By Uzair Adam

The Department of State Services (DSS), Kano Command, has rescued a five-year-old boy, Muhammad Haruna, who was abducted in Dan Zaki Village, Minjibir Local Government Area.

The Daily Reality reports that the DSS, in a statement issued on Friday, said the minor was rescued at about 7:40 p.m. on February 12, 2026, by its Tactical Team in Dan Zaki Village.

The statement indicated that the operation followed a formal report that Haruna had been abducted by suspected kidnappers to an unknown destination, with a demand for N15 million ransom.

According to the DSS, a 20-year-old suspect, Aminu Mukhtar, was apprehended during the operation while negotiating with the victim’s father using GSM number 07084228695.

“In the course of debrief, Mukhtar affirms that he abducted the victim with a view to collecting ransom,” the statement said.

It added that the suspect and the rescued minor are currently in command custody for further action.

Public reactions have continued to trail the decision to fix Nigeria’s 2027 general elections within the holy month of Ramadan, with commentators and political figures raising concerns about possible implications for voter participation.

A Facebook user, Ibrahim A. Khaleel, was among the early voices to criticize the development. In a widely shared post, he questioned the rationale behind scheduling the elections during the fasting period, arguing that leaders who genuinely prioritize nation-building would have avoided such timing.

> “If our politicians were sincere and truly had nation-building at heart, the INEC Chairman, Professor Amupitan, would have been greatly surprised. Why then fix the 2027 election in the month of Ramadan?”



He stressed that fasting should not prevent civic engagement, citing Islamic history.

> “Fasting is not a death sentence. Muslims even fought the Battle of Badr in the month of Ramadan in the 2nd year after Hijrah (2 AH). So what is a democratic election where people only have to stand in line?”



Khaleel, however, suggested that economic hardship and public distrust in leadership could discourage turnout, alleging that inducements have often influenced voter mobilization.

“Even pasta and seasoning cubes would have to be very convincing to bring the masses out to vote. If one bag of pasta brought Mr. ‘Raw Material’ to the voting line in 2023, then it will have to be doubled now. At least two bags, with two packs of seasoning cubes added. Maybe that will motivate Mr. ‘Raw Material,’ the friend of Nigerian Democrats!”



He also drew parallels with Muslims in conflict zones, arguing that faith and perseverance endure despite hardship.

“Have Muslims in Gaza not been facing killings since October 7, 2023? They have observed Ramadan twice in the midst of this unjust war, yet they did not lose hope and they did not give up. So why should we fail to come out and vote?”



Adding to the discussion, former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad issued a formal public appeal to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging the electoral body to reconsider the dates.

In his statement, Ahmad acknowledged the announcement of February 20 and March 6, 2027, for the Presidential/National Assembly and Governorship/State Assembly elections respectively, but noted the religious significance of the period.

“This is a respectful observation following the announcement of February 20th and March 6th, 2027, as the date for the next Presidential and National Assembly and Governorship and State Assembly elections respectively. The proposed dates fall within the holy month of Ramadan, a period during which many Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.”



He warned that the timing could pose participation challenges for Muslim voters.

“If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.”



Ahmad further urged electoral authorities to weigh inclusiveness in their considerations.

“Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens. I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.”



The debate continues to generate mixed reactions across social media and political circles, with some Nigerians supporting a review of the dates for inclusivity, while others insist that religious observance should not hinder democratic participation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled February 20, 2027, for the conduct of the next Presidential and National Assembly elections across Nigeria.

Chairman of the commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, announced the date during a news conference held in Abuja on Friday. He also disclosed that governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will take place on March 6, 2027.

The release of the timetable comes at a time when discussions continue over the delayed passage of the amended Electoral Act, which is still before the National Assembly.

Earlier, on February 4, the commission indicated that it had concluded work on the election timetable and the schedule of activities, despite the uncertainty surrounding the amendment to the law.

INEC stated that it had already forwarded the timetable to lawmakers. It, however, warned that certain components of the schedule could experience adjustments. The commission said any change would depend on when the amended Electoral Act is eventually passed.

Further details on the electoral programme are expected to be made public in due course.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Government of Japan has commissioned and handed over agricultural machinery to farmers in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State as part of efforts to boost food production and rural livelihoods.

This was announced by the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria via its official and verified Facebook handle on Wednesday.

The event took place on February 5, 2026, in Adani, where Ambassador SUZUKI Hideo attended the ceremony marking the delivery of equipment under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

The initiative, titled “The Project for the Provision of Power Tillers and a Combined Harvester in Uzo-Uwani LGA, Enugu State,” supplied power tillers alongside a combined harvester to support farming activities in the benefiting communities.

Officials explained that the intervention aims to improve agricultural productivity through mechanised operations. They noted that enhanced efficiency on farms would enable local farmers to raise output, expand earnings and maintain more stable sources of livelihood.

The machinery was procured by “Yanmar Agri Corporation”, a Japanese company recognised globally for producing durable agricultural equipment. The firm also organised technical training for beneficiaries, focusing on proper handling, operation and maintenance of the machines.

Representatives at the ceremony said the Japanese Government expects the project to strengthen food security in the area. They added that the support forms part of broader contributions toward Nigeria’s agricultural development and long-term economic growth.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Kano State Hisbah Board has concluded arrangements to commence enforcement against female passengers who sit beside male tricycle drivers in Kano State, in a move it says is aimed at promoting morality in society.

In a statement issued by its Director of Public Enlightenment, Auwalu Ado Sheshe, the Board said the operation would be carried out in collaboration with associations of tricycle riders and owners across the state.

The directive specifically targets situations where women ride in close proximity to drivers who are not their maharams while using commercial tricycles, popularly known as Adaidaita Sahu. The Board described the measure as part of efforts to sanitize the transport sector and prevent actions that could attract the displeasure of Allah (SWT).

It called on all tricycle operators to comply with the new regulation to avoid sanctions, warning that enforcement would begin imminently.

Female passengers were also urged to adhere to the directive, which the Board said is intended to safeguard their dignity and that of their families.

The Hisbah Board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a morally upright society guided by Islamic teachings, stressing that it is fully prepared to enforce the measure across the state.

Ukrainian authorities have announced the recovery of the bodies of two Nigerian nationals in the Luhansk region, alleging that they were fighting on the side of Russia in the ongoing war between both countries.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence identified the deceased as Hamzat Kazeen Kolawole, 42, and Mbah Stephen Udoka, 38.

According to the agency, the two men were enlisted in the 423rd Guards Motor Rifle Regiment, military unit 91701, under the 4th Guards Kantemirovskaya Tank Division of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

“Both served in the 423rd Guards Motor Rifle Regiment of the 4th Guards Kantemirovskaya Tank Division of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation,” the statement said.

The report stated that the Nigerians signed contracts with the Russian Army in the second half of 2025. Kolawole reportedly enlisted on August 29, while Udoka signed on September 28.

Ukrainian intelligence disclosed that Udoka was deployed on October 3, five days after signing his contract, despite lacking prior military experience.

“Udoka had no documented military training before his deployment,” the statement noted, adding that no training records were found for Kolawole, which suggested he may also have been sent to the battlefield without proper preparation. It added that Kolawole left behind a wife and three children in Nigeria.

The agency said the two Nigerians died in late November during a drone strike. The incident occurred while they were allegedly attempting to launch an attack on Ukrainian positions in the Luhansk area.

“Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence warns foreign citizens against travelling to the Russian Federation or accepting any form of employment on the territory of the aggressor state,” the statement cautioned.

It further warned that such travel carries a “real risk of being forced into so-called ‘suicide’ assault units and ultimately dying on Ukrainian soil.”

The development followed a recent report by CNN which alleged that several Africans, including citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Uganda, were recruited to Russia under the guise of civilian employment such as drivers and security guards. The report claimed that many were later compelled into military service and deployed to combat zones with little training.

However, the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, dismissed the allegations. He denied claims that Russia engaged in deceptive recruitment or forced enlistment of foreign nationals.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has informed the National Assembly that it will require N873.78bn to conduct the 2027 general elections.

The commission also proposed N171bn as its budget for operations in the 2026 fiscal year.

INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, disclosed this during the presentation of the commission’s 2026 budget proposal and projected expenditure for the 2027 polls before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters in Abuja.

He explained that the N873.78bn estimate covers the full conduct of the 2027 general elections. He added that the N171bn request for 2026 would fund routine responsibilities. These include by-elections and off-season governorship polls.

The proposed election budget shows a sharp rise compared to the N313.4bn released by the Federal Government for the 2023 general elections.

Providing a breakdown of the projection, Amupitan said, “N379.75bn is for operational costs, N92.32bn for administrative costs, N209.21bn for technological costs, N154.91bn for election capital costs and N42.61bn for miscellaneous expenses.”

He noted that the estimate was prepared “in line with Section 3(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the commission to prepare its election budget at least one year before the general election.”

On the 2026 proposal, the INEC chairman said the Ministry of Finance issued a budget envelope of N140bn. He, however, stated that “INEC is proposing a total expenditure of N171bn.”

According to him, the 2026 estimate includes N109bn for personnel costs, N18.7bn for overheads, N42.63bn for election-related activities and N1.4bn for capital projects.

Amupitan also revealed that the election budget did not accommodate a fresh request by the National Youth Service Corps seeking an upward review of allowances for corps members engaged as ad hoc election staff.

During the session, Senator Adams Oshiomhole argued that external bodies should not impose a budgeting template on INEC due to the sensitive nature of its mandate. He called for the removal of the envelope budgeting framework and urged lawmakers to support the commission’s financial request.

Similarly, a member of the House of Representatives, Billy Osawaru, advocated placing INEC’s funding on first-line charge in line with constitutional provisions. He said this would guarantee early release of funds for election planning.

The joint committee later approved a motion recommending the one-time release of the commission’s annual budget. It also pledged to review the NYSC’s request estimated at about N32bn to raise corps members’ election allowance to N125,000.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC, Simon Lalong, assured that the National Assembly would collaborate closely with the electoral body to ensure successful conduct of the 2027 polls.

Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Bayo Balogun, promised legislative backing but cautioned the commission against making commitments it might not fulfil.

“IReV was not even in the Electoral Act; it was only in INEC regulations. So, be careful how you make promises,” Balogun warned.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has dismissed reports suggesting that lawmakers in the United States are considering sanctions against the group, insisting that it remains a peaceful and law-abiding body.

National President of the association, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, made the position known during an interview with Trust TV. He said there was no basis for the U.S. Congress to contemplate branding the umbrella body of herders as a terrorist organisation.

Ngelzarma expressed surprise over the development. He disclosed that leaders of the association had previously held engagements with officials of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria.

“We received the news with the greatest shock because we don’t know what the association has done to deserve such a sanction,” he said.

He explained that MACBAN was founded 42 years ago as a trade association. According to him, the body was established as a non-violent and non-religious platform to defend the interests of cattle breeders nationwide, regardless of ethnic or religious identity.

“It is a producer association created to protect the interests of cattle breeders. It is the only democratic pastoralist group we have in the country because its leadership emerges through elections,” he said.

The MACBAN president insisted that the association does not bear arms and has no link with criminal activities.

“This is an association that has never taken responsibility for any crime, has never supported criminality and is not cooperating with any group of criminals,” he stated.

He added that the organisation has maintained collaboration with security agencies in efforts to tackle crime. He noted that the partnership has come at a cost, as some of its leaders lost their lives in the process.

“As a result of this cooperation, many leaders of the association have lost their lives. So, we are really surprised that this association is still being considered for sanction,” he said.

Ngelzarma further stressed that MACBAN operates openly. He said the association runs offices across the 36 states and in local government areas, functioning within legal frameworks.

“We work with the Nigerian government at the state, local and federal levels. We also collaborate with all security agencies,” he added.

He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguard members of the association from what he described as an existential threat.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Security operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Thursday afternoon attempted to arrest former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, in an incident his lawyers have described as “illegal” and a “flagrant violation of constitutional rights.”

El-Rufai arrived aboard Egypt Air flight MS 877 from Cairo, where he had undergone medical treatment. His legal team said he was met at the airport by DSS operatives who moved to arrest him without presenting any warrant or formal invitation letter.

According to a statement issued by his counsel, Ubong Esop Akpan, when El-Rufai calmly demanded to see the letter of invitation “a basic entitlement of any citizen facing state action,” none could be produced. Operatives subsequently seized his international passport, an act the lawyers termed “nothing short of stealing.”

The incident triggered a spontaneous reaction from ordinary Nigerians present at the airport, who surrounded the scene and insisted that the former governor could only be arrested upon a legitimate process. Their intervention, the statement noted, was “a testament to the citizenry’s unyielding commitment to the rule of law.”

The controversy stems from an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which was delivered to El-Rufai’s residence while he was already abroad. His lawyers described the demand for immediate attendance as “inherently illogical and impractical.”

In response, the legal team formally communicated with the EFCC on El-Rufai’s behalf since December 2025, assuring compliance upon his return. On Wednesday, they explicitly notified the anti-graft agency that the former governor would voluntarily appear at their office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026.

“Resorting to arrest despite this clear commitment exemplifies arbitrary conduct and undermines procedural integrity,” Akpan’s statement read.

The legal team has issued a firm public declaration that El-Rufai “will never take the cowardly route of running away from law enforcement” and will honour “all legitimate law enforcement summons without preconditions.”

The lawyers demanded the immediate cessation of all unlawful efforts to detain their client, the immediate return of his seized passport, and a formal apology for what they described as an “egregious infringement on his dignity and rights.”

They also vowed to pursue legal action against all persons and agencies responsible for the incident, stating: “The judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter, and we shall seek redress through all available legal channels to protect the sanctity of the law.”

As of press time, the EFCC and DSS had not issued official statements regarding the incident.

By Uzair Adam

Professor Farooq Kperogi has explained why former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, was singled out in a proposed United States congressional bill seeking visa bans and asset freezes against certain Nigerian officials over religious freedom concerns.

Kperogi, a Nigerian-American scholar and media commentator, disclosed this in a Facebook post on Wednesday while reacting to the proposed “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026,” introduced by Republican Congressman Riley Moore and other lawmakers.

The bill reportedly seeks to hold Nigerian officials accountable over allegations of religious persecution, including actions connected to the implementation of Sharia law in some northern states.

Kwankwaso, who served as Kano governor from 1999 to 2003 and later from 2011 to 2015, and was the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, was mentioned in connection with Kano’s adoption of Sharia in 2000.

In his post, Kperogi said he was initially “surprised, shocked even” that Kwankwaso was singled out among northern Muslim politicians, arguing that the former governor is not, “by any stretch of the imagination, a religious fanatic.”

Drawing from his experience as Assistant News Editor of Weekly Trust at the time, Kperogi recalled that Kwankwaso was reluctant to declare Sharia in Kano in 2000.

He said the Sharia bill in Kano was a private member’s bill, not sponsored by the governor or the state executive, unlike in several other northern states.

According to him, Kwankwaso resisted pressure for months and found himself at odds with both the public and the Muslim clerical establishment.

He cited his June 30, 2000 report co-authored with Sulaiman Aliyu, in which he wrote: “The governor was trapped in a delicate cul-de-sac. And his escape route was the launching of Sharia on the 21st of June 2000.”

Kperogi added that the pressure on the governor became so intense that he temporarily avoided public events, with his deputy, Abdullahi Ganduje, often representing him.

On one occasion, Ganduje was reportedly stoned during a Maulud celebration while standing in for the governor.

He further quoted Kwankwaso’s remarks at the formal launch of Sharia in Kano: “Only the state government has the right to punish offenders. We should avoid taking the law into our hands. We should not intimidate those who are not Muslims,” arguing that such a statement did not reflect extremist rhetoric.

Kperogi maintained that Kwankwaso’s implementation of Sharia was widely perceived as lukewarm, which, he said, contributed significantly to his loss in the 2003 governorship election to Ibrahim Shekarau, who had strong backing from the clerical establishment.

Explaining why the U.S. lawmakers may have targeted Kwankwaso, Kperogi said the former governor was the only nationally prominent Nigerian politician who openly criticised the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom issues.

Kwankwaso had argued that the designation was unhelpful, reduced a complex problem to simplistic binaries, risked worsening interreligious tensions, and that cooperation would be more constructive than confrontation.

Kperogi noted that Congressman Moore reacted sharply on social media, accusing Kwankwaso of complicity in the deaths of Christians and referencing his role in instituting Sharia law in Kano. Kwankwaso did not respond publicly to the provocation.

According to Kperogi, the inclusion of Kwankwaso in the bill appears to be rooted less in his historical record and more in his public dissent from a particular U.S. policy stance.

He, however, pointed out that the bill remains at the introduction stage in the U.S. House of Representatives and must pass through several legislative processes before it can become law, noting that many Nigeria-specific standalone bills do not advance beyond preliminary stages.