Nigeria

By Anwar Usman

A member of the House of Representatives representing Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency, Mohamed Hassan, is dead.

His death was announced in a statement issued on Friday by his special assistant on media, Muazzam Dawakin-Kudu,  who said Hassan died after a brief illness.

The statement read, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Hon. Barr. M.D. Hassan.”

According to the statement, the late lawmaker will be buried on Saturday, April 11, 2026, following a funeral prayer scheduled to take place at about 1:30 p.m. at the National Mosque, Abuja.

The statement offered prayers for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings and for Allah to admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus.

Until his passing, Hassan served as the representative of Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency and was widely recognized as an active contributor to legislative proceedings at the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from associates, constituents, and political stakeholders, who described his death as a significant loss to the nation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have detained a former member of the House of Representatives, Aliyu Gebi, over claims that he distributed misleading intelligence reports to foreign embassies in Nigeria.

Security sources disclosed that Gebi, who served in the 7th National Assembly and works as a security consultant, was arrested on Friday, April 3. He has since been released on bail, although investigations are still ongoing. Sources said he must report regularly to the DSS headquarters.

The case was first reported by Premium Times, which stated that the former lawmaker allegedly provided intelligence to foreign missions that authorities later found to be inaccurate.

A source told the newspaper that the reports caused concern among international stakeholders, especially in the aviation sector. “Lufthansa cancelled flights scheduled to take off to Nigeria,” the source said, adding that “British Airways nearly did the same.”

Another source indicated that the same intelligence contributed to a recent advisory issued by the United States government, which warned its citizens about security risks in parts of Nigeria.

The advisory, issued by the US Department of State, cited a “deteriorating security situation.” It urged non-essential personnel to leave Nigeria and advised Americans to reconsider travelling to the country. The warning listed crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, assault and roadside banditry. It also identified high-risk states, including Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara and Rivers.

The Nigerian government rejected the advisory and asked foreign partners to ensure their security assessments are “balanced and up-to-date” and reflect “the progress being made” to improve safety across the country.

Sources also revealed that several embassies initially considered acting on the intelligence allegedly linked to Gebi. However, Nigerian authorities intervened through diplomatic engagement, which led to a suspension of planned actions.

“Many embassies received the report and wanted to act on it, but the Nigerian government dialogued with them and they shelved their plans,” another source said. “But the United States went ahead to issue that advisory.”

The incident comes at a time of existing diplomatic strain between Nigeria and the United States. Tensions increased after Washington redesignated Nigeria in 2025 as a “Country of Particular Concern” over allegations of religious persecution, an accusation the Nigerian government has repeatedly denied.

While acknowledging security challenges, the Nigerian government maintains that violence in the country affects different regions and groups, not a single religious bloc.

Gebi has held several roles within Nigeria’s security sector. He served as a member of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015, representing a constituency in Bauchi State. During that period, he chaired the House Committee on Internal Security and also participated in the ECOWAS Parliament.

He later worked at the Ministry of Interior as a Senior Special Adviser from 2015 to 2023. He also served as Special Adviser on Non-Kinetic Security Strategies at the Defence Headquarters. In addition, he was the National Coordinator of the Security Governance Initiative, a programme launched during the Obama administration to strengthen security sector governance in Nigeria and other African countries.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Terrorists believed to be members of Boko Haram faction Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) have released a video showing 416 abducted women and children from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The footage shows the captives seated on the ground in an open area while armed insurgents stand guard around them. Some of the gunmen wore face coverings, while others had their identities exposed.

The video was reportedly produced after a request by a group known as the Borno South Youths Alliance, which had demanded proof that the abducted persons were still alive amid ongoing efforts to secure their release.

In the recording, one of the insurgents spoke in Hausa through a loudspeaker, presenting the group and addressing Nigerian authorities.

“All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah and his family. Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you,” he began.

“We are members of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, under the leadership of Imam Abu Umaymatul.

“We have gathered here today to present a few important matters. God willing, we intend to deliver a message to the Government of Nigeria, based on requests made by members of the Borno South East Alliance and others who asked for clarification about the condition of the women from Ngoshe.

“The women of Ngoshe wanted to be seen, and here they are. They are alive and in good condition. We have not harmed them in any way, nor have we mistreated them. We have kept them according to what we believe is our duty before Allah. This is because our religion instructs us to act in this manner.

“Without wasting time, since members of the Borno South East Alliance requested a video so they could see them with their own eyes, we will now allow the women to speak directly. You will hear from them and see them yourselves.”

After the statement, the captives were questioned by the insurgents and asked to confirm their identities and status. A spokesperson among the abducted persons, speaking in Hausa, confirmed they were from Ngoshe and said they were alive.

“First of all, we thank Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) who brought us to this place. Alhamdulillah, we are grateful.

“We are people from Ngoshe town. This trial and destiny befell us there. By the grace of Allah, we are alive and in good condition, together with our children, women, and elders. All of us are safe.

“Those who were injured or unwell have received treatment and care. Some of our children arrived without clothes, no shirts, no trousers, but they have now been given clothing. We have been provided with shelter and food. Alhamdulillah, we are being taken care of.”

She also expressed emotional distress over the situation and appealed for intervention from the Nigerian government and local leaders.

“Our stay here has not been difficult in terms of basic needs; we have no immediate complaints about our treatment. However, we are deeply worried and distressed because of what has happened to our relatives.

“Some people were killed when an aircraft struck, and others suffered different tragedies. Because of this, we are in emotional distress and constant worry. Our families back home are also anxious; some of them do not even know whether we are alive or dead. But now, with this video, they will at least know that we are alive.

“We are sending this message to the world so that people know we are alive and in good condition.”

She further appealed directly to top officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, and other leaders from Gwoza and Southern Borno, urging urgent action to secure their release.

“We are calling on all of them for help, assistance, and intervention.

“We sincerely wish to return to our homes because we are not used to living like this. The lifestyle here is very different from what we are accustomed to. Our children are distressed, we women are distressed, and our families back home are also suffering emotionally.

“Living in a place that is unfamiliar to you is very difficult. We are appealing for intervention so that we can be helped and returned to our homes, reunited with our children, parents, and loved ones.

“War is not good, it only brings suffering.”

Another woman, speaking in a different local language, repeated similar concerns, praising their survival while calling for urgent rescue efforts. The captives also repeatedly thanked their captors and appealed for help.

The video highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis in Nigeria’s North-East, where prolonged insurgency has displaced communities and left many civilians in captivity.

In a related background, earlier reports had indicated repeated attacks on Ngoshe and surrounding areas, including assaults on military bases and civilian settlements, which have led to deaths, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.

By Ismail Bello Darazo 

Nigeria is a country known for its diverse ethnic groups, rich cultures, and traditions. There is also a strong history of peaceful coexistence among these groups. This harmony was more evident when traditional leaders were in control of societal affairs. All these things have faded away. Why?

Everything is better than before the marginalisation of the traditional leadership system, despite the democratic rule in various aspects of the sphere, but this particular issue of insecurity, especially the one between ethnicities, is not well addressed by the system. We still have time to make things better and manage.

The truth that we don’t want to say out has to be told in the sense that we would keep our eyes off the sad event masterminded by those we share the same tribe or religion with. This is what happens, and it is what fuels the escalating insecurity in the whole country. Political leadership was largely in the hands of traditional institutions, which formed a vital part of Nigeria’s governance structure before being marginalised by the modern democratic system.

The democratic system is centred on the separation of powers among the three arms of government—the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary. This has become the dominant mode of governance today. However, decision-making and policy implementation under this system have largely replaced traditional methods, which once ensured a high level of compliance because people trusted their leaders.

The marginalisation of traditional leadership by the democratic system is one factor contributing to the escalation of insecurity. Traditional institutions have deeper access to the grassroots and better knowledge of the local environment than the current system. 

It is rare to find any group of people without a leadership structure in which leaders report to higher authorities when decisions exceed their authority. This applies to groups such as herders grazing livestock and farmers producing food for trade and national food security. The relationships between these groups were previously managed by traditional leadership, which ensured harmony and stability despite differences.

However, the alienation and undermining of traditional institutions have weakened this long-standing unity. The sense of shared humanity has diminished. Despite intermarriages and shared values, conflicts of interest have damaged relationships, turning once-peaceful communities into hostile groups.

Despite these challenges, it is not too late to act. The government can revitalise the traditional ruling system by integrating it into policy-making and implementation processes. Traditional leaders should be given a sense of belonging and held accountable for their responsibilities. Thomas Fuller once said, “A stitch in time saves nine.”

The effectiveness of this structure can often change the narrative, due to its deep grassroots penetration, significantly improving the current situation. 

By taking this step, insecurity can be drastically reduced, if not completely eliminated.

Ismail Bello Darazo writes from Bauchi wrote via Ismailbello054@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

The African Democratic Congress has taken legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission, challenging the removal of some of its leaders from the commission’s official records.

The party, under the leadership of David Mark, filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking judicial intervention over what it described as an unlawful decision by the electoral body.

According to the ADC, INEC’s action in altering its leadership records is inconsistent with due process and threatens the internal structure of the party. The party insists that the changes were made without proper consultation or adherence to established legal procedures.

The suit is asking the court to determine the legality of INEC’s move and to compel the commission to restore the affected leaders to its official records.

The development comes amid an ongoing leadership dispute within the party, which has drawn public attention in recent days. The ADC maintains that the matter is an internal affair and should not warrant interference from the electoral umpire.

As of the time of filing this report, INEC has not publicly responded to the lawsuit.The case is expected to test the extent of the electoral body’s powers in regulating party leadership structures, particularly as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of future elections.

By Uzair Adam

The United States Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments in the Nigerian capital, asking applicants to check their emails for information about rescheduled dates.

In a notice issued on Thursday, the embassy said visa services would continue at the United States Consulate General Lagos.

The embassy also stated that services for American citizens would remain available through scheduled appointments or emergency requests.

The development followed a decision by the United States Department of State to authorise non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to depart from Abuja due to what it described as a worsening security situation across Nigeria.

In an updated travel advisory, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travelling to Nigeria, citing concerns including crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest.

The advisory placed Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while some parts of the country were categorised under “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

According to the notice, the decision followed a security assessment conducted on April 8.

“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorised non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory stated.

The department also warned that travellers should reconsider visits to Nigeria because of crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping and inconsistent access to healthcare services.

Several states were listed under the highest risk category, including Borno State, Yobe State, Jigawa State, Niger State, Plateau State, Taraba State and parts of Adamawa State.

Other states mentioned in the advisory included Kaduna State, Kano State, Katsina State, Sokoto State, Zamfara State, Bauchi State and Gombe State, where the department cited risks related to unrest, crime and kidnapping.

The advisory noted that some areas in the country face higher security threats, urging U.S. citizens to remain cautious and monitor official updates before planning travel.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected motorcycle robbers have cut off the hand of a school teacher, Isah Sallama, during an attack in Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State, The Daily Reality reports.

The incident happened on Wednesday night along the Funkuyi Road in Buran District. This was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary for Public Enlightenment of the Rano Emirate Council, Nasiru Habu Faragai.

Faragai said Sallama, who lives in Sarkin Bakar Rano, came under attack when he tried to assist another victim, Malam Sauwanu Hadi. The assailants were attempting to snatch Hadi’s motorcycle and mobile phone at the time.

He added that the attackers first attempted to shoot Sallama, but their weapon failed to discharge, according to a report by the Daily Trust newspaper.

“When the gun failed, they resorted to using a machete and chopped off his hand, leaving him in a critical condition,” the statement said.

The District Head of Bunkure, Alhaji Aminu Isa Umaru, reported the case to the Emir of Rano, Muhammad Isa Umaru.

The emir condemned the incident and described it as troubling. He ordered that security agencies be notified for a detailed investigation.

He also approved the sum of N100,000 to assist with the victim’s medical treatment.

The traditional ruler urged community leaders and security operatives to step up efforts to address robbery and other criminal activities in the area.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A student identified as Maryam, who was abducted by bandits several months ago while travelling to school, has regained her freedom after spending a long period in captivity.

Maryam was on her way from Zamfara State to Sokoto State, where she intended to continue her education, when armed attackers intercepted her and took her to an undisclosed location.

News of her release emerged on Wednesday through blogger D English Alhaji, who shared the update on social media. He confirmed that she is now safe and receiving care after her ordeal.

“We have Maryam with us now. Thank you, Nigerians. Maryam is finally free,” he said.

A video posted shortly after the announcement showed Maryam inside a vehicle as she was being taken to a hospital for medical treatment.

In the footage, she appeared weak and tired. She expressed gratitude to Nigerians who supported her during the period of her captivity.

Maryam appreciated members of the public for their prayers and encouragement. She said their support gave her strength and hope throughout the difficult experience.

Her release comes at a time when insecurity remains a major concern in several parts of Nigeria. Incidents of bandit attacks and kidnappings continue to affect states such as Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi and Kwara.

Residents in the affected areas have continued to voice concern over the situation, as armed groups carry out attacks on communities, highways, schools and places of worship. Travellers, students and worshippers are often among those targeted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Academic activities at the University of Jos have been halted after the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Jos branch, announced an indefinite strike over unpaid March 2026 salaries and concerns about missing Earned Academic Allowances (EAA).

The union issued a notice to its members on Tuesday. It instructed lecturers to withdraw from lectures, examinations, statutory meetings, and all related academic duties with immediate effect.

The statement, which was signed by the branch chairperson, Jurbe Joseph Molwus, explained that the action followed internal consultations and resolutions reached by the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) and congress.

“After following due process, we hereby request all members to abstain from lectures, conduct of exams and statutory meetings as our salary for the month of March 2026 is yet to be paid despite our patience,” the statement read.

ASUU said the strike commenced on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, and will remain in place until the outstanding salaries are settled.

The union linked the delay in payment to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation. It noted that the university’s bursary department had already completed its role in processing the salaries.

“From our consultation, the delay is occasioned by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation as the bursary of the University has done its part in the process of salary payment,” the statement added.

The lecturers also accused relevant authorities of ignoring their concerns and undermining industrial harmony within the institution.

“It seems our patience is being taken for granted by those who are determined to frustrate industrial harmony,” it said.

ASUU further disclosed that it has set up a monitoring team to ensure that members fully comply with the strike directive.

The development reflects wider dissatisfaction across Nigeria’s university system, where lecturers in several institutions have raised complaints about delays in salary payments under the current administration.

Reports indicate that staff members at universities such as Ahmadu Bello University, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, and Federal University Birnin Kebbi have also expressed frustration over the non-payment of March salaries, especially as it coincided with the Easter period.

“This has become a pattern, but this particular delay shows a lack of consideration. People have families to cater for, especially during festive periods like this,” one lecturer told SaharaReporters.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has reduced the ex-gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to N1,200 per litre. This marks a reversal of its earlier price increase after a drop in global crude oil prices linked to geopolitical developments.

The new price reflects a reduction of N75 from the previous rate of about N1,275 per litre. The refinery had earlier raised prices due to rising international oil costs and concerns over supply.

A senior official of the refinery confirmed the adjustment on Tuesday night. He explained that the decision followed changes in global crude oil benchmarks and market conditions.

“The adjustment is in line with global market trends. You are aware of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and their impact on crude oil prices. These are external factors that directly influence refined product pricing,” the official, who spoke in confidence due to the lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, stated.

He also said, “Petrol has been reviewed upward by N75 to N1,275 per litre, which is about a five per cent increase, while diesel has increased more significantly by N200 to N1,950 per litre. These changes reflect the realities of the international market.”

By Wednesday morning, the same official confirmed that the refinery had reversed the earlier increase. He said the latest decision followed a sharp drop in crude oil prices after former United States President Donald Trump announced a conditional two-week ceasefire arrangement with Iran. The development reduced concerns about possible supply disruptions in the Middle East.

Data showed that Brent crude fell by 13.28 per cent to $94.76 per barrel on Wednesday. US West Texas Intermediate also declined by 14.72 per cent to $96.31 per barrel.

The drop in prices followed signs of easing tensions after Trump said the United States would suspend planned military action against Iran for two weeks. The move depends on restoring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Yes, the price has been reversed. This follows the current price of crude oil,” the official added during a telephone interview.

The refinery also issued a statement to address speculation about further price increases. It clarified that no additional hike had been introduced and that prices were instead adjusted downward.

“A source at the company confirmed that its pricing structure remains intact, with the gantry price at N1,200 per litre and the coastal price at N1,153 per litre.

“We are maintaining our existing price and have not implemented any new pricing for our customers,” the statement read.

The company added that it remains focused on ensuring consistent fuel supply within Nigeria and across the region.

The development comes at a time when Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector faces continued uncertainty due to fluctuations in global oil prices, exchange rates, and supply chain challenges.

Since it began operations in September 2024, the Dangote refinery has played a major role in shaping fuel supply and pricing in the country. Its latest move highlights the growing link between domestic fuel prices and global market trends following the deregulation of the sector.