News
Troops Sustain Onslaught On Bandits, Arrest Kingpin, Kill Scores in Sokoto, Zamfara States
By Zagazola Makama
Determined to rid the Northwest region of banditry, kidnapping and other heinous crimes, troops of Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) have renewed their aggressive onslaught on bandits’ enclaves across their areas of operation in Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Zamfara States.
Acting on credible information that a bandit kingpin named Jabi Ruwa and some of his members were taking refuge in Dambala village, troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB), Gwadabawa and those of Raka in Sokoto State, assisted by local guides, mobilized on Friday, 28 July, 2023 and subsequently stormed the hideout in Dambala where Jabi Ruwa and 4 of his members were apprehended. They are currently undergoing preliminary interrogations.
In separate development, on 28 July 2023, troops of OPHD cleared bandits enclaves and thoroughfare routes at Sangeko, Kabugu Lamba, Kaboro and Mairairai villages at Maru Local Government of Zamfara state. During the operation, troops came in contact with armed bandits loyal to notorious bandit leader, Alhaji Ilu, at his hideouts in Sangeko, Kabagon Lamba, Danmani and Kaboro villages under Maru LGA. The Troops engaged the armed bandits with superior fire power which forced the bandits to flee; one of them was neutralized while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Zagazola Makama, a Counter-Insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, learnt that the troops are currently on aggressive patrol within the villages in other to eliminate other bandits and deny them freedom of action within the area.
The Commander Joint Task Force Northwest Operation Hadarin Daji, Major General Godwin Mutkut, who also doubles as the General officer Commanding 8 Division has commended the troops and charged them to maintain the momentum. He further called on the people of the region to be vigilant and immediately report any suspected persons or activities of the criminals.
End
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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