Posted on Leave a comment

Kaduna NUT Opposes JAMB Exemption for College of Education Aspirants

Kaduna NUT Opposes JAMB Exemption for College of Education Aspirants

The Kaduna State branch of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has voiced its disapproval of the Federal Ministry of Education’s policy that waives the requirement for candidates applying to the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) program to take the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. This stance aligns with the union’s national executive council’s earlier position, which labeled the decision as detrimental to national progress.

In a joint statement released by Ibrahim Dalhatu (chairman) and Adamu Ayuba Kaltungo (secretary), the union argued that exempting prospective NCE students from the JAMB test would harm the quality of teacher education and, in turn, lower the overall standard of education in Nigeria. The statement emphasized that teaching is a highly intellectual and strategic profession, necessitating rigorous and competitive teacher training processes.

According to the union, such an exemption would reinforce the notion that teaching is meant for academically inferior individuals or anyone interested, further eroding the already low esteem of the profession. This approach, they noted, contradicts international best practices where top-performing education systems recruit teachers from the most talented students.

The union also warned that the policy would undermine ongoing reforms by the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) aimed at elevating teaching to a respected profession. Instead of removing JAMB requirements, the Federal Government should focus on improving teacher welfare and salaries to attract high-caliber candidates. They recommended scholarships, bursaries, and other incentives for education students, as well as special admission benefits that do not compromise standards.

Finally, the NUT called for the full implementation of a law signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in April 2022, which they believe can address the issues the government hopes to solve by exempting College of Education candidates from JAMB.

Posted on Leave a comment

Oyo Teacher’s Beheading: A National Conscience Executed – Ejiofor

Oyo Teacher's Beheading: A National Conscience Executed – Ejiofor

The gruesome beheading of a schoolteacher in Oyo State is more than a murder—it is a public execution of the nation’s conscience, according to human rights lawyer and IPOB lead counsel, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor.

Ejiofor asserts that the killing of Mr. Michael Oyedokun, a math teacher at Community High School in Esiele, Oriire LGA, is not an isolated tragedy but a profound indictment of Nigeria’s failing security, eroded humanity, and dysfunctional governance.

He argues that Nigeria failed Mr. Oyedokun, warning that a country that neglects its teachers is digging its own grave. The incident, he says, symbolizes how insecurity, government inaction, and institutional decay have shattered the nation’s moral foundation.

“What is even more disturbing is the chilling prospect that, in the future, some of these terrorists may be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society, while the memory of the innocent teacher they slaughtered fades into forgotten news archives,” Ejiofor stated.

He highlighted that Oyedokun’s only crime was being present at school, at the right time, fulfilling his duty to teach and mentor children. This act of service cost him his life.

“Can there be a greater tragedy than schools becoming slaughterhouses, classrooms turning into terror theaters, and educators being treated as bargaining chips by murderous extremists?” Ejiofor asked.

He reminded that every judge, lawyer, doctor, professor, engineer, governor, and president once sat before a teacher. Yet, paradoxically, those who build society are met with contempt, poor pay, and institutional abandonment.

Ejiofor extended deep sympathy to teachers nationwide, Oyedokun’s family, traumatized students, and all affected by this barbaric act. He called on the federal and Oyo state governments, security agencies, and law enforcement to act swiftly and decisively to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators without delay.

He insisted that everyone involved in the conspiracy, regardless of status or political protection, must be identified and brought to justice.

Posted on Leave a comment

Kaduna Community Cries for Help as Bandits Demand N1bn, 35 Bikes for 37 Church Kidnap Victims

Kaduna Community Cries for Help as Bandits Demand N1bn, 35 Bikes for 37 Church Kidnap Victims

The Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State is appealing to both the federal and state authorities for urgent action to free 37 worshipers who were kidnapped during Easter Sunday church attacks. The abductors have set a ransom of one billion naira and 35 motorcycles for the release of the captives.

Dr. Joseph David Ariko, President of the Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA), disclosed to DAILY POST that the community cannot raise such a huge sum. The kidnappers, he said, call almost every two days insisting on the full payment without negotiation. The victims were taken from St. Augustine Catholic Church, ECWA, and Baptist churches, and have now been held for about 45 days, causing immense fear and uncertainty among families and residents.

During the Easter Sunday attacks, armed bandits stormed three churches, killing five worshipers before abducting 37 others. The prolonged captivity has disrupted social and economic life in Ariko, with many residents living in constant dread. Affected families are struggling emotionally and financially.

Dr. Ariko stressed that the community looks solely to the government for rescue, as they lack the means to meet the ransom demand. He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and restore confidence among residents. Community leaders also called on well-meaning Nigerians, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders to support the community in this trying time.

Posted on Leave a comment

Army Major Dies in Fatal Crash on Kaduna-Zaria Highway

Army Major Dies in Fatal Crash on Kaduna-Zaria Highway

A tragic road accident on the Kaduna-Zaria Expressway has claimed the life of Major S. Sayyadi, a senior officer attached to the Headquarters Infantry Corps Command (ICC). The incident occurred near the Julius Berger gate, close to Jaji Military Cantonment.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama, citing military sources, reported the accident on Saturday. The crash took place on Thursday when the officer’s vehicle collided with a Sino truck that had slowed to enter a railway construction site operated by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in the New Barracks area, Jaji.

Emergency responders from the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) and the Infantry Corps Command promptly arrived at the scene. The officer sustained severe head injuries and was pronounced dead at the spot.

His remains were transported to a medical facility and later moved via military ambulance to Katsina State for burial. He was interred according to Islamic rites.

Military authorities have extended condolences to the family, describing the loss as a significant blow to the armed forces.

Posted on Leave a comment

Fayemi Mourns Passing of Monarch Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi

Fayemi Mourns Passing of Monarch Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, has expressed profound grief over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti. In his condolence message, Fayemi extended heartfelt sympathies to the Ekiti State Government, the Ilawe royal family, the immediate family of the late ruler, and the entire Ilawe-Ekiti community.

Fayemi described the monarch’s demise as a huge loss to Ekiti State and the entire country. He recalled that during the reign of the late Alawe, Ilawe-Ekiti witnessed significant development and unity among its people. The former governor noted that the late monarch’s commitment to culture preservation and his relentless work for the growth of his domain and Ekiti State will be remembered for generations.

Fayemi highlighted that Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi was an accomplished diplomat who served the nation for over 25 years, attaining the rank of Deputy Director in several foreign missions. He described him as a diligent, upright, and dedicated public servant. The former governor also pointed out that the late monarch chaired the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers from 2019 to 2021 during Fayemi’s administration, where he showed exceptional leadership by focusing on the welfare of the council, fostering harmony among chiefs, and remaining committed to the state’s advancement.

Fayemi stated that the 14-year rule of the monarch will be remembered for his great contributions to community development, investments in the well-being of his subjects, and a legacy of service, integrity, and piety. He added that the passing of the king is a personal loss to him and his family, urging the royal family, the people of Ilawe-Ekiti, and all associates of the departed ruler to find comfort in the remarkable legacy he left. The ex-governor prayed for the peaceful rest of the monarch’s soul and for God to grant the family strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Posted on Leave a comment

Kwara North Monarchs Applaud Tinubu and Abdulrazaq for 2027 Governorship Nod

Kwara North Monarchs Applaud Tinubu and Abdulrazaq for 2027 Governorship Nod

The traditional rulers from Kwara North Senatorial District have extended their heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) hierarchy for endorsing the region’s ambition to produce the state’s next governor in 2027. Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, the Etsu Patigi and Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council of Chiefs, delivered the gratitude on behalf of his peers.

He characterized the decision as a historic breakthrough, emphasizing that it reflects fairness, inclusiveness, and a sincere dedication to ensuring political equilibrium across the state. The Etsu Patigi stated, “Supporting Kwara North’s aspiration shows that our leaders are genuinely committed to justice, unity, and maintaining tranquility throughout all parts of Kwara. This move has revitalized the hopes of our people, enhanced political harmony, and strengthened trust in the APC at both state and national levels.”

The monarch went on to commend Governor AbdulRazaq for his statesmanlike approach and unwavering commitment to equity, noting that his administration has consistently fostered unity, peace, and progress in Kwara. He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the APC leadership for heeding the long-standing demand from Kwara North residents. According to him, finally addressing the call for power rotation to the district will be remembered as a significant milestone in the state’s political history.

In their collective message, the traditional rulers pledged to continue supporting peace, unity, and democratic principles. They concluded by offering prayers for wisdom, good health, and divine guidance for President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, and all APC leaders.

Posted on Leave a comment

Troops Free Hostages, Nab Aides as Insurgents Give Up in Northeast

Troops Free Hostages, Nab Aides as Insurgents Give Up in Northeast

The Nigerian military has achieved notable victories in its ongoing campaign against insurgency in the Northeast. According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), troops have rescued kidnapped individuals, detained terrorist accomplices, confiscated weapons, and seen an increasing number of insurgent relatives turning themselves in.

During a patrol along the Ngoshe–Amuda axis in Gwoza Local Government Area, soldiers intercepted and freed four abductees: Salamatu Sidiq Ali (19), Halima Idrisa (20), Umar Abdullahi (3), and Mustapha Abdullahi (4). These individuals had been seized during a terrorist assault on Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026. Investigations suggest that the hostages were held in a terrorist camp but were liberated as military pressure escalated on hideouts in the Mandara Mountains. After medical checks, the freed victims were returned to their families via community leaders. To date, 65 abducted persons have been rescued, with efforts ongoing to free more.

In another development, troops at a checkpoint in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area, arrested a suspected terrorist supporter, Mrs. Kellu Alhaji Abba (50). She was found with clothing and other supplies believed destined for a terrorist operative in the Dumba area. Similarly, along the Dalori axis, soldiers detained Mr. Amadu Abdu (50), a suspected logistics supplier transporting a large quantity of packaged goods allegedly for insurgents. Further inquiry revealed he provided supplies to terrorists in return for grazing rights. Seized items included packaged goods, a mobile phone, a cutlass, suspected illicit drugs, and cash.

Additionally, troops cooperating with local hunters apprehended four individuals suspected of cattle rustling and collaborating with terrorists at Kwaya Kusar Market. The suspects were caught with stolen livestock and are now being interrogated.

The military also reported the surrender of family members linked to Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. Among them are Aishatu Sale (20), who gave herself up in Bama Local Government Area, and Hauwa Abubakar (70), who escaped from a terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains. Both stated that relentless military operations and a lack of basic necessities in terrorist camps drove their decision to flee. They have been processed and are undergoing standard procedures.

In related actions, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle and a loaded magazine along a known terrorist escape route, further weakening insurgent capabilities.

Posted on Leave a comment

Yobe Man Wrongly Held by DSS Freed, Given N2m Aid

Yobe Man Wrongly Held by DSS Freed, Given N2m Aid

The Department of State Services (DSS) has set free a young man from Gashua in Yobe State’s Bade Local Government Area, identified as Ya’u Mohammed, after determining his detention was baseless. Additionally, the agency provided him with a sum of two million naira to assist with his return to normal life.

This was revealed by Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), who serves as the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor. He made the disclosure during a formal handover ceremony at the DSS Yobe State Command Headquarters in Damaturu, where the service officially released Mohammed into his custody before he was reunited with his relatives.

Abdulsalam stated that his visit to the command was aimed at understanding the reasons behind Mohammed’s arrest and subsequent discharge. According to him, after a thorough review and investigation, the DSS concluded that Mohammed had no connection to the crime for which he had been held.

The security adviser described this action as unprecedented in his many years of public service. He remarked that he had never encountered a situation where a cleared suspect not only walks free but also receives financial assistance. He noted that this move reflects a clear commitment by the Director General of DSS to uphold justice, compassion, and societal reintegration.

Abdulsalam also called on other security bodies to consistently respect the rule of law and fundamental human rights, emphasizing that doing so would enhance public trust and cooperation.

Upon his release, Mohammed thanked God and described his experience as a matter of destiny and faith. He expressed gratitude for the support, which he said would help him reintegrate into society.

Posted on Leave a comment

Abuja Power Outage: Presidential Villa and Airport Affected

Abuja Power Outage: Presidential Villa and Airport Affected

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has reported a widespread power failure affecting critical locations in Nigeria’s capital, including the Presidential Villa and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

According to a Saturday statement from AEDC, the disruption stems from a technical glitch. The affected zones span key government and diplomatic establishments, such as the Supreme Court, State House, and numerous embassies like those of Turkey, Sudan, and Egypt. Residential and commercial areas like Lugbe, Asokoro, Garki, and Central Area are also without electricity.

The utility firm listed additional impacted sites: Bolingo Hotel, National Hospital, several government lodges, embassy complexes, and streets like Yakubu Gowon, Lagos, and Kaltungo. Locations including the National Assembly Annex, Aso Drive, military barracks, and the Airport Road corridor—including Dunamis Church and Shoprite—are also affected.

AEDC assured the public that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is actively working to rectify the fault and restore power. “We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience,” the company stated in the notice.

Posted on Leave a comment

Lagos Waterways Authority Confiscates 120 Substandard Life Jackets in Safety Sweep

Lagos Waterways Authority Confiscates 120 Substandard Life Jackets in Safety Sweep

The Lagos State Waterways Authority has intensified its crackdown on safety violations across the state’s ferry terminals. During a compliance operation carried out on Friday, officials confiscated 120 life jackets that were found to be defective.

The inspection covered multiple terminals and jetties including Ipakodo, Bayeku, Ijede, Ebute-Ero, Liverpool, Sabokoji, Alex, and Coconut. The primary focus was on assessing the seaworthiness of boats and ensuring that all life jackets met safety standards.

LASWA reported that the damaged life jackets were promptly removed from circulation to eliminate any potential danger to passengers and other waterway users.

While many operators were found to be compliant, some vessels required repairs and upgrades before they could be considered safe for operation. The authority emphasized that adherence to safety regulations, especially concerning vessel conditions and the use of approved life jackets, is mandatory for all operators.

LASWA warned that enforcement actions would continue across all ferry terminals and jetties in the state to guarantee full compliance with waterway regulations. The agency reminded operators of their legal obligation to maintain safe vessels and provide passengers with functional and certified life jackets at all times.

The authority reiterated its dedication to fostering a safer, more reliable, and well-regulated water transportation system throughout Lagos State.