Katsina State

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Katsina State Hisbah Board has prohibited girls from engaging in street hawking after 10pm, warning that anyone found violating the directive will face enforcement measures.

The Commandant General of the board, Saifullahi Musa, announced the restriction on Tuesday during a press briefing at the agency’s headquarters.

He explained that the measure was introduced to protect girls from sexual abuse, harassment and other social dangers associated with late-night trading.

Musa said the restriction applied to all public places where hawking takes place, including markets, motor parks and other busy locations across the state.

According to him, the board had received reports of girls involved in night trading being exposed to sexual exploitation and other activities considered contrary to Islamic teachings.

He alleged that some of the girls engaged in illicit activities, while others were victims of rape, adding that the board would not allow such practices to continue.

The commandant disclosed that Hisbah personnel would be deployed to strategic locations across the state to monitor compliance with the directive.

He also appealed to parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children’s safety by ensuring that girls were not allowed to engage in hawking late at night.

The Katsina State Hisbah Board was established in 2023 by Governor Dikko Radda to address social and moral concerns and promote Islamic values in the state.

Hisbah to regulate traditional medicine dealers

In another development, Musa announced plans by the board to regulate the activities of traditional medicine dealers to ensure that their operations conformed to Islamic principles.

He expressed concern over the use of vulgar and offensive expressions by some practitioners when advertising their products, warning that the board would no longer tolerate such conduct.

The commandant also raised concerns over reports that some brothels had reopened in parts of the state. He directed their operators to shut down or risk legal action.

He further maintained that the prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages, particularly beer, remained in force in Katsina, cautioning traders against selling such products in public places.

Musa urged residents, especially Muslims, to support the board in carrying out its responsibilities, insisting that its mandate was to promote adherence to Islamic principles rather than victimise members of the public.

He assured residents that the board would carry out its duties in accordance with the provisions of its enabling law while enforcing its directives across the state.

By Muhsin Ibrahim

The tragic trail of political and religious violence in Northern Nigeria has claimed yet another prominent life. It began in 2007 with the gruesome assassinations of Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam, who was shot dead in Kano while leading dawn prayers, and Sheikh Umar Hamza Dan-Maishiyya in Sokoto. 

Seven years later, in 2014, Sheikh Muhammad Auwal Albani Zaria was murdered in Kaduna State. 

Today, in 2026, the targeted killing of Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka by unknown gunmen in Katsina marks a deeply disturbing escalation. 

In every instance, an influential voice has been violently silenced, leaving a nation burdened with unanswered questions and followers in deep grief and confusion.

This recurring pattern represents a severe threat to public safety and social cohesion across Northern Nigeria. Jubilating over the violent end of an ideological rival is dangerous shortsightedness; no cleric, regardless of popularity or sectarian affiliation, is safe in an environment where lawlessness reigns. A society where religious scholars can be executed with impunity for their identity or teachings is one where human life has been stripped of basic security.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, a video recently surfaced on social media depicting youth in JIBWIS attire issuing threats against Christian communities in Enugu and Jos. While public commentary must remain cautious of conspiratorial thinking, the alignment of this incendiary material with the assassination of Sheikh Masussuka cannot be casually dismissed. The synchronisation suggests a deliberate effort by malicious actors to ignite a broader sectarian conflict across the region.

Security agencies must undertake an immediate, rigorous, and transparent investigation. Broad public confidence in the judicial process can be restored only if those responsible, regardless of status or political influence, are identified and brought to justice.

In the interim, the public must resist the temptation to engage in reckless speculation. Emotional outbursts and unsourced allegations on digital platforms risk repeating past errors. 

Following the 2007 murder of Sheikh Ja’afar, baseless accusations targeted national leaders, state officials, and traditional institutions, ultimately forcing news outlets to issue public retractions for spreading fabricated reports. Unverified claims ruin reputations and risk sparking retributive violence at a time when national calm is required.

We must exercise utmost restraint. Sharing unverified media, amplifying inflammatory rhetoric, or taking the law into one’s hands will only compound the crisis. Sustained development and progress are impossible without security. National stability must remain the primary objective.

May peace prevail in Nigeria, and may the Almighty forgive our deceased loved ones, amin.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir 

Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), Katsina State, has announced plans to host an international conference in honour of renowned Hausa literary icon and musician, Aminu Ladan Abubakar, popularly known as Alan Waka.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammad Khalid Othman, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to ensuring the success of the event, describing it as an opportunity to promote Hausa language, literature and cultural heritage on the global stage.

Speaking during a meeting with the Local Organising Committee, the Chairman, Professor Ibrahim Garba Satatinu, commended the university management for its support and pledged effective coordination to deliver a successful conference.

In his remarks, Aminu Ladan Abubakar expressed gratitude to the university for recognising his literary contributions, describing the conference as a rare honour. He said the event would inspire younger generations of writers, poets and researchers to preserve and promote Hausa literary traditions.

The Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Bashir Aliyu Sallau, and other university officials also praised the initiative, noting that the conference would attract scholars, researchers and cultural enthusiasts from within Nigeria and abroad.

The conference is expected to bring together academics, writers, poets and students to examine the literary philosophy, poetic style and enduring contributions of Aminu Ladan Abubakar to Hausa literature and African scholarship.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The loss of an Army General, whether retired or in active service, at the hands of ragtag bandits, insurgents or terrorists is heartbreaking and a major loss to the nation.

What Nigeria is witnessing today can no longer be described merely as insurgency or banditry. Nigeria is at war. Simple.

Over the years, the country has suffered painful losses of highly trained military officers in the fight against terrorism and armed criminal groups. These incidents clearly show the scale, sophistication, and dangerous evolution of insecurity across the country.

In November 2021, Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu was killed in an ambush while commanding the 28 Task Force Brigade in the Chibok area of Borno State.

In November 2025, Brigadier General Musa Uba was killed in an ISWAP ambush near Wajiroko along the Damboa–Wajiroko Road in Borno State.

On April 9, 2026, Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah, a Brigade Commander, was killed during a coordinated Boko Haram/ISWAP assault that overran a military base in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

On June 13, 2026, the Katsina State Government announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, who died while in captivity after being abducted by bandits.

Similarly, in September 2018, retired Major General Idris Alkali was killed by a mob in Plateau State, another painful reminder that even retired senior military officers are not spared from the growing insecurity.

Reaching the rank of General in the Nigerian Army is an extremely competitive, merit-based process that often requires 25 to 35 years of dedicated service, sacrifice, discipline, and commitment to the nation.

These are not ordinary individuals. Generals and indeed all well-trained security personnel, whether active or retired, are strategic national assets. Their experience, intelligence, leadership, and institutional knowledge are invaluable to any country.

When a nation begins to lose such high ranking officers to terrorists and bandits, it is a clear indication that the threat has grown beyond ordinary criminality.

The time has come for Nigeria to fully confront this reality and respond with the seriousness, unity, and determination that war demands, despite the heavy consequences that often come with prolonged conflict and guerrilla warfare. The country’s survival, stability, and future depend on it.

Nigeria is at war with the bandits

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Aisha Mohammed Usman 

The Abduction of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd) and His Wife Should Concern Every Nigerian.

Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd) spent decades serving Nigeria, helping to protect its people and defend its sovereignty. A respected military leader known for his professionalism and patriotism, he represents the sacrifice and dedication of countless Nigerians who have devoted their lives to national service.

Now, the reported abduction of Major General Abubakar and his wife has sparked widespread concern. Beyond the pain endured by their family, this incident is a troubling reminder of the insecurity facing the nation and a matter that should concern every Nigerian who values service, sacrifice, and justice.

At a time when public conversations are often dominated by criticism of leadership failures, we must ask ourselves an important question: Have we become a society that only speaks about bad leaders while remaining silent about the good ones?

There is no doubt that Nigeria faces significant leadership challenges. Citizens have every right to demand accountability, transparency, and effective governance. However, while we criticise those who fail us, we must also recognise, celebrate, and support those who have devoted their lives to serving others. Recognition is not merely praise; it is encouragement. It sends a message that integrity, sacrifice, and dedication still matter.

Major General Rabe Abubakar represents those values.

Among his many distinguished accomplishments, Major General Rabe Abubakar served as Nigeria’s Director of Defence Information, a position that placed him at the forefront of military communications and national security engagement. Throughout his career, he became widely respected for his professionalism, patriotism, and commitment to strengthening the relationship between the Armed Forces and the Nigerian people. Even after retirement, he remained an influential voice, mentor, and statesman whose counsel and experience continued to benefit both military and civilian communities.

For decades, he served Nigeria with distinction. Like many military officers, he endured the hardships that come with wearing the uniform—extended periods away from family, exposure to danger, and the immense responsibility of protecting lives and national interests. While millions of Nigerians slept peacefully at night, brave men and women in uniform stood watch, often under difficult and dangerous conditions, safeguarding the nation.

Yet what makes Major General Rabe Abubakar particularly remarkable is that his service did not end with retirement. Through mentorship, community development, youth empowerment, and civic engagement, he continued contributing to the growth and progress of society. His influence extended far beyond military assignments. He became a mentor to many, a trusted voice in his community, and a source of inspiration to both military personnel and civilians alike.

His impact can be felt not only through the positions he held but through the countless lives he touched. From his hometown and village to communities across Nigeria, he has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is ultimately about service to humanity.

It is therefore particularly distressing that a man who devoted his life to defending Nigeria, together with his wife, reportedly became a victim of the insecurity he spent years working to combat.

Alongside him is his wife, who has undoubtedly shared in the sacrifices that military families endure throughout the years of service to the nation. Behind every distinguished military officer is a family that bears the burden of long absences, uncertainty, and the demands of national duty. Their ordeal is therefore not only a tragedy for two individuals but also a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by military families across Nigeria.

According to reports, Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife were travelling to Katsina for a family wedding when they were abducted in the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Their driver reportedly survived despite sustaining a gunshot injury, while the retired General and his wife were taken away by armed men. Security agencies and military authorities have since commenced efforts to secure their safe rescue and return.

To those holding Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife captive, this is an appeal to your humanity. Whatever circumstances may have led to this situation, there remains an opportunity to choose compassion over cruelty. This retired General dedicated his life to protecting fellow Nigerians. He served his country with honour and distinction. We appeal for his immediate and safe release, alongside that of his wife.

To the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities, Nigerians are looking to you with hope and expectation. Every available resource must be deployed to ensure the safe rescue and return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife. The nation owes a special duty of care to those who have spent their lives safeguarding its people and institutions.

Beyond this particular incident, there is a broader lesson for all of us. We must learn to celebrate our heroes while they are still with us. Too often, recognition comes only after tragedy strikes. We must speak about the people making positive contributions to our communities. We must highlight examples of integrity, sacrifice, and patriotism. We must encourage the next generation to believe that service to the country remains a noble calling.

A society that constantly criticises but never appreciates risks discouraging those who are striving to do the right thing. Good leaders need support. Good examples need visibility. Good deeds deserve recognition.

Major General Rabe Abubakar is one such example.

At a time when insecurity continues to challenge communities across the country, Nigerians must unite in support of all lawful efforts to secure the safe return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife. Beyond differences of ethnicity, religion, region, or political affiliation, this is a moment that calls for collective concern, compassion, and national solidarity.

As Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, this is a moment to stand together. It is a moment to pray for his safe return, support his family, and reaffirm our commitment to the values he represents.

The story of Major General Rabe Abubakar is ultimately a story of duty, sacrifice, and service. It is a reminder that true leadership is measured not by titles or ranks but by the positive impact one leaves on the lives of others.

As we await the safe return of Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife, let us remember a simple truth: a nation that honours its heroes strengthens its future, while a nation that forgets them risks losing the very values that hold it together.

May Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife return home safely. May justice prevail, amin.

And may Nigeria never stop celebrating those who serve her faithfully.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Muttaqha Rabe Darma as a minister in the federal government following his screening by lawmakers.

Darma was nominated earlier this week by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace Ahmed Musa Dangiwa as Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

During the screening, Darma addressed questions on Nigeria’s housing deficit and urban renewal strategies, pledging to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to meet government targets in the sector.

A seasoned administrator, Darma holds two doctoral degrees and previously served as Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An Islamic teacher, Malam Murtala Saidu, was killed when terrorists attacked Garin-Gozai village in Na’alma ward of Malumfashi Local Government Area, Katsina State.

It was reported that the attack occurred on Sunday evening, shortly before Maghrib prayers, as gunmen stormed the village and opened fire indiscriminately. Saidu was reportedly shot while trying to escape the scene.

Security and intelligence expert Bakatsine confirmed the attack in a security alert issued soon after the incident. He noted that the terrorists moved freely and extended their assault to nearby communities.

“This evening before Maghrib prayers, terrorists stormed Garin-gozai village in Na’alma ward, Malumfashi LGA of Katsina State, killing a local Islamic teacher, Malam Murtala Saidu, who was reportedly shot while attempting to flee. The attackers then moved toward Mai Jimina community in same LGA, firing shots before retreating,” Bakatsine said.

The attack has sparked fear among residents who had hoped that earlier peace agreements between authorities, community leaders, and armed groups would bring lasting calm to the area.

Bakatsine raised concerns about the credibility of the peace arrangement, saying the latest violence exposes serious gaps in its enforcement.

“This comes despite a prior peace agreement between local stakeholders and armed groups, raising urgent concerns about its effectiveness,” the alert stated.

He further questioned the commitment of the parties involved, asking, “If a peace deal was already in place, why are such attacks still occurring, and who is failing to uphold the agreement?”

The incident gives an alert about the ongoing security challenges in Katsina State, where communities continue to face repeated attacks despite dialogues and formal agreements aimed at curbing violence.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kano Zonal Directorate, on Thursday, February 5, 2026, arraigned a former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), Professor Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi, before the Katsina State High Court over an alleged N19.7 million bribery scheme.

Bichi was docked before Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar alongside two others—Lawal Tukur Mani and Aliyu Lawal Jari—on a five-count charge bordering on bribery.

According to the EFCC, Bichi, while serving as Vice-Chancellor, allegedly received kickbacks from contractors through the two co-defendants in exchange for the award of contracts at the university. One of the charges alleged that he obtained N5 million in July 2023 from a contractor as gratification for contracts involving the supply of medical equipment and laboratory furnishing, with the funds paid into a bank account belonging to one of the co-defendants.

All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following their pleas, prosecuting counsel, Salihu Sani, requested a trial date, while defence counsel moved applications for bail. Justice Abubakar granted each defendant bail in the sum of N5 million with one surety in like sum and adjourned the case to March 12, 2026, for the commencement of trial.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Authorities in Niger have detained DW Hausa journalist Gazali Abdou Tasawa and placed him in Niamey Central Prison following a court summons on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The journalist appeared before the public prosecutor at the Niamey High Court for questioning related to a video report he produced.

The report highlighted the difficult living conditions of refugees from Katsina State in northern Nigeria who have sought refuge in Niger. However, no official statement has yet been issued detailing the specific charges against the journalist.

The detention has raised concerns among media observers and press freedom advocates, particularly regarding the treatment of journalists reporting on humanitarian and refugee issues in the region.

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.