The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, has clarified that he has not officially declared any intention to contest the governorship position in Abia State. At the same time, he openly extended an invitation to the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, urging him to formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ben Kalu made this known on Monday while addressing attendees at his country home in Bende, located within Bende Local Government Area of Abia State. The occasion marked the 2025 Renewed Town Hall Meeting and Christmas Food Distribution, an annual engagement aimed at strengthening grassroots interaction and community support. According to the Deputy Speaker, recent public interpretations of his political activities have been misconstrued as signs of a governorship ambition, a narrative he firmly dismissed. He explained that virtually every action he takes is being framed by political observers as a calculated move toward contesting for the state’s top seat. In a strongly worded but humorous response, Kalu expressed frustration over what he described as constant political speculation, stating that even his everyday actions are exaggerated into governorship signals. He remarked that when he makes simple personal or official decisions—such as changing his appearance, greeting people, visiting individuals, or carrying out responsibilities assigned by the President—each act is quickly labeled as a governorship move. He questioned why similar scrutiny is not applied to others who have already openly declared their interest in the Abia governorship race. Ben Kalu further pointed out that despite not making any formal declaration, he continues to face intense criticism and attacks, especially on social media platforms. He described these attacks as politically motivated, adding that he remains focused on his duties rather than engaging in online confrontations. The Deputy Speaker emphasized that social media has no law enforcement authority, warning that while insults may circulate freely online, accountability eventually catches up. Drawing from past experience, he recalled how similar online criticism trailed his campaign during his bid for the House of Representatives. At that time, despite widespread negative projections against him, the final outcome favored his victory. Reflecting on the possibility of a future governorship race, Kalu noted that if he eventually decides to contest, it would not be an easy or slow contest but rather a swift and highly competitive political battle. However, he stressed that such a decision would only come after consultations within the APC, careful observation of party leadership direction, and guidance from the party’s national hierarchy. He concluded by stating that he remains in active discussions with party leaders and stakeholders and is patiently waiting for the appropriate signal before making any major political move.
The Abia State Government has officially commissioned and assumed ownership of the newly constructed Ndi Okereke Anam Primary Healthcare Centre, a modern medical facility generously donated by renowned philanthropist Chief James Ume, popularly known as IKEM ABAM. The healthcare centre was built specifically to serve residents of the Ndi Okereke Abam community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state. In addition to the healthcare facility, the state government also inaugurated 31 other completed structures donated by the same benefactor. These include 30 purpose-built residential housing units designed for underprivileged members of the community, as well as a church hall intended to serve the people of Idima Abam. All the projects were formally handed over to the government for public use during the commissioning ceremony. Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, expressed deep appreciation for the remarkable contribution made by Chief Ume. The governor noted that the projects reflect a strong sense of community responsibility and align seamlessly with his administration’s development blueprint, which prioritizes improved living conditions and social infrastructure for residents across the state. Governor Otti, who was represented at the ceremony by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, emphasized that the gesture strongly supports the state’s public-private partnership (PPP) framework. According to him, collaborations between government and private individuals remain a critical pathway toward sustainable development and inclusive growth. He explained that the facilities—particularly the housing units—were established with the intention of improving the welfare of vulnerable members of the society. As such, he urged beneficiaries and community members to demonstrate a strong sense of ownership by ensuring that the structures are properly maintained and protected from neglect. “This is exactly the type of support government seeks—public-private partnerships that are entirely focused on enhancing the well-being of society,” the governor stated. He further stressed that the long-term value of the projects would depend largely on how responsibly they are managed by those who benefit from them. Governor Otti also reminded the host communities that meaningful development thrives when people actively safeguard and preserve shared assets. He called on residents to fully embrace the projects, take real possession of them, and ensure they remain functional for future generations. The inauguration marks another example of community-driven development in Abia State, highlighting how individual initiatives can complement government efforts in delivering essential services such as healthcare, housing, and social infrastructure at the grassroots level.
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Sophia Momodu, a Nigerian entrepreneur and the mother of Davido’s first child, has openly cautioned members of the public to stop identifying her as the wife of the popular Afrobeats singer. In a video that has since gained attention online, Sophia addressed a recurring issue she continues to face years after her relationship with the music star ended. According to her, despite the fact that she and Davido separated a long time ago—and despite his current marital status—some fans still insist on calling her his wife. She explained that such labels make her uncomfortable and fail to acknowledge personal boundaries, stressing that people deserve to be addressed correctly and respectfully. Sophia noted that relationships end, lives move forward, and it is important for outsiders to accept these changes without forcing outdated narratives on those involved. Sharing a personal encounter, she recounted meeting a content creator who greeted her enthusiastically, referring to her as “Imade’s mother and Davido’s wife.” The remark caught her off guard, as she made it clear that she does not hold that position in the singer’s life. Sophia used the moment to remind the public that respect for marriages and individual decisions is essential. She pointed out that everyone involved has moved on and is living their own life, and fans should also allow that transition to happen peacefully. Reaffirming her stance, she urged people to stop attaching her name to a role that no longer applies, emphasizing that peace, mutual respect, and personal growth should be prioritized over unnecessary labels. According to her, all parties are content with their current paths, and there is no reason to reopen chapters that have long been closed.
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All is truly not well for Nollywood actor Rotimi Salami, who has finally spoken publicly following the heartbreaking passing of his close friend, guide, and mentor, Allwell Ademola. Since the tragic news of Allwell Ademola’s death surfaced, an outpouring of concern has followed, with fans, colleagues, and well-wishers flooding Rotimi Salami’s social media pages. Many Nigerians expressed deep worry about his emotional state, sensing the heavy impact the loss has had on him. After days of silence, the actor took to Instagram to share a deeply emotional message that revealed the depth of his grief. In the viral post, Rotimi Salami made a heartfelt appeal to the public, asking people not to attempt to console him if they encounter him in person. According to him, the pain remains too raw, and any attempt at comfort could cause him to completely break down. He openly admitted that he is still unable to say goodbye to the late actress, whom he affectionately referred to as “Shuga Boo.” His words reflected a man struggling to come to terms with a loss that has left a deep emotional wound. Rotimi revealed that even after 72 hours of uncontrollable tears, the reality remains unchanged. The pain of losing someone so dear has not eased, and the emptiness left behind continues to weigh heavily on him. Despite the overwhelming grief, he explained that he is making a conscious effort to remain strong—not just for himself, but for their extended family, friends, loyal fans, and especially his children. According to him, his children now look up to him for strength and reassurance as they all attempt to navigate life without Allwell Ademola. He emphasized that although the journey ahead will be difficult, he is determined to stand firm so that others can draw courage from him during this painful transition. The actor also took time to acknowledge the massive support he has received since the loss. He expressed gratitude to everyone who reached out through prayers, phone calls, heartfelt messages, posts, and voice notes. However, he admitted that his emotional state has made it impossible for him to respond. Rotimi Salami confessed that he currently lacks the strength to read messages, listen to voice notes, or even find the right words to express the depth of what he is feeling. Despite his silence, he reassured those concerned that he sees and appreciates every gesture of love and care shown toward him. His emotional statement has since resonated widely across social media, sparking sympathy and renewed conversations about grief, mental health, and the emotional toll of sudden loss within the entertainment industry.
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The Lagos State Government has taken firm action against street begging following the arrest of 45 individuals across different parts of the state. The operation was carried out in Alimosho, Agege, and Oshodi as part of a coordinated enforcement and environmental sanitation exercise. The apprehension was conducted by officers responsible for environmental enforcement during a routine mop-up operation aimed at ensuring compliance with existing state laws. These operations are part of the government’s continuous effort to address activities considered harmful to public order and environmental standards. The development was officially confirmed on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who shared details of the exercise through his verified account on X (formerly Twitter). According to him, the arrests were recorded during the day’s statewide enforcement activities. In his statement, Wahab explained that the exercise led to the arrest of 17 street beggars in Alimosho, while 12 individuals were apprehended in Agege. He further disclosed that additional patrols later resulted in the arrest of 10 more persons in Alimosho and six others in Oshodi, bringing the total number of arrested individuals to 45. The commissioner emphasized that the enforcement action aligns with Lagos State’s zero-tolerance policy on street begging, especially in areas such as highways, road medians, traffic intersections, and other public spaces. He described street begging as an activity that constitutes an environmental nuisance and poses a significant risk to public safety. According to Wahab, individuals who beg along busy roads and public areas expose themselves and motorists to danger, as such activities can cause traffic disruptions and accidents. He added that street begging also affects public order and undermines the state’s efforts to maintain a clean and organized urban environment. The Lagos State Government, he noted, remains committed to sustaining these enforcement and mop-up exercises across all local government areas. The goal, according to the commissioner, is to promote a safer, cleaner, and more orderly Lagos, while discouraging practices that threaten environmental standards and public well-being. Authorities have reiterated that enforcement efforts will continue as part of broader strategies to improve environmental compliance and ensure that public spaces are used responsibly across the state.
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A notable political figure in Enugu State and a former senatorial flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Princess Adaku Ogbu Aguocha, widely addressed as Ada Ogbu, has officially withdrawn her membership from the ruling party. Her resignation brings to an end a 14-year political journey within the APC, where she played several influential roles at both grassroots and state levels. The decision was formally communicated through a resignation letter dated December 30, 2025, addressed to the APC Caretaker Ward Chairman of Nara Ward I, located in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State. This development has immediately stirred intense political discussions, particularly due to its timing amid increasing political movements linked to Peter Obi’s transition into the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Observers note that the resignation aligns with a growing pattern of strategic defections by key political actors across Nigeria. In her letter, Princess Adaku Ogbu Aguocha clearly stated that her exit from the APC followed a deep personal and political reassessment. She explained that her choice was influenced by changing political realities and a renewed evaluation of how she could best contribute to the welfare of her people. According to her, the move was neither sudden nor impulsive but came after wide-ranging consultations involving her family, close allies, and trusted political associates. Despite acknowledging the difficulty of the decision, she emphasized that it was intentional and well-considered, reflecting a mature response to evolving political circumstances. Known widely across Enugu’s political landscape as Ada Ogbu, Princess Adaku Ogbu Aguocha has long been regarded as one of the most prominent APC figures in the state. Her influence became particularly visible during periods when the party faced significant electoral challenges in the South-East region. She joined the APC during its early formation stages and steadily rose through the ranks. Over the years, she served as a grassroots mobiliser, party strategist, and vocal advocate for the party’s ideology within Enugu State. Notably, she is recognized as one of the earliest Enugu indigenes to align with the APC, a move that distinguished her political profile at the time. Her political visibility further expanded when the party presented her as its senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District. That contest positioned her among the most identifiable APC representatives in the zone and strengthened her reputation as a consistent party loyalist. Reflecting on her years in the APC, Ada Ogbu expressed appreciation for the opportunities the platform provided. She noted that the exposure, leadership experience, and political lessons she gained significantly shaped her understanding of governance, democratic engagement, and public responsibility. Even as she stepped away from the party, her tone remained calm and respectful. She thanked party leaders, supporters, and fellow members, stressing that her departure should not be seen as an act of hostility or personal grievance toward individuals she worked alongside throughout her political career. The timing of her resignation has drawn additional attention, as it coincides with the day Peter Obi is expected to publicly receive his ADC membership card in Enugu State, which also happens to be Ada Ogbu’s home state. Political analysts view Obi’s move as a strategic effort to consolidate an opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections. In recent weeks, a growing number of politicians from different political backgrounds have left their former parties to associate with the ADC. This trend has been widely described as part of the expanding “Peter Obi wave,” signaling a broader shift within Nigeria’s opposition space. Although Princess Adaku Ogbu Aguocha did not disclose her next political destination in her resignation letter, observers believe her departure places her among influential figures whose next steps are being closely monitored. Many analysts consider her a potential entrant into the ADC-led opposition bloc, given current political dynamics. Enugu State, traditionally perceived as a region resistant to APC dominance, is expected to play a symbolic and strategic role in Obi’s ADC emergence. Against this backdrop, Ada Ogbu’s resignation adds further depth to the ongoing political recalibration in the South-East. As of the time of this report, Princess Adaku Ogbu Aguocha has not publicly announced affiliation with any other political party. However, with Peter Obi’s ADC membership event scheduled to take place in Enugu, political expectations remain high that additional developments may surface in the coming days. For now, her exit from the APC stands out as one of the most notable political events in Enugu State as 2025 comes to an end, reinforcing growing indications that Nigeria’s opposition landscape is entering a decisive phase of realignment and transformation.
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The Lagos State Government has officially announced the cancellation of the 2025 edition of the Greater Lagos Fiesta, an annual event traditionally held on December 31 to usher residents into the new year. This development was made public in a formal statement released on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile. According to the statement, the decision was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu after careful consideration. The statement explained that the governor advised residents of the state to use the period originally earmarked for the Greater Lagos Fiesta, also referred to as the Countdown to 2026, as a time for sober reflection and prayer. Lagosians were encouraged to pray for the nation, the state, and its people as the year 2026 approaches. Governor Sanwo-Olu specifically called on residents to seek divine guidance for Nigeria and Lagos State, praying for continued prosperity, peace, effective leadership, productivity, and the general wellbeing of everyone living in the state. He emphasized the importance of unity and spiritual reflection during the period, especially as the state prepares to enter a new year. While addressing residents, the governor expressed strong optimism about the year 2026, describing it as a year filled with hope and positive expectations for both Lagos State and the country at large. He noted that despite the cancellation of the celebration, the new year presents fresh opportunities for growth and progress. The governor also appealed to Lagos residents to continue living together in peace and harmony, stressing that unity remains essential for the state’s development as it moves forward into the new year. In his New Year message, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended warm wishes to residents across the state, expressing goodwill and positivity for the year ahead. Speaking on behalf of his family, he wished all Lagosians a happy, successful, and prosperous New Year. Furthermore, the governor reassured residents of his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance. He stated that the Lagos State Government would intensify its efforts in 2026 to deliver quality leadership and implement policies aimed at improving the lives of people across the state. He reaffirmed that his administration remains focused on advancing development, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that Lagos continues to move forward in line with its long-term vision.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s determination to proceed with the implementation of Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws, dismissing growing calls from sections of the public for a suspension of the reforms due to concerns surrounding certain provisions. In an official statement issued on Tuesday, the President made it clear that the tax reform programme remains on track. He confirmed that while some of the new tax laws became operational on June 26, 2025, others are scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026, in line with the implementation timetable already announced by the Federal Government According to President Tinubu, the reforms represent a historic and uncommon opportunity to redesign Nigeria’s tax framework into one that is fairer, more competitive, and capable of sustaining long-term economic growth. He noted that the changes were carefully developed to modernise the country’s tax structure rather than impose additional hardship on citizens. The President stressed that the core objective of the new tax laws is not to increase the tax burden on Nigerians. Instead, he explained that the reforms focus on restructuring outdated processes, improving operational efficiency, harmonising tax administration across relevant agencies, and ensuring that taxpayers are treated with respect and dignity. He added that strengthening trust between the government and the public remains a key pillar of the reform agenda. “The new tax laws are not designed to raise taxes. They are meant to structurally reset the system, encourage harmonisation, protect the dignity of Nigerians, and reinforce the social contract between the state and its citizens,” the President stated. While acknowledging that public conversations and debates have emerged around some perceived changes in specific sections of the laws, Tinubu clarified that no substantial flaws or fundamental issues have been identified that would justify halting or reversing the reform process. He warned that abrupt or emotionally driven policy reversals could weaken public confidence and undermine long-term reform objectives. The President further emphasised that trust in governance is built through consistent, deliberate, and carefully implemented policies rather than sudden shifts in direction. He urged stakeholders to engage constructively as the reforms move fully into the implementation phase. Calling for broad support, Tinubu stated that the reform initiative has now transitioned decisively from policy formulation to delivery. He reiterated his administration’s respect for due process, pointing out that the tax laws were lawfully passed by the National Assembly and duly assented to in accordance with constitutional requirements. In addition, the President assured Nigerians that the Presidency would continue to work closely with the National Assembly to swiftly resolve any challenges that may arise during implementation. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to acting in the overall public interest. “I want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the best interest of the people to deliver a tax system that supports prosperity, fairness, and shared responsibility,” Tinubu said. The statement was personally signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his role as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given official approval for the appointment of Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) within the Federal Ministry of Justice. The confirmation of this appointment was conveyed through a formal correspondence dated December 23, which was signed by Omolabake Mafe on behalf of the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission. The letter clarified that Oyedepo’s movement from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into the mainstream Federal Civil Service was executed strictly in the interest of the public. A separate disclosure released on Tuesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye, stated that Oyedepo will officially take over from Abubakar Babadoko. Babadoko is scheduled to retire on December 31, 2025, having completed the compulsory eight-year tenure permitted for directors within the federal service structure. Rotimi Oyedepo’s academic background reveals that he earned his law degree in 2007 from the University of Ilorin, after which he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in 2008. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for what later became an extensive legal career in public prosecution and financial crime litigation. According to the State House statement, Oyedepo is expected to apply his vast legal knowledge to minimise the Federal Government’s dependence on external legal practitioners, especially in sensitive and high-profile prosecutions. His appointment is also aimed at achieving better coordination, uniformity, and clarity in the government’s overall legal approach. Before assuming this new role, Oyedepo served at the EFCC for more than 15 years, where he focused heavily on complex economic and financial crime prosecutions. During his time at the commission, he held several strategic positions, including his role as Head of the Monitoring Unit, where he oversaw critical legal and compliance processes. His professional experience also includes being part of the Federal Government’s legal team in the internationally significant Process and Industrial Developments (P&ID) versus Federal Republic of Nigeria arbitration case. That case remains one of the most consequential legal disputes involving Nigeria on the global stage. Oyedepo’s contributions to public service have earned him notable recognition. He was awarded EFCC Outstanding Staff of the Year in 2014, followed by being named Best Financial Crimes Prosecutor in 2019, highlighting his consistency, diligence, and expertise within the legal enforcement system. With this appointment, the Federal Government signals a renewed commitment to strengthening internal legal capacity and improving prosecution efficiency across ministries and agencies
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has instituted a fresh set of criminal charges against Yakubu Adamu, who currently serves as the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, alongside several other individuals, over allegations connected to terrorism financing amounting to 9.7 million United States dollars. According to court filings submitted on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency accused Adamu and three other defendants of involvement in financial transactions allegedly linked to the funding of terrorist activities. Those listed as co-defendants include Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, identified as the second to fourth defendants in the matter. The defendants are expected to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, where they will be formally arraigned on ten separate counts related to the alleged offence. The court scheduled the arraignment for Wednesday, following procedural developments during earlier proceedings. During a previous court session, counsel to the EFCC, Samuel Chime, had requested that the accused persons be allowed to immediately enter their pleas while a related matter was being heard. However, Justice Nwite declined the request and instead fixed a new date, explaining that the updated charge document had not yet been properly included in the court’s official records at the time. The charge, identified with suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/705/2025, was dated and filed on December 30, according to court documentation. The judge noted that the absence of the charge in the case file made it procedurally impossible to proceed with arraignment on the earlier date. Details contained in count one of the charge allege that the accused individuals, along with others currently declared at large, committed the offence between January 2024 and May 2024. Those named but not currently in custody include Sirajo Jaja, who was reportedly serving as the Accountant-General of Bauchi State at the time, and Samaila Irmiya Liman, both of whom remain unavailable for prosecution. The EFCC alleged that all the named individuals were civil servants and authorized signatories to Bauchi State Government accounts or payment instruments. The commission further claimed that the defendants collectively conspired to provide cash funds totaling 2.3 million U.S. dollars to Bello Bodejo and other persons allegedly associated with him. According to the prosecution, the financial transactions were carried out based on approvals reportedly granted by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State. The funds, the EFCC alleged, were subsequently utilized either wholly or partially to support the activities of a terrorist group or individual linked to terrorism. The alleged offence, as stated in the charge sheet, is said to contravene Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and is punishable under Section 21(2)(a) of the same legislation. The court is expected to formally read the charges to the defendants when proceedings resume. Legal observers are closely watching the case due to its implications for public finance management, counter-terrorism enforcement, and accountability within government institutions. Further developments are anticipated following the scheduled arraignment.
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Fatima Buhari, a daughter of the late former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly claimed that her father’s private secretary, Tunde Sabiu, wielded excessive authority during Buhari’s time in office. In a post shared on her verified X (formerly Twitter) account early Tuesday, Fatima stated that Sabiu exercised undue influence within presidential operations, suggesting that his role extended far beyond normal secretarial duties. According to Fatima’s message, Sabiu’s influence was so significant that it shaped key decisions inside the presidency — a revelation that has stirred public debate, particularly among Nigerians who still closely follow the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Online Reaction and Criticism The comments from Fatima Buhari quickly sparked responses online. One X user, Ahmad Sadeeq, criticized her statement strongly. In his reaction, Sadeeq accused Fatima of leveraging her father’s name and legacy for attention. “You are using Buhari’s family name to chase clout. Let him and his family rest abeg,” he wrote, urging her to refrain from revisiting her father’s political era through controversial claims. Context of Buhari’s Presidency To better understand the backdrop of this discussion, it’s important to note who Muhammadu Buhari was and what his tenure represented. Buhari served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 until 2023, following a long career in public service that included military leadership and multiple presidential campaigns. His administration was well‑known for its declared commitment to anti‑corruption and security policies. However, it faced both praise and criticism: some praised efforts to curb corruption, while others faulted the government for perceived economic mismanagement and uneven enforcement of its policies. The Debate Over Power and Legacy Fatima Buhari’s comments have reignited ongoing discussions about internal governance dynamics during her father’s occupation of the presidency. Observers point out that the Nigerian presidency, like many high‑level political offices, can involve key aides and officials who wield substantial influence behind the scenes. Whether such influence is appropriate or excessive often becomes a matter of public opinion and political interpretation. Even with mixed views on his leadership, Buhari’s influence in Nigerian politics remains substantial. His presidency marked Nigeria’s democratic landscape at a time of deep national conversations about governance, corruption, and institutional accountability.
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In a strategic move aimed at strengthening security in Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal has officially approved the appointment of retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Dr. Muhammad Shehu Dalijan, as the new State Commandant of the Community Protection Guards (CPG). The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, confirmed the appointment, emphasizing that it takes effect immediately. Alongside this appointment, Governor Lawal has instructed a comprehensive restructuring of the Community Protection Guards, targeting operational and administrative reforms to enhance the agency’s efficiency and service delivery across the state. Experienced Leadership at the Helm According to a statement by Suleman Ahmad Tudu, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the SSG, Dr. Dalijan brings over 30 years of experience in policing, security management, and leadership. His expertise spans community engagement, counter-terrorism operations, and strategic security planning, making him highly qualified to lead the CPG. Dr. Dalijan previously served as Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State from 2023 to 2025, where he played a crucial role in tackling security challenges within the state. His extensive career also includes significant national appointments, such as: Before his retirement in June 2025, Dr. Dalijan served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Counter-Terrorism at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, contributing significantly to national security strategy and counter-terrorism operations. Governor Lawal’s Vision for Security Reform Governor Lawal expressed confidence in Dr. Dalijan’s deep knowledge of Zamfara’s security landscape and terrain, highlighting that this appointment will reposition the Community Protection Guards to effectively fulfill their mandate. This aligns with the administration’s broader security and rescue agenda, aimed at curbing insecurity and enhancing community safety. The governor also commended the outgoing commandant for his dedicated service, wishing him a speedy recovery and reaffirming the government’s continued support for all personnel within the Community Protection Guards. This strategic appointment is expected to strengthen local security structures, improve coordination with law enforcement agencies, and enhance public trust in community-based policing initiatives.
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On Christmas Day, buildings in Nukuru village suffered significant damage as missiles struck approximately 10 kilometers away, igniting fear across the region. For years, residents of north-western Nigeria’s arid savannah plains and highlands have lived under the shadow of militant threats, a fear now intensified by recent US airstrikes targeting Islamist militants in the area. The militants, heavily armed and recognizable by their camouflage attire and bright turbans, have established camps in Tangaza, a remote part of Sokoto State near Nigeria’s border with Niger. Known as Lakurawa, this group traces its origins to the Sahel regions north of Nigeria, with many believed to come from Niger and Mali. The local population, largely composed of moderate Muslims, lives in constant fear of these fighters. Authorities in both the US and Nigeria have identified Lakurawa as being affiliated with Islamic State (IS) groups operating in the Sahel. However, unlike other groups supported by IS, there has been no public acknowledgment or claim of connection between IS and Lakurawa. During a recent visit by the BBC to Nukuru—one of several remote villages in Tangaza, located about 10 kilometers from the missile strikes—locals were reluctant to discuss the militants. Many feared retaliation, speaking only after assurances of anonymity. The interviews revealed the depth of the terror these communities endure daily. Our reporting team traveled into this high-risk area, approximately 12 kilometers from the Niger border, under police escort and with additional security personnel. Local authorities explained that they typically avoid venturing into Tangaza, citing inadequate firepower to safely confront the militants if attacked. Due to ongoing threats, our team could not access the exact missile strike sites and was advised to limit time in the area to prevent militants from planting landmines along our exit routes. A local farmer near Nukuru recounted that, shortly after the airstrikes on Thursday night, militants fleeing from the attacks temporarily converged on his community. Residents continue to face uncertainty as the militant threat remains persistent and security measures remain limited. The situation in Tangaza highlights the broader challenge of combating militant groups in remote areas of Nigeria while protecting civilians caught in the crossfire. The recent US strikes underscore international concern about the spread of extremist networks in West Africa, particularly those operating along the Sahel corridor.
