Kaduna

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Several passengers were injured on Monday morning after a train travelling along the Kaduna–Abuja route was involved in a collision.

The incident happened while the train was on its way from Kaduna to Abuja. During the journey, it ran into another train on the same track. The impact forced the service to come to a sudden halt.

Witnesses said the force of the crash caused a sharp jolt inside the coaches. Some passengers were thrown against seats and metal parts within the compartments. A number of them suffered cuts and bruises.

One of the passengers, Sada Malumfashi, recounted his experience in a post shared shortly after he disembarked from the train.

“Just dropped from the Kaduna-Abuja train. We heard a loud bang and the train jolted to a stop flinging people across. Passengers got hit and most are bleeding and severely injured. Train delayed for some 30 minutes and resumed to Kubwa. No communication from @info_NRC on anythin,” he wrote.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed the incident in a statement. It said the collision occurred around 10:30 am near Asham. According to the agency, the accident involved a rear locomotive and a passenger coach. Early findings suggest that a coupling fault led to the crash.

The NRC stated that injured passengers were “quickly” attended to before they were moved to a nearby hospital for further treatment. It also confirmed that no lives were lost.

The corporation added that technical teams were sent to the scene. It said officials from the safety investigation bureau were also present to carry out a detailed probe in line with safety procedures.

Rail incidents have occurred on the route in the past. In August 2025, a train heading from Abuja to Kaduna derailed. Several coaches left the track after the train reportedly missed a point. Footage from the scene showed stranded passengers and bystanders along the railway line.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Hundreds of youths in Kaduna State took to the streets on Tuesday, calling on the government to prosecute former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations of financial misappropriation during his tenure.

The protesters, who gathered at major junctions in the state capital, specifically demanded that the former governor be held accountable for the diversion of public funds. Among the allegations cited was the mismanagement of a ₦350 million loan obtained by his administration, which the protesters claim was unaccounted for.

The demonstration, organized by youth groups under the auspices of concerned citizens, also called on security agencies to disregard what they described as a counter-protest staged by a faction of youths allegedly sponsored to distract from the ongoing probe.

The protesters specifically named Bashir Saidu, Jafaru, and Hafiz Bayero as individuals sponsoring a separate, smaller protest aimed at diverting public attention from the investigation into El-Rufai’s administration.

The calls come amid growing pressure on the Kaduna State Government to ensure thorough investigation and possible prosecution of officials accused of financial crimes in the last administration.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, has assured residents that his administration will not demolish any structure or dispossess citizens of their properties without paying fair and adequate compensation.

He also pledged that the state government would not rely on the excuse of “overriding public interest” to remove property owners in the course of executing development projects.

The governor made this known during the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of compensation cheques to 189 households affected by the Rigasa township road project. The event took place in Rigasa on Wednesday.

Uba Sani recalled that the groundbreaking for the Makera Road, Lokoja Road, Ado Gwaram Road, and Asmau Makarfi Spur projects was carried out on 12 September 2025. He explained that work has moved forward steadily. According to him, “drainage systems and hydraulic structures were constructed. Earthworks advanced appreciably along key sections.”

He noted, however, that the government encountered a moral concern because residential buildings, businesses, and key service facilities were located within the project’s right-of-way.

The governor stated that he directed that “construction be temporarily slowed to allow for a thorough, transparent, and equitable assessment of all affected properties and utilities.”

He added that his administration has “resolved that no citizen would be made to suffer unjustly in the name of development.”

Reaffirming his stance, he said, “we will not cloak expediency in the language of ‘Overriding Public Interest.’ Public interest must never eclipse private rights without restitution.”

The governor stressed that fairness has guided his leadership since he assumed office. He said, “Since 29th May 2023, when we took the oath of office, our guiding principle has been clear: governance must be anchored in justice, tempered by compassion, and executed with integrity.

“Roads, bridges, and public works may define the physical landscape of a state, but it is fairness and empathy that define its moral landscape.”

During the event, cheques were presented to affected homeowners to enable them “to relocate, rebuild, or reorganize their lives with dignity.”

He expressed appreciation for their patience and cooperation. He emphasized that “this is not charity; it is justice fulfilled.”

Uba Sani further explained that the exercise reflects a consistent policy across the state. He disclosed that “across Kaduna State, we have compensated approximately 120 households in Mahuta on the Rabah Road project.”

He added that the government had also paid compensation to “282 households from Magajiya to Albarkawa in Zaria; 14 households from Audi to Kako.”

The governor continued that 86 households along the Dogon Bauchi to Kakiyeyi link and 33 households on the Kabala Costain corridor had received payments. He concluded that “in total, we have disbursed about N2.85 billion in compensation.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to produce a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sani Zaria, before it on February 18 over allegations linking him to a coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

The order followed proceedings on Friday before Justice Peter Lifu, who presided over a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the cleric. Zaria has remained in custody since December 2025.

Earlier in January, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the arrest of 16 military officers during the first week of the month in connection with an alleged attempt to overthrow the current administration.

Court documents showed that the cleric was first arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission before he was transferred to the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency.

Respondents in the suit include the EFCC, DIA, the attorney-general of the federation, and Jaiz Bank Plc.

The applicant is asking the court to order his release. He argued that his continued detention has no lawful basis.

During the hearing, the federal government was unable to present a valid court order authorising his detention. The development drew criticism from the bench.

Justice Lifu had earlier instructed the DIA to produce any detention order or provide legal justification for holding the cleric under applicable laws, including provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

The judge faulted the length of the detention. He subsequently ordered the intelligence agency to produce the cleric in court. The appearance, the court noted, will allow consideration of his bail application pending the continuation of the case.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed at least three residents and abducted several others, including a Catholic priest, during a predawn raid on Karku village in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday and threw the community into grief amid growing concerns over insecurity in Southern Kaduna.

A family member of one of the victims, who spoke in a distress message from the village, said the attackers stormed the area suddenly and opened fire on residents. He stated, “The bandits entered our village around 3:20 a.m. and started shooting. People were running in different directions.”

He explained that local vigilantes mobilised and went after the assailants, which led to an exchange of gunfire. According to him, “When the vigilantes intercepted them, there was a gun battle. Six people were killed during the encounter, including two security personnel.” He added that some members of the vigilante group could not be accounted for after the clash. “As I am speaking to you now, three of our vigilantes have not returned. We don’t know their whereabouts,” he said.

The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the assault and the abduction of the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku, Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, alongside 10 parishioners. In a statement, the Diocesan Chancellor, Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, said, “It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the abduction of our priest, Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku, and 10 other parishioners.”

The Diocese identified those killed as Mr. Jacob Dan’azumi, Mr. Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari. It added, “Among those killed in the attack are Mr. Jacob Dan’azumi, Mr. Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari. We condemn this act of violence in strong terms.”

The attack has heightened tension across Southern Kaduna, an area that has witnessed repeated assaults on rural settlements and places of worship. Residents have continued to decry what they describe as insufficient security deployment and slow response during emergencies.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kaduna State Government nor security agencies had released an official statement, while community members urged authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen protection in the area.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Worshippers who were abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali community, along the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area in Kaduna State, have regained their freedom after spending weeks in captivity.

The incident occurred on January 18, 2026. Gunmen invaded the community during church service and took away many worshippers into a nearby forest.

Reports indicated that no fewer than 177 persons were kidnapped in the attack. The development triggered outrage and anxiety among residents and across the state.

Sources said the victims were released late Wednesday night. Heavy-duty vehicles were sighted moving in and out of a forest close to Maro town between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m., raising suspicion that the captives were being transported out of the area.

According to a report, community leaders disclosed that the abducted worshippers were brought out of the forest in the early hours of Friday. However, details surrounding their freedom remain uncertain. It is not clear who secured their release or if any ransom was paid.

The village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development. He said the victims, made up of children, women, and men, are now in government custody.

A security source also verified that the abducted persons had been freed.

The victims were subsequently moved to the Government House in Kaduna, where they are expected to undergo debriefing.

As of the time this report was filed, the Kaduna State Government had not released any official statement on the incident.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 7 under Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have dismantled a kidnappers’ hideout in Badurum Kasa Forest, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and rescued eight abducted persons.

This is contained in a statement released by the Nigerian Army today via their official Facebook handle.

The operation took place on January 28, 2026, after the troops received credible intelligence on the activities of the criminal group.

Acting swiftly, the soldiers moved into the forest in a coordinated mission alongside operatives of the Zango Kataf Police Area Command, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Forest Guards, and local hunters.

According to military sources, the joint team advanced deep into the forest and made contact with the kidnappers at about 5:59 p.m. The criminals reportedly became overwhelmed by the firepower and tactical advance of the security forces. They abandoned their captives and escaped into nearby bushes.

As a result of the operation, eight victims were rescued without injuries and later reunited with their families. Those freed are Mrs Rashida Musa (19), Mrs Hafsat Nuhu (18), Mr Zakari Saleh (52), Miss Hasiya Yahaya (13), Mr Ahmed Yahaya (14), Mr Ibrahim Saiba (11), Miss Salma Yahaya (14), and Mr Sophan Idris (18).

The operation highlights the Nigerian Army’s continued cooperation with other security agencies and local support groups. It also reflects ongoing efforts to safeguard lives, secure key areas, and limit the activities of criminal groups within Kaduna State and beyond.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has congratulated General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) on his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s next Minister of Defence.

In a statement issued today, Governor Sani described the nomination as “well-deserved” and a “profound vote of confidence” in General Musa’s character and competence.

He extended congratulations on behalf of the Kaduna State Government and its people, noting the nominee is an illustrious son of the state.

The Governor expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointment, stating it rewards excellence and reaffirms the President’s resolve to strengthen national security.

Having worked closely with General Musa, Governor Sani affirmed the appointment is timely and apt, calling it “a round peg in a round hole.”

He highlighted the General’s previous service as Chief of Defence Staff, citing his “uncommon discipline, strategic clarity, and humane leadership” which restored public confidence in the military.

For Kaduna State, the Governor credited General Musa’s “wise counsel, measured interventions, and firm support” as instrumental in stabilising areas once troubled by banditry and insurgent activity since May 2023.

Governor Sani urged the Senate to accord the distinguished officer expedited screening and approval, stating the nation stands to benefit immensely from his experience and patriotism.

He concluded by saluting General Musa’s service, celebrating his ascent on behalf of Kaduna, and expressing confidence that history will remember him kindly.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Uba Sani has presented a N985.9 billion budget estimate for the 2026 fiscal year to the Kaduna State House of Assembly, focusing on sustaining development across critical sectors.

Titled a budget of “renewal, resilience and long-term vision,” the proposal allocates 71% to capital expenditure and 29% to recurrent spending.

Key sectors like Education and Infrastructure each receive 25% of the total, while Health gets 15%, and Agriculture 11%.

Highlighting past achievements, Governor Sani stated that his administration has completed 64 of 140 initiated road projects, covering over 1,335 kilometers.

He also noted the introduction of Northern Nigeria’s first Bus Rapid Transit system in Kaduna, which has reportedly saved citizens over N500 million in transport costs.

In education, the government said it reopened 535 schools, returning over 300,000 children to classrooms, alongside massive construction and renovation of facilities.

The health sector is seeing upgrades to all 255 Primary Healthcare Centres and major work on 15 General Hospitals.

A significant highlight was the increase in agriculture investment from N1.4 billion in 2023 to N74.2 billion in 2025, which included the distribution of free fertilizer to farmers.

The Governor also emphasized fiscal prudence, stating that no new loans have been contracted since taking office, despite paying N114.9 billion in debt servicing.

Furthermore, the administration’s community development initiative saw N100 million allocated to each of the state’s 255 wards for participatory projects.

The 2026 budget now awaits the scrutiny and approval of the State House of Assembly.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Kaduna State has set a new benchmark for rapid housing delivery in Nigeria with the commissioning of a 100-unit estate built entirely using prefabricated technology.

Governor Uba Sani inaugurated the project, which was developed by Family Homes and constructed by Karmod Nigeria.

The entire estate, from groundbreaking to completion, was finished in under six months—a fraction of the time required for conventional construction.

Beyond speed, the development offers modern amenities including paved roads, drainage, water, and electricity.

The houses are designed to be durable, with a projected lifespan of more than 50 years.

The success of this project is being positioned as a viable solution to Nigeria’s housing crisis, proving that with modern methods, quality and affordable homes can be built at an unprecedented pace.