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Democracy Day: ActionAid Says Impartiality, Independence, Transparency Are Keys to Improvement of Democracy, Electoral Process
Democracy Day: ActionAid Says Impartiality, Independence, Transparency Are Keys to Improvement of Democracy, Electoral Process
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has called on Nigerian government to continue to improve electoral process and democracy by ensuring its continued improvement and impartiality, independence, and transparency.
In a statement to mark the celebration of Democracy Day, the Country Representative of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu said: “Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey. As we commemorate Democracy Day, ActionAid Nigeria acknowledges the efforts of those who have worked tirelessly to entrench democracy in our country. Their sacrifices have given us a voice, a choice, and a chance to shape our collective destiny.
“We recognise the importance of effective electoral and judicial systems in safeguarding our democracy and promoting national development. We encourage the government to continue improving these systems, ensuring their impartiality, independence, and transparency. Specifically, we call for the strengthening of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure its independence and ability to conduct free and fair elections that reflect the will of the people.
“As we mark this occasion, we are reminded that democracy is a powerful tool for delivering the needs of the people. ActionAid Nigeria urges the government to harness its potential to address the socio-economic challenges facing our nation. By prioritising inclusive and equitable processes, we can ensure that citizens’ voices are heard, and their needs are addressed.”
Mamedu advised that: “Our leaders should prioritise the common good, and work towards revitalising our economy. We urge them to implement and develop economic policies that benefit all Nigerians, create sustainable jobs, and reduce inflation. Specifically, we call on the government to implement a living minimum wage that reflects the current economic realities and ensures that workers can afford a decent standard of living.”
“ActionAid also urges the government to address the persistent human rights violations in our country and take concrete steps to ensure that all citizens enjoy their fundamental human rights, making sure that perpetrators of human rights violations are held accountable,” the statement further said.
Adding that: “Furthermore, we call on the government to prioritise gender equality and women’s empowerment, ensuring that women have equal access to political participation, economic opportunities, and social services. ActionAid Nigeria calls on the government to enact strategies that combat gender-based violence, discrimination, and inequality, and ensure that women have a seat at the table in decision-making processes, amplifying their voices and perspectives.
“As we commemorate 25 years of democracy, ActionAid Nigeria calls for a renewed commitment to democracy and good governance. We urge the government to work collaboratively with the broader public to develop and implement policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of all Nigerians.
“We can build a democracy that truly delivers for the people, a democracy that promotes accountability, transparency, and good governance. A democracy that ensures Nigeria’s wealth benefits all Nigerians, not just a few.
“Together, we can make democracy work for the people. A democracy that provides quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure for all. A democracy that creates jobs and opportunities for young people. A democracy that ensures justice and equality for all.”
Democracy Day: ActionAid Says Impartiality, Independence, Transparency Are Keys to Improvement of Democracy, Electoral Process
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One killed, three injured as gunmen attack Plateau community in reprisal over livestock incident
One killed, three injured as gunmen attack Plateau community in reprisal over livestock incident
By: Zagazola Makama
Gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits have killed one person and injured three others in an attack on Shonong community in Bachi District, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, in a sustained reprisal attack linked to an earlier livestock-related incident.
Security sources said the attack occurred at about 8:40 p.m. on April 19 when the armed men invaded the community and opened fire on residents.
The sources said the assault was believed to be in retaliation over the killing of nine livestock in the area, an incident that had heightened tensions between farming and herding communities in the locality.
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) deployed in the area reportedly came under fire while responding to the attack and engaged the assailants in a gun duel, forcing them to withdraw after a heavy exchange of fire.
Reinforcement teams were later deployed and moved into the community to stabilise the situation and restore order.
According to the sources, the attackers killed a woman identified as Mrs Fibi Solomon, while three others — Mr Solomon, Master Jacob Solomon and Miss Jacobeth Solomon — sustained gunshot wounds.
The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Riyom for treatment, alongside the remains of the deceased.
Troops also rescued 12 civilians comprising three men, six women and three children, who were relocated to nearby Fang village for safety.
Security sources added that troops had intensified pursuit operations to track down the fleeing attackers, while the general area remained calm but tense.
One killed, three injured as gunmen attack Plateau community in reprisal over livestock incident
Yobe: Baba Malam Wali paid condolences to Senator Mustapha
By: Yahqya Wakili
The immediate past secretary to the Yobe State Government, Alhaji Baba Malam Wali mni, today paid a condolence visit to Senator Musa Mustapha, senator representing Yobe East in the National Assembly, following the death of his mother-in-law, the late Hajiya Fatima Mustapha Jibrin.
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by his press secretary, Alhaji Shuaibu Abdullahi, made available to newsmen in Damaturu, the state capital.
During the visit, the former secretary to the state government, Baba Malam Wali mni, offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
He urged the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude, noting that death is inevitable and a path that every mortal must take.
Hajiya Fatima Mustapha Jibrin passed away yesterday, Thursday, 16th April 2026, in Damaturu, the Yobe state capital. She was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic injunction.
Baba Malam Wali further prayed to Almighty Allah SWT to forgive the shortcomings of the late Hajiya Fatima, have mercy on her, and grant her Al-Jannatul Fiddausi as her final abode.
Yobe: Baba Malam Wali paid condolences to Senator Mustapha
Troops Foil ISWAP Attack Attempt in Guzamala
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 3 Area of Responsibility have foiled an attempted attack by suspected ISWAP/JAS terrorists on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mairari in Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 1329hrs on April 19, when the terrorists attempted to infiltrate the base through Charlie/Delta Company axis.
The attackers, operating with two gun trucks, were sighted advancing toward the entrance gate of Mairari town along the Gajiram axis.
Troops immediately engaged the advancing terrorists, forcing them to abandon their mission and retreat.
Following the encounter, troops dominated the general area with patrols, while air support was also deployed and hovered over the vicinity. However, no further terrorist presence was observed after the exchange.
Security sources said exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing to prevent regrouping and to secure surrounding communities.
Troops Foil ISWAP Attack Attempt in Guzamala
Angry youths, women attack soldiers, burn military checkpoint in Plateau over killing of villager
One killed, three injured as gunmen attack Plateau community in reprisal over livestock incident
Troops destroy terrorist hideouts, arrest 9 suspected informants in Taraba
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