Police Said I Won’t Return Soon”: Journalist Detained for Months Over Reports on Ebonyi Lawmaker Chinedu Ogah

Investigative journalist and publisher Friday James Alefia has accused Nigerian police of detaining him for weeks over reports linked to Ebonyi lawmaker Chinedu Ogah. Alefia said armed officers arrested him in Lagos in September 2025, seized his gadgets, and held him across multiple facilities, including Abuja’s Abattoir, over alleged cyberstalking and false publications. He insists the reports were legitimate journalism. After months in detention, Alefia was granted bail on December 20, with trial set for January 27, 2026, raising fresh concerns about press freedom and abuse of cybercrime laws in Nigeria.

#PressFreedom
#JournalismUnderThreat
#NigeriaNews

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Ododo Mourns Yakubu Mohammed, Co-Founder of Newswatch Magazine

Kogi State, 14 January 2026 – Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, and to the Nigerian Union of Journalists over the passing of the veteran journalist and elder statesman.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Mohammed as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria and a proud son of Dekina Local Government Area, whose contributions to nation-building went beyond the media space.

“As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism, and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s instrumental role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, noting that the magazine marked a turning point in Nigerian media history by setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.

The Governor also acknowledged Mohammed’s distinguished public service record, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State.

“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many, and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” Governor Ododo added.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal rest and comforts his family and all who mourn his loss.

Lagos Police Officers Accused of Extorting ₦3.3 Million From Innocent Couple, Return ₦2.2 Million After Public Exposure, Claim Remaining ₦1.1 Million Was Shared

Police officers attached to the Area H Command in Ogudu, Lagos State, have been accused of extorting about ₦3.3 million ($2,000 USDT) from a couple who were allegedly wrongfully arrested while travelling out of Lagos on December 18, 2025. According to an investigation by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), the officers detained the couple, seized the man’s phones, and allegedly coerced him into making a cryptocurrency payment without legal representation.

After the incident was exposed on social media, the police reportedly returned ₦2.2 million but are said to be pleading to retain the remaining ₦1.1 million, claiming the money had already been shared among several officers. The victims, supported by a friend who reported the matter to the Police Complaints Response Unit, identified the officers involved during a visit to the station.

Despite partial refunds, the couple has continued to demand a full return of the extorted funds, while the station officer, Olumide Jegede, reportedly acknowledged that not all the money could be recovered immediately. The case has renewed public outrage over police extortion, abuse of power, and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.

5 Journalists Die in Gombe Road Accident While Returning from Wedding, Funeral Held

Five journalists tragically lost their lives in a motor accident on the Gombe–Yola highway while returning from a colleague’s wedding ceremony. The deceased, including staff from the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), were honored with funeral prayers at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Gombe, while one victim, Hajiya Zahra Umar Adamu, was buried in her home state, Kano.

Two survivors were hospitalized, with the Gombe State Government covering their medical expenses. Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a painful loss to the state and the journalism profession, offering condolences and pledging support for the victims’ families. Preliminary reports suggest the crash was caused by a burst tyre on the bus conveying the journalists.

The tragedy has highlighted concerns over road safety, with multiple accidents reported across Gombe and Plateau states during the festive period.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Attends Funeral Prayers for Journalists Lost in Auto-Crash, Visits Survivors at FTH Gombe

...'Gombe Govt to Cover Medical Bills of Survivors, Assist with Funeral Expenses'

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has led a state government delegation to the funeral prayers of journalists who lost their lives in a tragic auto-crash.

The deceased were among journalists and media workers involved in the fatal accident that occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while they were returning from Kaltungo, where they had attended the wedding ceremony of a colleague.

The funeral prayer, held at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Emir's Palace, Gombe, led by Imam Aliyu Hammari and attracted a large turnout of sympathisers, including grieving family members, colleagues from the media industry and top government officials.

Among those in attendance was the Emir of Gombe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR.

A visibly saddened Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the demise of the seven journalists as a painful loss to Gombe State and the media profession, noting that the state had lost dedicated professionals who served with commitment.

After the funeral prayers, the Governor proceeded to the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, to personally assess the condition of the survivors who are currently receiving medical attention.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to God for sparing the lives of the survivors, while praying for their speedy recovery.

“We must thank Almighty God for sparing their lives, not because they are better than those who passed on, but because it was destined so. Our most important duty now is to continue praying for their quick and complete recovery. For those who lost their lives, we will not relent in praying for the repose of their souls, in view of the enormous contributions they made to journalism and public service,” the Governor said.

He extended the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their respective organizations and the entire media fraternity, urging them to accept the tragic loss as an act of God.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also announced that the Gombe State Government has taken over the full medical bills of all the injured victims, assuring that the government would provide every necessary support to aid their recovery.

“As a government, we will do everything within our means to support the victims and their families in this difficult time,” he assured.

During the visit to the Accident and Emergency Unit, the Governor was conducted round the ward by the Chairman of the Hospital Advisory Committee, Dr. Bukar Lakube and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, to assess the condition of the patients. He also extended financial support to other patients in the unit, to help cushion burden on them and their families.

The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau; the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Commissioners; and other senior government officials.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Deeply Mourns Journalists Lost in Tragic Accident

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has received with overwhelming grief, shock and deep emotional pain the tragic news of the fatal accident involving journalists, staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe and Ministry of Information.

The accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of their colleague in Kaltungo.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged Gombe State into mourning, noting that the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the very soul of the state’s media and public service community.

Those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident include: Zarah Umar, Manager News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager Administration NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a Retired Manager News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The Governor said the deceased were committed professionals who dedicated their lives to informing, educating and serving the people, describing their deaths as a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in Gombe State.

“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the Governor said.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authorityand the entire media fraternity within and beyond Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also expressed grave concern for the injured victims currently receiving medical attention, including Emmanuel Akila (NTA Government House Correspondent), Steven Doddo of NTA Marketing Department, Nina Gadal (Ministry of Information), and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA, assuring them of the government’s full support.

“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he said.

“This is a dark moment for Gombe State. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences,” the Governor added.

The Governor prayed Almighty God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and give the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the heavy loss.

Anthony Joshua Accident: Why Do Nigerians Love to De-market Nigeria?

Anthony Joshua suffered a ghastly accident today in a rural part of Ogun State, and instead of de-marketing Nigeria, why don't you and I wait for the full details of what occurred to our beloved boxing champion before making dramatic and damaging statements whose veracity we cannot be sure of?

You were not at the scene of the accident. You are relying on videos you see online. You don't know the full details.

But your first instincts are to attack Nigeria and paint the worst possible picture to the outside world, and now headlines from as far away as India and Australia are quoting Nigerian X users and lampooning Nigeria and saying that no first responders came to Mr Joshua's rescue and that the whole scene was emblematic of a failed state.

Just turn on your international news channels and see the horrible things they are saying about Nigeria right now and quoting Nigerian X users!

And sadly, some of the people castigating Nigeriw and our institutions based on hearsay and online chatter claim to be journalists.

It says more about the state of our journalism than our healthcare and emergency response systems.

Well, I made enquiries, and it is not the case that emergency response services let Mr Joshua down. Rather, immediately after the accident, eyewitnesses did not wait for first responders and heroically began assisting Mr Joshua.

Within the very first two minutes, they intervened. Obviously, not being professionals, they would make mistakes and not follow procedure.

The Federal Road Safety Corp arrived within the first few minutes of the accident and met passers-by who were already intervening. The police showed up, and seeing that the crowd had already taken the initiative, what would you have them do?

Before an ambulance could get there, Mr Joshua was already close to a hospital. This is all in the space of minutes, not up to an hour.

The deaths that occurred during the accident, according to preliminary official reports, were not caused by any negligence. The individuals concerned died on the spot, and the official cause is collision trauma from "excessive speed". May God grant fortitude to their families.

How is that the fault of emergency response personnel? I see no blame for Nigeria in this! But I will still wait for the full official statement.

Even in England, when an accident occurs in a rural area, emergency responders take time to arrive. Anywhere from fifteen minutes and above. Please Google it! Most likely more.

Remember Diana, Princess of Wales? She sadly had an accident right in the heart of the metropolitan area of Paris, and it took fifteen minutes for an ambulance to get to her—the most high-profile woman in the world at that time.

And even after the ambulance came, it took them over an hour, precisely 101 minutes, to get her to a hospital.

How long did it take Spanish first responders to get to Diogo Jota's car? That was a big scandal!

Please be patriotic and wait for an official statement before hastily crucifying Nigeria.

Remember how we did the same thing after armed robbers killed the late Somtochukwu Maduagwu. Nigerians libelled the police and the emergency doctors who tried to save her life, only for the truth to come out later, but much irreparable damage had already been done.

Let us not repeat history and claim that it repeated itself
- Reno Omokri

What’s the Cost of a Merry Christmas? Azu Ishiekwene Reflects on Power, Politics and Personal Choices

In this reflective Christmas opinion piece, Azu Ishiekwene departs from conventional year-end predictions to examine the deeper personal, political, and social costs of seeking a “merry” Christmas in a turbulent world. Writing against the backdrop of a chaotic global year marked by political disruption, Ishiekwene curates and revisits some of his most unusual and thought-provoking articles published in 2025.
Through humour, satire, and introspection, he reflects on Nigeria’s everyday frustrations—such as incomprehensible airport flight announcements—and broader continental issues, including the rise of algorithm-driven populism around Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré. He questions the substance behind viral political hero-worship and warns against mistaking online fantasy for real governance and reform.
The article also takes a deeply personal turn as Ishiekwene honours mentors and colleagues who shaped his journalism journey, highlighting how small acts of faith and guidance can define a lifetime. From tributes to seasoned journalists to reflections on career choices, love, regret, and ambition, he underscores the idea that life is lived forward, not in hindsight.
Politically, Ishiekwene revisits his controversial analysis of Peter Obi’s political future, cautioning against alliances that could undermine long-term ambition. He closes with a sober reminder that Christmas cheer should not come at the cost of critical thinking, moral clarity, or personal authenticity—urging readers to celebrate thoughtfully as they step into the New Year.

Nigerian Police Forced To Release FIJ Journalist’s Wife And Nine-Month-Old Baby After Alleged Plot To Lure Reporter Husband For Arrest In Lagos

The Nigeria Police Force has been compelled to release Adenike Atanda, the wife of a senior investigative journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), along with her nine-month-old baby, following public outcry over their controversial detention in Ikorodu, Lagos State. According to FIJ, Adenike and her infant were arrested by police officers in the Owutu area on Monday evening and held for several hours at a local police station. During the detention, officers allegedly instructed her to contact her husband, Sodeeq Atanda, and falsely claim that their baby was ill in order to lure him back home. When the journalist arrived in the neighbourhood, police reportedly intercepted and handcuffed him before transporting him to the Force Headquarters Annex in Obalende, Lagos, where he was detained for hours and released shortly before midnight. Adenike and the baby were released immediately after her husband’s arrest. The incident is believed to be connected to an earlier police invitation issued to Atanda. As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Police Command has not issued any official statement explaining the arrests, raising renewed concerns about police misconduct, abuse of power, and threats to press freedom in Nigeria.

Lagos Police Arrest FIJ Journalist Sodeeq Atanda’s Wife and Nine-Month-Old Baby in Ikorodu, Triggering Outrage Over Press Freedom

The Lagos State Police Command has reportedly arrested Adenike Atanda, the wife of Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) reporter Sodeeq Atanda, along with their nine-month-old baby in Owutu, Ikorodu. According to FIJ, the arrest occurred on Monday evening after police officers tracked them to their neighbourhood, despite neither the woman nor the infant being journalists. As of the time of reporting, the police had not disclosed any offence committed by them, raising serious concerns about abuse of power, intimidation of journalists, and violations of human rights. The incident has sparked growing criticism over press freedom and law enforcement conduct in Nigeria.

Soyinka Slams ‘Private Battalion’ Escorting Tinubu’s Son, Warns of Dangerous Misuse of Security Forces

Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka has sparked nationwide debate after criticising the massive security convoy assigned to President Tinubu’s son, Seyi, describing it as large enough to “crush” the recent coup attempt in Benin Republic. Speaking at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism Awards in Lagos, he condemned the concentration of heavily armed operatives around one individual while Nigeria battles widespread insecurity. Soyinka warned that the misallocation of security resources highlights distorted national priorities and threatens public safety. He also criticised Nigeria’s involvement in Benin’s failed coup, warned about the dangers of misinformation, and condemned ongoing demolitions in Lagos. As public scrutiny intensifies, the Presidency has yet to respond.

IPI Nigeria to Immortalise Late Treasurer With University Endowment Prize*

The International Press Institute (#IPI) Nigeria has promised to endow a prize at the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) in honour of its late Treasurer, Rafat Idris Salami.

In a statement on Friday, IPI Nigeria said, the prize to be endowed will be to instil in students of the institution the values that the late Treasurer stood for.

The President of the body, Musikilu Mojeed, confirmed the decision during the opening ceremony of the 2025 IPI Nigeria Conference and Annual General Meeting on December 2, 2025.

Salami, the then Assistant Director of Digital Media at the Voice of Nigeria (VON), died on December 20, 2024, just days after the first annual conference and AGM of IPI Nigeria, where she participated actively despite being ill.

Speaking on her death in his welcome address at the second annual conference and AGM, Mojeed requested members and guests, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, to observe a one-minute silence in her honour.

He said: “Last year, even in severe pain and confined to a wheelchair, she insisted on attending the conference.

“She greeted guests, co-ordinated logistics, took photographs with her phone and served with grace until her body could no longer carry her.

“Her commitment was a reminder that Journalism is not merely a job; it is a calling.

“It demands sacrifice; It demands conviction.”

Mojeed said: "to honour her legacy, the National Committee of IPI Nigeria will endow a prize in her name at the University of Abuja, which was her alma-mater.

He added: “We will work with the University to ensure that every year, young Journalists are inspired by the values Rafat lived by— integrity, courage, and selfless service.”

When she died last year, Salami was eulogised by the IPI; Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, where she had served as Secretary; her employer, VON and colleagues.

The late Salami began her career with VON as a News Editor and correspondent in Lagos.

She rose through the ranks to become VON’s Assistant Director in charge of Digital Media before her demise.

IPI Blacklists Niger, Akwa Ibom Governors and IGP Egbetokun for Media Repression in Nigeria



The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has blacklisted Niger State Governor Umar Bago, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun as top offenders of media repression. Announced during the IPI Annual Conference in Abuja, the blacklist cites persistent harassment of journalists, unlawful shutdowns of media houses, and breach of press freedom across both states. Rights groups have repeatedly condemned the governors and police chief for actions seen as attacks on independent journalism.



#PressFreedom

#MediaRepression

#IPINigeria

News Central has opened a new state-of-the-art studio in Abuja, enhancing its ability to report political and human-interest stories in real time. The move strengthens the network’s commitment to credible, people-centred African journalism. @benakede reports.

Canadian Court Upholds Deportation of Nigerian Pastor Over Fake Documents and bribery.

A Canadian federal court has refused to review the asylum denial of Nigerian pastor Lucky Bidemi Olorunfemi, ruling that the documents he submitted were fraudulent and tainted by bribery infractions that cleared the way for his deportation.

In a judgment delivered on October 16 in Toronto, Justice McHaffie upheld an earlier decision by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD), which found that Olorunfemi’s supporting evidence lacked credibility and appeared doctored.

The self-proclaimed pastor from Akure, Ondo State, had applied for refugee status in 2023, claiming his pro-LGBTQ stance and tolerance for gay members made him a target of “Muslim Jihadis” who allegedly burned down his church and hunted him in 2022.

To back his story, Olorunfemi tendered four documents a newspaper report, a police invitation letter, his wife’s medical report, and a wanted poster purportedly issued by the “Odoua Peoples Congress.” But the RPD described the materials as “riddled with spelling and grammatical errors,” and resembling “brown envelope journalism.”

Justice McHaffie noted that the supposed OPC poster contained several blunders including misspellings of “Oodua” as Odoua and “Yoruba” as youruba and even identified Olorunfemi under a different name.

The court also flagged contradictions in the Nigerian’s testimony, including his claim of poor English proficiency despite speaking fluently during the hearing.

“The only fact established in his case was that he is Nigerian,” the judge said, dismissing his appeal for review.

Tears and Tributes as Arise TV Anchor Sommie Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Anambra

The remains of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, a beloved Arise TV news anchor, were laid to rest amid deep sorrow in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State.

Sommie tragically lost her life in September 2025 following a violent armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence — a heartbreaking incident that shook the media community. Her burial took place at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, following a solemn funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.

The ceremony drew family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who paid his last respects to the late journalist.

During the homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie urged the bereaved family to take comfort in faith, describing Sommie as “a woman of purpose and virtue” whose life, though short, left a meaningful impact.

In his emotional tribute, Peter Obi lamented her passing as “a painful reminder of Nigeria’s deepening insecurity.” He said,

“Before leaving Birmingham yesterday, I told my companions I was returning home for the burial of one of my daughters.”
He urged Nigerians to remember her family in their prayers and honor her memory with love and hope.


Sommie’s death has left an unfillable void in journalism and among all who admired her professionalism, warmth, and grace.

Source: PUNCH

Tinubu Approves 959 National Honours.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday approved the conferment of 959 national honours and endorsed far-reaching reforms to strengthen the funding framework of the Nigeria Police Force.

Understands that the President made the approvals while presiding over marathon meetings of the National Council of State and the Nigeria Police Council at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Briefing State House correspondents after the sessions, the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office, Emanso Umobong, said Tinubu endorsed the report of the National Honours Award Committee covering 2024 and 2025, alongside special awards already bestowed since January 2025.

“The award of titles of honour and decorations of dignitaries is a yearly event at which the President honours deserving nationals and non-nationals who have distinguished themselves in the service of the nation and humanity,” Umobong said.

She explained that the committee, chaired by Justice Sidi Bage, screened over 5,000 applications before recommending 824 recipients for national honours and 135 special awardees, bringing the total to 959 honourees.

According to Umobong, Tinubu had in the past year honoured individuals and groups such as Bill Gates for contributions to public health, Uncle Sam Pemu for journalism, and the Super Falcons and D’Tigress for sporting excellence.

Others include the Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four, recognised posthumously for environmental activism, and outgoing INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, celebrated for his decade of service to Nigeria’s democratic process.

She confirmed that the updated list of awardees would soon be published.

Popular Arise news anchor killed in Abuja.


Arise News anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu has been killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early hours of Monday.

Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie among colleagues and friends, was 29 years old.

Born on December 26, 1995, she had distinguished herself as a talented news anchor, reporter, and producer, celebrated for her eloquence, professionalism, and dedication to impactful journalism.

Before venturing into broadcasting, Maduagwu trained as a lawyer — a background that gave her reporting and analysis exceptional depth and intellectual rigour.

In a statement confirming her death on Monday, the management of Arise News described the loss as a devastating blow to the organisation and the journalism community.

“It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of the Arise News Channel announce the passing of our beloved colleague, News Anchor, Reporter and Producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu,” the statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi read.

“Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits.”

Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway.

Nigerian Police Threaten Journalists In Kano, Detain Reporter Over Facebook Post

The Kano State Police Command has come under heavy criticism after detaining and threatening Abdulaziz Aliyu, a journalist with Waraka TV, over a Facebook post, while also attempting to discredit the Association of Kano Online Journalists (ASKOJ) for condemning the harassment.

Aliyu said he was lured to the police station under false pretences.

“A police officer who identified himself as CSP Sabo called me, claiming I was linked to a stolen phone investigation. But when I got there, it turned out to be about a Facebook publication I made,” Aliyu explained.

He was reportedly detained for more than two hours at the Court Road Area Command in Gyadi-Gyadi on September 9, 2025, before being released on bail around 10pm with instructions to return the next day.

The post in question was linked to a Hausa historical programme aired on Karama Radio about Sarkin Zazzau Malam Jafaru Ɗan Isiyaku, ruler of Zazzau from 1937 to 1959, which was also shared on Waraka Online TV.

Following the incident, ASKOJ condemned the growing harassment of journalists, warning that press freedom was under siege.

“The increasing cases of police invitations and detentions of journalists across the country are deeply worrying and must be condemned. Journalism is constitutionally recognized, yet some individuals intoxicated by power see it as a threat and use state resources to intimidate and harass journalists,” ASKOJ chairman Yakubu Salisu stated.

However, the Kano Police Command denied detaining Aliyu, insisting he was only “invited” following a written complaint. Police spokesperson SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa further accused Salisu of misinformation and threatened legal action, adding that neither Aliyu nor Salisu were registered members of the NUJ.

Despite the denial, journalists and rights activists in Kano view the police response as a threat and attempt to silence the press.

Source: SaharaReporters

#PressFreedom #Kano #NigeriaPolice

FG Unveils New Secondary School Curriculum with Journalism, Programming, AI Modules— Starting from September 2025.

Nigeria has introduced a new secondary school curriculum that will, for the first time, feature modules in journalism, computer programming, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and fact-checking.

Dada Olusegun, Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Social Media, revealed excerpts from the yet-to-be-released curriculum document on Tuesday.

According to the framework, journalism will now be taught under the English Language module at the senior secondary level, while programming will span both junior and senior classes. AI and robotics will be integrated into a new subject, Digital Literacy, for senior students.

The reforms aim to equip learners with skills for a technology-driven world, while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

Subject Breakdown:
• Junior Secondary (JSS 1–3): Mathematics, English, Integrated Science, Digital Literacy & Coding (including Python basics, Scratch, and robotics kits), Social Studies, Languages (mother tongue and French/Arabic), Creative Arts, and Physical & Health Education.
• Senior Secondary (SS 1–3): Advanced Mathematics, English & Communication (including journalism and fact-checking), Sciences, Technology & Innovation (programming, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, data science), Social Sciences, Languages (with options for French/Arabic/Chinese), Creative Arts & Media, Physical & Health Education, and a final-year research project.

Education experts have welcomed the overhaul, describing it as a step toward preparing Nigerian students for global competitiveness in the knowledge economy.