News
Nasco let off the hook of EFCC after 7 years
Nasco let off the hook of EFCC after 7 years
By: Our reporter
After Seven years of Legal fire works between the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), and Umar Nasko, the former Commissioner of Environment under Dr. Babangida Aliyu, the Minna High court has discharged him.
Nasko a two time governorship candidate of People Democratic party (PDP) in Niger State was accused of misappropriation of funds totally over a billion naira.
His discharge was sequel to the application filed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Niger State Nasir Mua’azu to discontinue with the case as brought against Umar Nasko by the EFCC in 2017.
The development for his discharge came few hours after the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Niger State Nasir Mua’azu took over the Prosecution of the case from the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC) last week.
The former Governor of Niger State Dr. Babangida Aliyu and the State People Democratic party (PDP) Chairman Tanko Beji were equally discharged in December, by Justice Mikailu Abdullahi of High court number two.
They were both dragged to the court by the Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC)
Some times in 2017, for alleged criminal breach of trust Conspiracy, and conversion of N3 billion belonging to Niger state to their personal coffers.
Dr. Mua’azu Babangida Aliyu, along with his Commissioner for Environment Umar Nasko and the Niger State Chairman of the People Democratic party (PDP) in Niger State Barrister Tanko Beji, were in 2017 arraigned before the then chief Judge of Niger State Justice Mohammed Aliyu Mayaki for misappropriation of public funds.
Before his discharge, Umar Nasko was the only respondent remaining in the case and he was to enter his Defence on Monday the 15th of January 2024.
However the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Niger State Nasir Mua’azu applied to take over the Prosecution of the case from the EFCC, on the ground that the case has suffered several adjustments within the past seven years without any visible headway from the EFCC.
His application was contained in the motion on notice filed before the court dated 8th January 2024 and filed 10th January 2024.
The Prosecuting Counsel to EFCC Farouk Abdullahi objected to the application and requested time to address the court on the application.
The counsel to the respondent Mike Osman (SAN), objected to the submission of the prosecuting counsel and the Attorney General citing the provision of Section 211 (1b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.
The EFCC counsel after a short interlude withdrew his objection and submitted that he had no option than doing so adding that whatever happens the course of ensuring Justice is done in accordance with the. criminal justice system.
A few hours after the court resumed, the Attorney General applied to discontinued the case which was granted by the court.
Nasco let off the hook of efcc after 7 years
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
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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