Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has positioned energy reform as a cornerstone of his administration’s economic transformation agenda. Among the most consequential initiatives is the accelerated push toward solarization—the large-scale deployment of solar energy systems across public institutions, rural communities, and critical infrastructure. In a country long challenged by unreliable grid electricity, high diesel costs, and energy poverty, the solarization project represents both an economic and social intervention with far-reaching gains.

In actualizing these gains, the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu saw the need to appoint someone with the right capacity, knowledge and verve to lead the sectors drive towards solarization of the nation, for a more focused sector that will ensure steady energy supply to all Nigerians. The President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was therefore, applauded for his choice of Engineer Abdullahi Mustapha as Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN and, the choice of appointment has not failed in the task assigned him.

1. Expanding Energy Access and Reducing Energy Poverty
   Nigeria has historically struggled with inadequate electricity generation and distribution, with millions of citizens lacking reliable access to power. The solarization initiative, supported through federal programs and partnerships with development finance institutions, aims to bridge this gap by:

. Deploying off-grid and mini-grid solar systems in rural and underserved communities
. Installing solar panels in schools, primary healthcare centers, and government facilities
. Supporting decentralized renewable energy solutions where grid extension is impractical
By prioritizing solar in rural electrification, the Tinubu administration has strengthened Nigeria’s progress toward universal energy access. Solar mini-grids have empowered small businesses, improved healthcare delivery (through reliable cold storage for vaccines and lighting for surgeries), and enabled students to study after dark.
The shift to decentralized solar solutions reduces overreliance on the national grid, which remains constrained by aging infrastructure and transmission bottlenecks.

2. Fiscal Savings and Reduced Diesel Dependence
   One of the most significant gains of the solarization project is cost reduction in public sector energy consumption. Federal ministries, departments, and agencies have traditionally relied heavily on diesel generators due to inconsistent grid supply. This has led to:
   . recurrent fuel expenditure
   . Maintenance costs for generators
   . Exposure to fluctuating diesel prices
   Solar installations under the Tinubu administration are gradually lowering these operational costs. By replacing diesel generators with photovoltaic systems and battery storage, government institutions reduce long-term energy spending. These savings can be redirected toward social services, infrastructure, and economic development.
   Additionally, reduced diesel use lowers Nigeria’s demand for imported refined petroleum products, supporting broader macroeconomic stability and foreign exchange conservation.
3. Boosting Economic Productivity and MSMEs
   Solarization contributes directly to economic productivity, especially among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). In markets and commercial clusters where power outages are frequent, solar-powered solutions provide:
   Reliable lighting for extended business hours
   Power for refrigeration, welding, tailoring, and agro-processing
   Reduced operational costs compared to generator use
   Lower energy costs increase profitability for small businesses and improve job retention. This aligns with President Tinubu’s broader economic reform agenda, which emphasizes private-sector growth and industrial competitiveness.
   In agricultural communities, solar-powered irrigation systems and cold storage facilities enhance food preservation and reduce post-harvest losses—an important contribution to food security.
4. Environmental and Climate Benefits
   Nigeria is a signatory to international climate agreements and has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The solarization project strengthens Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner energy sources by:
   Lowering carbon emissions from diesel generators
   Reducing air pollution in densely populated areas
   Supporting sustainable development goals
   Solar power, as a renewable and low-emission source, aligns with global energy transition trends. Under Tinubu’s leadership, renewable energy deployment sends a signal to investors that Nigeria is open to green finance and climate-aligned investments.
   The environmental gains also translate into public health benefits, as reduced generator fumes mean lower exposure to particulate pollution in homes, offices, and markets.
5. Strengthening Energy Security and Diversification
   Nigeria’s energy paradox—being an oil-producing nation with persistent electricity shortages—has long hindered economic growth. The solarization project contributes to energy diversification, reducing dependence on gas-fired power plants and vulnerable transmission infrastructure.
   Solar systems distributed across regions create a more resilient energy ecosystem. Unlike centralized power plants that can disrupt large areas if they fail, decentralized solar installations:
   Limit systemic blackouts
   Improve localized energy reliability
   Enhance disaster resilience
   This diversification strengthens national energy security and supports long-term stability in the power sector.
6. Attraction of Investment and Private Sector Participation
   The administration’s emphasis on renewable energy has encouraged investor interest in Nigeria’s solar market. Through policy reforms, regulatory clarity, and partnerships with international development agencies, the government has:
   Facilitated financing for solar mini-grids
   Encouraged public-private partnerships
   Promoted local assembly and manufacturing of solar components
   Increased investor confidence is critical in a capital-intensive sector like energy. By creating an enabling environment, the solarization drive helps unlock domestic and foreign investment, fostering innovation and competition.
7. Job Creation and Skills Development
   The expansion of solar infrastructure generates employment across multiple segments:
   Solar panel installation technicians
   Engineers and project managers
   Maintenance personnel
   Local manufacturing and assembly workers
   Training programs associated with solar deployment help build technical capacity among Nigerian youth. This not only reduces unemployment but also cultivates a workforce equipped for the global green economy.
   The renewable energy sector’s growth diversifies Nigeria’s labor market beyond oil and gas, making the economy more adaptable to global shifts.
8. Support for Public Institutions and Social Infrastructure
   Under President Tinubu’s broader reform agenda, solarization has been integrated into national development priorities, including education and healthcare. Solar-powered public institutions benefit from:
   Uninterrupted lighting in hospitals and clinics
   Reliable electricity for diagnostic equipment
   Digital learning tools in schools
   These improvements enhance service delivery, especially in rural communities where grid power may be unreliable or nonexistent. Stable electricity enables digital governance, improves administrative efficiency, and supports modern public service systems.
9. Long-Term Structural Reform of the Power Sector
   Solarization complements ongoing structural reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. By encouraging decentralized energy solutions, the administration reduces pressure on a grid that has struggled with transmission capacity constraints and distribution inefficiencies.
   Furthermore, renewable expansion fosters competition and innovation, challenging traditional power supply models. Over time, this diversification may contribute to:
   Improved electricity reliability
   More cost-reflective tariffs
   Increased consumer choice
   The solarization project, therefore, is not merely an environmental initiative but part of a broader restructuring of Nigeria’s electricity landscape.
   Conclusion
   President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s solarization initiative marks a strategic shift in Nigeria’s energy policy—one that prioritizes renewable energy, fiscal efficiency, and decentralized access. The gains are multidimensional:
   Expanded energy access in underserved communities
   Reduced diesel dependence and fiscal savings
   Improved productivity for small businesses
   Environmental sustainability and climate alignment
   Enhanced energy security and diversification
   Increased investment and job creation
   While challenges remain—including financing scale, maintenance capacity, and regulatory coordination—the solarization project represents a significant step toward a more reliable, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.
   In positioning solar energy as a central pillar of national development, the Tinubu administration underscores the transformative potential of renewables in addressing long-standing power sector deficiencies. If sustained and effectively implemented, the solarization drive could become one of the defining energy reforms of his presidency.
   Stakeholders within the energy sector have continued to commend the DG/CEO of ECN for his commendable strides since his assumption into office especially with the solarization drive and renewable energy for all Nigerians.

A northern advocacy group, the Northern Progressives Forum for Development (NPFD), has asked former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, to “face the charges against him with the courage he claims to possess” rather than allegedly attempting to divert public attention with accusations against the National Security Adviser.

The group’s position follows reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited El-Rufai over allegations bordering on corruption and mismanagement of public funds during his tenure as governor between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement signed by Mal Musa Mohammed Sule and made available to journalists , the NPFD said it was concerned about what it described as “a pattern of diversionary narratives” coming from the former governor at a time he is expected to respond to anti-graft inquiries.

El-Rufai had, in a letter dated January 30, 2026 and reportedly received on February 11, 2026, written to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) seeking clarification over the alleged procurement of about 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate, a toxic chemical substance, purportedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.

The letter, titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” stated that he was acting “as a concerned citizen” and requested details on the purpose of the acquisition, regulatory compliance, and safety protocols surrounding the substance.

However, reacting swiftly, the NPFD alleged that the move was calculated to shift focus from the EFCC’s invitation.
“It is unfortunate that at a time when he is expected to answer serious allegations raised by the EFCC, Malam El-Rufai is seeking to introduce unrelated matters into public discourse,” the group said.

“We observed that he development comes amid claims attributed to El-Rufai that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, had ordered his arrest — an allegation that reportedly led to tension at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in recent days.

” El-Rufai was also quoted as alleging that an unnamed individual had tapped the NSA’s phone and confirmed Ribadu’s alleged involvement in plans to detain him. ” The group stated .

The NPFD described the claims as “serious and weighty,” urging the former governor to provide credible evidence to security agencies rather than making public accusations.

“It is disheartening that someone who has served as governor and minister would resort to what appears to be blackmail and rabble-rousing in the face of lawful investigation,” the group stated.

The forum insisted that the EFCC, as a statutory anti-corruption agency, should be allowed to carry out its mandate without interference or politicisation.

“We expect Malam El-Rufai to respect the institutions of state and submit himself to due process. If he believes he is innocent, the proper place to prove that is before investigators and, if necessary, in a court of law — not in the media,” the statement added.

By Barrister Aminu Hussaini

In politics, timing is everything. In Kano, the timing could not be more decisive.

With the formal movement of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC), the conversation about “possible alignment” between Kano and the federal government is no longer speculative. It has happened. The real question now is not whether Kano will realign—but how profoundly that realignment will reshape 2027.

For a state long considered the strategic heartbeat of northern politics, this development is seismic. Kano is not just numerically significant; it is symbolically powerful. It has birthed movements, defined oppositions and influenced presidential trajectories. Any shift in its political center of gravity sends ripples across the federation.

In 2023, the dominance of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) under the formidable influence of Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso appeared to signal a durable restructuring of Kano’s loyalty map. But politics in Kano has always been dynamic rather than permanent. Structures hold—until they don’t.
The Governor’s shift fundamentally alters the architecture of power in the state.

In Nigeria’s federal system, alignment between a state government and the presidency is not merely symbolic; it is structural. It affects project delivery, fiscal coordination, political patronage networks and most importantly, public perception.
When voters see synergy rather than rivalry between Kano and Abuja, it changes the psychology of governance. Federal presence becomes more visible; infrastructure collaboration accelerates and political messaging becomes unified rather than combative. In a state where performance increasingly shapes voter behavior, this matters.
The alignment also supercharges an already growing youth mobilisation wave around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The “City Boy Movement”, once dismissed by critics as branding theatrics, now operates within a dramatically altered terrain. Youth-driven digital messaging combined with institutional state backing is a far more potent formula than online enthusiasm alone.

Kano is demographically young. Its streets, campuses, markets and online spaces are politically alive. Youth identity and aspirational politics are becoming central drivers of loyalty. When that demographic energy aligns with both the state and the federal factor, it creates a consolidation effect that opposition forces will find difficult to fracture.

More provocatively, the Governor’s move forces a recalculation within opposition ranks. Political narratives built around resistance lose potency when governance delivery improves under alignment.
The argument of marginalisation becomes harder to sustain if federal-state cooperation produces visible results.
It is true, none of these guarantee 2027. Economic pressures have remained real and misinformation about ongoing reforms exist. Likewise, voter volatility is a permanent feature of Nigeria’s democracy and Kano’s political culture has never been short of surprises.

But what cannot be ignored is this: the electoral battlefield has shifted. What was once a competitive triangle is steadily consolidating into a power bloc. The APC no longer approaches Kano as an external contender—it now operates from within the state’s executive core.
Kano has made a move. Governor AKY has made a move. And with federal alignment now an established reality rather than a theoretical possibility, the game of thrones in 2027 has not merely evolved – it has been irrevocably rewritten. For Nigeria, the game has changed.
In a country where electoral arithmetic is often decided by strategic states, Kano’s latest chapter will not just influence the next election; it will define it.

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – is the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State-AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters

BY Yunusa Hamza

Jigawa

The 2027 general elections are almost upon us. As the nation witnesses political turbulence within and beyond its shores, Jigawa State stands at a critical crossroads. The opposition, often confused and fragmented, seems to falter at every turn, even as the so-called political ‘schisms’ and ‘isms’ of the emerging new gladiators fail to provide a coherent alternative. Historically known for political stability and loyalty to dominant parties, Jigawa is once again emerging as a strategic electoral stronghold. Power brokers, policy analysts, and governance observers alike are closely monitoring the state’s political evolution, revolution, and transformation. At the center of this narrative is Governor Umar Namadi FCA, whose leadership style and governance approach appear to be reshaping Jigawa’s political discourse beyond conventional rhetoric.

Rather than relying solely on slogans or party loyalty, Governor Namadi has constructed a performance-based political identity, anchoring electoral legitimacy in tangible governance outcomes. This development raises a fundamental question: Is Jigawa moving toward a new era of issue-based politics, or is it merely witnessing a more sophisticated form of political consolidation? This remains a million-dollar question for political analysts and stakeholders in the governance and governmental affairs of the new world.
Before delving further, it is necessary to revisit the traditional political pattern in Jigawa’s history, which has largely been characterized by continuity, elite consensus, and strong party structures. Electoral outcomes have often reflected established power networks rather than vibrant ideological competition.

Campaigns traditionally focused on personality, patronage, and party affiliation, with limited emphasis on policy substance. Consequently, political body language often outweighed accountability, and public discourse revolved more around loyalty than long-term development visions. Those familiar with the state’s political evolution can attest to this trajectory—from the emergence of Governor Ali Sa’ad Birnin Kudu under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993, to Governor Ibrahim Saminu Turaki of the All People’s Party (APP), who won against the PDP candidate despite the PDP controlling the majority of LGAs, and the subsequent transition to Sule Lamido under ANPP political arrangements.

This pattern persisted even during the political juggernaut of 2015, when political “marodanism” dominated the discourse, influencing the very DNA of state politics without clear frameworks to claim ignorance. Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar then emerged as the sole candidate of the merger after rigorous permutation and politicking, famously referred to as the “Gumel battle,” which stood as a testament to political arithmetic overcoming odds. The politics, politicking, and politization of Jigawa’s political structure often suffered from mismanagement, ego-driven maneuvers, and silent political coups that disregarded the rule of the game—costing the state a lot politically and financially.

Without jumping the gun, the emergence and governance journey of Governor Umar Namadi is markedly different. Under his leadership, social, economic, and political indicators have drastically and positively changed, making governance a more strategic and inclusive arena. Fondly referred to as Governor Umar Danmodi, he employs more carrot than stick in addressing systemic challenges, tactfully dismantling policy clusterization, and ensuring that citizens across all strata benefit from his administration’s interventions. This has been realized through the rigorous implementation of his 12-point agenda, aligned with state plans, processes, and procedures.
Governor Namadi’s administration has institutionalized weekly State Executive Council meetings, publicized council resolutions, monitored project implementation, and ensured follow-ups. Citizens’ engagement has been conducted year-round across all 27 LGAs, including one-of-its-kind sectoral consultations with relevant stakeholders to assess performance, identify challenges, and determine solutions.

This approach has fundamentally altered governance and political narratives in the state. His administration consistently foregrounds governance outcomes, ranging from youth empowerment, social welfare, agricultural development, and institutional reform, rather than mere party loyalty or symbolic political gestures.
Those within the development space have witnessed Governor Namadi’s contributions to globally recognized governance principles under the Open Government Partnership, which he co-chairs. These learnings have facilitated a shift in public attention from campaign promises to measurable actions, positioning governance itself as a political campaign tool. By emphasizing implementation over declaration, Governor Namadi has cultivated an image of competence and seriousness, blurring the line between administration and political mobilization.

Beyond governance, the Governor has demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of political engineering. His consolidation of party structures, encouragement of grassroots mobilization, and alignment with federal leadership reflect deliberate efforts to stabilize political dominance. These strategies have weakened opposition influence and reinforced APC’s control in the state. However, this consolidation is not authoritarian or coercive; it is legitimized through performance narratives, consultation, and citizen-centered interventions. Development projects and social programs function not only as public goods but also as political capital. Governance, therefore, becomes both a service to citizens and a tool for sustaining power.

This dual function marks a new phase in Jigawa politics, redefining political legitimacy. Power is no longer justified solely by tradition or party loyalty but through managed perceptions of effectiveness and visible impacts on citizens’ lives. From Gwiwa LGA in the extreme northeast to Gwaram LGA, every politically recognized ward has received interventions. Farin Dutse, for instance, has seen the rejuvenation of a failed electricity line that had been nonfunctional for over sixteen years, construction of concrete drainages to mitigate gully erosion, new schools addressing out-of-school challenges, and solar-powered water systems covering the entire community. Road projects linking Gwaram to Farin Dutse, Fagam, and Kwanar Sagir are scheduled for rehabilitation and asphalt overlay, facilitating the transport of goods from Haya Market, the region’s commercial hub.
Perhaps the most significant outcome of this governance-driven narrative is the gradual transformation of voter expectations. Many Jigawa citizens now assess leadership through visible outcomes rather than symbolic promises. Infrastructure, employment programs, and social interventions increasingly define political evaluation. The state is witnessing a deliberate shift from traditional, sentiment-driven politics to a new normal where expert-driven, data-informed interventions shape political dynamics, reducing disenfranchisement and fostering conscious, strategic political engineering.

Governor Umar Namadi FCA’s leadership, therefore, goes beyond rhetoric. It reflects a sophisticated interplay of governance, political consolidation, and citizen-centered interventions that could redefine Jigawa’s political future as the state approaches the 2027 general elections. Whether this transformation evolves into sustained issue-based politics or a more refined consolidation strategy remains to be seen. For now, it is a compelling demonstration of how performance, pragmatism, and inclusivity can reshape political discourse and voter expectations in a historically stable but evolving political landscape.
This opinion piece is contributed by Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse), writing from Kofar Fada, Farin Dutse, Gwaram LGA, Jigawa State. He can be reached via yunusafarindutse@gmail.com or +234-080 34 44 5493.

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of criticising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu out of frustration and unmet personal expectations rather than genuine concern for democracy or citizens’ welfare.

Sani made the remarks during an interview with journalists, where he argued that El-Rufai ignored democratic principles and human rights while in office but only began championing them after leaving power.

According to him, El-Rufai’s eight-year administration in Kaduna State was characterised by repression, insecurity and deep division, leaving behind what he described as a troubling legacy.

“El-Rufai forgot democracy and human rights when he was in power and remembered them only when he left office,” Sani said. “He planted tyranny and insecurity and is now preaching democracy and security.”

While acknowledging that President Tinubu is not without flaws, the former lawmaker maintained that the president’s record does not compare with what he described as “years of tyranny” under El-Rufai’s leadership in Kaduna State.

“Asiwaju is not a perfect leader—there is no perfect leader anywhere in the world—but he did not leave behind a legacy of divisiveness, persecution, repression, violation of human rights and wholesale evil, as witnessed by the people of Kaduna State,” Sani stated.

He further alleged that El-Rufai’s administration treated parts of Kaduna State as though they were detention centres, claiming that Northern Kaduna was treated like Kuje Prison while Southern Kaduna resembled Kiri Kiri Prison.

Sani also warned Nigerians against embracing El-Rufai as a political alternative, urging caution over what he described as a dangerous misjudgment.
“Nigerians searching for an alternative to an eagle should not make the mistake of embracing a vulture,” he warned.

In his concluding remarks, Sani said that when measured by service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai falls far below President Tinubu.

“In the barometer of record of service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai is an apprentice to Tinubu,” he said.

Sani’s remarks were in response to El-Rufai’s recent statements in which the former governor claimed that he never had a personal relationship with President Tinubu comparable to the one he had with former President Muhammadu Buhari, of blessed memory.

The Northern Transparency Advocate Group (NTAG) has strongly condemned the Justice Mu”azu Pindiga Committee of Inquiry set up by the Sokoto State Government under Governor Ahmed Aliyu to probe the financial activities of the immediate past administration of Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

The group described the panel’s allegations against Tambuwal’s government as “politically motivated, misleading and laughable”, insisting that the former governor’s administration remains one of the most financially disciplined in Nigeria.

Speaking at the end of a two-day seminar on “Corruption and Related Offences Against Economic Growth in Nigeria” held in Kaduna, the Zonal Coordinator of the group, Dr Murtala Abbas Tafoki, accused the current Sokoto State Government of using the committee as a tool for persecution and political intimidation.

“We find it very amusing, surprising and disappointing that Justice Pindiga, who himself has unresolved allegations of corruption, is now leading a panel to accuse one of the cleanest administrations in Nigeria of financial mismanagement.

“This is nothing but a politically sponsored witch-hunt aimed at destroying the records and achievements of the Tambuwal administration,” Tafoki said.

Tafoki described the committee’s report as “a laughing affair”, arguing that it lacks credibility in the face of what he called “widespread financial recklessness” under the current APC-led government in Sokoto.

“There is absolutely no justification, in whatever manner, for Justice Pindiga to point accusing fingers at an administration that was widely commended for prudence, transparency and accountability by reputable international organisations.

“The Tambuwal government was given a clean slate by both national and international institutions for excellent financial management, good service delivery and strict adherence to due process,” he stated.

According to the group, institutions such as the World Bank, United Nations financial monitoring agencies and CBN had previously rated Tambuwal’s government highly in terms of fiscal discipline and governance standards.

However, Tafoki alleged that the present administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu has weakened financial controls and dismantled key due process mechanisms in the state.

“The Ahmed Aliyu administration has turned Sokoto into a spending empire without rules.

“Over N114 billion was allegedly withdrawn between July 2023 and November 2025 through five commercial banks without due process or adherence to financial guidelines.

“This level of financial recklessness is unprecedented and yet the government is busy chasing a past administration that was known for discipline and prudence,” he claimed.

The group also accused anti-corruption agencies of failing in their responsibilities.

“Even the EFCC economic monitoring teams, both at the state and federal levels, have failed woefully to stop the abuse of financial procedures in Sokoto State.

“It is ironic that a government accused of massive financial violations is now pretending to be a champion of accountability,” he alleged.

The group insisted that the allegations against Tambuwal are purely political.

“This so-called investigation is not about accountability; it is about revenge, intimidation and rewriting history for political gain.

“The aim is to destroy the legacy of a government that managed public resources responsibly and served the people with integrity,” Tafoki said.

NTAG called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to redirect their attention to the current administration.

“We call on EFCC and ICPC to immediately investigate how the Ahmed Aliyu administration is spending the resources of the people of Sokoto State instead of allowing themselves to be used as tools of political propaganda,” Tafoki demanded.

The group also urged the agencies to revisit older corruption cases involving previous Sokoto administrations.

“For these agencies to prove their neutrality, they must reopen corruption allegations against the Bafarawa and Wamakko administrations as well,” he added.

On the judiciary, the group called for transparency regarding Justice Pindiga himself.

“While we commend the judiciary for resisting political intimidation, we demand the immediate release of all reports and findings on corruption allegations against Justice Pindiga,” Tafoki said.

“This is necessary to restore public confidence and prevent him from interfering in sensitive judicial matters where his integrity is already in question.”

The group, however, warned that politicising anti-corruption efforts could weaken democracy and undermine genuine accountability in Nigeria.

Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has raised fresh alarm over the abduction of 15 married Christian women by Boko Haram terrorists in southern Borno State, while sharply criticizing the continued silence of authorities over the kidnapping of 166 worshippers from churches in southern Kaduna.

In a press statement issued Monday and signed by its president, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, the MBF said the women were abducted on December 18, 2025, from Kilakasa village in Dille District of Askira/Uba Local Government Area while fishing by a nearby river. The group identified the attackers as Boko Haram.

According to the MBF, all 15 victims are Christian women of the Marghi ethnic group, aged between 30 and 40, and are mothers with young children. At least one of the abducted women reportedly has six children who have now been left without their mother.

Despite families reporting the incident to security agencies and making initial ransom contacts, the forum said communication with the abductors has since ceased, with no known rescue operation underway.

“The complete silence by the Nigerian media on such a grave crime is curious and deeply troubling,” the MBF said, adding that the lack of information has compounded the anguish of families and heightened fear in Middle Belt communities within Borno State.

The forum contrasted the inaction with the recent rescue of 12 girls abducted by Boko Haram from a communal farm in Mussa District, Askira Emirate. The girls were freed within four days by troops of Operation Hadin Kai. MBF urged authorities to apply the same urgency to the Kilakasa abduction.

Beyond Borno, the forum expressed deep concern over the fate of 166 worshippers abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area of southern Kaduna. The kidnappings, which occurred about 15 days earlier, were initially denied by state authorities, according to the MBF.

“The silence of the Kaduna State Government and the Kaduna State Police Command is not only unsettling but heartlessly insensitive to victims’ families,” the statement said.

The MBF also condemned a recent coordinated attack on Agwara town in Niger State, where armed bandits reportedly overran local security, burned a police divisional headquarters, attacked a church, and abducted at least five residents. The assault, the forum said, has left the community traumatized and fearful of further attacks.

According to the MBF, the Agwara incident reflects a broader pattern of violence across the Middle Belt, increasingly targeting churches, schools, police facilities, and civilian communities.

In southern Kaduna, the forum cited continued daily kidnappings and attacks in Kauru, Kachia, Lere, Chikun, and Kagarko local government areas, warning that armed groups are operating with near-total impunity.

The group criticized Kaduna State for lacking a well-trained and properly funded civilian security support structure, arguing that neighboring states have made more progress through community-based security collaborations.

It also questioned the effectiveness of what the state government has described as the “Kaduna Peace Model,” noting that the period has coincided with mass kidnappings and displacement. The MBF alleged that some armed Fulani bandits previously pardoned and reintegrated in 2024 are linked to the current wave of violence.

“These developments lend credence to claims of a targeted campaign against Christian-majority ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt,” the forum said, describing the situation as evidence of a wider pattern of religiously motivated violence.

The MBF demanded immediate and transparent updates on all abducted persons, swift and coordinated rescue efforts, and concrete protection strategies that uphold citizens’ constitutional rights to life and security.

“The lives of these women and all other abducted persons matter,” the statement concluded.

The Kaduna Central Elders Forum has asked Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, to render an account of his stewardship at the National Assembly, citing what it described as poor performance and weak engagement with constituents since his election.

The elders accused the senator of being more visible on social media than in the communities he represents, saying his approach to representation has failed to address the pressing challenges facing Kaduna Central.

In a statement jointly issued and signed by Mal. Inuwa Rigachikun and Mr Moses Bulus Madami, the forum described Senator Lawal Adamu as a lawmaker who relies largely on Facebook posts to communicate with constituents, rather than regular physical engagement, consultations and constituency outreach.

“Our Kaduna senator appears to exist only on Facebook. Representation goes beyond online posts. The people need to see, feel and interact with their elected representative,” the forum stated.

The group, made up of traditional rulers, retired civil servants and community stakeholders across the senatorial district, said the senator’s poor physical presence had widened the gap between him and grassroots communities, especially at a time when Kaduna Central is grappling with insecurity, unemployment and deteriorating infrastructure.

According to the elders, several communities within the district have not had any direct engagement with the senator since he assumed office, either through town hall meetings, constituency visits or stakeholder consultations.

They also accused the senator of failing to take strong positions on critical local issues, including repeated security challenges affecting rural communities, economic hardship, youth unemployment and the poor state of roads and public facilities.

“The people of Kaduna Central are facing serious challenges. These problems cannot be addressed from Abuja or through Facebook posts alone,” the elders said, adding that constituents expect their representative to be vocal both on the floor of the Senate and within the district.

The forum further called on the senator to publicly outline constituency projects attracted so far and explain his legislative contributions in clear terms to the people he represents.

The elders who underscores the senator’s performance as underwhelming, said physical presence was critical to effective representation. “Even if motions are sponsored, people want to see their senator. Physical engagement builds trust,” they said.

By Gideon Ebuki

Residents of Gusau, Zamfara State capital, have accused the state government of complicity in the alleged abduction of Ambassador Bashir Isa Gusau, the Northwest Tinubu/Shettima Youth Coordinator for Zamfara State.

Gusau, a prominent supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, was reportedly taken from his residence by armed men, sparking controversy over whether he was kidnapped by bandits or detained by government operatives.

An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, claimed that “more than 30 armed bandits” stormed Gusau’s residence and abducted him in front of his wife, leaving the neighborhood in confusion.

However, residents have cast doubt on the bandit narrative, pointing instead to what they describe as a pattern of arrests targeting opposition party members in the state.

“We believe that our member Bashir Isa was abducted and detained by Zamfara government, not kidnapped by any group of bandits,” said Dr. Ado Usman Charanci, APC Support Group Northwest Coordinator, in a press statement.

According to the statement, efforts to locate Gusau through security agencies including the Police Headquarters in Gusau, the Department of State Security Service (DSS), and the Civil Defence proved unsuccessful.

“After some minutes of the ugly incident, we contacted the relevant security agents… only to discover that Isa Gusau is nowhere to be found,” a source disclosed.

Some reports allege that Gusau was taken by unknown security operatives attached to the Government House in Gusau and is being held in one of the guest houses within the premises.

The APC Support Group has called on security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gusau’s disappearance and warned the Zamfara state government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), against what they termed “intimidation and persecution of innocent APC supporters.”

Gusau is known for his active role in mobilizing support for President Tinubu’s re-election campaign in the Northwest zone.

His family members have expressed confusion and frustration over their inability to determine the reason for his detention or secure his release.

The Zamfara state government has not issued an official statement on the allegations at the time of this report.

A delegation of leaders from the Nigerian Interdenominational Pastors Assembly (NIPA) has commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his swift visit and rescue efforts to recent bandit attacks and mass abductions in Kajuru Local Government Area, as well as his administration’s renewed focus on infrastructure development and community support.

The delegation visited several affected communities in the Kurmin Wali axis of Kajuru amid heightened tension following coordinated attacks by armed bandits, during which scores of residents were abducted in separate incidents that attracted national and international concern.

Speaking during the visit, NIPA representatives, led by Reverend Abraham Habila Zock, praised Governor Uba Sani’s visible leadership and hands-on approach to crisis management. They noted that the governor’s decision to personally visit the affected communities to console families and reassure residents had restored hope and confidence among the people.

While addressing community members on needed to be security conscious , the group acknowledged the Governor’s decision to stand with the people in this darkest hour and for strengthening their communities through both spiritual and practical support.”

Stating further, Reverend Zock who observed that Governor Uba Sani’s administration has consistently reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on insecurity, pledged sustained collaboration with federal security agencies and the deployment of new strategies to protect vulnerable communities, particularly in Southern Kaduna.

” We can see that during an earlier visit to Kurmin Wali, the governor described the attacks as a “cruel abduction of innocent citizens” and assured residents that coordinated security efforts were ongoing to ensure the safe release of those still in captivity.”

Beyond security interventions, the visiting clergy highlighted the importance of infrastructure development in stabilising Kajuru and neighbouring communities. They pointed to ongoing road construction projects and improved access to social services under the Uba Sani administration as critical to restoring economic activities, enhancing mobility, and reducing the isolation that often worsens insecurity in rural areas.

Residents also welcomed recent infrastructure initiatives, including the rehabilitation of rural road networks and plans for new healthcare facilities, describing them as vital steps toward improving living conditions and strengthening community resilience.

Despite the grim backdrop of the abductions, community leaders said the pastors’ visit had boosted morale and reinforced collective resolve. “We are grateful that our religious leaders stood with us and recognised the government’s role in saving lives and rebuilding our communities,” a local community chairman said.

The clerics noted that the latest abductions underscore the persistent security challenges in Southern Kaduna, where years of banditry and kidnappings have disrupted farming, education, and daily life. However, they expressed optimism that the combined efforts of faith leaders, government authorities, and security agencies would continue to shape a more coordinated and resilient response to violence across the region.