Customs Intercept Luxury Bus Conveying Military Uniforms, Suspected Illicit Drugs

Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, have intercepted a luxury passenger bus loaded with military camouflage uniforms and suspected illicit drugs along the Sagamu-Ore-Benin Expressway.

The interception reportedly took place in the early hours of Sunday during an intelligence-led patrol operation by Customs officers.

Speaking while handing over the seized items to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Idiroko on Monday, the Acting Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, said the luxury bus was intercepted without a registration number after allegedly bypassing several security checkpoints.

According to him, preliminary investigations suggested that the military uniforms may have been intended for unauthorised individuals for possible impersonation and other criminal activities.

Afeni disclosed that a thorough search of the vehicle uncovered 197 camouflage trousers and shorts hidden inside cartons, five complete camouflage uniforms, 32 camouflage inner wears and several camouflage tops.

He further stated that officers recovered 154 parcels of suspected Cannabis Indica, popularly known as Canadian Loud, as well as seven parcels of Colorado and other prohibited items still undergoing investigation.

The Customs boss explained that intelligence reports showed that commercial transport vehicles are increasingly being used to transport contraband across major highways while disguising as legitimate passenger operations.

He estimated the total street value of the seized military regalia and illicit substances at over N259 million.

Two suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure and are currently under investigation as authorities work to uncover other members of the suspected smuggling network.

Afeni noted that the discovery of illicit drugs alongside military uniforms raised serious national security concerns, warning that criminals often use military camouflage to impersonate security personnel and aid unlawful activities.

The suspects and recovered exhibits were subsequently handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and possible prosecution.

NAFDAC Warns Nigerians Over Circulation of Counterfeit Augmentin Tablets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised fresh concerns over the circulation of counterfeit Augmentin 625mg Tablets in parts of Nigeria.

The warning was contained in the agency’s “Public Alert No. 024/2026,” where it disclosed that the falsified medication is being sold in packs of 2 x 7 tablets bearing Batch No. AC3N.

According to NAFDAC, the alert followed reports and complaints received from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the authorised marketer of Augmentin products in Nigeria, regarding suspected fake versions of the antibiotic circulating within the country.

The agency stated that investigations carried out by GSK confirmed the product as counterfeit after examining documentary evidence, photographs and videos shared on social media platforms.

Although the fake medicine carried the same batch number as an authentic Augmentin batch previously distributed in Nigeria, discrepancies in the manufacturing and expiry dates exposed the product as falsified.

NAFDAC disclosed that the genuine Batch AC3N was originally manufactured at GSK’s Worthing facility in the United Kingdom on August 23, 2023, and packaged between September 19 and 20, 2023.

However, the counterfeit version reportedly carried manufacturing and expiry dates of September 2025 and September 2028 respectively dates which the manufacturer confirmed do not exist in its official production records.

Further investigations also uncovered noticeable packaging defects, including spelling and textual errors as well as poor-quality sealing, which helped confirm the products as fake.

The agency warned that Augmentin, which contains amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, is commonly used for treating bacterial infections, stressing that counterfeit medicines may contain harmful substances, incorrect dosages, or no active ingredients at all.

NAFDAC therefore advised healthcare providers, pharmacists, distributors and medicine vendors to immediately inspect their stock and isolate any suspected counterfeit products from circulation.

The agency also urged Nigerians to report suspected fake medicines or medical products to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its official complaint channels.

Kano Moves To Tackle Daba Fight, Political Thuggery With Safe Corridor Initiative

The Kano State Government has intensified preparations for the launch of its Safe Corridor Programme aimed at combating daba fight, political thuggery and other security challenges through rehabilitation and reorientation initiatives.

As part of the preparations, the Coordinator of the programme and Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Sunday led members of the implementation committee on an inspection tour of facilities at the Corporate Security Institute in Gabasawa.

During the visit, the committee inspected hostels, classrooms, training halls, sports facilities and other structures expected to support the smooth take-off of the initiative.

The Safe Corridor Programme is a non-kinetic security intervention designed to promote rehabilitation, empowerment, reintegration, peace building and behavioural reorientation among youths involved in violent activities and political thuggery.

Speaking during the inspection, Waiya said the initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration to addressing insecurity through community-based solutions, dialogue and empowerment rather than relying solely on enforcement measures.

He stated that the government was determined to tackle the rising menace of daba activities and politically motivated violence across Kano communities through sustainable programmes capable of transforming affected youths into productive members of society.

According to him, adequate arrangements are being put in place to ensure the successful commencement of the project, adding that the committee remains focused on delivering its mandate effectively.

Members of the committee expressed satisfaction with the level of preparations at the facility, noting that final touches were being concluded ahead of the official unveiling of the programme.

Among dignitaries who participated in the inspection tour were Sarkin Shanu, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed; Dan Amar and Hakimin Gobirawa, Alhaji Aliyu Umar Harazimi; the Kano State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Alhaji Lawan Dahiru; businessman Alhaji Sabiu Bako; representatives of civil society organisations; and other stakeholders.

The committee maintained that the Safe Corridor Programme would play a key role in reducing youth violence, curbing political thuggery and strengthening peace and social stability across Kano State.

2027: Anxiety as Shettima Awaits Tinubu’s Decision on Running Mate

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appears to have secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket for the 2027 election without significant opposition, unlike the intense contest that preceded the 2023 general election.

In 2022, Tinubu faced strong competition from prominent party figures including former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi before eventually emerging as the APC candidate.

However, political observers say the situation within the ruling party has changed considerably, with Tinubu now firmly in control of the APC structure ahead of the next election cycle.

Attention has now shifted to the question of who will emerge as his running mate in 2027, amid growing speculation over whether Vice President Kashim Shettima will retain his position on the ticket.

Tinubu’s decision to pick Shettima in 2022 generated controversy in some quarters due to concerns over the Muslim-Muslim ticket and fears of religious imbalance in the country’s political leadership.

Despite the criticisms at the time, analysts believe the issue has gradually lost momentum, especially following the administration’s nearly three years in office.

Political commentators have described Shettima as one of the most loyal vice presidents in Nigeria’s recent democratic history, citing his consistent support for the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration.

Observers also point to Shettima’s political influence in Northern Nigeria, where he is considered a key figure with a strong support base.

According to analysts, Tinubu may consider retaining the vice president to avoid unnecessary political tensions within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The relationship between First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the wife of the vice president, Hajia Nana Shettima, has also been cited as another factor strengthening political harmony within the presidency.

Hajia Nana Shettima currently serves as National Vice Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a programme founded by the First Lady focused on women and youth empowerment across the country.

While political intrigues and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring continue within the APC, many party insiders believe it would be difficult for Tinubu to replace Shettima at this stage.

However, analysts maintain that political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections could still influence the president’s final decision.

(Vanguard)

WHY OPPOSITION DISUNITY MAY RETURN TINUBU TO POWER. By: Nworisa Michael

If you’ve followed me long enough, you’ll know I have consistently spoken strongly against President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. Some people may not like hearing this, but I do not speak for entertainment, I speak from conviction and observation.

Like millions of Nigerians, I am deeply frustrated about the state of the nation. Perhaps even more because I pay close attention to governance and political developments almost daily, following them with the same intensity passionate football lovers follow their clubs.

So when the opposition coalition conversations began, I felt relief. I felt hope. For the first time in a while, it looked like Nigeria might finally witness a truly united front strong enough to challenge the current administration.

But that hope slowly faded the moment the coalition fragmented into different camps.

What many Nigerians are now watching looks dangerously similar to the same mistakes of 2023: divided opposition, scattered votes, parallel ambitions, and eventually one major beneficiary President Tinubu.

Some people believe an alliance between H.E Mr. Peter Obi and Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso  can still change everything. Mathematically, it sounds attractive. But politics is not won by arithmetic alone.

Peter Obi’s rise became powerful because many Nigerians, especially in parts of the South-East and among young people across regions, saw him as a symbol against exclusion, old political dominance, and sectional politics.

He remains a strong and respected candidate.

But without a broad and truly united opposition, defeating a sitting government with all the advantages of incumbency becomes extremely difficult.

And while many supporters believe Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso can help market Obi strongly across the North, I honestly do not think that assumption reflects the political reality on ground as much as people imagine.

Personally, I do not want a candidacy built around tribal balancing or religious calculations. I want a candidacy that makes Nigerians genuinely feel Nigerian first before tribe or region.

And if the conversation is about a politician from the South-East who has genuinely crossed regional and political boundaries nationally, then there is one name many people intentionally avoid mentioning.

A politician whose political relationships cut across the North, South, East, and West. A politician who built bridges long before coalition politics became fashionable.

Ironically, even Sen. Kwankwaso himself would think twice before underestimating his reach.

He may not be making the loudest noise today. He may not dominate online conversations daily. But he sits quietly, calculating, observing, and waiting for the right political moment.

Do not be surprised if he becomes President before H.E Peter Obi.

Because unlike many politicians who depend heavily on regional emotional movements, he is naturally marketable across different parts of Nigeria on his own political strength.

That man is Senator Rochas Okorocha 

Nworisa Michael is the coordinator,  Inter-tribe Community Support Forum and writes from nworisamichael1917@gmail.com

DSS Releases Yobe Youth After Clearing Him Of Allegations, Provides N2m Support

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a young man from Yobe State, Mr. Ya’u Mohammed, after investigations reportedly cleared him of any involvement in criminal activities.

In a development described by many observers as unusual and humanitarian, the DSS also provided the youth with a N2 million support package to assist his reintegration into society and help him establish a means of livelihood.

Ya’u Mohammed, who hails from Gashua in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State, was officially handed over to the Yobe State Government during a visit to the DSS Command Headquarters in Damaturu.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor, retired Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam, said the visit was aimed at verifying the circumstances surrounding the detention and eventual release of the young man.

According to him, investigations conducted by the DSS later confirmed that Mohammed had no connection to the allegations that led to his detention.

Abdulsalam described the gesture by the DSS as unprecedented, noting that throughout his years in public service, he had never witnessed a situation where a person cleared of allegations was not only released but also financially supported to rebuild his life.

He commended the leadership of the DSS for what he described as a demonstration of justice, compassion and commitment to rehabilitation.

The retired military officer also urged security agencies across the country to continue respecting the rule of law and the rights of citizens in order to strengthen public trust and cooperation.

Reacting after regaining his freedom, Mohammed expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the DSS leadership for the assistance extended to him.

He pledged to make good use of the N2 million support package to establish a sustainable source of income and improve the wellbeing of his family.

His father, Alhaji Muhammadu, who was present during the reunion, also thanked the DSS for what he described as a compassionate intervention.

The development has continued to generate reactions from members of the public, with many describing it as a rare example of accountability and humane treatment within Nigeria’s security system.

Northwest University Kano Holds Orientation For Pioneer Part-Time Degree Students

The Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), Northwest University Kano, has organised an orientation programme for newly admitted Part-Time Degree students for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The event, held on Friday at the Murtala Muhammad Library in Kano, was aimed at familiarising the pioneer students of the program with the university’s academic regulations, facilities and expectations for a successful academic journey.

Speaking during the programme, the Director of the Institute of Continuing Education, Dr. Lawal Idris, welcomed the students and congratulated them on securing admission into the university’s Part-Time Degree Programme.

He urged the students to remain dedicated to their studies and take full advantage of the educational opportunities provided by the institution.

The programme was officially declared open on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Associate Professor Tijjani Rufa’i Buhari.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic excellence, discipline and quality service delivery, while encouraging students to uphold integrity, hard work and dedication throughout their studies.

The orientation featured presentations by senior university officials and resource persons on various aspects of academic life and student responsibilities.

Representing the Registrar, Dr. Isyaku Adamu, Nura Tijjani Yahya delivered a presentation on code of conduct, dress code and campus life, highlighting behavioural expectations and regulations guiding students within the university community.

The University Librarian, Associate Professor Karima Maisango, spoke on reading culture, library usage and e-library technology, stressing the importance of developing strong reading habits and effectively utilising both physical and digital learning resources.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Library Board, Dr. Kabiru Zakirai, represented by Malam Nura Mudi, Director of the American Section, enlightened students on library ethics and responsible use of information resources.

The Examination Officer of the Part-Time Degree Programme, Malam Zauwali Sabitu Paki, delivered a lecture on examination rules and regulations, student interaction with the handbook and techniques for answering examination questions.

He advised students to familiarise themselves with examination guidelines and adopt effective study habits.

In another presentation, the Coordinator of the Part-Time Degree Programme, Dr. Nura Abubakar Gwadabe, explained the university’s grading system, result computation process and academic progression requirements.

The programme concluded with closing remarks by the Head of Administration, Institute of Continuing Education, Bello Ibrahim, who appreciated the university management, resource persons and participants for contributing to the success of the orientation exercise.

He encouraged the students to apply the knowledge gained during the programme as they begin their academic activities at the institution.

The orientation provided an opportunity for the newly admitted students to better understand the university’s academic environment, regulations and support services ahead of the commencement of their studies.

Kano Govt Inaugurates High Powered Committee For Gov. Yusuf’s Third Anniversary Celebration

The Kano State Government has inaugurated a high-powered committee to oversee activities marking the third anniversary of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration.

The committee was inaugurated on behalf of the governor by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Faruk Ibrahim, during a ceremony held at the Cabinet Office Conference Hall in Kano.

Speaking at the event, the SSG said the committee was tasked with organising programmes that would showcase the achievements and developmental milestones recorded by the present administration over the past three years.

He stated that the celebration would provide an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of the “Gida Gida” administration across critical sectors affecting the lives of Kano residents.

According to him, the government has made notable progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, environmental management, rural development and good governance since assuming office.

Umar Faruk Ibrahim also emphasised the need for proper publicity and documentation of the anniversary activities, revealing that a commemorative brochure capturing the administration’s achievements would be produced as part of the celebration.

The committee comprises top government officials, including the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Marwan Ahmad; Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf; Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir Muhammad Hashim; and Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud.

Other members include the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gwani Ali Haruna Abubakar Makoda; Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Hon. Abduljabbar Umar Garko; Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Hon. Abdulkadir Abdussalam; Special Adviser, Cabinet Office, Hon. Adda’u Lawan Kutama; Director General, Media and Publicity, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa; Director General, Protocol, Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo; Director General, Research and Documentation, Hajiya Nana Asma’u Jibrin; Director General, National Productivity Center, Hon. Baffa Babba Dan Agundi; and Hon. Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso.

Also appointed as secretary of the committee is the Permanent Secretary, Research, Evaluation and Political Affairs (REPA), Alhaji Umar Muhammad Jalo.

The committee was charged with ensuring a successful anniversary celebration that would reflect the administration’s commitment to people-oriented governance and sustainable development across Kano State.

The statement announcing the inauguration was issued by Musa Tanko Muhammad, Press Secretary, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Kano.

Physically Challenged Content Creator "Celebrity Chichi" Appeals To Brain Jotter, Davido For Collaboration

A physically challenged Nigerian content creator popularly known on Facebook as Celebrity Chichi has appealed to top entertainers, including comedian Brain Jotter and music star Davido, to support and collaborate with her as she continues to pursue her dreams in the entertainment industry.

Celebrity Chichi made the appeal in an emotional video shared on her Facebook page, where she called on the celebrities and other well-meaning Nigerians to help amplify her talent and give her an opportunity to grow.

In the video, the content creator passionately expressed her desire to work with some of Nigeria’s biggest entertainers, stating that despite her physical condition, she remains determined to succeed and inspire others facing similar challenges.

Her appeal has since begun attracting attention on social media, with many users praising her courage, confidence and refusal to allow disability define her future.

Followers noted that Celebrity Chichi has gradually built a presence online through her videos and engaging personality, earning admiration from followers who see her as a symbol of resilience and self-belief.

Many social media users also described her public appeal as a reminder of the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities in Nigeria’s entertainment and creative industries.

Click on To Check Out Celebrity Chichi on Facebook  

Supporters are now urging celebrities, brands and content creators to respond positively to her request and encourage more talents from vulnerable and underrepresented communities.

The development comes amid increasing conversations around the need to promote inclusiveness and provide platforms for persons with disabilities to fully participate in entertainment, media and other sectors of society.

Leaked Memo Sparks Fresh Tuition Hike Fears As FG Directs Universities To Fund Lecturers’ Allowances Through IGR

Fresh concerns over possible tuition increases in Nigeria’s public universities have emerged following the circulation of a leaked memo indicating that the Federal Government directed federal universities to fund lecturers’ allowances through internally generated revenue (IGR).

The internal memo from Modibbo Adama University revealed that the Federal Ministry of Education instructed vice-chancellors to source funds internally for the payment of Consequential Adjustment and Transport Allowance (CATA) to academic staff.

The document, dated May 18, 2026, and signed by the university bursar, Hanien N. Ayuka, stated that the institution had been paying the allowance from its internally generated revenue since January 2026.

However, the university explained that the arrangement had become financially unsustainable due to the absence of reimbursement from the Federal Government.

According to the memo, the Minister of Education directed all vice-chancellors to immediately begin payment of the allowance to eligible lecturers pending federal cash backing.

The university disclosed that despite complying with the directive for months, it had yet to receive any financial support from the Federal Government to offset the payments already made.

As a result, the institution announced the suspension of the allowance payment from May 2026 because of growing financial pressure.

Copies of the leaked memo were reportedly circulated to principal officers of the university, including the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors, Registrar, Provost, Internal Auditor, University Librarian, deans, the chairman of the institution’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) branch, and the Head of Payroll.

A lecturer at the university, who spoke anonymously, warned that the development could force many federal universities to increase tuition fees and service charges to survive financially.

“The reality is that many universities may have no choice but to increase tuition and other charges next session because the government has effectively pushed the responsibility of funding onto the institutions,” the lecturer reportedly said.

The development has generated anxiety among students, parents and lecturers, with fears that another round of fee hikes could worsen the economic hardship facing many Nigerian families.

Several federal universities have already increased tuition and administrative charges in recent years, leading to protests by students and labour unions who accused the government of gradually commercialising public education.

Meanwhile, ASUU has again accused the Federal Government of failing to fully implement the 2025 agreement reached with the union.

Speaking during a press conference at Benue State University, ASUU Nsukka Zone Coordinator, Comrade Christian Opata, alleged that the government had only partially implemented the agreement signed on January 14, 2026.

Opata criticised the delay in inaugurating the Implementation Monitoring Committee expected to oversee compliance with the agreement and resolve emerging issues.

The union also faulted the Federal Government over the proposed National Research and Innovation Development Fund (NRIDF), announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, alleging that ASUU was excluded from the process despite being part of the agreement.

ASUU further rejected the proposed funding structure for the research fund, insisting that it contradicted earlier recommendations that at least one per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) should be allocated to research, innovation and development.

The union warned that continued failure to fully implement the agreement could trigger another industrial crisis in Nigeria’s public university system.

NDLEA Warns Against Growing Culture of Drug Abuse Glorification

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on Nigerians to reject the growing trend of glorifying drug abuse, particularly among young people, warning that the culture poses serious dangers to society.

Chairman of the agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), made the call during the commissioning of the NDLEA’s radio station, Clean Beat 91.5FM, in Abuja.

Marwa said the station was established to strengthen the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign through public enlightenment, education and community engagement.

According to him, the increasing portrayal of substance abuse as fashionable in popular culture remains a major concern that requires urgent action from families, media organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders.

“We recognise that behind every case of drug abuse is a human being — a young person searching for escape, a family seeking solutions, and individuals whose lives can still be redirected positively,” he said.

The NDLEA chairman explained that the radio station would serve as a platform for promoting positive values, sharing recovery stories and providing accurate information aimed at discouraging drug abuse.

He warned that allowing harmful narratives around drugs to spread unchecked could have severe consequences for public health, national security and economic stability.

“If we fail to control the narrative today, the consequences tomorrow could be devastating,” Marwa stated.

He further noted that drug abuse continues to contribute to insecurity and several social problems across Nigeria, but expressed optimism that sustained advocacy and awareness campaigns could help reverse the trend.

Marwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, intercepting illicit substances and dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

Speaking at the event, the United Nations Country Representative, represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, described the initiative as a positive step toward combining enforcement with education and advocacy.

According to him, the project aligns with Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan and supports efforts aimed at promoting a more balanced and health-focused response to drug-related challenges.

Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Charles Ebuebu, also commended the initiative, noting that broadcasting remains a powerful tool for shaping public attitudes and promoting positive behavioural change, especially among youths.

Kaduna Communities Raise Alarm Over Suspicious Okada Riders, Fake Transfer Scams

Residents in several communities across Kaduna State have raised concerns over increasing security threats linked to suspicious commercial motorcycle activities and rising cases of fake bank transfer fraud targeting traders and business owners.

The concerns were highlighted during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Regional Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) Network under the Empowering Community Security (ECOS) Project.

In a statement issued by the Kaduna State Coordinator of the EWER Network, Eric John, participants reviewed recent security developments across Chikun, Kajuru, Kachia and Kagarko Local Government Areas.

According to the statement, communities have continued to witness emerging criminal activities and worsening economic pressures, prompting calls for stronger vigilance and coordinated response measures.

The network revealed that between January and May 18, 2026, at least 16 early warning security reports were received and escalated for intervention.

Stakeholders at the meeting expressed concern over the growing number of unidentified commercial motorcycle riders operating within Kaduna metropolis and surrounding communities.

Participants alleged that some of the riders rent houses and lodge in hotels without proper means of identification, creating fear among residents already battling insecurity challenges.

The meeting also raised concerns over reports of armed herders allegedly relocating into rural communities in Kajuru, Chikun, Kachia and Kagarko LGAs, with fears that the situation could lead to attacks, destruction of farmlands and renewed communal tensions.

However, the stakeholders dismissed rumours claiming that criminals had taken refuge at the Sabon Tasha abattoir, stating that investigations by the Sabon Tasha Police Division found no evidence supporting the allegations.

Residents were cautioned against spreading unverified information capable of creating panic and tension within communities.

The meeting further identified the increasing use of fake bank transfer alerts by fraudsters to deceive traders and small-scale business owners.

According to participants, several business owners had reportedly released goods to customers after receiving fraudulent payment notifications later discovered to be fake.

Stakeholders also pointed to rising ram prices ahead of the festive season and increasing incidents of ram theft as additional concerns affecting residents.

Participants called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society groups, media organisations and community members to improve intelligence sharing and early response mechanisms.

Residents were advised to remain vigilant, properly verify bank payments before releasing goods and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to relevant authorities.

The stakeholders also urged the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to strengthen the monitoring and registration of commercial motorcycle operators, intensify surveillance in vulnerable areas and improve efforts against cyber-related financial crimes and livestock theft.

UPDATE: APC Clears Hon. Umar Mahmud Umar After Earlier Disqualification Controversy

Hon. Umar Mahmud Umar, an aspirant for the Gusau 1 Constituency seat in the Zamfara State House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has now been cleared by the party following earlier controversy surrounding his screening status.

The latest development comes days after Umar announced his withdrawal from the party’s primary election over what he described as an unfair screening process that initially declared him “Not Cleared.”

The aspirant had earlier faulted the decision of the APC screening committee, insisting that all documents and credentials submitted by him were authentic, complete and in line with the party’s requirements.

Following fresh review and internal consultations within the party, Umar’s status has now reportedly been changed to “Cleared,” paving the way for his participation in the party’s primary process.

The development has generated reactions among supporters and political stakeholders in Zamfara State, especially after concerns were earlier raised regarding transparency and fairness in the screening exercise.

Hon. Umar had previously accused the process of lacking accountability and transparency, while also expressing disappointment over the handling of complaints by party authorities.

Despite the earlier disagreement, the latest clearance is being viewed by supporters as a positive step toward resolving internal tensions ahead of the APC primary election in the state.

Party supporters have since welcomed the update, expressing hope for a peaceful and credible primary process moving forward.

Fubara To Contest Rivers Governorship Seat Under NDC

A Rivers State politician, Blessing Fubara, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The governorship hopeful has reportedly obtained both the nomination and expression of interest forms ahead of the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Blessing Fubara shares the same surname and local government area with the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as both are from Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of the state.

However, there has been no official confirmation indicating whether the two politicians are related.

The Rivers State Chairman of the NDC, Success Jack, confirmed that Blessing Fubara is among the aspirants seeking the party’s governorship ticket.

According to him, the party is intensifying preparations for the 2027 elections and remains optimistic about securing victory in the governorship race and other elective positions across the state.

Success Jack, however, noted that he could not verify claims regarding any family relationship between the governorship aspirant and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The development comes weeks after Blessing Fubara defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC.

Following his defection in Abuja, he was received by former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, alongside other party leaders and supporters.

Speaking after joining the NDC, Blessing Fubara said his decision was made in the interest of Rivers people and aimed at protecting the future of the state ahead of the next general election.

He also expressed confidence that Rivers State would witness positive political transformation after the 2027 polls.

Why Some People Struggle To Believe Happy Marriages Exist — Lawyer Opens Up

A Nigerian lawyer, Chioma Linda Ekene-Okwunma, has sparked conversations on social media after sharing a personal experience highlighting what she described as society’s growing tendency to expect failure in marriages and relationships.

In a lengthy post shared on her Facebook page, the lawyer reflected on an encounter she had with a woman after a church service several years ago while seated with her husband.

According to her, she and her husband had spent the service exchanging jokes, laughter and light conversations, which appeared to catch the attention of another woman who later approached her with what seemed to be marital advice.

The woman reportedly told her to enjoy the “beautiful moments” while they lasted, insisting that marriage would eventually become difficult after the first year.

“Enjoy these beautiful moments now ooo. After this your first year of marriage, you will understand that it is not all a bed of roses,” the woman reportedly said.

Chioma, however, revealed that at the time of the encounter, she was already seven years into her marriage.

“This is my 7th year in marriage ma… so what exactly are you talking about?” she responded.

According to the lawyer, the woman appeared shocked and struggled to believe that a couple could still genuinely enjoy each other’s company after several years of marriage.

Reflecting on the experience, Chioma said the incident taught her that many people unknowingly project their personal disappointments and emotional struggles onto others.

“Misery truly loves company. Sometimes, when people are unhappy in their own circumstances, they become uncomfortable when they see joy in others,” she wrote.

She warned against normalising bitterness and constantly predicting failure for other people’s relationships, noting that such attitudes could negatively influence younger couples and newly married individuals.

“When we constantly tell others that their joy will soon fade, that their marriage will eventually become bitter, that their dreams will collapse, or that their peace is temporary, we are not offering wisdom — we are spreading discouragement,” she stated.

The lawyer stressed that while marriages naturally face challenges, not every relationship must follow the same negative pattern often portrayed in society and online spaces.

“Not every story has to follow the same script. Some marriages are full of laughter. Some friendships grow deeper with time. Some people genuinely find peace in the lives they have built,” she added.

She further noted that many relationships lose happiness not because of time, but because people stop nurturing friendship, understanding and emotional connection.

Chioma also emphasised the importance of emotional healing, stating that unresolved pain often reveals itself in how people react to the happiness and success of others.

“The state of our hearts is often revealed by how we respond to other people's blessings,” she wrote.

Her post has since generated reactions online, with many social media users praising the message and sharing personal experiences about societal attitudes toward marriage and relationships.

Fubara Withdraws From APC Governorship Primary In Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in the state.

Fubara disclosed his decision in a statement personally issued on Wednesday, saying the move was taken in the interest of peace, unity and stability in Rivers State.

According to the governor, his decision to step aside from the contest should not be interpreted as fear, weakness or surrender, but as a sacrifice aimed at ensuring harmony and progress in the state.

“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State gubernatorial election not out of weakness, fear or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he stated.

Fubara also reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.

The governor’s withdrawal comes amid ongoing political realignments and growing attention surrounding the APC governorship race in Rivers State ahead of the next election cycle.