FG

By Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu

In the early hours of Friday, April 12, 2025, Zike village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State was reduced to a theatre of blood. At least 40 people, including women and children, were brutally killed by armed assailants who invaded the community under the cover of darkness.

Homes were set ablaze, farmlands destroyed, and hundreds displaced — once again. This is not an isolated tragedy. In less than four months, Plateau State has lost over 400 lives to mindless violence across Mangu, Bokkos, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Bassa LGAs.

According to data from local community leaders and humanitarian groups, more than 150 villages have been attacked since January 2024, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions destroyed.

Yet, the response from government authorities has been chillingly muted. Standard condolence statements have followed each carnage, but little in the way of justice or proactive security. For many in Plateau, it feels like being condemned to die in silence.

The question is painfully simple: for how long will this continue? The victims of these attacks are not armed militias or combatants. They are primarily farmers, traders, women, and children — people asleep in their homes, utterly unprepared for war but caught in its crosshairs.

The attackers, on the other hand, are described as well-coordinated, heavily armed, and operating with an eerie sense of impunity. The carnage in Plateau should not be seen as just a “communal crisis.” It is terrorism — plain and simple.

Any act that involves the targeted killing of innocent civilians on such a consistent and organised scale deserves to be treated as a national security emergency. The lack of urgency from both the federal and Plateau State governments is not just disappointing — it is dangerous.

The time has come for both levels of government to stop playing to the gallery and act. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Caleb Mutfwang must rise above politics and confront this crisis with the seriousness it demands.

Enough of the empty press statements. The people of Plateau need protection, justice, and healing, not promises. There must be an immediate and thorough investigation into the Zike killings and all previous attacks across Plateau State.

The security agencies must identify and arrest the perpetrators. Communities cannot continue to bury their dead while those responsible roam free. Beyond this, a special joint military-police operation should be launched in Plateau — not as a temporary show of force, but as a sustained mission to flush out criminal elements and restore peace across all hotspots.

Such an operation should be intelligence-led, with active engagement from community leaders, local vigilantes, and civil society actors. Security operatives must also be adequately funded, equipped, and monitored to ensure professionalism and accountability in the course of duty.

Furthermore, there should be a comprehensive resettlement plan for displaced persons. The IDP camps in Plateau are filled with women and children who have been forgotten by a country that swore to protect them.

The government must support rebuilding destroyed homes, schools, and clinics in the affected communities. Most importantly, the culture of impunity must end. When killers are not punished, others are emboldened.

When justice is denied, peace remains a fantasy. Nigeria cannot claim to be fighting insecurity on one hand and tolerating unaddressed massacres on the other. This country must no longer treat the deaths of rural Nigerians as a footnote in national discourse.

The tears in Plateau are real. The graves are real. The trauma is real. And so must be our response. Plateau State is bleeding. Its people are tired. And the time to act is now — not with words, but with swift, firm, and visible action.

Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu writes from the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) in Abuja.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has announced plans to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across all 36 states to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage and strengthen the creative industry.

Speaking in Ilorin, Abiola Jagunlabi, Special Assistant to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, revealed that the initiative is part of the “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” designed to preserve historical sites, enhance tourism, and drive economic growth.

According to Jagunlabi, the project will be executed in collaboration with state governments to transform historic landmarks into creative hubs, fostering job creation and economic opportunities in the arts and entertainment sectors.

“The project focuses on restoring and conserving monuments, palaces, and artifacts while promoting cultural education and capacity building in traditional crafts,” he stated.

Jagunlabi noted that the success of the initiative depends on active participation from state governments, local communities, and industry stakeholders.

He noted that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is expected to generate significant employment opportunities while boosting revenue through tourism and creative enterprises.

He further disclosed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the initiative, paving the way for its nationwide implementation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government of Nigeria has called on retailers to reduce food prices, adding that failing to reflect the recent price drop is unfair to consumers.

The Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Abubakar Kyari, made this appeal on Tuesday during the 2025 Wheat Farmers Green Field Day at Dabi village in Jigawa State’s Ringim Local Government Area.

Kyari criticized retailers for not adjusting their prices despite the decline in costs, labeling their actions as unpatriotic.

“The federal government is aware of the significant drop in the prices of food items across major markets, particularly for essential commodities such as flour, sugar, rice, and pasta.

“However, it is deeply concerning that many retailers, bakers, and shop owners have refused to reflect this reduction in their selling prices, thereby denying Nigerians the relief they deserve.

“In previous months, stakeholders in the retail value chain raised concerns about the rising cost of food items. Now that the prices have dropped, such as flour, which fell from N81,000 per bag to below N60,000, and spaghetti, which has fallen from N20,000 to N15,000.

“It is only fair and just to let consumers benefit from food price reduction,” Kyari said.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates that Nigeria’s headline inflation rate fell to 24.48% in January 2025, with food inflation declining to 26.08%, down from 34.8% and 39.84% in the previous month.

The decline is attributed to a rebasing of the country’s consumer price index.

However, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise clarified that the lower inflation rate does not necessarily mean a reduction in the overall prices of goods and services.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian government has received $52.88 million in recovered assets linked to Diezani Alison-Madueke, a former Minister of Petroleum Resources.

The funds were handed over by the United States government, as announced by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, during a formal agreement signing ceremony in Abuja on Friday.

In his remarks, Fagbemi explained that $50 million of the recovered assets would be allocated through the World Bank to support rural electrification projects.

The remaining $2 million is to be directed to the International Institute of Justice to enhance the justice system and combat corruption.

Stating the benefits of this development, Fagbemi described it as a milestone in the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in fighting corruption and promoting the rule of law.

He also emphasized that this recovery reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing corruption.

United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, stressed the need for transparency and accountability in using the recovered funds to benefit the Nigerian populace.

This asset recovery represents a continued effort by both nations to strengthen their partnership in ensuring good governance and accountability.

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 Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has started disbursing salary increases and three months of arrears to military personnel.

The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, through a statement released in Abuja by Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

According to Matawalle, military personnel have already begun receiving alerts confirming the payments.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu authorized the release of funds on Thursday for the payment of pensions and other entitlements owed to retired military personnel.

The minister praised President Tinubu’s dedication to improving the welfare of both serving and retired military officers. He emphasized that addressing outstanding pension arrears remains a priority.

“This initiative underscores the President’s commitment to enhancing the living conditions of those who have served the nation,” Matawalle stated.

He also expressed appreciation for the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, for his vital role in ensuring the timely execution of the payments.

Matawalle urged the Nigerian military to remain resolute in their duties, reassuring them of the President’s support in boosting their morale and providing resources to address security challenges across the nation.

“Despite initial challenges, rest assured that Mr. President is fully committed to uplifting the military forces as they tackle insecurity,” he added.

The minister expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his decisive actions and recognized the essential contributions of both serving and retired military personnel in safeguarding the nation and combating insurgency.

He reiterated the government’s resolve to strengthen the armed forces and ensure sustained efforts to eradicate insecurity in Nigeria.

By Uzair Adam

At the Federal High Court in Abuja, the trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, took a new turn as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented evidence that N20 million earmarked for the Mambilla Hydro Power project was allegedly spent on personal accommodation.

The Daily Reality gathered that during Wednesday’s proceedings, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, retired Colonel Adebisi Adesanya, the third prosecution witness, revealed that Mamman used project funds to cover a year-long stay at Sami Court Resort Limited, a serviced apartment in Abuja.

Led in evidence by EFCC counsel A.O. Mohammed, Adesanya, who is also the resort’s Chief Security Officer and owner, testified that Mamman’s payments were made in installments deposited into the resort’s UBA account.

He identified “Exhibit PWC” as the invoice issued to Mamman after his N20 million payment, covering accommodation from August 30, 2021, to August 30, 2022, explaining that on September 6, 2021, N5 million was deposited by Golden Bond Nigeria Limited, followed by another N5 million from Mintedge Nigeria Limited on January 23, 2022. On March 9, 2022, Abdullahi Suleiman deposited N2.5 million, while the final installment of N7.5 million was made on May 10, 2022, by A.I.J Global Tools Limited.

According to Adesanya, the funds were used exclusively for a one-bedroom unit at the resort. Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to January 13, 2025, for further proceedings.

The EFCC is prosecuting Mamman on a 12-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering amounting to N33.8 billion.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has nullified the judgment of the Federal High Court concerning the Rivers State local government elections.

The Appeal Court ruled that the Federal High Court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the suit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), which was the first respondent in the case.

Consequently, all orders and decisions made by the Federal High Court regarding the matter have been set aside.

This decision reaffirms the validity of the Rivers State local government election and overturns the earlier ruling that sought to challenge it.

By Anwar Usman

Prof. Bernard Odoh, the sacked Vice-Chancellor of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, on Thursday, expressed concern over the method through which he was removed as the university’s VC, stating that it didn’t follow the due process.

Odoh’s concerns follow his sack and that of the university’s governing council over his purported “illegal” appointment.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, Bayo Onanuga, he stated that the Federal Government needed to wade in to address brewing tensions.

“The removal of the governing council and officials followed reports that the council illegally appointed an unqualified vice-chancellor without following due process.

“After the controversial appointment, the Federal Government stepped in to address tensions between the university’s Senate and the Governing Council of the 33-year-old institution.

“The government lamented over the council’s apparent disregard for the university’s governing laws in its selection process,” read the statement.

However, the removed VC, in an interview on Arise TV, maintained that he won’t accept his removal through a press release but rather after the recommendations of an investigating council.

He further stated that, “I’m not disobeying the President, but it is the governing council that will recommend my removal after investigating me,” adding that “Mr President could have been wrongly advised.”

“You can’t sack somebody you didn’t employ. The Visitor (Tinubu) appointed the council and the council followed due process to engage and give me a letter. He can’t remove me through a press release.

“There was no panel of inquiry. I was not appointed through a press release but rather by a constituted authority which followed a straightforward procedure,” he added.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had accused the Governing Council of the institution of failing to follow due process in Odoh’s appointment and had demanded that the ministry dissolve the council over acts of illegality.