Prominent Muslim leaders in Nigeria have issued a strong warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to refrain from interfering in Nigeria’s internal affairs following recent comments he made concerning security issues in the country. The warning came after Netanyahu stated that Israel would collaborate with the United States to confront attacks on Christians in Nigeria. He made this assertion during a Christmas Day message addressed to Christian Zionist supporters, where he declared that Israel was prepared to “open a new front” to protect Christians allegedly facing persecution in several nations, including Nigeria, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey. The remarks quickly sparked reactions within Nigeria, particularly among Muslim groups who viewed the statement as inappropriate and intrusive. One of the strongest responses came from the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), which criticized Netanyahu’s position and questioned his credibility on issues related to terrorism and human rights. Reacting to the statement on Friday, MUSWEN described Netanyahu’s comments as ironic, arguing that it was contradictory for him to speak about combating terrorism in Nigeria while, according to their view, being involved in acts of violence against Palestinians. Speaking on behalf of the organization, MUSWEN’s Executive Secretary, Professor Wole Abbas, expressed deep concern over the statement. He described Netanyahu’s intention to collaborate with former U.S. President Donald Trump in addressing terrorism in Nigeria as unfortunate and troubling. According to Abbas, the actions attributed to Netanyahu in Gaza far exceed what could be described as terrorism. Professor Abbas further stated that Netanyahu has been declared wanted by the International Court of Justice and accused him of continuing acts of genocide in Gaza. He questioned how someone facing such serious allegations could present himself as a solution to security challenges in another sovereign nation like Nigeria. “I find it difficult to understand what the world is witnessing today,” Abbas said. “A person accused of committing genocide now wants to intervene in Nigeria’s internal security matters. Such an individual should be arrested and prosecuted for crimes against humanity.” The criticism was not limited to religious organizations. A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also dismissed Netanyahu’s offer of support. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Ahmad emphasized that Nigeria does not require foreign military intervention to address its security challenges. He warned that any form of external military action, including airstrikes or armed involvement by foreign nations, would be unnecessary and would amount to a direct violation of Nigeria’s sovereignty. Ahmad stressed that Nigeria remains capable of handling its internal security matters without external interference. The reactions highlight growing concerns among Nigerian leaders over foreign involvement in the country’s affairs and reinforce calls for respect for Nigeria’s independence and territorial integrity.
As dusk falls over Lagos, the city transitions into a rhythm all its own. While most residents retire for the night, a dedicated cadre of night workers steps into motion, keeping essential services and businesses operational long after the sun sets. These men and women balance grueling work schedules, family obligations, financial pressures, and daily hazards—all under the veil of darkness. For women, these challenges are often compounded by heightened safety risks and societal expectations. According to IBRAHIM ADAM, beyond the strain on personal and family life, night work can also trigger serious health consequences, including chronic fatigue, sleep disruption, and mental health disorders. Night work, though often unseen, forms the backbone of a city that never truly sleeps. It is a path of resilience, responsibility, and sacrifice—taken by individuals committed to keeping Lagos functioning when most are at rest. Abubakar Mohammed: Guardian of the Night In the quiet corridors of Ladipo Market in Mushin, Lagos State, 38-year-old Abubakar Mohammed stands vigilant in a dimly lit warehouse. For 16 years, his life has revolved around safeguarding property during the late-night hours. A father of six—five daughters and a son—Mohammed’s daily decisions are guided by a sense of duty that extends far beyond financial survival. Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, he emphasized that fatherhood is more than a biological role; it is a moral compass that shapes his every action. Originally from Gao, Mali, a historic city along the River Niger, Mohammed’s journey to Lagos embodies a life of dedication in a foreign land. “Fatherhood is the foundation of my life. It represents leadership, discipline, sacrifice, and long-term planning. Every choice I make reflects my commitment to my children’s future,” Mohammed shared. Choosing night guard duty was a strategic decision. Daytime employment alone could not meet his family’s educational, medical, and daily needs. Night work, though taxing, offered the financial stability required to secure his children’s future. “The decision was deliberate. Sacrificing personal comfort for my children’s well-being is necessary. Consistent income ensures our family’s security,” he added. Night shifts demand alertness, mental resilience, and strict routines. Mohammed explained the delicate balance required to remain vigilant while protecting both himself and the assets under his supervision. “My work requires discipline and vigilance. Even when the environment seems calm, unpredictability can arise at any moment. Managing fatigue while maintaining professionalism is a constant challenge,” he said. The Health Toll of Night Work Medical experts have linked prolonged night work to chronic illnesses, emotional exhaustion, disrupted sleep cycles, and mental health challenges. Beyond individual health, these issues have broader societal implications, impacting public health and family dynamics. The Cost to Family Life Financial stability comes with emotional sacrifices. Mohammed admits that working nights often limits meaningful interaction with his children. “Long hours away from home reduce the time I can spend with my children. Missing milestones is emotionally taxing, but I strive to stay involved, even if it means visiting home only once a week or every two weeks.” Earning ₦50,000 per month, Mohammed values integrity and dedication above material comfort. “Night workers’ contributions are often overlooked. Many enjoy safety and order without considering those who work behind the scenes. Honest labor, performed with commitment, has value—even when unseen,” he remarked. For Mohammed, success is defined not by wealth, but by the stability and guidance he provides for his children. “Laying a strong foundation for my children is my success. Their access to education, discipline, and opportunities makes every sacrifice worthwhile.” Household Resilience Mohammed’s wife, Aisha, highlighted the emotional resilience required to adjust to her husband’s absence. “At first, adjusting was challenging. Our home felt emptier without him, yet we recognized the necessity of his work. Communication through phone calls and voice messages keeps our connection strong, helping our children understand their father’s responsibilities.” Abdullahi Dauda: Discipline in the Dark In the same bustling district of Ladipo, 42-year-old Abdullahi Dauda exemplifies another story of dedication. Hailing from Sakadamna, Niger, Dauda has spent 27 years in security, with the last 15 devoted exclusively to night duties. “I began night work out of necessity. Limited daytime opportunities required me to take on night shifts to support my family,” he shared. For Dauda, night shifts are both a professional responsibility and a personal commitment to survival. “Choosing night work allowed me to take control of my circumstances. Economic pressures left little room for waiting; consistent effort was the only way forward.” The Night Routine Dauda’s nights demand constant vigilance. “Every evening, I begin by inspecting my assigned area. Focus must remain unwavering, even during quiet periods. Unexpected movement or unfamiliar sounds require instant judgment. Rest is rare; endurance is essential.” Night work disrupts natural sleep cycles, exposes workers to harsh conditions, and requires emotional and physical fortitude that often goes unrecognized. “People assume night work involves relaxation, but it demands continuous alertness. Enduring isolation, fatigue, and the elements is part of the job. Commitment requires immense mental strength,” Dauda noted. Conclusion The untold stories of Lagos’ night workers reveal the dedication and sacrifices that sustain the city’s daily life. From safeguarding markets to ensuring public safety, these individuals perform critical roles largely invisible to the public eye. Their efforts highlight not just the importance of economic survival, but the profound moral and social responsibility embedded in their work. By appreciating the challenges faced by night workers like Abubakar Mohammed and Abdullahi Dauda, society gains insight into the backbone of Lagos’ relentless energy—a city that truly never sleeps.
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Lagos hotel room rates have soared to a record N205,534, highlighting the rapid resurgence of corporate and business travel in Nigeria’s commercial hub, even as the development of new hotel rooms lags behind demand. Insights from Estate Intel’s Lagos Real Estate Development Pipeline Report 2025/2026 reveal that the city’s hotel demand is outpacing the availability of new accommodation options. The report indicates that average daily rates (ADR) in Lagos more than doubled from N83,105 in 2023 to N205,534 by October 2025, marking the highest rates in the city’s history. Estate Intel attributes this spike to renewed corporate activities, improved connectivity to major business districts, and delays in the completion of high-quality hotel projects after years of construction setbacks. According to the research, the performance of Lagos’ hospitality sector illustrates how quickly demand has rebounded relative to supply, especially in key commercial areas. “Average daily rates in Lagos are currently at historic highs, supported by business and corporate travel amid constrained supply following multiple years of delayed hotel deliveries,” the report noted. Hotel Occupancy Trends Data from the report shows that hotel occupancy in Lagos, home to over 20 million residents, reached 66.7% in October 2025. Analysts expect occupancy rates to stabilize in the high-60% to low-70% range over the next few years. The steady recovery is largely driven by corporate travel, with proximity to Murtala Muhammed International Airport and improved accessibility across prime commercial hubs, including Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Ikeja, strengthening the demand base. While leisure travel represents a smaller segment of the market, the resurgence of conferences, corporate meetings, and regional business travel has bolstered both occupancy rates and pricing power for Lagos hotels. Current Supply and Development Pipeline Currently, Lagos has an estimated 10,728 hotel keys, with an additional 3,709 keys under development, making it the largest hospitality pipeline market in West Africa by volume. However, the report indicates that over one-third of planned hotel projects are currently on hold, reflecting ongoing challenges such as: These delays mean that new hotel completions are slower than previously projected, helping to maintain a balanced market despite increasing demand. “An uncertain business environment in recent years has constrained the delivery of new hotel stock and pushed back completion timelines,” Estate Intel explained. “This dynamic has supported pricing as demand has returned more rapidly than supply.” Major Projects and Market Competition Several branded hotel projects are under development by global hotel chains, but only a handful are expected to be completed in the short term. In addition, Lagos is experiencing growing competition between traditional hotels and short-let apartments, particularly in prime districts. The influx of short-let units provides travellers and corporate clients with alternative accommodation options, placing some pressure on hotel operators. Early anecdotal reports from December 2025 suggest mixed performance across short-let units. While some operators experienced lower occupancy, others continued to witness stable demand. Despite this, traditional hotels have largely maintained strong performance due to their focus on corporate clients and branded services. This ongoing trend underscores Lagos’ resilience as a business and tourism destination, demonstrating how strategic location, premium services, and limited supply can drive pricing power in the hospitality sector.
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Residents of Mangu town in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State are mourning the devastating loss of six siblings who perished in a late-night fire incident on Thursday. The tragic event has left the community in shock and grief. A local resident, Saidu Nasir, confirmed the heartbreaking news to Saturday PUNCH in Jos on Friday, stating, “Six children sadly lost their lives in the fire. I personally know their father; he works as a vulcanizer. At this moment, the family is engulfed in deep mourning. I pray that God grants them strength and comfort during this painful period.” Family members revealed that the deceased children, who were residents of the Old Mangu Market area, were aged between four months and 12 years. The children’s uncle, Umar Babangida, disclosed that the fire broke out at approximately 2 a.m., catching the family off guard. The mother, in a desperate attempt to rescue her children, suffered severe burns and is currently receiving medical care at Allah Nakowa Hospital, Mangu. Aliyu, another relative, described the events leading to the tragedy: “The mother and her nine children were watching television until about 11 p.m. After that, the three older boys went to sleep, leaving the mother with the six younger children. Unfortunately, around 2:30 a.m., we received an urgent distress call that the house was engulfed in flames.” He added, “The exact cause of the fire is still unknown. We only know that there was an active power supply when they went to bed. The mother bravely tried to save her children, but sadly, she could not get them all out in time, resulting in the injuries she sustained.” In a show of solidarity, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the Mangu Local Government chairman visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and support. The governor encouraged the family to find solace in their faith during this trying period and assured them of government assistance to rebuild the destroyed property. Aliyu expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, saying, “During the fire outbreak, we witnessed an incredible outpouring of love from both Muslims and Christians who came together to offer assistance. We are thankful to everyone who rushed to help during the tragic incident.” The Plateau fire incident has reignited concerns over residential fire safety in the state, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and community awareness to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
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The Ogun State Police Command has formally arraigned Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, the driver of the Lexus SUV involved in the fatal accident that claimed the lives of two close associates of former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. However, the court has adjourned the matter until January 20, 2026, to allow for further legal proceedings, according to a report by Saturday PUNCH. Kayode, 46, appeared before a Sagamu Magistrate Court on Friday, following charges brought against him by the police. The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the arraignment in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the state capital. The arraignment follows the tragic crash that occurred on December 29, 2025, near Danco on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The accident led to the death of Kevin Latif Ayodele (36), a British-Nigerian citizen, and Sina Ghami (36), a British national. Both victims were part of Anthony Joshua’s professional training staff and close colleagues. Kayode, who is a long-serving member of Joshua’s Nigerian logistics team, sustained minor injuries and was discharged from a Lagos hospital on New Year’s Eve. He was subsequently taken to the Ogun State Police headquarters in Abeokuta for questioning regarding the circumstances of the crash. According to police reports, Kayode was reportedly driving well above the 65mph speed limit when a tyre burst during an overtaking maneuver. The Lexus SUV, with registration number KRD 850 HN, collided with a stationary truck carrying soya beans, which was illegally parked on the hard shoulder. The force of the impact caused severe damage to the vehicle, particularly the nearside section. While Ghami and Ayodele tragically died instantly, Joshua and Kayode suffered only minor injuries. Local first responders described Joshua’s survival as nothing short of a “miracle,” as he was seated directly behind the driver at the time of the collision. A police source told the Daily Mail that Kayode was in a stable condition and had provided a detailed account of events leading to the crash. He is expected to face charges related to reckless driving, although the ongoing bank holiday period could slightly delay formal proceedings. On Friday, Kayode made his court appearance as scheduled. However, the exact charges filed against him have not been made publicly available. Following the incident, both the Lagos and Ogun state governments announced that Anthony Joshua had been discharged from Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, after medical confirmation of his fitness to continue recovery at home. In a joint statement, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, Lagos State Commissioner for Information, confirmed that Joshua, accompanied by his mother, visited a Lagos funeral home to pay their final respects to the late friends. The bodies of Ayodele and Ghami were being prepared for repatriation to their respective countries.
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Canada has intensified its immigration enforcement in 2025, resulting in the deportation of 366 Nigerian nationals between January and October, according to the latest data obtained by LMSINT MEDIA. This surge in removals reflects the fastest pace of deportations in over a decade, signaling a stricter approach to immigration control. The data, released by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) through its official removals programme statistics, also indicates that 974 Nigerians are currently listed in the “removal in progress” inventory, awaiting deportation from the country. Updated statistics as of November 25, 2025, show that Nigeria ranks ninth among the top 10 nationalities deported from Canada, while among those awaiting removal, Nigerians hold the fifth position. These numbers underscore Canada’s ongoing focus on enforcing immigration compliance and removing foreign nationals who do not meet legal residency requirements. Historical Deportation Trends for Nigerians Examining trends over the past few years reveals fluctuations in Nigerian deportations from Canada: Interestingly, Nigeria did not appear in the top 10 deported nationalities in 2023 and 2024 but reappeared in 2025 with 366 removals within just 10 months, marking an eight percent increase compared to 2019 figures. Canada’s Aggressive Immigration Enforcement The current surge in deportations aligns with Canada’s broader immigration crackdown. The CBSA now reportedly removes nearly 400 foreign nationals weekly, the highest removal rate in more than ten years. During the fiscal year 2024–2025, Canada deported 18,048 individuals, incurring an estimated $78 million in operational costs. Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the CBSA is mandated to remove any foreign national with an enforceable removal order. Grounds for deportation vary and can include: Notably, the majority of deportees, approximately 83 percent, are failed refugee claimants whose asylum applications have been denied. This highlights Canada’s continued emphasis on managing its immigration system efficiently and maintaining compliance with its legal framework. For Nigerians in Canada, these statistics serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering strictly to immigration laws.
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Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke has advised the club to consider signing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, describing him as a player capable of keeping supporters entertained throughout a match. The Ghanaian international has enjoyed an impressive first half of the Premier League season with Bournemouth, attracting growing attention ahead of the January transfer window. His performances for the Cherries have reportedly made him open to a potential move as top clubs monitor his situation. Speaking during an interview with PokerScout, Yorke explained that Semenyo’s influence on games goes beyond statistics, highlighting how impactful he has been when the strength of his current team is considered. According to the former United forward, Semenyo’s consistency and work rate place him among the standout players in the league at the moment. Yorke suggested that the former Bristol City attacker would bring excitement to Old Trafford, drawing comparisons with iconic Manchester United wide players known for driving forward with the ball and energising the crowd. He explained that if Semenyo were surrounded by higher-quality teammates, his overall output could rise even further. This, Yorke believes, is one of the reasons elite clubs are now paying close attention to the winger’s development. Yorke stated that Semenyo’s ability to carry the ball over long distances, attack defenders directly, and push play into dangerous areas makes him a natural fit for teams that value attacking transitions. He stressed that Manchester United’s history is built on players who can advance quickly into opposition territory and stretch defensive lines. Reflecting on past United stars, Yorke referenced legendary names such as Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrei Kanchelskis, and Antonio Valencia, all of whom were known for driving forward aggressively and creating attacking momentum. In his view, Semenyo possesses similar qualities that could help revive that attacking identity. Yorke believes the Bournemouth attacker would not only offer pace and directness but also contribute goals and creativity from wide areas. However, he made it clear that Semenyo’s strengths lie in advanced attacking roles rather than being deployed as a wing-back. Summing up his thoughts, Yorke expressed confidence that Semenyo could be a strong addition for Manchester United if given the right platform, adding that such a signing would represent a significant move for the club’s manager. The comments were reported by GOAL, reinforcing the growing discussion around Semenyo’s rising profile in the Premier League.
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Former Chelsea forward and football analyst Chris Sutton has released his predictions for the English Premier League Matchday 20 fixtures, which are scheduled to be played across England this weekend. The upcoming round of matches promises intense competition as several top clubs battle for crucial points in the league table, with fans expecting high-quality football from both title contenders and mid-table challengers. Saturday Fixtures Overview The action begins on Saturday afternoon with an early kick-off as Aston Villa welcome Nottingham Forest at Villa Park. Both teams are expected to put up a strong fight as they look to secure valuable points. Later in the evening, Bournemouth will host Premier League leaders Arsenal in what is anticipated to be a highly competitive encounter. Arsenal will aim to maintain their position at the top of the table, while Bournemouth will look to cause an upset on home soil. Another Saturday clash sees Wolverhampton Wanderers take on West Ham United, a fixture that could prove decisive for both sides in their pursuit of league stability. Sunday Fixtures Breakdown Sunday’s fixtures feature some of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend. Manchester United travel away to face Leeds United, a traditional rivalry that always delivers intensity and drama. At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City will go head-to-head with Chelsea in a blockbuster encounter. Both sides are expected to showcase their attacking strength in what could be one of the standout matches of the round. Chris Sutton’s Premier League Predictions (via BBC Sport) According to Chris Sutton, here are his full predictions for Matchday 20: These predictions reflect Sutton’s assessment of current form, home advantage, and overall squad strength going into the weekend’s fixtures.
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Arsenal have officially brought back two of their players from temporary loan spells, confirming the development through an update published on the club’s official platform on Friday. The players recalled are Cecily Wellesley-Smith and Naomi Williams, both of whom had spent the opening phase of the current campaign away from the club to gain valuable competitive experience. Details of Cecily Wellesley-Smith’s Loan Spell Cecily Wellesley-Smith joined Leicester City Women on a short-term loan arrangement in September 2025, shortly after committing her future to Arsenal by signing her first professional contract. The highly rated 18-year-old defender featured once for the Women’s Super League side during her loan period. The move was designed to provide her with exposure to top-flight football and accelerate her development at senior level. Following the completion of the first half of the season, Arsenal have now decided to reintegrate the young defender back into their squad. Naomi Williams’ Time at Bristol City Naomi Williams, on the other hand, spent her loan period with Bristol City, a club competing in WSL 2. Her time away from Arsenal saw her earn consistent involvement in cup competition. Williams made three appearances for Bristol City, all coming in the Subway Women’s League Cup, where she gained valuable match experience and competitive minutes. With the loan spell concluded, Arsenal have also recalled Williams as part of their mid-season squad adjustments. Arsenal’s Squad Management Strategy The recall of both players highlights Arsenal’s continued commitment to player development through strategic loan moves. By allowing young talents to gain experience elsewhere and then returning them at the right time, the club ensures long-term squad depth and progression. Both Wellesley-Smith and Williams are now expected to resume duties with Arsenal as the season progresses.
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The Rivers State Executive Council has given its approval to a ₦1.854 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 financial year. The approval was granted on Friday following extensive deliberations during the Executive Council meeting. The proposed spending plan is officially titled the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development.” This EXCO session, which was the first council meeting held in 2026, was chaired by the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, alongside other members of the state executive council. After the meeting concluded, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Economic Matters and Social Development, Professor Peter Medee, addressed journalists to provide clarity on the outcome of the deliberations. According to Professor Medee, the council approved a total budget estimate of ₦1,854,248,734,475.76. He explained that the allocation is specifically intended for the delivery of goods and services across Rivers State throughout the 2026 fiscal year. He further stated that the proposed budget was carefully structured to align with the developmental agenda and strategic priorities of the Fubara administration. The estimate, he noted, reflects the government’s focus on sustaining growth while strengthening resilience in key sectors of the state’s economy. Professor Medee also emphasized that the 2026 budget proposal is expected to accommodate and address several critical obligations of the state, ensuring continuity in governance and service delivery.
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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly responded to recent remarks credited to the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, concerning political realignments involving supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Governor Fubara, while speaking at a New Year banquet held in Port Harcourt, stated that some notable political figures who previously aligned with Atiku Abubakar have now shifted their loyalty in his direction and are also backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to Fubara, individuals such as Prince Uche Secondus, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Alabo Abiye Sekibo, and former Rivers State Governor Sir Celestine Omehia are currently supporting his administration and President Tinubu. However, Wike dismissed the political relevance of the claim, insisting that those mentioned failed to make any meaningful impact during the 2023 presidential election. He argued that their influence was minimal and did not significantly contribute to Atiku Abubakar’s electoral performance in Rivers State. Speaking during an engagement in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) Local Government Area of Rivers State, Wike maintained that the political strength of those individuals is being exaggerated. He emphasized that they were unable to secure even 10 percent of the total votes for Atiku during the last presidential contest. Wike questioned the strategic value of presenting such figures as major political assets, stressing that their past electoral performance speaks for itself. According to him, the claim that they now command strong political influence does not align with the voting outcome recorded in 2023. In the same address, the former Rivers State governor reassured President Bola Tinubu of unwavering support ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He stated clearly that his political camp would work tirelessly to ensure that the president receives the level of backing necessary to secure victory when the time comes. Without mentioning names directly, Wike noted that the political actors in question are well known and that their previous inability to mobilize voters makes their current alignment insignificant in determining future electoral outcomes. He reiterated his commitment to mobilizing solid grassroots and institutional support for Tinubu. Beyond electoral matters, Wike also reacted strongly to comments made by the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Mbata, who reportedly referred to him as a semi-illiterate. Wike described the statement as unnecessary and misleading but said he felt compelled to respond. He countered the remark by highlighting his academic background, explaining that while Mbata reportedly dropped out of Rivers State University during his law studies, he himself successfully completed his education at the University of Port Harcourt, proceeded to law school, and later attained the status of a Life Bencher. Wike further emphasized that despite being labeled a “semi-illiterate,” he currently holds the fourth highest national honour in Nigeria, a recognition he said reflects his contributions to national development and public service.
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Residents of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area in the Kogi West Senatorial District have expressed deep concern over the increasing level of insecurity in their communities, as they staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to the worsening situation. The protest, which took place on Friday, saw a large turnout of concerned citizens who voiced frustration over the persistent attacks linked to armed banditry across the area. According to the protesters, the security challenges have reached alarming levels, with multiple residents reportedly kidnapped and still being held captive by criminal elements. Community members lamented that the unchecked activities of these armed groups have created a climate of fear, disrupting daily life and threatening livelihoods. Many residents revealed that repeated attacks have forced families to flee their homes in search of safety, leaving several villages partially or completely abandoned. The demonstrators emphasized that the absence of swift and effective government response has further worsened the crisis. They warned that if urgent steps are not taken to address the insecurity, the situation could spiral out of control and destabilize not only Kabba-Bunu but surrounding communities within Kogi West. Residents appealed to relevant authorities and security agencies to intensify surveillance, deploy adequate security personnel, and implement long-term strategies aimed at restoring peace. They stressed that proactive intervention is essential to rebuild confidence among residents, encourage displaced families to return, and prevent further humanitarian challenges in the region. The protesters concluded by urging the government to treat the situation as a priority, noting that sustained neglect could have serious consequences for social stability, economic activities, and overall safety in Kogi State.
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Over 150 bandits have been neutralized following a coordinated security operation launched after a violent attack on communities in Kano State, while 125 rustled cows were successfully recovered by security forces. The large-scale operation was carried out by a Joint Task Force made up of the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other paramilitary units. The security agencies swiftly responded after armed bandits invaded parts of Kano State between Thursday night and Friday morning. According to details of the operation, the assailants were aggressively pursued from the affected Kano communities and forced to retreat into Kogoro town in Katsina State. During the pursuit and subsequent engagement, approximately 150 of the bandits were reportedly killed, and 125 cattle earlier taken during the raid were recovered. The development was officially confirmed by the security committee representing Faruruwa, Shanono, and Bagwai Local Government Areas. Speaking through its chairman, Alhaji Yahya Bagobiri, the committee publicly praised the security forces for what he described as a firm and decisive response to the attack. Bagobiri disclosed that the operation was led by top security officials, including the Brigade Commander of Bukavor Barracks, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, and the Director of the DSS in Kano. He stated that the coordinated leadership ensured the bandits were tracked relentlessly into Katsina State, where they were completely overpowered, neutralized, and dispossessed of the stolen livestock. He further explained that the success of the operation has effectively halted the repeated intrusion of bandits into the affected areas, which had previously been exploited as transit routes for cattle rustling and criminal movement. Reports revealed that hundreds of bandits riding motorcycles stormed several villages in Shanono Local Government Area during the night-time assault. The attackers opened fire, resulting in the death of one civilian, and escaped with more than 150 cows before security forces mobilized. However, the military and other security agencies responded with significant firepower, chasing the criminals across state boundaries. The pursuit culminated in the elimination of the attackers and the recovery of the stolen cattle, restoring calm to the affected communities. Alhaji Yahya Bagobiri also used the opportunity to commend the Nigerian Army, DSS, Police, and other security agencies for their professionalism and commitment. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the newly appointed Minister of Defence, General Musa (retd), for their determination to strengthen security and promote lasting peace across Kano State and the wider northern region of Nigeria.
