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Involve traditional rulers in matters of constitution, Ssrkin Sudan of Tikau urges the FG, National Assembly
Involve traditional rulers in matters of constitution, Ssrkin Sudan of Tikau urges the FG, National Assembly
By: Yahaya Wakili
The Federal Government and the National Assemblies have been urged to involve the traditional rulers in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a view to solving the problems of insecurity in the country.
The appeal was made by the Sarkin Sudan of Tikau emirate council in Yobe state, Alhaji Yahaya Inuwa Barde FCNA, while speaking to journalists shortly after the presentation of his appointment letter.
He said the colonialists came here and met us with our traditional rulers; they were successful in ruling, and the British left us with our northern traditional rulers. Therefore, it is a great mistake to remove our rulers from the constitution. This was done by the people of the South because their own is not like our own and they were educated earlier than us, so they destroyed our own.
“As you see me, the emir enrolled me in school, and I was born here in this village. I grew up here, and since then, anything for development has been done with rulers, and if they want to recruit a person into the police or army, they will ask the ward head, village head, and district head to know his character.
He further added that, even at that time, if they want to employ any person to hold a public office of government, they have to ask traditional rulers first about his character. ” he said.
Alhaji Yahaya Inuwa Barde further said the removal of the traditional rulers from the constitution is a great mistake, adding that if there is a criminal in the area, the ward head has told his people that they will tell him, then he will inform the village head, the village head will inform the district head, and the district head will inform the emir.
According to Sarkin Sudan, if the government returns the role of the traditional rulers in the constitution, the cases of criminality and insecurity will drastically reduce in the country.
Alhaji Yahaya Barde thanked His Royal Highness, the emir of Tikau, Alhaji Dr. Muhammadu Abubakar Ibn Grema LLD, for confirming him with the traditional title of Sarkin Sudan of the Tikau emirate council. He noted that for what the emir did to me, only Almighty Allah would reward him.
“As I have worked in government for over 24 years and reached the position of permanent secretary, I have the experience, so by the grace of God, I will give my contribution either in advice or cash to see that we move the emirate forward to compete with the biggest emirate councils in the north.” Barde said.
Involve traditional rulers in matters of constitution, Ssrkin Sudan of Tikau urges the FG, National Assembly
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
Lent and Ramadan Tribute: To the Jagaban of Burgu and the Jagoran Arewa
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
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