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Group Rues Surge In Terrorism In North, Alleges Plot to Subvert 2027 Poll

Published

6 months ago

March 18, 2026

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

A prominent Northern Nigerian group, under the aegis of the Arewa Discussion Group (ADG), has expressed profound shock and outrage over the recent spate of heinous attacks and mass killings targeting civilians across Northern Nigeria, saying it’s a ploy to subvert the 2027 general elections.

The spokesman for the Arewa Discussion Group, Dr. Garba Abari, while extending the group’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the communities devastated by these senseless acts of violence during the holy month of Ramadan, specifically condemned the recent
massacre of worshippers in Zamfara State and the coordinated terrorist attacks in the Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, resulting in the brutal murder of at least 50 civilians.

The group expressed dismay that the attack lasted over 10 hours, with armed men on motorcycles storming the village of Tungan Dutse, firing indiscriminately, burning houses, and abducting scores of women and children despite early warnings to security forces.

It added: “We abhorred the desecration of a mosque in Kebbi State on February 25, 2026 as the sanctity of the Ramadan period was violated when suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked a mosque in the Dadin Kowa community of Maiyama Local Government Area, Kebbi State. Worshippers were murdered in cold blood while observing their Tarawweeh prayers. At least five people were killed and several others injured in what police described as a reprisal attack.

“The return of bombings in Borno State: On March 16, 2026, the relative calm of Maiduguri was shattered by multiple coordinated explosions. At least 23 people were killed and over 100 injured in suspected suicide bombings that struck a hospital entrance, the Post Office area, and the Monday Market during the busy Iftar period. This represents one of the deadliest attacks in the city in recent years and a terrifying return of urban bombings.”

Aside from these high-profile attacks, the Arewa Discussion Group notes with grave concern the escalating violence and loss of lives and property across multiple states in Northern Nigeria. In Bauchi State, on March 1, 2026, armed bandits attacked Gwana community in Alkaleri Local Government Area, displacing 446 individuals from 73 households and leaving 55 people injured. The Alkaleri area has become a new hotbed of banditry, with communities like Digare, Kargo, Yelo, and Mansur witnessing repeated attacks, deaths, and abductions .

“On Benue State, the House of Representatives has raised the alarm over continued killings in Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency. On February 3, 2026, attackers invaded Abande and Anwase communities, killing at least 17 people. Another deadly assault on March 5, 2026, claimed 16 lives in Mbaav and Mbachoon communities. On March 13, 2026, suspected armed herdsmen attacked Ojatele community in Apa Local Government Area, killing at least 15 people and leaving many others injured or missing.

“In Plateau State, on March 13, 2026, heavily armed terrorists ambushed a patrol team in the Garga area of Kanam Local Government Area, killing approximately 20 security personnel, including soldiers and vigilantes. This represents one of the deadliest attacks on security forces in the region in recent times . Communities across Wase and Kanam LGAs have suffered repeated attacks throughout January, February, and March 2026.

“In Kwara State, recall that the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has raised concern over worsening kidnappings across Kwara South Senatorial District. On March 11, 2026, suspected kidnappers killed an ECWA member, Omoniyi Ajise, in Oyatedo-Oro-Ago, Ifelodun LGA, and abducted his wife along with four other residents. Many farmers have abandoned their farms for fear of attacks, and several ECWA churches have been forced to close in affected communities . Meanwhile, on March 15, 2026, troops arrested three suspected terrorist logistics suppliers in Kaiama LGA who were planning to supply motorcycles to ISWAP/Boko Haram operatives.

“In Niger State, also recall that Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has disclosed that over 300,000 persons have been displaced across 10 local government areas due to persistent insecurity . On February 28, 2026, terrorists killed at least 15 farmers in three separate attacks in the Malale axis of Borgu LGA.

“In other affected States, thousands of villagers have been displaced in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Adamawa states. In Adamawa, suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked Shuwari community in Madagali LGA in February 2026, killing 17 people and burning homes. In Sokoto, at least 28 villages in the Tidibale area of Isa LGA were deserted in January 2026 following threats from bandits.”

The Arewa Discussion Group has, therefore, expressed grave concern that the Northern Region is now under systematic siege by criminal non-state actors who operate with impunity, eroding the very fabric of state authority and threatening the survival of Northern communities.

Across Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Sokoto states, the group noted with grave concern that state governments have been forced into negotiating peace deals with armed bandit groups, a controversial experiment that signals the weakening of state authority, adding that these negotiations, while offering temporary respite, risk legitimizing non-state actors who have built their power on extortion, violence, and impunity. “When violence becomes a means of extracting concessions from the state, criminal networks are emboldened, and new groups emerge to exploit the same logic,” it added.

The ADG decried that armed groups now control vast swaths of territory across the North, such as Bauchi Plateau and Taraba States,where several communities have been completely deserted, while bandits now move freely at operate with impunity.

Due to massive displacements of people from their communities by the bandits and kidnappers, the group said humanitarian toll has now become sobstaggering, adding that in Niger State alone, over 500,000 internally displaced persons are scattered across Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Kaduna States, the FCT, and even the Benin Republic.

The group added: “These people were forced from their ancestral homes by the bandits hiding in the Kainji Lake National Park forest. These bandits are not mere criminals; they are architects of ethnic cleansing, driving entire communities from ancestral lands.

“In Kwara South, farmers have abandoned their farms at the peak of cashew harvesting season, their primary source of livelihood, for fear of attacks. Economic activities have been severely disrupted, and families pushed into hardship . This is a calculated strategy by non-state actors to starve communities into submission.

“The desecration of mosques during Tarawweeh prayers in Kebbi State and the murder of worshippers in cold blood represents an unprecedented assault on the spiritual heart of our communities. When criminals attack people at prayer, they declare war not just on the state, but on God Himself.

“The ambush in Plateau State that claimed 20 security personnel including soldiers and vigilantes demonstrates that these non-state actors now possess the firepower and tactical capability to confront and defeat uniformed forces . When terrorists can kill 20 security operatives in a single engagement, the state’s monopoly on force has been fundamentally breached.

“These criminal networks operate across state lines with impunity, shifting operations when pressure mounts in one area. They coordinate attacks, share intelligence, and maintain supply chains for weapons and motorcycles. They are not disorganized bandits; they are a parallel governance structure that has emerged to fill the vacuum left by the retreating state.”

The Arewa Discussion Group has, therefore, warned that “we are witnessing the slow-motion collapse of state authority in parts of northern Nigeria. Criminal non-state actors now tax communities, control forests, displace populations, dictate who can farm and who cannot, and kill with near-total impunity. This is the very definition of a region under siege.

“The Arewa Discussion Group views with grave concern the timing and coordination of these attacks spreading across virtually every corner of Northern Nigeria. We believe desperate elements are deliberately trying to undermine our already tenuous security situation ahead of the upcoming elections so that anti-democratic forces can capitalize on the chaos and subvert the people’s will. We must not allow them to succeed.

“These attacks are occurring against a backdrop of growing concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. Civil society organizations have repeatedly warned of attempts to manipulate the system.

“The Arewa Discussion Group warns that the current wave of violence spreading across the North fits a disturbing pattern: creating an atmosphere of fear and instability that can be exploited to justify extraordinary measures, suppress voter turnout, and ultimately rob the Nigerian people of their democratic rights.”

The ADG has, therefore, called on the Federal Government to
immediately deploy enhanced security measures to protect vulnerable communities across all affected states and prevent further atrocities, ensure swift and transparent investigations to bring the perpetrators of these crimes to justice, and determine whether there is any political linkage to the attacks, dismantle criminal enclaves in the forests and border areas, and end the practice of negotiating with armed bandits from a position of weakness.

It added: “The Federal Government should provide urgent humanitarian assistance and support to the survivors, the injured, the abducted, and the hundreds of thousands of displaced families across the region.

“Safeguard the integrity of the 2027 electoral process by resisting any attempts to manipulate the security situation for political gain and ensuring that all elections are free, fair, and credible.

“The Arewa Discussion Group stands in solidarity with the people of Nigeria during this difficult time. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant and to resist any forces that seek to undermine our democracy through violence and intimidation. We urge the international community to closely monitor Nigeria’s security and electoral situation and to support efforts to restore peace and democratic integrity.”

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Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

13 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

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FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

14 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

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2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

14 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.