Zamfara Tightens Security Around Schools, Insists On No Closure

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November 24, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Zamfara State Government has said that authorities are strengthening security in and around schools to deter bandit attacks instead of shutting down due to insurgence.

The State Government pointed out the measure would protect learning centres and ensure that pupils continue classes without fear of attacks.

The State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Wadatau Madawaki, made this known during a press briefing after an event organised by the Federated Association of Zamfara State Students in Gusau, the state capital.

“We have already done our work, but when it comes to the issue of security, you keep it to yourself.

“We have taken steps to safeguard the interests of our students. The security of the schools and children is well taken care of.

“We are in contact with all the security agencies, and they are giving us the necessary support to ensure our schools operate without hindrance.

“We believe nothing will happen, and our education will continue to flourish until the end of the academic term.

“Many States in the north have ordered immediate closure of schools, but Zamfara will not follow suit. Instead, authorities are strengthening security in and around schools to deter bandit attacks.

“Most of the states that have closed their schools operate boarding systems where students stay in hostels. Bandits often strike at night when people are asleep. Here, we are yet to resume our boarding system. Our schools run during the day.

“Where we feel there is insecurity, the schools have already been closed. Where there is relative peace, we have allowed students to continue since the term is almost ending. If there is a need to extend holidays, we shall do so.”

Schools in two states of Kebbi and Niger had been attacked with the bandits abducting the pupils and staff.

Fmr DSP, Ekweremadu To Continue Prison Term In UK, As Nigeria’s Request Fails

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Ayodele Oni

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November 24, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Nigeria’s request from the United Kingdom (UK) to transfer Ike Ekweremadu, a former Deputy Senate President, to complete his prison term in the country has suffered a setback.

The UK Government has rejected the Federal Government ’s request, citing lack of trust on the part of Nigeria government.

Ekweremadu is currently serving a prison sentence in the UK for organ trafficking.

He was convicted in March 2023 and sentenced to nine years and eight months for conspiring to exploit a young man’s kidney.

In November, President Bola Tinubu sent a high-level delegation to London to discuss Ekweremadu’s case and explore the possibility of him serving the remainder of his prison term in Nigeria.

The delegation comprises Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, and Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice.

However, the UK Guardian, quoting an unnamed official of ministry of justice (MoJ), reported that the Nigerian Government’s request was rejected.

“A source at the MoJ has confirmed the request was rejected.

“It is understood the UK government was concerned that Nigeria could offer no guarantees that Ekweremadu would continue his prison sentence after being deported.

“Any prisoner transfer is at our discretion following a careful assessment of whether it would be in the interests of justice.

“The UK will not tolerate modern slavery and any offender will face the full force of UK law,” the UK Guardian quoted the official as saying.

Brig-Gen Abu Ali, Former Military Administrator Of Bauchi State Dies, Gov Muhammed Mourns

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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November 24, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammad has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Brigadier General Abu Ali, a former Military Administrator of the State.

Ali passed on in the early hours of Monday November 24 ,2025 .

He died from complications arising from old age .

Ali was the Military Administrator of Bauchi State between 1990 and 1992 during the General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime.

He handed over to Governor Alhaji Dahiru Sadi of the National Republican Convention NRC after emerging victorious against the Social Democratic party SDP

Until his death, Ali was the Etsu Bassa Nge Kingdom in Kogi state ,a position he was appointed to in 2000 by late Governor Abubakar Audu.

His death was announced by the Kogi State Governor , Ahmed Usman Ododo on his Facebook Page on Monday.’

“We just lost His Majesty, King Alhaji Abu Ali ,the Etsu of Bassa-Nge Kingdom.

” May his soul rest in Jannatul Firdaus ” the Kogi Governor wrote .

Governor Muhammad noted that the late General Ali was known for his humility , integrity and dedication .

“His life was a model of service to his soldiers ,to the people of Bauchi and to his cultural community.

“During the ethno-religious unrest in 1991 , General Abu Ali acted decisively to restore peace , imposing a curfew and deploying security forces .

“He also peacefully handed over power to a democratically elected Government in January 1992 , showing respect for democratic governance

“May the memory of Brigadier General (rtd) Abu Ali continue to inspire us all as a servant-leader ,a visionary ,and a man of courage and compassion ” Gov Muhammad stated .

Brigadier-General Ali was the son of Late Col Muhammad Abu Ali who was reportedly killed by Boko Haram terrorists in an ambush in Malami Fatori ,Borno state on November 4, 2016 .

How Odira Nwobu, Nollywood Actor, Died Of High Blood Pressure In South Africa

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Akinwale Kasali

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November 24, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The death of Odira Nwobu, a popular Actor and Content Creator still remains a rude shock to the Nigeria Make Believe Industry, popular as Nollywood, and to many of his colleagues and fans.

However, despite the news that he died of high blood pressure at a Night Club in South Africa, it was gathered from his friends and colleagues that he had been involved in a ghastly motor accident that almost claimed his life months ago.

Sources informed the magazine that he had a Thanksgiving Service in South Africa before his passing.

His death was announced in a Facebook post on Monday by Awuzie Frankline, a blogger and content creator, who also posted a video of Nwobu’s lying lifeless.

Although Frankline did not state the circumstances surrounding Nwobu’s death, it was learned from the post that the actor reportedly died some hours after clubbing in South Africa over the weekend.

In a series of posts on Facebook, he wrote: “God Why ! ODIRA why leave us… The Call I received now was not a good one. #Odiegwu.”

In another post, Frankline wrote: “You were full of life even some hours ago in South Africa, and you even had your thanksgiving service just a few months ago. Many people came to celebrate with you. How can you return from South Africa lifeless? Honestly, I am drowning in tears. De@th is Rude. I am heartbroken.”

Evan Okoro, a comedian, also posted a picture of Nwobu on her Facebook page saying, “How now, I can’t believe this nooooo”.

According to reports from Stanley ontop, a popular producer and blogger, he had high blood pressure. “Omo, it’s well. Someone who was in the club last night. OMG, my heart is broken. Rest well, Odira. Black Monday in Nollywood.”

The late Nwobu was admired for his unique comedic style, memorable roles, and lively presence on screen. Over the years, he built a strong fan base and made notable contributions to Nollywood and digital content creation.

Tribute has been pouring in over his sudden demise, but the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, is yet to issue an official statement on his passing.

Nigeria Delegation In US, Refutes Genocide Allegation, Insists Attacks Cut Across Religious, Ethnic Lines

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Ayodele Oni

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November 24, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Nigeria has finally reached out to the United States, (US) on the unabated security challenges and other issues bordering on cooperation.

Discussions and engagements were held last week between a high-level Nigerian delegation and US officials which are expected help strengthen security partnerships between the two countries and open new avenues for cooperation to protect Nigerian citizens.

A statement on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President, (Information and Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, revealed that the delegation, led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.

“In all engagements in Washington, DC, the Nigerian delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, emphasising that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines.

“The delegation strongly rejected wrongful framing of the situation, saying such would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground.

“Following these engagements, the United States Government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria.

“This includes enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and the potential provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.

“The United States also expressed its willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.

“Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to the agreed areas of cooperation.

“In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.

“The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.”

Members of the delegation included Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye.

Others are Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Insecurity: SW Governors Meet In Ibadan

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Ayodele Oni

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November 24, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

In an apparent swift response to escalating security threats across Nigeria, South West governors are currently meeting in Ibadan, Oyo state.

The governors from the six states gathered for an urgent, closed-door meeting being hosted by Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office in Agodi.

The unscheduled summit underscores the gravity of recent intelligence reports warning of a potential influx of bandits and terrorists into the area.

The governors include Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti).

Sources close to the meeting, revealed that discussions are centered on bolstering regional defenses against “rising security threats and emerging challenges,” with a particular focus on the operations of the Amotekun security outfit.

The agenda also encompasses fast-tracking infrastructure projects and advancing the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) to foster stronger regional integration.

No official communiqués has been released as of press time, but it was gathered that the convergence comes against a backdrop of heightened apprehensions over spillover violence from Nigeria’s volatile North West and North Central zones.

Just six days ago, Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, issued a stark warning that “terrorists and bandits are plotting to attack the South West.”

Citing covert threats to economic stability and national security, Adams emphasized that such incursions could undermine the Yoruba nation’s progress, urging immediate vigilance.

Atiku Formally Joins ADC

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Ayodele Oni

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November 24, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially joined the African Democratic Congress, (ADC) following his registration as a member in Adamawa State, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s opposition political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The registration was completed on Monday, days after Atiku publicly announced his intention to join the party during a meeting with ADC supporters and stakeholders in the state.

One of his aide, Abdul Rasheeth, confirmed the development in an official statement.

The former vice president’s convoy arrived to an enthusiastic crowd of supporters who sang, drummed, and waved placards bearing his image. Atiku acknowledged the cheering crowd before receiving his ADC membership card.

The move solidifies Atiku’s affiliation with the coalition-driven party, which he endorsed in July as a unifying platform for opposition figures—among them Peter Obi and Babachir Lawal—to mount a strong challenge against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 polls.

Until now, Atiku and several key opposition leaders like Peter Obi had held off on formally registering with the ADC.

His entry into the party is expected to boost its national appeal and further strengthen the opposition’s efforts to present a cohesive front in the coming election cycle.

Jimmy Cliff, Music Icon Dies

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The Source

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November 24, 2025

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By Gideon Njoku

Popular Jamaican born music icon, Jimmy Cliff is dead.

The Grammy award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, musician, actor, singer, songwriter, producer, and humanitarian died at the age of 83 years.

Cliff, according to reports, passed on from a combination of seizure and pneumonia.

His wife announced the news of his death on Monday, November 24, 2025, in a Facebook post.

She wrote:

“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who have shared his journey with him.

“To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love.

:I also wanted to thank Dr. Couceyro and the whole medical staff, as they have been extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process.

:Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes. I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times.

“Further information will be provided at a later date. See you, and we see you, Legend.”

Named James Chambers at birth, Cliff introduced reggae to an international audience through his performance in the landmark film “The Harder They Come”

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His recording started soon after he moved from the countryside to Kingston. He made a number of singles and topped Jamaican charts with his song, Hurricane Hattie,

one of his very early effort for Leslie Kong’s Beverly Records, according to the Jamaica Information Service (JIS).

Several more hits where he combined pop and ska influences followed.

Cliff relocated to London in 1965 at the behest of Chris Blackwell of Island Records, and broadened his musical approach to incorporate soul and rhythm and blues as he moved in the direction of reggae.

He became a favourite in South America in the late 60s. His song, Waterfall and his album, Wonderful World, won a prize at a festival in Brazil. Beautiful People

was an international hit as well as the record that prompted Paul Simon to investigate reggae.

Cliff, as the star of The Harder They Come, contributed to its soundtrack the classics

Many Rivers to Cross,

Sitting in Limbo. His title song—Cliff, became reggae’s biggest star.

TSA: The FG Must Come Clean With Nigerians

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The Source

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November 24, 2025

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By Atiku Abubakar

The quiet appointment of Xpress Payments Solutions Limited as a new TSA collecting agent is not an administrative decision, it is a dangerous resurrection of the Alpha Beta revenue cartel that dominated Lagos State during and after the Tinubu years. That model created a private toll gate around public revenue and funnelled state funds into the hands of a politically connected monopoly.

What we are witnessing now is the attempt to nationalise that same template, moving Nigeria from a republic to a private holding company controlled by a small circle of vested interests.

To introduce such a policy in the middle of a national tragedy, while Nigerians are mourning loved ones lost to the deepening insecurity crisis, is not only insensitive, it is a deliberate act of governance by stealth. When a nation is grieving, leadership should show empathy and focus on securing lives, not on expanding private revenue pipelines.

This latest move raises fundamental questions:

Why was this appointment rushed and smuggled into the public space without consultation, stakeholder engagement, or National Assembly oversight?

What value does Xpress Payments add that existing TSA channels do not already provide?

Who truly benefits from this? Nigeria or an entrenched political network?

This is not reform. This is state capture masquerading as digital innovation.

Let me be clear:

Nigeria does not need more middlemen between citizens and their government revenue. What we need is greater transparency, stronger institutions, and a tax system free from political capture.

I, therefore, call for the following:

Immediate suspension of the Xpress Payments appointment pending a public inquiry;

Full disclosure of the contractual terms, beneficiaries, fee structures, and selection criteria;

A comprehensive audit of TSA operations to prevent the creeping privatisation of revenue collection;

A legal framework, not executive shortcuts, that prohibits the insertion of private proxies into core government revenue systems;

A national security priority shift, recognising that a country under assault cannot afford economic governance conducted in the shadows.

Nigeria’s revenues are not political spoils. They are the lifeblood of our national survival, especially at a time when insecurity is tearing communities apart.

The government must abandon this Lagos-style revenue cartelisation and return to the path of transparency, constitutionalism, and public accountability. -AA

■Atiku Abubakar is a former Vice President of Nigeria, and 2019 & 2023 Presidential Candidate of the PDP.

Tiinubu Should Appoint Military Administrators, Suspends Govs’ Immunity

By

Tosin Olatokunbo

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November 24, 2025

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By Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi

I respectfully call on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to suspend the enforcement of the Armed Forces Act 2004 provision—an inherited British-era policy—that mandates the retirement of military personnel after 35 years of service or upon attaining 60 years of age.

History provides clear precedents for such a step. During the Second World War, when the British required additional boots on the ground, the same law was temporarily set aside. Similarly, during Nigeria’s Civil War, these retirement provisions were relaxed to meet urgent national security needs. Today, our nation again finds itself in a situation that requires exceptional measures. Nigeria urgently needs a strengthened military presence to confront escalating insecurity and safeguard our sovereignty.

Accordingly, I urge President Tinubu to suspend the current retirement requirements and to recall, without delay, all officers and soldiers who have retired within the past six months. This recall should form part of a broader, strategic effort to reinforce our armed forces and have adequate “boots” on the ground.

In addition, I call on the President to authorize a nationwide, large-scale recruitment drive into the Nigerian Armed Forces, ensuring that every state and region is properly garrisoned and adequately secured. This is essential to restoring confidence, stability, and territorial control across the federation.

I further recommend that the President declare a nationwide state of emergency. During this period, constitutional immunity for Governors should be suspended so that any Governor under whose jurisdiction terrorist groups operate freely and with impunity can be held accountable. Where necessary, such a state may be temporarily placed under military administration to restore order and protect citizens.

Finally, I call on President Tinubu to establish a military tribunal to try terrorists and their confirmed collaborators. Where guilt is established beyond reasonable doubt, the tribunal should be empowered to impose the maximum penalty under the law – the death penalty.

Nigeria must not tolerate a situation in which members of terrorist organizations freely appear at social gatherings armed and unchallenged. Our nation’s security demands decisive, coordinated, and courageous action.

— Professor Akinyemi was Nigeria’s former Foreign Minister