Suspected IED explosion foiled at Bayelsa State Secretariat, suspect arrested

By: Zagazola Makama

Security operatives have arrested a man following a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) incident at the Bayelsa State Secretariat in Yenagoa.

Zagazola reports that the explosion was heard on Feb. 11, 2026, at about 6:00 a.m., prompting an immediate response from police operatives attached to the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit.

Sources said that the suspect, identified as Pentecost Elijah, 60, of Otuan in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, reportedly admitted to placing the suspected explosives in the secretariat complex.

According to preliminary investigations, the suspect claimed he sought to draw attention from the State Government due to perceived neglect.

The sources said that the area has been cordoned off, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, along with CBRN specialists, are conducting thorough sweeps of the complex. Authorities confirmed that the situation is currently under control, and investigations are ongoing.

Suspected IED explosion foiled at Bayelsa State Secretariat, suspect arrested

Korea, Kaduna Film Festival Spotlight Girl-Child Plight, Deepen Creative Ties

By: Michael Mike

The Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF), in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN), has hosted a powerful screening of “Scars the Movie” alongside an intensive filmmaking workshop in Abuja, using cinema as a platform to confront social injustice and strengthen Nigeria–Korea cultural relations.

The event brought together filmmakers, actors, students and culture enthusiasts for a thought-provoking exploration of forced marriage, gender inequality and the transformative power of storytelling.

Scars the Movie follows the journey of Hasia, a 16-year-old girl with dreams of becoming a doctor, whose aspirations are crushed when her father forces her into marriage to settle a debt. Married off to an older wealthy man, she endures abuse, repeated miscarriages and isolation, while her education and independence are stripped away. The film lays bare the harsh intersection of poverty, patriarchy and silence that continues to affect vulnerable girls.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director of KCCN Abuja, Mr. Jeon Ju-ho, described the screening as deeply significant, noting that it addresses an issue that transcends borders.

“Today is of immense importance because it speaks about life — and not just life, but the life of a girl child,” he said. “A child forced into the role of a woman, and brutally so. These are conversations we must not avoid.”

He emphasized that film remains one of the most powerful tools for sparking dialogue and social reflection.

Director-General of KADIFF, Israel Audu, explained that the film was deliberately selected to spotlight challenges prevalent in parts of northern Nigeria.

“Hasia’s story represents the painful reality faced by many young girls whose dreams are sacrificed on the altar of poverty and cultural pressure,” Audu said. “This film exposes the emotional and generational scars such practices leave behind.”

Beyond the screening, participants engaged in a practical workshop covering directing, acting and cinematography, designed to strengthen technical capacity within Nigeria’s fast-growing film industry.

Audu noted that the partnership between KADIFF and KCCN reflects a broader commitment to creative collaboration between Nigeria and South Korea. He said cultural exchanges — from film festivals to K-drama, K-pop, language classes, Taekwondo and culinary programs — have helped build mutual understanding between both nations.

According to him, more than 300,000 Nigerians have participated in Korean cultural programmes, gaining new skills and global exposure.

“These collaborations are not just about entertainment,” he said. “They are about knowledge transfer, talent development and economic opportunity. By sharing filmmaking techniques and nurturing creative talent, we can develop a richer, blended cinematic identity.”

The event underscored how film can serve as both a mirror and a bridge — reflecting societal challenges while connecting cultures across continents.

As discussions continue around protecting the rights of the girl-child and expanding Nigeria’s creative economy, stakeholders say partnerships like this demonstrate how art, when supported by international cooperation, can inspire change and deepen diplomatic ties.

Korea, Kaduna Film Festival Spotlight Girl-Child Plight, Deepen Creative Ties

GCM Class of 1979 advice colleague new VC YSU Prof Tahir to stay out of partisan politics

By: Bodunrin kayode

The Government College Maiduguri (GCM) Class of 1979 have advised the new Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Yobe state University (YSU) Prof Bashir Tahir to avoid partisan politics if he wants to achieve academic excellence.

They cautioned that dealing with politicians is often challenging which is why it is advisable to stay away from partisan politics while focusing on academic excellence and institutional development.

They gave the charge to him recently when they paid a congratulatory visit in which they expressed confidence in his leadership and pledging support for the success of his tenure.

The delegation, led by the Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Prof. Umar Kyari Sandabe congratulated Prof. Tahir on his well-deserved appointment and described it as a proud moment for the GCM Class of 1979 and the academic community at large.

The group led by Prof. Sandabe advised him to remain patient and innovative in steering the affairs of the University, noting that managing higher institutions requires wisdom, resilience and creativity.

Prof. Sandabe recalled Prof. Tahir’s outstanding service as Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where he said the new Vice-Chancellor distinguished himself and made his colleagues proud.

He assured him of the confidence and trust of the GCM Class of 1979, urging him to freely consult them for advice whenever the need arises.

“We have confidence in you, we will count on you, and you can also count on us,” Prof. Kyaribe said, while extending the group’s gratitude to the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, and the State Executive Council for the appointment.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of Yobe State University, Prof. Bashir Tahir, thanked the delegation for the visit, the words of encouragement and the show of solidarity.

He assured them of his commitment to give his best in the service of the university and the state. “In Sha Allah, I shall do my best. I am going to count on your support and prayers,” Prof. Tahir said.

He emphasized that his doors are always open for advice, constructive criticism and guidance, noting that collective wisdom is essential for institutional growth.

Tahir used to opportunity to appreciate the enduring bond and mentorship of the GCM Class of 1979 with a vow that he will never forget them.

GCM Class of 1979 advice colleague new VC YSU Prof Tahir to stay out of partisan politics