News
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
By: Yahaya Wakili
Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, Ph.D., GCON, President of the Ninth Senate, has said, As we gather to commemorate Democracy Day, let us reflect on the arduous journey that has brought us to this moment. Twenty-five years ago, after decades of military rule, Nigeria embarked on a courageous path towards democratic governance.
In a statement issued and signed by him to commemorate Democracy Day, it was made available to newsmen in Damaturu. The President of the 9th Senate said, “It was a path fraught with challenges, but one that we, as a nation, resolutely embraced.
Senator Ahmed Lawan revealed that over these two decades, we have witnessed both triumphs and setbacks. We have encountered steep political landscapes, overcome economic headwinds, and faced down security threats that sought to undermine our collective aspirations for a just and prosperous society. Yet, through it all, the indomitable spirit of Nigerians has prevailed.
He pointed out that, today, we stand at a critical juncture in our democratic evolution. We are confronted with challenges that demand our resolve and unity of purpose. Amidst prevailing economic uncertainty and lingering security concerns, it is easy to succumb to despair. But despair is not in our DNA. We are Nigerians, a people imbued with resilience, ingenuity, and an unyielding belief in our collective destiny.
“The economic challenges we face today are not insurmountable. They are an opportunity for us to re-examine our priorities, diversify our economy, and unlock the vast potential that lies within our borders. By harnessing the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, we can create a future where economic prosperity is shared by all Nigerians.
According to him, the security threats that plague our nation are a test of our collective, and we must stand together, irrespective of our ethnic, religious, or political affiliations, to confront these threats head-on. By investing in our security forces, fostering inter-agency cooperation, and addressing the root causes of security, we can build a nation where peace and tranquility reign supreme.
“But our journey towards a brighter future is not solely dependent on economic growth and security. It is equally contingent upon the preservation of our democratic values. Democracy is not merely a form of government; it is a way of life. It is a system that enshrines the rule of law, protects fundamental human rights, and guarantees the peaceful transfer of power.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that underpin our democratic society. Let us uphold the rule of law, respect the rights of others, and engage in constructive dialogue that seeks to build bridges rather than divide. Let us reject all forms of hate speech, intolerance, and violence and work together to create a truly inclusive and equitable society.
He said that the task before us is not easy, but it is a task that we must undertake with determination. The future of Nigeria lies in our hands. Let us embrace the challenges we face with courage and optimism. Let us work together, as one people, to build a nation that is prosperous, secure, and democratic.
“As we mark this Democracy Day, let us honor the sacrifices of our heroes past by building Nigeria that is worthy of their legacies” he said.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey
Five soldiers killed, three missing in clash with insurgents in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
Five soldiers were killed and three others declared missing following a clash between Nigerien Defence and Security Forces (FDS) and suspected Islamic State fighters in Sanam, Tillabéri Region of western Niger.
Security sources said the incident occurred on Feb. 12, 2026, during a confrontation between troops and suspected members of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS) operating in the area.
The clash reportedly took place in Sanam Zone, a locality near the Niger–Mali border known for recurrent armed attacks by jihadist groups.
According to the sources, the soldiers were engaged in an operation when they came under heavy attack, leading to a standoff. Five personnel were confirmed dead, while three others were declared missing after the encounter.
The Tillabéri Region has remained a hotspot of insurgent activities due to its proximity to Mali and Burkina Faso, with security forces frequently conducting operations to contain armed groups.
Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the latest incident, while search efforts are reportedly ongoing to locate the missing soldiers.
Five soldiers killed, three missing in clash with insurgents in Niger
Army, police rescue 12 kidnapped victims in Ekiti border attack
By: Zagazola Makama
A Combined Army and Police operatives have rescued 12 kidnapped victims following an armed attack by suspected kidnappers in Oke-Ako area of Ekiti State.
Sources disclosed that the incident occurred on Feb. 13 at about 9:00 a.m., when sporadic gunfire was heard near their base. Preliminary assessment indicated the gunshots were from an assault launched by suspected kidnappers in the area.
Army troops, in collaboration RRS,Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS), and local security outfits, swiftly mobilised to the scene. On sighting the security forces, the attackers engaged in a gun duel, but were overpowered and forced to retreat into the forest, taking two victims with them.
Through intensified operations, the security forces successfully rescued 12 victims unhurt, while one, identified as Jeremiah Gambo, sustained a gunshot injury and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital in Ikole Local Government Area for treatment.
The troops also recovered an unregistered Boxer Bajaj motorcycle, a white Nissan Cabstar pick-up with registration number EJG-96XB, and a wine-coloured Toyota Corolla with registration number KLE-575AE, all belonging to the victims.
Army, police rescue 12 kidnapped victims in Ekiti border attack
Forest guard arrested for allegedly killing son in Monguno, Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
A member of the Forest Guard in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State has been arrested for allegedly shooting his son to death.
Sources said the incident occurred on Feb. 13 at about 5:40 p.m. at the RRR Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camp in Monguno.
The case was reported to the Monguno Division at about 6:20 p.m. by Maidugu Mustapha of Gana Ali Ward, who alleged that Mohammed Ibrahim Angoli, 28, a Forest Guard member, fatally shot his 24-year-old son, Ajiya Mustapha, in the back with an AK-47 rifle.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Monguno led a patrol team to the scene, where photographs were taken and the victim was evacuated to General Hospital, Monguno.
A medical doctor on duty confirmed the victim dead on arrival. The corpse was subsequently deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy.
The suspect has been arrested and the firearm recovered as exhibit.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Maiduguri, has commenced investigation into the incident.
Forest guard arrested for allegedly killing son in Monguno, Borno
Five soldiers killed, three missing in clash with insurgents in Niger
Benue Police repel bandits attack in Ugba, one suspect arrested, one bandit killed
Army, police rescue 12 kidnapped victims in Ekiti border attack
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News10 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
