By Uzair Adam

After several twists and turns, the Kano State government and landowners in the Dangoro community, Kumbotso Local Government Area, have reached an understanding over the use of disputed farmlands.

The development follows a session with the Commissioner of Land, Abduljabbar Umar Garko, on 27 November.

The dispute began when the government announced plans to relocate the Yan Lemo Fruit Market and Yankaba Vegetables Market to Dangoro, sparking fears among residents that their lands could be seized.

Earlier appeals to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had not yielded immediate intervention, heightening tension in the community, especially among the landowners.

On Saturday, the leadership of the landowners held a meeting to brief members on their meeting with the commissioner ahead of the expected commencement of government work scheduled for next Monday.

Speaking after the meeting, the chairman of the Landowners Association for the Struggle, Alhaji Gambo Saminu Adamu, said the gathering was meant to reassure landowners that the agreement reached with the government would be implemented fairly.

“We convened this meeting to inform landowners that, God willing, government officials will begin work on Monday. We have met with the Commissioner of Land, and both sides have reached a mutual understanding,” he said.

He added that arrangements were made to ensure representation for landowners who were absent or living abroad, guaranteeing that everyone’s interests would be protected.

“We have agreed on a fair 50-50 plan. The Commissioner gave us his assurance, and we trust that Governor Yusuf, known for his fairness, will ensure no injustice. We also urge members to exercise patience,” Adamu said.

Another landowner, Sunusi Haruna, an Esco, explained that the agreement was communicated to the wider community. “We informed our people about the reasons behind the decision and the government’s plan. We also made it clear that any actions contrary to this agreement will not be accepted,” he said.

Resident Jami’u Akilu emphasised the need for fairness in implementing the plan. “The Yan Lemo Fruit Market and Yankaba Vegetables Market will be relocated to the area. The market should benefit the community as agreed, not outsiders. We call for strict adherence to the 50-50 arrangement and transparency in its execution,” he said.

Residents expressed cautious optimism, welcoming the government’s development plan while insisting on justice and protection of their lands.

Earlier, the Kano State Government, through the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning, unveiled a plan for the use of the disputed Dangoro farmlands.

Under the arrangement, landowners are to retain 50 percent of their lands, while the government takes the remaining 50 percent for development purposes.

For instance, if a landowner has space to build 10 shops, five would be allocated to the government and the other five would remain with the landowner.

The plan aims to balance development with the protection of landowners’ rights.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has established 119 learning centres nationwide to improve access to foundational education for Almajiri learners and out-of-school children.

The development was disclosed by Nura Muhammad, Spokesperson for the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education (NCAOOSCE), during an interview with journalists in Abuja on Sunday.

Muhammad explained that the centres operate under two models: some enhance existing Almajiri schools with structured literacy and numeracy classes, while others focus exclusively on out-of-school children using the Accelerated Basic Education Programme (ABEP) curriculum.

He noted that this approach allows learners to complete foundational education in a shorter time frame.

The spokesperson also announced the successful development of a National Policy on Almajiri Education, spearheaded by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, ensuring that Almajiri learners will no longer be classified as out-of-school children.

He added that Almajiri schools will now receive the same support and funding as conventional schools.

In strengthening its nationwide presence, Muhammad said the Commission now has offices in all states within 28 months of its establishment.

It has also launched a ward-to-ward advocacy campaign in seven pilot states – Kano, Jigawa, Yobe, Borno, Lagos, Ogun, and Cross River – to engage parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, and children on the importance of regulated education and school enrolment.

“Lagos, Cross River, Ogun, and Yobe have successfully covered all wards, and the public response has been very encouraging. The remaining pilot states are making substantial progress, and the model will ultimately be scaled nationwide,” he added.

The spokesperson emphasized that these reforms align with the Commission’s enabling Act, assented to by the President in May 2023.

The mandate includes reforming the centuries-old Almajiri system through literacy, numeracy, and skills acquisition, while enrolling millions of out-of-school children into formal and non-formal education pathways.

Muhammad said that upon assuming office, Executive Secretary Muhammad Idris conducted consultations with key stakeholders, including the Sultan of Sokoto, the CAN President, the Oba of Lagos, the Shehu of Borno, the Ooni of Ife, and the Olubadan.

These consultations culminated in two Abuja retreats organized with the Office of the National Security Adviser, producing the NCAOOSCE Strategic Plan (2025-2035) to guide reforms over the next decade.

Among the Commission’s flagship programs is the Tinubu Legacy Skills Training Institute, designed to equip Almajiri youths with both religious knowledge and vocational skills.

At the Kaduna campus, 200 learners completed a nine-month intensive training program covering Arabic and English literacy, Qur’anic interpretation, and vocational skills such as POP design, plumbing, agriculture, tiling, solar installation, GSM repair, and ICT.

Trainees followed the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) curriculum, sat for examinations, and are now awaiting results.

A second branch in Ibadan is currently training 150 girls using the ABEP curriculum, combining foundational education with vocational skills. Upon completion, the girls will be eligible to continue formal education.

“These initiatives reflect the Tinubu administration’s commitment to reform the Almajiri system and ensure that no child is left behind. From expanded learning centres to community advocacy and skills development, the Commission is laying a foundation that will shape Nigeria’s education landscape for years to come,” Muhammad said.

By Uzair Adam

Witnesses reported gunfire in Benin’s economic capital, Cotonou, on Sunday after a military group claimed they had ousted President Patrice Talon.

The president’s office, however, confirmed that he was safe and that the regular army was regaining control of the situation.

“This is a small group of people who only control the television,” a presidency spokesperson told AFP.

“The city and the country are completely secure. It’s just a matter of time before everything returns to normal.

”Earlier on Sunday, soldiers identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation” (CMR) appeared on state television, announcing that they had removed Talon from office. The broadcast was later cut.

A military source confirmed that the situation was under control and that the coup plotters had not seized the presidential residence or offices.

Access to some areas, including the presidency and state television, was temporarily blocked, while other parts of the city, including the airport, remained unaffected.

Residents continued their daily activities amid the heightened security presence.President Talon, 67, a former businessman known as the “cotton king of Cotonou,” is scheduled to leave office in April next year after ten years in power.

His tenure has been marked by significant economic growth alongside rising jihadist violence.West Africa has seen several coups in recent years, including in Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and most recently, Guinea-Bissau.

Benin itself has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups since gaining independence in 1960.

Talon has been praised for advancing Benin’s economy but faces criticism from opponents who accuse him of authoritarian tendencies.

With his term ending next year, the ruling party is preparing to contest the elections against a moderate opposition, while the main opposition party has been barred from the race.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A Nigerian Air Force Alpha Jet has crashed near Karabonde in Niger State’s Borgu Local Government Area.

The incident was said to have occurred around 4:10 p.m. on Saturday.

Local sources and online reports confirm that the two pilots aboard the aircraft successfully ejected before the jet went down.

An eyewitness, Lukman Sulaiman, stated the aircraft landed close to a town after a “noisy landing crash,” causing initial alarm among villagers.

Preliminary reports suggest the jet may have originated from the Kainji Air Force Base. The Nigerian Air Force is reportedly mobilizing personnel to the crash site.

While the cause of the crash remains unknown, authorities have yet to issue an official statement.

The condition of the pilots is currently unconfirmed, though initial accounts indicate they survived the ejection.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has issued a public notice announcing a nationwide crackdown on unregistered Point of Sale (PoS) operators, with enforcement set to begin on 1 January 2026.

According to the statement, the Commission observed a rapid rise in PoS agents operating without proper registration—an act that violates the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020 as well as Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Agent Banking Regulations. The CAC described the trend as a reckless practice that exposes Nigeria’s financial system and citizens’ investments to significant risks, allegedly aided by some fintech companies.

From the effective date, no PoS operator will be allowed to run without CAC certification. Security agencies have been directed to ensure full compliance, including seizing or shutting down unregistered PoS terminals. Fintech companies found enabling such illegal operations will be placed on a watchlist and reported to the CBN.

The Commission urged all PoS operators to regularize their business registrations immediately, stressing that compliance is mandatory. The notice was signed by CAC Management on 6 December 2025.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Netflix is set to acquire Warner Bros Discovery, including HBO Max and the company’s historic film studios, in a landmark deal valued at $83 billion, marking one of the most significant shake-ups in modern entertainment history.

The agreement brings together Netflix’s vast global streaming footprint with Warner Bros’ deep library of iconic franchises, from DC superheroes to the Wizarding World, and critically acclaimed HBO series such as Game of Thrones and Succession.

As part of the arrangement, Warner Bros Discovery will first spin off its cable networks — including CNN, TNT and TBS — into a separate entity before the sale is finalised. The merger still faces regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. and Europe, with critics warning that the consolidation could suppress competition and limit creative diversity.

If approved, the tie-up would create a powerhouse straddling both Hollywood tradition and streaming dominance, reshaping the future of global media.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

I wish to bring to the attention of the Nigerian public, press freedom advocates, and all relevant authorities the deeply troubling situation that has unfolded since the publication of my recent article. What began as a civic-driven inquiry into the visibility and constituency engagement of an elected representative has now escalated into an issue touching on personal safety, democratic accountability, and the worrying misuse of influence. The unfolding events have created an atmosphere of fear within my family and have underscored the increasing challenges journalists and citizens face when attempting to demand transparency from public officeholders.

On the 4th of December 2025, I authored a piece in the Daily Chronicles newspaper in which I raised questions regarding the whereabouts and activities of the member representing Nangere and Potiskum Federal Constituency, Hon. Fatima Talba. The article responded to concerns from many constituents who felt disconnected from their representative and uncertain about the progress of projects and engagements promised during the last election. My intention was simply to give voice to those concerns in a constructive and democratic manner, drawing attention to matters that are clearly in the public interest.

The article itself did not contain inflammatory language, personal attacks, or unverified allegations. It was essentially a call for dialogue, transparency, and responsiveness, qualities that any functioning democracy expects of its elected officials. I anticipated a clarification or a factual correction or perhaps a simple acknowledgement from her office. I did not expect the irresponsible reaction that followed and which has now placed undue emotional pressure on my family.

According to my parents, shortly after the publication of the article, they began receiving calls and visits from individuals whom they believed to be linked to the Honourable Member. These individuals reportedly expressed displeasure over the content of the piece. My parents informed me that Hon. Fatima Talba was extremely upset and that she allegedly made threatening remarks suggesting she would deal with me in whatever manner she considered appropriate. Hearing this from my parents was both painful and disturbing since they have no connection whatsoever to my professional work.

For two elderly people who have lived quiet and peaceful lives and who have never been involved in political matters, these alleged threats came as a frightening experience. They were confused about why they were being dragged into an issue that concerned my work alone. No parent should be placed in a position where they feel fear simply because their child has chosen to engage in responsible journalism or has raised questions that are fully within the bounds of democratic rights. Their anxiety has been overwhelming and their sense of security has been shaken.

As a journalist, I am fully aware that my work may sometimes provoke disagreement or criticism. Scrutiny is part of the job and public officials have every right to respond to any publication in ways that are lawful, transparent, and civil. What cannot be tolerated is the intimidation or harassment of family members who have no involvement in the matter being discussed. Such behaviour, if confirmed, would suggest an unacceptable misuse of influence and would undermine the principles of free expression that support a democratic society.

It is particularly baffling that instead of addressing the substance of the concerns raised in the article, the alleged reaction appears to have been directed at silencing me through fear. This development raises questions about how some public officials perceive their accountability to the citizens and the press. When a simple inquiry is met with intimidation rather than engagement, it signals a serious departure from democratic norms and creates the risk of authoritarian tendencies taking root in our political culture.

I want to emphasize that my article was never intended to harm Hon. Fatima Talba or misrepresent her actions. My aim was to seek clarity regarding her stewardship and visibility as a representative of her constituency. The publication was meant to open a path for conversation and not to close it. The reaction that my parents described has only made the concerns raised in the article more relevant because it suggests a reluctance to engage openly with the issues that matter to the electorate.

Given the seriousness of the situation, I call on civil society organizations, press freedom advocates, human rights groups, and relevant government agencies to pay attention to what has occurred. Any form of intimidation directed at journalists or their families threatens not just individuals but the integrity of public institutions. A society where journalists fear asking questions is a society at risk of silencing truth and discouraging civic participation. The safety of my parents and the preservation of my constitutional rights must be taken seriously.

To Hon. Fatima Talba, I respectfully reiterate that criticism and inquiry are unavoidable parts of public service. If there were concerns about the accuracy or tone of my article, the appropriate response would have been a formal statement, a rebuttal, an interview, or any open engagement that provides clarification. Alleged threats, if they did occur, cannot be considered an acceptable response. They create fear, deepen mistrust, and widen the distance between public officials and the people they represent.

Furthermore, I urge the appropriate security agencies to investigate this matter carefully and impartially. Public office should never become a shield that protects individuals from scrutiny or a tool used to intimidate citizens. The safety of my family and the protection of my right to engage in journalism must not be compromised. If the allegations made by my parents are proven to be accurate, steps must be taken to prevent any recurrence of such conduct by anyone in a position of authority.

In closing, I reaffirm my dedication to the pursuit of truth, public accountability, and responsible journalism. I will not allow fear or intimidation to deter me from raising issues that matter to the public. I believe that democracy grows stronger when difficult questions are asked and weaker when those questions are answered with threats instead of explanations. My commitment remains firm, and my hope is that this incident becomes a reminder that Nigeria must continue to stand against intimidation and for the protection of democratic expression.

Kasim Isa Muhammad wrote in from Yobe State, Nigeria.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has expressed deep concern over the arrest and subsequent transfer of the former Chairman of the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, on Friday.

According to the state government, Magaji was arrested around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at his law office along Zaria Road in Kano by heavily armed police officers who allegedly did not present any warrant of arrest or court order.

He was first taken to the Police Headquarters at Bompai before being moved to Abuja later that evening.

The statement noted that the development raises serious constitutional and legal concerns, particularly in relation to Sections 35, 36, and 46 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee personal liberty, fair hearing, and the right to seek enforcement of fundamental rights.

While acknowledging that the police have the authority to investigate and enforce the law, the Attorney General stressed that such powers must be exercised within the bounds of due process and respect for human dignity.

The government described the manner and timing of the arrest as worrisome, especially given the absence of any official notification to state authorities despite the sensitivity of the case.

It added that the operation appeared unnecessarily militarized, warning that the action could create tension, fear, and political misinterpretation within Kano State.

The government further alleged that some political actors outside the state might be attempting to exploit federal institutions in ways capable of destabilizing Kano and undermining the current environment of peace and good governance.

According to additional findings by the state government, Magaji’s arrest is believed to be connected to several ongoing investigations and prosecutions involving politically exposed persons in Kano.

The statement warned that the move could be aimed at obstructing or compromising these sensitive cases.

The government also described as alarming the alleged deployment of more than 40 armed police officers for the arrest despite a subsisting High Court order restraining security agencies from harassing or arresting Magaji.

It said the development raises concerns about abuse of power and misplaced security priorities at a time when the state and nation face significant security challenges.

The Kano State Government reaffirmed that the state remains peaceful and governed by the rule of law, stressing that any action capable of provoking public disorder or politicizing law enforcement must be firmly resisted.

It urged the police to publicly explain the legal basis for Magaji’s arrest and transfer to Abuja, while calling for full adherence to constitutional provisions and human rights standards.

The government reiterated its commitment to cooperating with all lawful security agencies but warned that it would take every constitutional step necessary to protect the rights of its citizens and safeguard public peace.

Residents were urged to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation continues to unfold.

By Aliyu Ya’u

His Excellency, Dikko Umar Radda’s position on rural banditry has provoked considerable reactions, with some questioning his resolve to confront bandits rather than seek a peace agreement.

Given that he lacks control over the paramilitary and armed forces present in the state, it is fair to say that he has taken commendable steps by establishing the state’s community policing group and encouraging the civilian population to engage in self-defence. 

I fully empathise with his frustration, especially in light of the constant criticisms and pleas from victims suffering due to the terror of rural banditry. Understandably, his excellency may feel disheartened and powerless to prevent these criminals from continuing their activities. 

Further, everyone, especially the civilian population, would welcome a peace accord in a real conflict situation. In such situations, all parties’ demands are tabled and deliberated, and sustainable solutions are found and implemented. 

However, in the case of an unorganised and unregulated group like rural bandits of the North-western and North-central Nigeria, who wreak havoc daily without reasonable justification. 

The question lies not in the society respecting the peace accord, but in the modalities employed to guide the peace settlement. Another question is whether the peace accord is sustainable, using historical parameters to assess the credibility and reliability of the commitment of the violent party involved. 

Any peace accord between a government, society, and an armed group should be based on disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR). 

According to the United Nations Peacekeeping operation unit, DDR is “a process of removing weapons from the hands of members of armed groups, taking these combatants out of their groups and helping them to reintegrate as civilians into society.”

The question is whether the militias or bandits are ready to surrender all their weapons, demobilise from their dens, and reintegrate into the larger society. Unless the government can confirm these terms with the bandits’ leaders, mediators, and sureties, it will not be obligated to build a wall of ash blocks. 

Other questions include, How strong and convincing are the commitments laid down or presented by the militias? How committed is the leadership to the pact? What are the demands? How cogent and soluble are they? Do they have a unified command structure? Is the command structure capable of issuing an effective directive that will be respected by various dens and groups committing heinous bandit crimes? 

These armed groups are often small; in most cases, a group comprises 10 or fewer bandits who act autonomously, unless they need to cooperate against a sedentary enemy community. The absence of a centralised governing body makes it difficult to build an effective peace agreement with the groups. How could a peace accord with hundreds of bandit groups roaming the regions’ thick and interconnected forests that span hundreds of kilometres and access many states be possible? 

Another aspect deserving the government’s focus is the scope of Katsina state’s peace accord. What areas will it encompass? Will the armed bandits responsible for heinous crimes in Katsina state prevent others from neighbouring states from crossing into the area to commit banditry? It’s crucial to recognise that we are not dealing with an insurgent group, a separatist movement, or an ideological terror organisation; rather, the state is confronting multiple disorganised criminal entities. 

The focus should be on the following: The state’s primary concern is achieving lasting peace, not a temporary ceasefire. The bandits should establish a reliable leadership structure that is known and accessible, and willing to take full responsibility if they breach the agreement. They should clearly specify what sets their current commitments apart from those made with previous governments. Additionally, they should submit their complaints for the state’s review and assessment. The sureties must first confiscate or disarm the bandits before any peace accord is signed.

Aliyu Yau holds an M.Sc. in Defence and Strategic Studies and is a public policy and conflict analyst based in Kaduna.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A pregnant woman identified as Aisha Najamu has died at the Turai Umaru Musa Yar’adua Maternity and Children Hospital in Katsina State after a health worker allegedly refused to accept a bank transfer for oxygen, insisting on cash payment.

The incident reportedly happened on Monday. The woman was said to have been rushed to the hospital in a life-threatening condition and required oxygen immediately.

A popular Nigerian TV station reported on Friday that an eyewitness claimed the cashier on duty declined to process the payment because the patient did not have cash.

The witness said the cashier told them that “the hospital’s internal rule” did not allow bank transfers.

A man who attempted to intervene allegedly begged the cashier to take a transfer since the woman needed urgent help.

According to the report, the cashier insisted that “hospital policy strictly forbade bank transfers and that staff must abide by the directive.”

The eyewitness added that he offered to add extra money out of sympathy. He later presented a $100 note to settle the bill, yet the cashier still refused to accept the payment. He described the moment as heartbreaking and said the woman cried for help until she passed away around 11:30 p.m.

Hospital authorities, when reached for comment, said they had not received a formal complaint from the public about the matter.

The hospital’s representative, Cashier Aminu Kofar-Bai, extended condolences to the family and stated that management would reach out to them.

He also promised an investigation into the conduct of any staff member who might be responsible.However, hospital officials defended their payment system.

They maintained that the Katsina State Government’s TSA guidelines prevent staff from accepting bank transfers into personal accounts. They also explained that the hospital lacks POS machines and operates strictly on cash transactions.