Category: News

The Kano State Government has officially announced Tuesday as a work-free day for residents to celebrate the advent of the Islamic New Year, 1448 After Hijrah (AH).

This declaration was made known in a statement released on Monday by Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs. According to Waiya, the holiday was approved to enable the Muslim community and all citizens to participate in the observance of the lunar calendar’s first month, Muharram.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf extended his congratulations to Muslims in Kano and throughout Nigeria for witnessing another Islamic year. He emphasized the importance of using this occasion for introspection and spiritual growth.

In his message, the governor called on the public to engage in acts of prayer and supplication for the continued peace, unity, and economic advancement of both Kano State and the nation at large. He also urged residents to support the government’s initiatives aimed at enhancing infrastructure, social welfare, and overall quality of life.

The holiday aligns with similar observances in other northern states, reflecting the region’s commitment to honoring Islamic traditions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored his government’s dedication to bolstering Nigeria’s judiciary, insisting that the rule of law must be housed in infrastructure that befits its importance. Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division Building Complex in Dakibiyu, Tinubu outlined that modern facilities, enhanced welfare, and systemic reforms are essential to deepen democracy and broaden access to justice.

The newly commissioned complex, a centerpiece of the Renewed Hope Agenda, features two expansive courtrooms, eight smaller ones, a library, ten judges’ suites, three conference halls, and administrative offices with supporting amenities. Tinubu described the project as a powerful symbol that the current administration is serious about restoring the dignity of democratic institutions.

Referring to the previous cramped conditions under which the Abuja Division operated, the President remarked that it was unacceptable for an institution charged with delivering justice. He noted that a nation seeking justice must honor its temples of justice, and he gave a direct order to rectify the situation. Today, that order has been fulfilled.

Tinubu lauded FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for executing the project swiftly, calling him “Mr. Project.” He recalled that Wike promised completion in 16 months and delivered ahead of schedule without excuses or cost overruns. The President asserted that this achievement demonstrates what Nigerians can expect when commitment meets action.

The complex, according to Tinubu, will expedite judicial processes, alleviate overcrowding in correctional centers, and strengthen democratic governance. He emphasized that honoring the judiciary in this manner reinforces democracy itself. The project aligns with broader judicial reforms, increased funding for the judiciary, and a push for a just, rule-based society.

Tinubu also commended the FCT Administration for constructing additional courts, building residences for judicial officers, digitizing court procedures, and supporting legal education. He acknowledged the heavy workload of the Court of Appeal, especially in election petitions and constitutional matters, assuring that judges deserve an environment that matches the gravity of their responsibilities.

The President praised Visible Construction Limited for showcasing the capability of local firms to deliver world-class infrastructure. He urged judges to ensure justice remains swift, impartial, and indifferent to status, ethnicity, or wealth, so that the common person truly sees the court as a last hope.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), described the commissioning as a historic milestone coinciding with the Court of Appeal’s 50th anniversary. He stated that the event signals the administration’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law and judicial independence. Fagbemi highlighted that no previous administration has provided such extensive support to the judiciary, citing a historic 300% increase in judicial officers’ remuneration—the first major upward review in decades.

Beyond salary reforms, Fagbemi noted an ambitious infrastructure program, including residences for justices and judges across various courts. He also pointed to the appointment and confirmation of qualified judicial officers, ensuring the Supreme Court reached its full constitutional complement, which has enhanced its capacity and reduced delays.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike explained that the project originated from concerns about the poor state of the Abuja Division. After informing the President, he was directed to provide both a befitting complex and decent housing for judges. Wike announced that residences for Court of Appeal judges would be handed over the next day, followed by those for Federal High Court judges and FCT High Court judges. He also revealed plans to flag off housing projects for the Industrial Court and Code of Conduct Tribunal. Wike argued that judicial independence cannot exist without proper facilities and urged residents to fulfill their civic duties, such as paying ground rents and tenement rates, to fund development.

President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, called the complex a transformative intervention. She noted that the Abuja Division had long managed with only two courtrooms and limited administrative space despite handling a heavy caseload. The lack of infrastructure had forced the court to rely on accommodations from sister courts, which sometimes suspended their own sittings. With the new complex, she said, those burdens are lifted.

The event, part of the Tinubu administration’s third anniversary and the Court of Appeal’s golden jubilee, was hailed as a reaffirmation of the government’s dedication to judicial reform and improved access to justice. The Minister of State for FCT also thanked the President, Wike, and all stakeholders for their support, while the Managing Director of Visible Construction Limited, Olalekan Adebiyi, emphasized the project’s demonstration of indigenous capacity in infrastructure delivery.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made a strong appeal to the Nigerian judiciary, emphasizing the need for speedy and impartial justice. He warned that a compromised legal system endangers democratic governance.

Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division building in Dakibiyu, the president stressed that the courts must function efficiently. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu at the event, as disclosed in a statement from his official page.

Tinubu highlighted public frustration over delayed trials and case backlogs, noting that the justice system must remain accessible, equitable, and effective to maintain trust in the judiciary. He stated, “Nigeria asks one thing of you: let justice be swift. Let it be fair. Let it be blind to status, tribe, or purse. Let the common man feel that this Court is truly his last hope.”

The president described the new Court of Appeal complex as a key part of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at strengthening the justice sector. He added that improving the working environment for judges is essential for enhancing the overall effectiveness of the nation’s legal system.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu has emphasized the need for strengthened collaboration among traditional rulers, law enforcement agencies, and local communities to foster peace, unity, and progress. During a working visit to Jigawa State on Monday, Disu assured police personnel that ongoing reforms would not compromise their careers, welfare, or benefits.

Addressing the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Dutse, the IGP praised the council, led by Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its pivotal role in promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and national cohesion. He highlighted the indispensable contributions of traditional rulers in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, and early warning systems, stressing that close ties between traditional institutions and security forces are crucial for tackling insecurity and fostering development in Northern Nigeria.

During a courtesy call on Governor Umar Namadi, Disu reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to partnering with the Jigawa State Government and other stakeholders to enhance security, public safety, and community-based policing initiatives across the state.

Addressing officers of the Jigawa State Police Command, the IGP commended their commitment to maintaining peace and security. He reaffirmed the Force leadership’s resolve to boost operational capacity, welfare, career growth, and service delivery. Disu also addressed concerns about the proposed establishment of state police, clarifying that the reform aims to strengthen Nigeria’s policing framework while preserving a robust national police force capable of handling interstate and national security threats. He assured officers that their welfare, career progression, pensions, and other benefits would be safeguarded during any transition.

The IGP urged officers to remain professional, disciplined, and focused on their constitutional duties, warning that the Force would maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, extortion, abuse of power, and other misconduct. He encouraged proactive community engagement, intelligence-led policing, and adherence to high standards of integrity and human rights. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to building public trust, improving operational effectiveness, and collaborating with governments, traditional institutions, communities, and other stakeholders to promote peace, security, and national development.

In a meticulously coordinated operation, Nigerian military forces successfully freed Mrs. Amina Abubakar, the spouse of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, from the clutches of armed bandits. The retired general, a former Director of Defence Information, had been abducted with his wife weeks prior, but tragically lost his life during captivity.

The rescue was spearheaded by troops from Operation Fansan Yamma, who worked in tandem with the Nigerian Air Force. After an intense search and sustained military pressure, troops located the kidnappers in Tunga Village, leading to a confrontation. During the operation, the abductors shot Mrs. Abubakar before fleeing under the heavy fire of advancing soldiers.

Brigadier General Samaila Uba, the current Director of Defence Information, confirmed the development in an official statement. He noted that Mrs. Abubakar was immediately evacuated and is now receiving specialized care at a military hospital, where she is showing positive signs of recovery.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria have reiterated their unwavering commitment to her full recuperation and are extending all possible support to her family during this challenging time. Meanwhile, military operations continue to intensify, with troops actively hunting down the remaining perpetrators. The broader mission remains to cleanse affected communities—not only in Katsina but across the nation—of terrorist elements.

The successful extraction underscores the military’s resolve and capability to counter security threats and protect citizens, even in the face of grievous losses.

In a strong show of support for traditional institutions, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has declared that monarchs are indispensable to fostering harmony and progress across Northern Nigeria. Speaking at the opening of the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Dutse, the governor underscored the pivotal role of traditional leaders in conflict mediation and community advancement.

The gathering, centered on the theme “Peace, Unity and Development of the North,” drew attendees from all 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, including traditional rulers, government officials, and security experts. Governor Namadi emphasized that traditional rulers are essential allies in governance, whose authority is crucial for maintaining social order and strengthening community bonds.

According to Namadi, no administration can successfully tackle the region’s multifaceted challenges without the active involvement of traditional institutions. He stated that lasting progress depends on inclusive governance that works hand-in-hand with religious figures, community groups, and other stakeholders. The governor praised the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council for consistently prioritizing peace and security in their activities, noting their contributions to conflict resolution and public mobilization.

Namadi urged the royal fathers to step up efforts in promoting good parenting, moral values, and youth development, arguing that robust families and communities are the bedrock of enduring peace and prosperity. He also highlighted his government’s establishment of community-based security and peace committees designed to enhance dialogue, early warning systems, and collaboration between communities and security forces.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto and chairman of the council, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, reiterated the commitment of traditional rulers to supporting all government levels in tackling Northern Nigeria’s problems. The Sultan affirmed that traditional institutions remain vital partners in advancing peace, stability, and development, and stressed the need for governors and traditional rulers to continue working together for the people’s welfare. “Governors lead their states; we are their partners. Our duty is to support initiatives that bring peace, stability, and development to Northern Nigeria and the entire country,” the Sultan stated.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has issued a directive to the Inspector General of Police, demanding that security details be withdrawn from local government chairmen aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move follows a Federal High Court ruling in Osogbo that invalidated the tenure elongation bid of those officials.

Speaking to reporters in Osogbo on Monday, the governor highlighted that the court had thrown out an application seeking to extend the chairmen’s tenure, determining they had no legal basis to bring the suit forward. The ruling, he argued, aligns with constitutional mandates and prior Supreme Court judgments that prohibit tenure extensions.

Adeleke applauded the newly elected council chairmen, asserting that the court’s decision confirms their legitimate authority. According to him, the dismissal of the elongation request upholds the Constitution and reinforces the Supreme Court’s stance against unconstitutional tenure extensions.

The governor explicitly called on the Commissioner of Police to cease security provisions for what he described as an illegal occupation of council secretariats by the ousted chairmen. He urged all law enforcement agencies to facilitate the smooth takeover by elected officials.

In addition, Adeleke addressed the United Bank for Africa (UBA), insisting that the bank discontinue any collaboration with the former chairmen concerning local government accounts. He referenced an affidavit previously sworn by the bank, affirming that all disputed local government funds were safe.

“UBA must guarantee that every kobo of local government revenue is protected and properly accounted for. Authorized signatories as prescribed by law should be permitted to manage these accounts to ensure workers receive their pensions and other benefits,” the governor stated.

Turning to a separate ruling from a Federal High Court in Abuja regarding the deregistration of certain political parties, Adeleke described the judgment as a direct challenge to an earlier order from the Court of Appeal. He revealed that his legal team had already initiated actions to contest the ruling, noting that the appellate court had stayed proceedings in the matter until October.

“We are taken aback that the lower court went ahead to decide on a case that the higher court had already addressed,” he remarked.

Despite the setback, the governor reassured citizens that the judgment would not hinder his political platform from participating in the upcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15. “The ruling cannot hold; Accord will be on the ballot, we will be on the ballot, and we will achieve a resounding victory on August 15,” he declared.

Adeleke also stated that the opposition’s attempts to derail his reelection bid have not succeeded, and he announced that his campaign flag-off rally would take place on Tuesday. He called on supporters to turn out in large numbers, emphasizing, “We shall not be swayed. Our focus remains on winning. With God’s grace and the people’s backing, continuity will triumph on August 15.”

Reno Omokri, Nigeria’s appointed ambassador to Mexico, has finally addressed the reasons behind his delayed assumption of duties. During a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the former presidential aide shed light on the situation, dismissing claims that Mexico had rejected him.

Omokri explained that the ongoing World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States and Mexico, has shifted Mexico’s focus away from diplomatic protocols. As a result, many ambassadors appointed to Mexico have yet to resume their posts, not just him. He emphasized that this is a common occurrence and not a sign of rejection.

The envoy further stated that the narrative of his rejection is being propagated by the opposition for political gain. He urged Nigerians to focus on reality rather than baseless claims. According to Omokri, Nigeria is respected globally, and its envoys are welcome in countries that value the relationship.

He added, “Most of us ambassadors have not resumed. So, I’m not the only one. A lot of my colleagues are in my situation, but it’s okay. These things happen.” Omokri remains confident that he will eventually take up his role once the World Cup frenzy subsides.

He also called on the public to disregard opposition rhetoric, insisting that Mexico has not rejected him. “The opposition will always say things like I have been rejected. We do not work on the basis of the opposition. We work on the basis of reality,” he remarked.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the official candidate list for the upcoming Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election, expanding the field from four to six contenders.

According to the updated roster released by the electoral body, which is set for the June 20, 2026 poll, two additional parties—the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)—now have candidates in the race. This adjustment follows the omission of these parties from the earlier publication.

Previously, INEC’s preliminary list featured only the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and National New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). However, the latest version now includes Alaku Mohammed Steve Ahmadu representing the ADC and Duba Shaya Dodo of the NDC.

The full list of cleared candidates is as follows: Alaku Mohammed Steve Ahmadu (ADC), Hallu Danladi Envu-Uza (APC), Maku Labaran (LP), Duba Shaya Dodo (NDC), John Paul Araneshi (NNPP), and Emmanuel David Ombugadu (PDP).

The bye-election, scheduled for June 20, 2026, will take place across the five local government areas that constitute the Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has put forward a set of reforms that could enable the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct transparent and fair elections in 2027. Speaking in a statement released on Sunday, he emphasized that INEC must be fortified and protected from partisan interference to restore public trust in the electoral system.

Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as a Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on political issues, called for a fundamental overhaul of the appointment process for the INEC Chairman, National Commissioners, and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs). According to him, the existing framework grants the executive branch excessive leverage over the electoral body, compromising its independence. He stated, “When you entrust an electoral body to a government that is determined to remain in power, its impartiality naturally comes under scrutiny.”

The PRP leader also advocated for financial autonomy for INEC, proposing that the commission should have the authority to prepare and defend its budget directly before the National Assembly without executive manipulation. Additionally, he urged the government to enforce stricter penalties for politicians and individuals engaged in electoral fraud and violence. He attributed the persistence of electoral malpractices to a lack of accountability and stressed that offenders must face legal consequences. “The era of impunity must be brought to an end,” he remarked, underscoring the need for decisive action to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral processes.