Nigeria

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Contrary to widespread speculation that he had been killed or had gone missing, Kaduna-based Islamic scholar Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, also known as Sheikh Khalifa Zaria, is alive and being held in protective custody by Nigerian security agencies, PR Nigeria reported.

The cleric, who disappeared earlier in 2026 after traveling to Abuja and having his bank account frozen, is currently being investigated by a joint team of the Nigerian Military and the Department of State Services (DSS). The investigation centers on a transfer of approximately ₦2 million from a military officer implicated as a key suspect in a foiled coup plot against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to intelligence sources quoted by the news platform, Sheikh Khalifa’s detention followed the discovery of the funds in his account.

“Sheikh Khalifa is alive and healthy in protective custody. His arrest followed the discovery of funds in his bank account transferred from one of the suspected military officers involved in the attempted coup,” a source disclosed.

However, sources close to the cleric’s family offered a different narrative, describing the transaction as a routine spiritual offering. They claimed the soldier obtained the Sheikh’s account number through a student and sent the money with a request for prayers and blessings , a common practice among religious followers in Northern Nigeria.

“There was no political discussion, no criminal intention, and nothing beyond a request for prayers,” a family source maintained.

Concerns over the wellbeing of Sheikh AbdulKadir have intensified in recent days amid mounting public speculation. A fundamental rights suit filed to demand his release was heard at the Federal High Court in Abuja on February 18 and March 13, 2026. The presiding judge has adjourned the matter to April 10, 2026, for final judgment.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar weighed in on Wednesday, calling for the cleric’s immediate release or prosecution. In a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office, he described the prolonged detention as a “grave violation” of fundamental rights and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic principles.

“The continued detention of Sheikh Khalifa without due process poses a significant threat to the rule of law and risks eroding the fundamental rights guaranteed to all citizens,” Atiku said.

He also raised concerns over the authorities’ silence regarding the cleric’s condition, adding that “Nigeria cannot continue to claim the status of a democracy while the rights of its citizens are routinely and brazenly violated.”

Despite the legal and public pressure, intelligence sources insisted that the cleric would remain in custody until the investigation is concluded. “He would soon be arraigned in court for prosecution after the completion of the investigation alongside others,” the official added.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of a man allegedly shot by troops on March 22, 2026, stating that preliminary findings suggest the incident may be linked to insurgent activity rather than an extrajudicial killing.

The incident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m. near the Polo Axis close to the Federal High Court, involved the death of Abdulrahman Mustapha, also referred to as Abchin. Social media reports had alleged that the victim, who was reportedly unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit, was killed unlawfully, prompting calls for an independent probe and accountability.

In a statement released on Thursday, the military acknowledged the gravity of the allegations but noted that early operational indicators suggest a more complex scenario. According to the Theatre Command, troops may have encountered individuals linked to a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance element or a sleeper cell operating in the area.

The command cited several factors to support this preliminary assessment, including reports that the deceased allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle—an action classified as a direct threat to troop safety. Authorities also claimed that upon searching the individual, they found multiple identification cards bearing different names, including a foreign identification card from the Niger Republic, alongside a bottle of Tutolin Syrup and several wraps of a substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa.

Military officials further stated that the victim was reportedly accompanied by two unidentified women who fled the scene and remain at large. Eyewitness accounts, according to the command, indicated that the individual’s behavior before the shooting was suspicious enough to prompt a distress call to the nearest military location.

“These preliminary details remain subject to verification and should not be construed as definitive conclusions,” the statement read, emphasizing that a comprehensive and impartial investigation is ongoing to determine compliance with the military’s Rules of Engagement and operational procedures.

The Theatre Command assured the public that due process would be followed and that all relevant components of Operation HADIN KAI have been directed to intensify efforts to locate the fleeing women, who may possess critical information.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights while continuing its mandate to safeguard lives and maintain security in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A woman who was identified as Hafsatu Yusuf has passed away shortly after giving birth to five babies at a hospital in Kano.

The woman delivered the quintuplets at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, where she later passed away in the early hours of Thursday.

The Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar K/Na’isa, confirmed the incident. He said the death occurred around 2am at the facility.

He explained that the mother suffered severe bleeding after childbirth. Medical personnel made efforts to save her life, but the attempts did not succeed.

“She had been bleeding since after delivery, and all efforts by doctors to control the situation were unsuccessful,” he said.

K/Na’isa also disclosed that the deceased has been buried according to Islamic rites at her residence in Hotoro.

“We are appealing to the public to support the babies with milk and other essential items,” he said.

The five newborns, made up of three boys and two girls, are said to be in stable condition. They are still receiving care at the hospital.

The development came shortly after the Kano State Government had announced that it would take responsibility for the treatment of the mother and her babies following the successful delivery.

In an earlier statement, authorities said both the mother and the children were placed under special medical attention after birth.

The husband of the deceased, Salisu Nufi’u, had earlier thanked the state government for its intervention. He described the support as timely.

The state government has also restated its resolve to improve maternal and child healthcare, with a focus on reducing deaths linked to childbirth across the state.

A woman identified as Hafsatu Yusuf has given birth to five babies at Murtala Specialist Hospital in Kano.

Her husband, Malam Salisu Nafiu, confirmed the development. He said the quintuplets, made up of three boys and two girls, were delivered at about 2:00pm on Wednesday.

Nafiu, who works as a tricycle rider, thanked God for a successful delivery. He said both the mother and the babies were in stable condition. He also disclosed that the latest birth marks his wife’s ninth delivery.

He further explained that health workers at the hospital have continued to provide close medical care to the mother and the newborns to ensure their wellbeing.

In a related development, the Kano State Government has pledged to cover the medical expenses of the family.

The Public Relations Officer of the state Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar Kofar Na’isa, said the move forms part of efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare in the state. He noted that the government aims to reduce cases of maternal and infant deaths.

He added that the state remains committed to assisting vulnerable families and improving access to quality healthcare services.

By Anas Abbas

A three-year-old boy was rescued from suspected kidnappers in Ogbagi Akoko, Ondo State, after a woman’s swift intervention foiled the abduction attempt.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Wednesday, noting that it occurred on March 22 in Ogbagi Akoko following a report by the child’s mother.

According to the police, the child had been sent to his grandmother when a vigilant resident raised the alarm after noticing suspicious movements involving the boy.

The suspects were said to be fleeing with the child on an unregistered motorcycle when the grandmother intervened by holding onto the bike, preventing their escape. Her action, alongside the swift response of community members, led to the suspects being apprehended.

Police authorities confirmed that the child was rescued unharmed, while the suspects have been taken into custody for further investigation.

The command added that the case has been transferred for detailed investigation to determine whether the suspects are linked to a wider criminal network.

Commending residents for their vigilance, the police emphasised the importance of community cooperation in tackling crime and enhancing security.

By Ibrahim Yunusa

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has initiated fresh reconciliation efforts following advice from the Court of Appeal in Ibadan, urging warring factions to resolve internal disputes ahead of upcoming elections. The party’s Board of Trustees, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, constituted a high-powered committee to engage aggrieved members and address lingering issues threatening party unity.


As part of confidence-building measures, the National Working Committee (NWC) postponed key meetings, including the National Executive Committee and National Caucus sessions, and toned down confrontational communications.

However, the party expressed concern over continued hostile rhetoric from opposing factions, calling for restraint in the interest of members seeking to contest under the party’s platform within the timelines set by the Electoral Act.


Despite the tensions, the PDP leadership confirmed that dialogue has commenced, with both sides exploring pathways toward lasting peace.

The party urged supporters nationwide to avoid actions or statements that could derail ongoing reconciliation efforts.

It also reassured aspirants of its commitment to field candidates for all elective positions in line with its constitution.


Reaffirming its role in Nigeria’s democratic landscape, the PDP expressed gratitude to its supporters and maintained that it remains a viable opposition force.

The party also passed a vote of confidence on Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde for their leadership, while assuring Nigerians that it will actively participate in the forthcoming elections and continue to provide a credible platform for democratic choice.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Police Command says it has recorded a notable reduction in crime across the state in the first quarter of 2026, crediting the progress to improved policing strategies, intelligence-driven operations, and closer collaboration with key stakeholders.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, made this known on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Bompai, Kano, where he outlined the current security situation.

Bakori explained that recent restructuring within the Command has boosted operational effectiveness and strengthened responses to emerging threats, noting that the reforms are already delivering encouraging outcomes in maintaining public safety.

He stressed that the police remain determined to build on the gains to ensure Kano continues to be secure for both residents and businesses.

Speaking on the Command’s 2026 roadmap, the commissioner said initiatives such as community policing, intelligence-led operations, capacity development, and collaboration with other security agencies have reinforced the state’s security framework.

He highlighted the impact of Operation Kukan Kura, which he said has played a key role in curbing thuggery, popularly known as Fadan Daba.

“Our roadmap for 2026 is already producing strong results, and we are focused on sustaining and improving this momentum,” he said.

Bakori further noted that coordinated efforts involving the Kano State Government and other security agencies have helped prevent bandit infiltration, while long-standing farmer-herder disputes have been addressed through dialogue and community engagement.

On the fight against drug-related crimes, he revealed that the Command has utilised open-source intelligence to identify suspected dealers, with over 2,000 names submitted by members of the public.

According to him, many of the entries appeared repeatedly, suggesting credible information.

“We are profiling and verifying these individuals with a view to taking decisive action,” he said, emphasizing the importance of technology and community support in tackling crime.

The commissioner added that suspects linked to offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, cybercrime, and drug trafficking have been arrested and prosecuted, with several stolen items recovered during operations.

While admitting that security challenges persist, Bakori reassured residents of the Command’s resolve to address them through sustained collaboration with relevant authorities.

He also acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, alongside the cooperation of the public.

The police chief urged citizens to continue providing timely and useful information, assuring that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.

By Uzair Adam

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State on Sunday witnessed the maiden landing of an aircraft at the Gusau International Airport, marking a significant milestone more than 30 years after the state’s creation without an operational airport.

According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the test flight was operated by the Federal Government of Nigeria and touched down at exactly 4:30 p.m.

The aircraft, identified as a Bombardier Challenger 605, carried out a one-off assessment flight aimed at evaluating the airport’s preparedness for upcoming VIP movements scheduled for next week.

Governor Lawal described the development as historic, noting that the successful landing represents a major step forward for the state’s aviation infrastructure.

He said the event would remain a memorable moment in Zamfara’s history, as it signals the beginning of airport operations in the state.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area in Delta State, is gripped by panic as female students of Delta State University reportedly leave the community over safety concerns. The exodus follows violent incidents during the controversial ‘Alue-Do’ festival, which have sparked nationwide outrage.

Videos circulating on social media showed young women being chased, stripped, and assaulted by groups of youths, prompting fear among residents and students.

Sources say that many female students, traumatized by the attacks and uncertain about their safety, have begun fleeing the area.

A student leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the atmosphere as tense. He told The PUNCH:
“Most of the female students in the community are scared, especially when they were told that the festival is meant to last for seven days. Many left early this morning, and others were still seen leaving up to this evening.”

He added that anxiety remains high among residents and students due to uncertainty over the festival’s duration and the potential for more violence.

The source also alleged that some university students were involved in the assaults:
“It is not only the indigenes who participated in the molestation. Some students also took part in it, and that is the most painful part. It speaks to the level of decadence in our society, the education system and human behaviour as a whole.”

He called for justice, stressing:
“Sexual assault is a serious offence, and it desecrates the dignity of our women. We will not condone that.”

In response, the Delta State Police Command intensified its operations, arresting 11 additional suspects, bringing the total in custody to 15. Earlier arrests included a community leader, Omorede Sunday, and four others.

Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe confirmed the arrests and noted that intelligence work and analysis of viral videos helped identify suspects, including Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, and Evidence Oguname. He said preliminary findings suggest that criminal elements exploited the festival to commit violence.

“The Commissioner of Police condemns these acts in totality and reassures the public that the command remains resolute in its determination to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Edafe said.

The incident has drawn condemnation nationwide. The Nigerian Bar Association described the attacks as “a national disgrace.” In a joint statement signed by President Afam Osigwe and Chairperson of the NBA Women Forum Huwaila Muhammad, the association said:
“A society reveals its true character in how it treats its women. Where women are chased, stripped, violated and publicly humiliated under the guise of celebration, what is on display is not culture but barbarity.”

The NBA urged the Delta State Government to ensure all perpetrators face justice, emphasizing that no cultural practice can justify violence against women.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women petitioned Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, demanding the suspension of traditional rulers in Ozoro for allegedly failing to prevent the violence. The group also called for an independent inquiry to investigate the incident and determine the role of community leaders.

As fear spreads across the university community, many students remain hesitant to return. Calls are growing for stronger security measures and accountability for those responsible.

By Uzair Adam

Gunmen have abducted the Secretary of Kibiya Local Government Area in Kano State after storming his residence in a late-night attack.

Chairman of the Councillors in the area, Hon. Sabo Yusuf Usman, confirmed the incident to the BBC, saying it occurred in the early hours of Friday in Dinya town.

According to him, the attackers struck at about 1:00 a.m. while the secretary was asleep.

He explained that the gunmen first woke the secretary’s son, who was sleeping in the outer compound, and forced him to knock on the door under the pretense of being unwell.

He said the boy told his father he had a stomach ache when asked what was wrong, prompting the secretary to open the door.

The gunmen then immediately carted away both the father and the son.

Usman added that the attackers later released the son and fled with the secretary before security operatives arrived at the scene.

Kibiya Local Government Area has not been widely associated with security threats in the past.

However, areas such as Tsanyawa and Shanono, which share a border with Katsina State, have experienced a series of bandit attacks in recent times.