces that constitutional provisions are not mere guidelines; they are the foundation of a functioning democracy. The Senate’s actions reflect a troubling ignorance that could jeopardize the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system. As a nation, we must recommit ourselves to upholding the rule of law and rigorously adhering to constitutional procedures to safeguard judicial independence and the health of our democratic framework.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a co-author of ‘Youth Service for National Stability: A Corpers’ Chronicle.’ He can be reached at exponentumera@gmail.com

By Rabi Ummi Umar

Men are the foundation and cornerstone of every nation and each household. As ordained by Almighty God, man was created and endowed with strength and leadership qualities. According to divine design, man is destined to be the head of the household, with woman as his partner and helpmate, working together in harmony and mutual respect.

Just like women, men are human beings with emotions and vulnerabilities, despite being socialized to project strength and resilience. Society’s expectations often dictate their behavior, leaving them little choice but to conform to traditional masculine norms.

It is quite a relief to see men being recognized and appreciated, which is precisely why International Men’s Day is observed annually on November 19. This global celebration acknowledges men’s invaluable contributions to society while addressing their distinct challenges. The 2024 theme, Men’s Health Champions, aptly emphasizes enhancing men’s overall well-being and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Growing up, I would often watch my dad sit outside after dinner and Isha prayer— the last prayer of the day for Muslims — alone in contemplation. Whenever we asked him why, he would smile and say he was just receiving some “fresh air,” and we would respectfully leave him be.

At the time, I thought he truly was just savoring the evening breeze. But growing older brought the realization that it was his way of recollecting his thoughts and recharging after a long, hectic day of working tirelessly to provide for us. It was his way of coping with unrelenting stress and finding solace, yet we could never quite grasp the depth of his emotions.

Traditionally, men are expected to provide for their loved ones, including their partners, children, and themselves. With numerous responsibilities bestowed upon them by societal norms, they have largely embraced this role and its accompanying challenges without complaint.

Society has consistently placed high expectations on men, often disregarding their mental and emotional well-being. This has resulted in immense pressure on them, with little consideration for their inner struggles.

If they fail to pay children’s school fees on time, their homes become disastrous and uninhabitable due to constant nagging. If they miss rent payments, they are deemed irresponsible. And if they cannot provide for their wives’ glittering desires, they are labeled bad husbands. So, how can we reasonably expect them to maintain their sanity?

Even in relationships, if a man does not call on time, he is deemed out of love. If he does not send money, he is not “the one.” And if he fails to meet friends’ and family’s standards, the advice is to “find someone else.”

Since men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health symptoms, it is not surprising that suicide rates for men are four times higher than for women. This statistic underscores the fact that depression may be the most common mental illness in men.

While these expectations can be valid, they are often unfair. If the tables were turned, society and women would struggle to handle half of what is expected of men. However, this piece is not about shifting responsibilities; it is about shedding light on and raising awareness about men’s mental health.

Men are humans too, with feelings and emotions. The issues we often dismiss as normal can run deeper than they appear, potentially affecting their mental health and leading to depression. We rarely recognize this because men seldom fully express themselves, and we rarely create a safe space for them to open up.

Much like women, men are also victims of sexual assault, harassment, abuse, and other forms of exploitation. Yet how many of these cases come to light? When they do, how do we respond? How often do we show appreciation for the men in our lives—our fathers, sons, brothers, friends, and partners?

Men’s mental and overall health is crucial and must not be overlooked. We should strive to create a society where everyone, regardless of gender, feels comfortable and safe, fostering a better environment for all.

Let us imbibe the habit of celebrating men who break barriers and make a difference in the world—those who provide for their loved ones, bring joy, and positively impact our lives. To every man out there, you are loved, seen, strong, and most importantly, enough.

Let us celebrate the men who struggle in silence. To men out there, we see your struggles, and we are committed to making the world a better place for you and all of us.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a student of Al-Hikmah University and can be reached via: rabiumar058@gmail.com

By Anwar Usman

Not less than 45,689 applicants are conducting the Computer-Based Aptitude Test on Saturday (today) as part of the recruitment process to secure employment at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

The aptitude test, currently taking place at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Centenary Resource Centre in Maitama, Abuja, and various other testing centres across Nigeria, marks the second stage of the rigorous recruitment process that began earlier this year.

Previously, on July 25, 2024, the company announced openings for new entrants.

In a statement, Olufemi Soneye, the NNPC spokesperson, said the recruitment would be for various positions across various departments within the energy company and interested applicants to visit the NNPC careers page for application instructions.

However, in a new post on its official Facebook handle on Saturday to update the public on the process, the national oil firm emphasized that only the most qualified candidates will be selected for employment at the end of the exercise.

The post read, “As the Computer-Based Aptitude Test for NNPC Ltd.’s recruitment begins today at various centres across the country, 45,689 applicants compete in a transparent and inclusive recruitment process.”

The NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, who visited the centres, promises a smooth, transparent, fair, and credible process.

“As an equal opportunity employer, NNPC Ltd. has made special provisions to ensure that applicants with disabilities can take the test without any hindrance.

“Kyari reiterated that only the most qualified candidates among the 45,689 applicants will be selected for employment”.

The daily reality gathered that this may be the major recruitment exercise since the NNPC fully transformed into a limited company in 2022.

By Salim Yunusa

The formal inscription of the annual Kano Durbar by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a welcome development to not just Kano but Nigeria as a whole. The nomination, adopted on the 6th of December, 2024, in Paraguay, at the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, makes it the 8th element to be inscribed from Nigeria. UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

According to many sources, the Kano durbar is the world’s largest procession of colourful horses. It has evolved with the history, religion, culture, and tradition of the Kano people over time. It is usually done to mark the Islamic holidays of Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Adha, among other special celebrations. While other similar durbars are carried across almost all Northern Nigerian cities such as Zaria, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Hadejia, Maiduguri and Sokoto, the Kano durbar stands out due to the sheer number of participants, tourists, spectators and days of celebrations.

This global recognition is a significant milestone, celebrating one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural festivals. Renowned for its majestic horse parades, traditional regalia, and music, the Kano Durbar reflects Northern Nigeria’s cultural pride and rich heritage. While the jubilations over this achievement are justified, it is essential to explore the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the UNESCO inscription.

 Beyond the celebrations, stakeholders must now prioritise preservation, promotion, and leveraging this global acknowledgement to foster tourism, break down stereotypes, and drive cultural and economic development in Kano and Northern Nigeria as a whole.

Kano—and Northern Nigeria as a whole—is a goldmine of culture and tradition preserved for ages, although these are currently under threat of extinction. The Dye Pits of Kofar Mata, founded in 1498 and spanning five centuries, are at risk of becoming extinct due to disrepair and unsustainable practices in recent times. The walled city of Kano is gradually disappearing to give way to commercial structures along the busy roads of Kano. There is a growing threat of climate change eroding sites like Dala Hills, Gidan Makama and others due to neglect. Sustainable protection and preservation of sites like this must be done for future generations.

This particular UNESCO inscription underscores the need to preserve the Kano Durbar for future generations through strategic documentation and archiving of the festival’s history, rites, and performances. High-quality visual content and written materials can help maintain its essence while creating accessible records for global audiences. This will effectively engage the youth, which is vital to ensure the tradition remains dynamic.

In addition, effective and efficient collaboration between the Kano Emirate council, non-governmental organisations (such as MACOBA, UNESCO, Global Shapers, etc.) and government agencies (NICO, Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism Development, etc.) is necessary to provide funding, technical support, and regulations that safeguard the festival’s cultural integrity.

In a state like Kano, boasting the highest population in the country and being the most populous in Northern Nigeria, the Kano Durbar has the potential to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural tourism, becoming a blueprint for other durbars across the region. To achieve this, a well-coordinated tourism strategy is essential. This could include partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to create attractive travel packages for domestic and international tourists. Marketing campaigns highlighting the Durbar as a unique travel experience should be launched across social media platforms and international media outlets. Collaborations with influencers and travel bloggers can also amplify its appeal.

Furthermore, enhancing the visitor experience is key. Infrastructure around festival venues should be improved, with better roads, accommodations, and festival-specific amenities. Creating dedicated viewing platforms and cultural villages can also enrich the experience for attendees, making the Durbar more accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond cultural pride, the inscription opens doors for economic development. Investments in Durbar-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts can generate revenue for local communities. E-commerce platforms can facilitate the sale of these items to a global audience.

Additionally, recognising the festival as an international heritage can attract global partnerships and funding for sustainable development initiatives in the region. Furthermore, technology offers endless possibilities to promote the Kano Durbar. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can bring the Durbar to audiences unable to attend physically. Comprehensive online platforms can offer ticket sales, merchandise, and interactive content, ensuring year-round engagement with the festival. These digital initiatives can transform the Durbar from a localised event into a global cultural phenomenon.

Finally, the festival could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, inviting participants from other regions and countries to share their traditions and learn about the Durbar, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It could be so much more, with proper organisation and intention by the stakeholders involved.

The UNESCO inscription of the Kano Durbar is a momentous achievement that places the festival on the global stage. However, this recognition comes with responsibilities. By preserving its legacy, harnessing its tourism potential, and leveraging technology and cultural exchange, stakeholders can transform the Durbar into a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural excellence. Beyond the jubilations lies an opportunity to turn this acknowledgement into a catalyst for cultural pride, unity, and economic development. The time to act is now.

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

 By Suleiman Usman Yusuf 

As we mark one month since the sham local government elections conducted in Kaduna State, it is imperative to broaden our discourse beyond the immediate events and delve into the systemic issues that have led to electoral malpractices, voter apathy, and the overall degradation of Nigeria’s electoral system. 

Having been a founder and the pioneer National Chairman of the Youth Party (YP) as a registered political party in Nigeria, I have gained invaluable insights into the root causes of these electoral challenges. While these issues are multifaceted, I will focus on several key aspects that are critical to understanding and addressing the problem, as follows: 

1. NEGLECT OF INTERNAL PARTY ELECTIONS: One significant factor contributing to the electoral malaise is the Nigerian populace’s tendency to prioritise general elections over internal party elections. The credibility, skills, and knowledge of party officials heavily influence the quality of candidates emerging from primary elections. When citizens neglect the election of these officials, they unintentionally allow unpatriotic and incompetent individuals to manage party affairs at all levels – wards, local governments, states, and nationally. 

For instance, in many local government elections, candidates are often selected based on their connections or financial support rather than their qualifications or commitment to public service. This negligence ensures that capable and well-meaning Nigerians remain sidelined, relying on flawed party structures to secure candidacy. 

 2. LACK OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: The absence of internal democracy within political parties is another root cause of electoral failure. Ideally, political parties should transcend individual candidates, ensuring their structures promote democratic values and accountability. Unfortunately, many candidates, especially those with amassed wealth or political power, often overshadow their parties, undermining their foundational principles. Party officials, rather than being recruited based on merit, usually come from the ranks of politicians, leading to a cycle of dependency and diminished accountability. The failure to enforce disciplinary measures further erodes the integrity of party operations, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

Take, for example, the recent primaries of major political parties in Nigeria. Decisions are frequently made by a small group of party elites, often sidelining grassroots members and leading to the emergence of candidates who do not reflect the electorate’s will. Parties lack the frameworks to generate independent funding and operate effectively, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

 3. BRAIN DRAIN FROM POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT: Our nation’s most talented individuals frequently gravitate toward secure positions in the public or private sectors, leaving political engagement to those who may not have the nation’s best interests at heart. For example, many young professionals, including engineers, doctors, and entrepreneurs, seek opportunities abroad or in stable private sectors rather than entering politics, where they perceive a lack of integrity and opportunity for meaningful change. This trend undermines the potential for transformative leadership, as the voices that could drive innovation and reform in governance are absent from the political arena. The resulting leadership vacuum allows for the perpetuation of mediocrity and stagnation in our political landscape. 

 4. INEFFECTIVE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Another critical issue contributing to electoral malaise in Nigeria is the failure of opposition parties to effectively engage with the government in power. In a healthy democracy, opposition parties are expected to check on the ruling party, advocating for the populace’s interests and holding the government accountable for its actions. Their role is not merely to oppose for opposition’s sake but to advance the causes of the people, ensuring that governance is responsive and transparent. For instance, during significant policy debates, such as those regarding the national budget or security measures, opposition parties often resort to sensational accusations rather than providing substantive alternatives or critiques. 

 Unfortunately, many opposition parties in Nigeria have engaged in trivial disputes rather than focusing on substantial, issue-based discussions. They often lack coherent alternative policies or robust arguments that challenge the government’s decisions. This absence of constructive criticism diminishes the quality of political discourse and leaves citizens without viable options or clear pathways for reform. By failing to present well-researched alternatives to government policies, opposition parties contribute to a stagnant political environment where the ruling party faces little pressure to improve or innovate in its governance. 

 Additionally, the lack of strong opposition undermines public confidence in the democratic process, as citizens may feel their concerns are not adequately represented or addressed. Opposition parties need to rise to their responsibilities and engage in serious debates about policies and procedures that affect Nigerians’ lives. By doing so, they can promote a more dynamic political landscape that encourages accountability and responsiveness from the government. 

 5. LACK OF INVESTMENT IN KNOWLEDGE AND RESEARCH: Most political parties in Nigeria do not prioritise investing in knowledge and research, which are crucial for informed decision-making and policy development. The absence of dedicated policy and research units within parties means that they often operate in a vacuum, disconnected from society’s pressing issues. This gap results in poorly formulated policies that fail to address the needs of citizens or adapt to changing circumstances. For example, without adequate research, parties may propose initiatives that do not resonate with the challenges faced by their constituents, leading to ineffective governance and further disenchantment with the political process. 

 Based on the foregoing, I hereby advance the following recommendations for reform: 

 1. PROMOTION OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: Political parties must adopt transparent processes for electing officials and candidates. Implementing democratic practices within party structures will empower grassroots participation and ensure that the best candidates emerge, promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility. 

 2. ENCOURAGING YOUTH PARTICIPATION: Engaging the youth in the political process is essential for the future of Nigeria. Programs that educate young people about the importance of political involvement and the electoral process can cultivate a new generation of leaders committed to change. Initiatives such as mentorship programs and civic education can inspire active participation among young Nigerians. 

 3. ESTABLISHING INDEPENDENT MECHANISMS: Political parties should explore diverse funding sources beyond wealthy individuals to enhance their autonomy and operational capacity. These may include membership dues, grants, and partnerships with civil society organisations. By diversifying funding streams, parties can operate more independently and reduce the influence of money in politics. 

 4. STRENGTHENING VOTER EDUCATION: Comprehensive voter education campaigns are vital to combat apathy and encourage active participation in all electoral processes, including internal party elections. Educating citizens about their rights and the importance of their votes can empower them to demand accountability from their elected officials. 

 5. ENHANCING THE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Opposition parties must fulfil their critical role in engaging with the government and providing constructive criticism. They should focus on presenting well-researched alternative policies and robust arguments that address pressing issues affecting the populace. By promoting a culture of accountability and transparency, opposition parties can help ensure that governance remains responsive to citizens’ needs. These parties must rise above trivial disputes and engage in meaningful dialogue that reflects the interests of the people they represent. 

In conclusion, the recent elections in Kaduna State serve as a vivid reminder of the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s electoral system. To safeguard democracy and promote effective governance, we must confront these root causes head-on, fostering an environment where transparency, accountability, and active participation thrive. 

It is time for Nigerians to reclaim their political landscape, ensuring that those who seek to represent them do so with integrity and a genuine commitment to the public good. By addressing these systemic issues, we can pave the way for a more robust democratic process that genuinely reflects the will and aspirations of the Nigerian people. 

God Bless Nigeria! 

Suleiman writes from Kaduna State, Nigeria, and can be reached via suleimanusmanbac@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Atsi Kefas, the sister of Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, sustained injuries after being accidentally shot by a police escort during an attack by gunmen on Thursday.  

According to reports by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focusing on the Lake Chad region, the incident occurred along Kente Road in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. 

Our reporters gathered that Atsi and the governor’s mother, Jumai, were travelling together when their convoy was ambushed.  

In an attempt to repel the attackers, a police officer providing escort for the family mistakenly shot Atsi Kefas.  

Troops quickly intervened, rescuing the victims and evacuating Jumai and Atsi Kefas from the scene via an air ambulance. 

Atsi was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment, although her current condition remains unknown at the time of this report.  

Security forces recovered the vehicle used by the assailants, along with an empty magazine and passenger luggage left behind by the attackers.

By Uzair Adam  

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) under Sector 4 in Diffa, Republic of Niger, intercepted 174 Nigerian men attempting to cross into border communities in Niger.  

The suspects, stopped at Gueskeru, a strategic border town linking Yobe State to Niger, claimed they were travelling to the Lake Chad region for fishing activities.  

However, concerns were raised about the porous nature of the borders, often exploited by terrorist groups such as Lakurawa, notorious for attacks on border communities.  

In a statement, MNJTF spokesperson Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba noted that allowing such a large group of able-bodied men to access terrorist-prone areas could threaten regional security.  

The suspects are currently undergoing profiling and questioning to determine their motives and ensure they do not pose a security risk.  

The MNJTF noted its commitment to counterterrorism, civilian protection, and regional stability.  

It called for enhanced border vigilance and greater collaboration among troop-contributing countries to tackle cross-border terrorism effectively.

By Muhsin Ibrahim – Cologne, Germany

Let me say it aloud today: the Kano Hisbah Board’s decision to stop arresting people is quite disturbing.

Of course, I am one of those brave few commentators who criticised their method of arresting suspects some time ago, and I still stand by that view and criticism.

From Berlin to Baltimore, London to Lahore, Tel Aviv to Taipei, and Moscow to Muscat, security operatives sometimes manhandle individuals when arresting them. We are all humans!

If all arrests are halted, people will have free rein in Kano. Soon after Hisbah’s announcement, some socialites from other states and countries began relocating to Kano. They act freely and upload their videos on social media.

Kano is cosmopolitan but has unique norms, values, cultures, and religion that deserve respect. We cannot stop globalisation and cultural diffusion, but we should be concerned when our values are undermined.

Globally, countries still protect their “values” in one way or another. “Muhammad” can be – and is – the most popular baby name in England and Wales, but that doesn’t mean Muslims can, for example, legally practice polygyny. This is just but one example.

Kano State Government should reconsider how it manages Hisbah. You either have a functioning Hisbah or no Hisbah at all.

Hisbah should not be a toothless dog. Several clerics are already preaching (wa’azi, nasiha, etc.). It’s not Hisbah’s role to do just that; they need some power to use “force” at a certain level.

May we be guided, amin.

Muhsin Ibrahim is a Kano-born lecturer at the University of Cologne, Germany. He can be reached via muhsin2008@gmail.com.