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Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
By: Bodunrin Kayode
The network of Civil society organizations in Borno state (NECSOB) led by its Executive Director Comrade Bulama Abiso has demanded for the resumption of distribution of free digital metres for electricity supplies to residents of Borno State.
The Executive Director stressed during a news conference in Maiduguri today that the pains of the ongoing adjustment of the Nigerian economy is felt in a double way by Borno residents which is why the Yola electricity should not hoard metres meant for the people.
He said that as far as this country is concerned, north east Nigeria has been heavily starved of supplies of electricity adding that something must be done urgently to correct this anomaly.
Comrade Abiso, called for the reversal of many anti people policies like shortage of electricity which he noted were not in the interest of residents because they were hurting them.
He said they are equally worried about the fact that the gas plant was not getting enough attention at this auspices time which is why the state capital has been in darkness for over two weeks now.
On the recent pronouncement of the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) the Executive Director went on: “It came to us as a great shock, the recent announcement by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory
Commission (NERC) on the increase in electricity tariff without putting into account the current
predicaments faced by the people of Borno State.
” We’re also appealing to the Federal Government, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission
(NERC), the Generation Companies (GENCO), Transmission Companies of Nigeria (TCN), the Borno State Government and all other relevant stakeholders to support the reversal of this anti people policy, considering the current recovery status of the state.
“We also observed with dismay how the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) distributes
electricity bills for the months of February and March to households when there has been no power
supply.
” This concern is affecting every household on the estimated billing system occasioned by
abrupt disruption of free installation of the metering systems that ought to have been distributed but are now alleged to be sold at exorbitant prices. Consequently, we are requesting that YEDC resumes the free distribution and installation of the metering system to every household in Borno state.
“We’re equally calling on the YEDC to also enhance its distribution capacity to sufficiently meet the demands of the metropolis. This is because we have observed in recent times that the consequences associated with the lack of power supply in the state includes: loss and dysfunctional state of small businesses and livelihood ventures, water scarcity across the state and has led to untold hardship faced by people in the revered month of Ramadan;
Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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