Northern Nigeria

By Kabiru Danladi Lawanti, PhD 

There is something about us, Arewa people. Whenever power shifts to the South, we start lamentations, accusing the leader, who is from the South, of nepotism or initiating policies that are deliberately aimed at destroying our region. 

We embrace this idea and write about it repeatedly. From 1999 to 2007, from 2010 to 2015, and now from 2023 to the present, we consistently reference our voting power in our writings. 

Recently, I read an article comparing our voting power and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with other regions of the country. How long can we continue these lamentations? When will we stop lamenting and start acting?

We need to shift the conversation from an overemphasis on population-driven electoral power to a more strategic focus on economic productivity and revenue generation. The viability and strength of Arewa are not solely determined by the sheer size of our population, but by how effectively that population is harnessed for economic growth, innovation, and wealth creation.

Arewa’s fixation on securing political dominance through demographic advantage has frequently overshadowed the more critical question we need to be asking ourselves. 

How do we convert our vast human and natural resources into sustainable development outcomes?

While concerns about the inequities of political appointments and perceived nepotism under the current Tinubu administration are valid, ongoing lamentation over political spoils can be counterproductive if not paired with proactive strategies for economic transformation.

What has happened to Arewa after all these years of political power? What becomes of the “K” states after each election season? What has happened to Jigawa or Bauchi? Is it enough to have just a Badaru or Tuggar as compensation for the over 5 million we gave the President?

What is required is a change in strategy: a deliberate and coordinated effort to leverage our expansive landmass and youthful population to drive industrialization, technological innovation, and inclusive economic growth. Our governors need to be wiser. Have you ever checked the total amount of FAAC allocations coming to our states and local governments? What are we doing with this money?

In this regard, lessons abound from the developmental trajectories of nations such as China and India, both of which have shown how demographic advantages can be transformed into competitive edges through disciplined policies, strategic investments in education and infrastructure, and a clear vision for economic self-reliance.

The path to power lies not just in numbers – voting power – but in what those numbers yield after elections.

I have learnt my lessons. What we need is not political power at the centre but what we do with that power and what our Governors are doing with the huge resources coming to them from Abuja. 

The agitation for removing Tinubu in 2027 can be compared to the agitations of removing the military in 1999 or Jonathan in 2015. They are driven by elite interests, not necessarily by situations we find ourselves in, Arewa.

By Sa’id Sa’ad

“Silence is really golden. For many years, I have respected you as a great actress, but after listening to you speak for once, I lost all respect for you. Silence is, indeed, golden.” 

These were the exact words shared by a fan after watching one of the popular Kannywood actresses’ podcasts.

Recently, a podcast went viral in which four Kannywood actresses sat, warming their chairs, sharing opinions about relationships. While many criticise the podcast, I find myself wondering just how ‘golden silence really is.’

From Talk with Feezy by northern Nigerian artist Feezy to the highly criticised The Social Spotlight by Kannywood actress Nafisa Abdullahi, podcasts are slowly becoming the North’s new thing. Famous faces with thousands of followers are tapping into this audio-visual world and, irrespective of the content, are reaching a wide audience thanks to their massive followings.

Podcasting is the new cool in the North. Content creators, entertainers, film producers, actors, actresses and wannabe influencers are all jumping on this new wave. Everyone’s got something to say. But the unifying factor is they are all saying it in Hausa. This not only makes it content by creators from northern Nigeria but also for northern Nigeria and the broader Hausa-speaking population.

Now, let’s not be mistaken. Podcasting isn’t exactly new. Like most things, it just arrived in the North late. Young audiences are now tuning in, eager to consume original opinions from faces they admire beneath the thousands of Instagram followers. 

But here comes the twist. While popular faces trend with podcasts that often miss the mark, there’s a whole storm of lesser-known creators. Just as hungry. Just as passionate. Diving into podcasting, hoping to go viral. Few get it right. Many get it wrong, and most are just aiming to create controversy. 

It’s great that young creators are speaking up. It’s refreshing to see new northern voices adding their two cents to conversations about relationships, religion, family, entertainment, and society. But even at that, when done poorly, this new podcast culture is more dangerous than beneficial. 

I’m an avid fan of vodcasts, particularly those produced by Nigerians. I also strongly support consuming content from Northern Nigeria. However, just because it’s from the North doesn’t mean our standards should be low. We owe it to ourselves to demand quality.

Upon close observation, it’s clear that many of these podcasts bring ‘more face’ and ‘less value.’ In the first few minutes of an episode, you can already tell the host isn’t fully prepared. They ramble. They say empty phrases. And you’re left wondering: What am I supposed to take away from this? These podcasts often fail to provide value, and let me remind you, that’s the very foundation of podcasting: Value.

It’s a strange thing. Really. The lights are bright, the makeup is on point, and the guests are ready. The studio setup is perfect. Yet, after all that effort, the conversation feels empty. It leaves you craving more, but in a bad way.

This reflects the current trend in both public and private Hausa-speaking media, where a designated show for Kannywood stars is often featured. These shows rarely extend beyond inviting the stars for views and likes, failing to address the critical questions of why these shows exist in the first place.

But this isn’t just happening among famous creators. A new wave of young creators has emerged; unfortunately, many of them, without doing their homework, are merely copying the same format used by the stars, eager to replicate the same model: 

Create podcast → Talk carelessly → Create controversy → Get views and likes.

While this model keeps some people in the limelight, it doesn’t do the North any favours. It’s as if we’re holding a mirror to the region’s weaknesses and saying, ‘Here, look at us, this is what we’ve got.’ It’s reinforcing the negative stereotype that we can’t produce quality. 

Whether we like it or not, the digital presence of these creators who act as our representatives shapes how the world perceives us.

But let’s not ignore the few non-popular creators producing quality content in Hausa for the region. Many of these are tech-driven podcasts that, although still growing, offer substantial value. Unfortunately, these high-quality contributions are often overshadowed by the more glamorous but shallow content produced by popular stars or emergent ones desperate to trend. 

The question we must ask ourselves is: Which popular Hausa-speaking podcast from northern Nigeria truly offers real value to its audience? How much of the value is visible? Is the content truly for the audience or just for the producers? What narratives are being sold, and can we, in terms of quality, truly compete with podcasts from other regions in the country?

Until we get it right and have the right people behind the mics, with the right knowledge and intentions, these creators will continue to podcast about northern Nigeria’s weaknesses for likes. The unfortunate truth is that this will only serve to bury our efforts to challenge negative stereotypes six feet under. 

Ultimately, every creator has the right to produce what they want. In this case, the power is in the hands of the audience. 

You and I decide what should be popular.

Sa’id Sa’ad is a Nigerian writer and journalist currently residing in Germany. He is the author of the podcast-play “Gangare”. He won the Peace Panel Short Story Prize in 2018 and the NFC Essay Prize that same year. He presently works with the German broadcaster Deutsche Welle. 

By Senator Shehu Sani

We live in a society where men of conscience and honour are better understood and appreciated when they are long gone or lost. Dr Idris Abdul-Aziz Dutsen Tanshi was a restless soul who spoke the inconvenient truth and walked alone in his paths and trenches. He cast the light of knowledge on the grey and dark spaces of our political and spiritual clime.

Dr Idris was a courageous man who lived an accomplished life of service to the human spirit. His voice was discomforting to the powers and the establishment. He audaciously spared no one in his sermons for equity and justice.

He was a one-man battalion and an exceptional commander of the faithful. His words were as sharp as a blade, piercing like a spear. He challenged a society complacent with injustice, keeping the leaders alert and his fellow Imams on their toes.

He was a man whose spirit was strengthened by his incarceration. He remained unbowed in the face of persecution. He could thank those who came to identify with him during his moments of trial, but he warned them against pleading for his freedom. He raised the torch and became the compass for objection and resistance. He was a non-conformist in the pursuit of the truth enshrined in his faith.

He was a dogged and distinguished spiritual combatant who used the powers of religious knowledge to question and challenge authority. He fought chains of battles within and without the realm of his mission and never surrendered. In life,he was largely misunderstood, and in death, he is well appreciated.

Dr Idris bowed out with dignity and grace. The nation has lost an irrepressible soul and indomitable spirit.

May his soul rest in Aljanna Firdausi, amin.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Traditionally, in northern Nigeria, Ulamas have been expected to remain reserved, focusing solely on Da’awa while relying on handouts, Sadaqa, Zakat, and gifts for sustenance. However, this should not be the case.

Islam teaches that success comes through effort and striving while trusting Allah. A believer should work hard, avoid laziness, and seek lawful earnings, as this is part of being a responsible Muslim and an exemplary scholar. The Qur’an and Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (SWA) emphasise the importance of self-reliance, hard work, and lawful livelihood. Islam teaches hard work and self-reliance.

The Qur’an: Surah Al-Jumu’ah (62:10) says, “Then when the prayer has ended, disperse in the land and seek the bounty of Allah, and remember Allah often so you may succeed.” — This verse encourages people to work hard after fulfilling their religious duties.

Quran: Surah An-Najm (53:39) also says, “And that man will have nothing except what he strives for.” — This verse highlights that people will only benefit from their own efforts.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “No one has ever eaten a better meal than that which he has earned with his own hands. The Prophet of Allah, Dawud (David), used to eat from what he earned with his own hands.” (Bukhari, 2072) — This Hadith encourages individuals to earn through their own efforts rather than relying on others.

The prophet (SAW) also said:

“The upper hand (the one that gives) is better than the lower hand (the one that receives).” (Bukhari & Muslim)— This Hadith discourages dependence and promotes financial independence and generosity.

Recently, there has been a debate about some Nigerian Ulamas, their associates, or companies receiving government contracts. However, this is neither a crime nor contrary to Nigerian law or Islamic teachings. Ulamas are human like everyone else and can make mistakes, but their participation in business benefits society, themselves, and Islam. It provides them with financial independence and the ability to speak the truth, no matter how difficult it may be.

The involvement of Ulamas in business is neither a new phenomenon in Nigeria nor globally. The late Sheikh Mahmud Gumi consistently encouraged his students and Ulamas to avoid relying on others and instead pursue careers in business or the public sector. 

A shining example is the late Khalifa Isyaku Rabi’u, a billionaire businessman and renowned Islamic scholar. He established Isyaku Rabi’u & Sons in 1952, initially trading in sewing machines, bicycles, and religious books before becoming a major distributor for Kaduna Textiles in 1958. By the 1970s, his company had diversified into real estate, manufacturing, insurance, and banking. His children, including Abdulsamad Rabi’u, Chairman of BUA Group, and Rabi’u Rabi’u, owner of IRS Airlines, continued his entrepreneurial legacy.

Similarly, the late Muhammad Auwal Adam, also known as Albani Zaria, was not only a respected scholar but also a businessman and IT expert. He established the Albani Science Academy and Safwa Technologies Limited. Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim, an Islamic scholar, is also a businessman, international consultant, and technocrat who served as the Director General of NITDA and Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi is a globally recognised scholar, businessman, and entrepreneur .

A younger example is Abu Jabir Abdallah (Pen Abdul), a successful architect, entrepreneur, and Islamic preacher. He is also the CEO of SPW Limited and the Principal Partner at Diamond4 Architect. Dr. Idris Dutsen Tanshi in Bauchi State is a scholar, farmer, and entrepreneur. Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir,National Chairman of the Council of Ulama Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa’Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) National Headquarters in Jos, is also a scholar , farmer, and entrepreneur. 

Before and after assuming the role of Imam at the Doubeli  Juma’at mosque in Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa State, many remember Sheikh Bala Lau as a dedicated farmer, entrepreneur, and businessman. His security company, AL-AHLI SECURITY GUARDS LIMITED, has been operational for over 20 years. Today, he engages in large-scale mechanized farming, international trade, as well as scholarship and Dawa’a, serving as the leader of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Nigeria and Africa.

Islamic scholars around the world have historically balanced religious scholarship with business, demonstrating that economic success and religious devotion can coexist.

Dr Zakir Naik of India – An Islamic scholar and entrepreneur, he founded the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) and owns media networks like Peace TV.

Caliph Uthman Ibn Affan (RA) – The third Caliph of Islam and one of the wealthiest companions of the Prophet (SAW). A major trader, he was known for his generosity and famously purchased a well in Madinah, making it free for public use.

Abdur-Rahman Ibn Awf (RA), one of the ten companions promised Paradise, a leading businessman in Makkah and Madinah, and a generous philanthropist who funded many Islamic causes.

Imam Abu Hanifa (Rahimahullah), the founder of the Hanafi school of thought and a wealthy textile merchant, was known for his honesty and fairness in trade.

Sheikh Muhammad Ibn Uthaymeen (Rahimahullah) – A renowned 20th-century scholar from Saudi Arabia who invested in businesses and financially supported Islamic education.

Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan is a contemporary Saudi scholar who has investments in various sectors while continuing his role as an Islamic scholar.

Islam has a strong tradition of combining scholarship, knowledge, and business. While Ulamas should avoid unlawful practices and corruption, they should actively participate in business—both in private ventures and government contracts. This will grant them financial independence and the freedom to speak the truth without fear.

By engaging in lawful business, Ulamas set an example for the Muslim community, demonstrating that economic empowerment and religious integrity are not mutually exclusive.

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

By Dahiru Kasimu

Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto will hold its 2024/2025 matriculation ceremony on 9 April 2025.

This was contained in a press release signed by the University’s Director of the Information and Public Relations Unit,Ismail Muhammad  Yauri, and issued to the journalists.

He stated that the event, which will take place at the Convention Square Arena on the main campus, is meant for newly admitted UG I and UG II (Direct Entry) students and postgraduate students who are not alumni of the university.

During the matriculation ceremony, Prof. Bashir Garba, the Vice Chancellor of the University, along with the Dean of Student Affairs, scholars, and the Students’ Union, is expected to attend and address students.

Newly admitted students will undergo an orientation program, and eminent academicians will address them on theinformation they need to know about the university, the rules and regulations, in addition to the mode of operations.

The orientation program could also help the students understand how to accomplish their academic pursuits.

Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, known as the most peaceful university in Sub-Saharan Africa, is one of the second-generation universities established in 1975. It offers eighty-two academic programs across 18 schools, colleges,and faculties located at the permanent site and the University Teaching Hospital.

By Haroon Aremu

No doubt, this outgoing month (March 2025) has witnessed a troubling escalation of banditry, kidnappings, and overall insecurity across Nigeria. Despite relentless efforts by security agencies, the wave of violence continues to rise, posing a severe threat to national stability. 

The series of abductions and deadly attacks in Zamfara, Niger, Imo, and Katsina states underscore the urgent need for more aggressive and strategic security measures. This trend is particularly concerning as the country enters a festive period, historically marked by heightened criminal activity.

While the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), has made progress in intelligence gathering and security coordination, a more technology-driven approach is necessary. 

In the same vein, ONSA’s strategic partnerships with the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC), and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in tracking illicit financial flows and curbing arms smuggling are commendable. However, dismantling criminal networks before they strike requires a more proactive and intelligence-led response.

On the other hand, the DSS has played a crucial role in safeguarding internal security throughout March, tackling numerous threats and reinforcing its commitment to national safety. However, its reputation has come under scrutiny following multiple reports of officer misconduct and press intimidation. 

For instance, a widely circulated incident in Abia State showed a DSS officer physically assaulting a police officer, raising concerns about discipline and inter-agency cooperation. Such conflicts highlight the need for structured conflict resolution mechanisms within security forces.

Another pressing issue is the DSS’s handling of journalists. While national security remains paramount, officers must operate within the boundaries of press freedom. The harassment of journalists in Abuja during the Nnamdi Kanu court proceedings and the controversial detention of a reporter in Jos have sparked concerns about press repression. In a democracy, the public’s right to access information must be upheld, and security agencies must balance national security interests with the protection of journalistic freedoms.

Despite these concerns, the DSS has taken commendable steps to defend its integrity. Major newspapers, including Punch, Blueprint, The Guardian, and Tribune, recently issued public apologies for misreporting the Lagos State Assembly invasion, reinforcing the agency’s stance against misinformation. 

However, while protecting its credibility, the DSS must ensure that its officers uphold professionalism in their interactions with the media, fostering a balanced relationship between security and press freedom.

Subsequently, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) intensified its anti-corruption campaign throughout March, securing multiple arrests, arraignments, and asset forfeitures. The agency has cracked down on major financial crimes, exposing fraudulent schemes and recovering stolen funds. 

However, its operations have also faced criticism for alleged human rights violations. A recent raid in Lagos, which left schoolchildren stranded after EFCC operatives stormed their neighborhood, sparked national outrage. While enforcing anti-corruption laws is crucial, operations must be conducted in a way that does not unduly disrupt the lives of innocent citizens.

A growing concern is the infiltration of foreign fraud syndicates, particularly those involving Chinese and Filipino nationals, who have been implicated in elaborate financial crimes within Nigeria. The EFCC must intensify its collaboration with international anti-fraud agencies to dismantle these networks and prevent Nigeria from becoming a safe haven for global financial criminals, a concern previously raised by the EFCC chairman.

One of the most notable developments in March was the government’s decision to use recovered looted funds to finance the student loan scheme. While widely applauded, stringent accountability measures must be implemented to prevent mismanagement. As this policy offers much-needed relief to students facing financial burdens, transparency must be prioritized to avoid repeating past mistakes.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has also been active in the fight against corruption, securing key arrests and launching several investigations into public sector fraud. Its recent probe into fraudulent procurement contracts worth billions of naira reinforces its commitment to exposing corruption at the highest levels. However, to maximize impact, the ICPC and EFCC must strengthen their partnership, ensuring a more coordinated and formidable approach to tackling corruption.

Another alarming revelation in March involved the mismanagement of public funds within government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). Investigations exposed how billions meant for public projects were misappropriated, depriving citizens of critical services. While the ICPC’s swift intervention in these cases is commendable, Nigerians demand more than just arrests—they want convictions and asset recoveries that send a strong message to corrupt officials.

Notwithstanding, March 2025 has been a defining month for Nigeria’s intelligence and anti-graft agencies. As the nation moves into April, Nigerians expect these agencies to reinforce their commitments, refine their strategies, and uphold the principles of justice, transparency, and accountability. The battle against insecurity and corruption is far from over, but it must be fought with precision, fairness, and an unwavering dedication to national progress.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is an author and a fellow of PRNigeria. He wrote via exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state following the brutal killing of travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the government disclosed that the tragic incident occurred on March 27, 2025. As part of the swift response, the state has also suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.).

Preliminary investigations revealed that the vigilante group responsible for the killings was operating illegally, as it had neither been profiled nor registered under the Edo State Security Corps. The government emphasized that their actions do not reflect the values or objectives of the state’s security framework.

Authorities have so far arrested fourteen suspects in connection with the attack, while a special police team, set up by the Inspector General of Police, is conducting a manhunt for others involved.

Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens to move freely and engage in lawful business across the state. The Edo State Government is in contact with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, as most of the deceased reportedly hailed from there.

“We urge all parties to remain calm as we ensure justice is served in a transparent and proactive manner,” the statement added.

This tragic event has sent shockwaves across the country, with calls for stricter regulation of local security groups. Meanwhile, security operatives continue investigations into the incident to bring all perpetrators to justice.

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ungogo Branch, has strongly condemned the killing of 16 northern travelers in Edo State, describing the act as a gross violation of human rights.  

In a statement issued on Monday, the chairman of the branch, Ahmad A. Gwadabe, expressed deep concern over the tragic incident, calling it “gruesome and unacceptable.”  

“We are appalled and deeply disturbed by the murder of innocent travelers who were simply passing through the state. This act goes against the principles of humanity and decency,” Gwadabe stated.  

He called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to swiftly investigate the matter and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. 

“We demand immediate and decisive action to hold those responsible accountable,” he added.  

The association also urged the government to provide compensation to the families of the victims and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.  

“As lawyers, we are committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting justice for all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or place of origin,” Gwadabe emphasized.  

The statement concluded with a call for calm, urging the affected families to remain law-abiding while seeking justice.

By Abubakar Idris Misau

According to a study published 10 years ago in the journal Nature (Ehrenberg, 2015), our planet is home to a staggering 3.04 trillion trees. Now, try searching for the article titled “Global forest survey finds trillions of trees”; come back with a different result and refer to me as “Mr. Sociologist” – as Reno Omokri would say it, please. 

When writing in the realm of science and research, one cannot simply state things. Often, figures are necessary, and it is not enough to just present them; one must also explain where and how they were obtained, detailing their validity. This is the academic way. This is the scientific way. This is not the sociologist’s way. And definitely not the way of “political science.“ 

With “political science” in quotes, let me share a short story: While at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), there was a legend involving the renowned mathematics guru, Professor M.Y. Balla. They said he remarked, “While mathematics is the simplest thing to understand, the most difficult concept ever conceived is the one that led to the naming of a department or discipline as political science.” It’s quite a legend!

Deduce, meanwhile, that science is proof, not talk. Scientific research writing can tire a person before they reach the end of the first sentence – only for one to finish the terrible journey and have people saying, “wetin this one talk nii?”

In other words, a scientific work is like a qualified doctor’s handwritten prescription: terrible and difficult to read, yet easy to understand by the right audience, such as a pharmacist, when it comes to a medical doctor’s handwritten advice.

Hence, with this message targeting the general public, it remains so – as it is. The scientific way isn’t for us.

Let’s get to work:

As we navigate the complexities of our planet’s ecosystem, one ironic truth holds: the most formidable soldiers of our planet are not those wielding guns or bombs, but rather the ones with leaves, roots, and trunks. Trees, the often-overlooked sentinels of our environment, are the true warriors of planet Earth.

Contrary to what some of us mistakenly believe, these arboreal giants are not merely passive observers; they are actively engaged in a continuous struggle to protect our planet’s fragile balance. 

From producing oxygen to filtering pollutants and supporting biodiversity, trees are the frontline defenders against the ravages of climate change. 

But if we think that’s all they do, then we cannot be more wrong. In truth, as this little note shows, trees are more than just ecological warriors; they are also master strategists. 

In an academic context and hopefully for the last time, a study entitled “Net Transfer of Carbon Between Trees by Ectomycorrhizal Fungi in the Field” demonstrates that trees have evolved complex communication networks, utilizing fungal hyphae to share nutrients and warn of potential threats (Simard, 1997). 

This symbiotic relationship eerily resembles the tactics used by human militaries, where intelligence sharing and coordination are essential to success. Technical? Sorry about that. That’s the best I can do! Keep the tempo up.

The point is that trees have developed an impressive array of defense mechanisms to counter the numerous threats they face. From the chemical defenses used by the majestic baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) to the physical barriers created by the resilient redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), trees have evolved a remarkable range of strategies to ensure their survival.

And here comes the shocking open secret: despite their critical role in maintaining planetary balance, trees are facing unprecedented threats. Anthropogenic activities are taking a devastating toll on global tree populations, including industrialization, farming, housing, and shambolic acts. 

The game of numbers: We cut down 41 million trees each day! That amounts to 15 billion trees annually. This means we have only 200 years to eliminate the remaining 3.04 trillion standing soldiers. 

Mind you, it isn’t as if we are making any real effort to reverse the dangerous trend. Currently, we plant less than 2 billion trees a year (about 5 million each day).

To maintain our current situation – without increasing our numbers, which we desperately need to avoid – we must plant 36 million more trees daily, totaling 13 billion trees needed to close the gap between what we destroy and what we establish each year.

We are, therefore, through this trade-up, waging a war against our own planet, with trees as the immediate casualties.

However, we need to understand that trees are not just individual organisms; they are part of a larger web of life. They are some of the most important elements of this web. Soldiers. Custodians. Protectors of life itself. 

Therefore, we must acknowledge the vital role trees play in protecting our planet and take steps to preserve them.

The future of our planet relies on the ongoing vigilance of these unsung heroes – the arboreal army standing tall, steadfast, and tireless in their defense of our world.

Let’s stop the starvation and attacking our saviors, please!

The Good News: We are approximately 8 billion people. Planting two trees per person means planting 16 billion trees. This results in a surplus of about one billion trees compared to the 15 billion stands we destroy each year. The ball is in our court.

Happy International Day of Forests, 2025.

Abubakar Idris, a Forestry and Wildlife graduate from the University of Maiduguri, writes from Katsina. Contact: abubakaridrismisau@gmail.com. 

By Uzair Adam 

The Edo State Police Command has arrested over 30 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of 16 northern travelers and the burning of their truck in Udune Efandion.  

The Daily Reality reports that the attack occurred on Thursday along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.  

Confirming the arrests in a statement on Friday in Benin, the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, condemned the killings and assured that justice would be served.  

Yamu stated that the police were committed to ensuring justice for the victims and that no stone would be left unturned in the ongoing investigation.  

He revealed that a truck carrying 25 travelers from Elele, Rivers State, was intercepted by a vigilante group in Uromi. 

During the stop, some travelers were reportedly found in possession of locally made dane guns, raising suspicion among the vigilantes.  

“While this was ongoing, some vigilante members raised an alarm, claiming the travelers were suspected kidnappers. 

This led some community members and passers-by to attack and lynch 16 occupants. The truck conveying them was also set on fire,” Yamu said.  

Police operatives from the Uromi Division swiftly responded to the scene and managed to rescue ten of the travelers, two of whom sustained injuries. 

The injured victims were taken to a hospital and are currently responding to treatment.  

“In the course of investigations, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime. An emergency meeting was also convened with stakeholders and community members,” Yamu added.  

Meanwhile, a unit of the Police Mobile Force and other tactical teams have been deployed to the area to prevent further violence.  

The Commissioner of Police in Edo, Betty Otimenyin, urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement while cautioning against reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions.