Nigerian Senate passes bill imposing life imprisonment for child defilement no option if fine.

In a landmark move to curb rising cases of sexual violence, lawmakers push for harsher penalties — as a Lagos court simultaneously hands life sentence to a man for raping a 7-year-old girl.

Senate President
The Nigerian Senate is currently trending after passing a tougher bill prescribing life imprisonment for anyone convicted of defiling a minor, with no option of fine, in a bid to combat the alarming rise in child sexual abuse across the country.

The new amendment, which replaces the existing provisions of the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code, was strongly championed by Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), who insisted that offenders deserve nothing less than life imprisonment — and even hinted that capital punishment would have been more fitting.

Initially, the bill proposed a 20-year jail term for paedophiles. However, Senator Aliero called for a stiffer sentence, arguing that lenient laws have failed to deter offenders.

Under the new proposal Defilement of a minor now carries life imprisonment — without an option of fine. Rape now carries a minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment. The law updates the Criminal Code Act (Section 218), which previously prescribed 13 years to life imprisonment, and Section 221, which allowed 2 years for unlawful carnal knowledge of minors. The Penal Code (Section 283), applicable in Northern Nigeria, which carried 14 years to life imprisonment or fine, will also be updated.

In Sharia-compliant states, penalties remain even more severe — extending to death or life imprisonment, depending on interpretation and local enforcement.

Coincidentally, on the same day as the Senate’s deliberation, a Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) Court in Oshodi, Lagos, sentenced a 25-year-old graphic designer to life imprisonment for raping a 7-year-old girl in 2020.

According to court records, the convict — a neighbour of the victim’s family in a “face-me-I-face-you” compound — repeatedly assaulted the minor when her parents were away, forcing himself on her in the kitchen and bathroom.
The judgement has been widely commended, though some Nigerians believe that life imprisonment is still not harsh enough, with growing calls for chemical castration or death penalty for child rapists.
Others are also urging lawmakers to criminalise false rape accusations, warning that misuse of the law could undermine justice for real victims.

This moves by the Nigerian Senate marks one of the strongest legislative actions yet in the fight against sexual violence and child exploitation.
If fully enacted and enforced, it could reshape how rape and child defilement cases are prosecuted nationwide — potentially closing loopholes that have long allowed offenders to escape justice.

Kebbi LGA Imposes Curfew After Deadly Gold Mining Clash

Authorities in Yauri Local Government Area, Kebbi State, have imposed a 10 p.m.–7 a.m. curfew following violent clashes among youths in the Garin Katta community over gold mining.

The violence, which began with the killing of a miner on Saturday, escalated into retaliatory attacks, destruction of shops, and the burning of motorcycles. Casualty figures remain unclear.

Council Chairman Abubakar Shuaibu said security forces, including police and the military, were deployed after attempts to identify the culprits were obstructed. He urged calm, stressing that conflict only deepens instability.

Violence erupts in Kebbi community as clash over gold mine claims life.

A violent clash between residents over a gold mining site has claimed one life in Garin Katta community, Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The crisis, which broke out on Saturday after a misunderstanding among miners, escalated on Sunday when relatives of the deceased reportedly launched a reprisal attack.

The confrontation led to the destruction of property, vandalisation of shops, and motorcycles being set ablaze.

In response, the Chairman of Yauri LGA, Abubakar Shuaibu, imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

He disclosed that security agencies, including the Police Area Commander and the Department of State Services, had been notified to restore calm, with military support also sought.

Police authorities confirmed the recovery and burial of the victim in line with Islamic rites. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend those behind the killing.

Over 100 Pupils Forced Out of School as Storm Destroys Primary School in Kebbi

Police Rescue Baby Buried Alive by her 20-year-old Mother in Kebbi, Suspect Arrested.

The Kebbi State Police Command has apprehended a 20-year-old woman, Maryam Atiku, from the Nasarawa area of Kamba in Dandi Local Government Area, for allegedly attempting to kill her newborn by burying her alive.

Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, revealed that the incident occurred on June 25, 2025, when Maryam delivered a baby girl and allegedly strangled her with wrappers around the neck, covered her mouth, and buried her in a shallow grave at Malam Yaro bush.

The following day, June 26, a farmer, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, noticed a newly dug grave on his farmland. After taking a closer look, he raised alarm, prompting residents to dig it up, only to find the baby still alive.

The infant was rushed to the General Hospital, Kamba, where doctors confirmed her to be in stable condition.

Operatives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) swiftly arrested the suspect, who allegedly admitted to the act during questioning.

Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, condemned the incident, reiterating the command’s firm stance against child abuse and gender-based violence. He urged parents and community leaders to “protect children under their care and not jeopardize their future under any circumstances.”

He further acknowledged the role of the Kebbi First Lady, Zainab Nasir, for supporting the baby’s welfare, and commended farmer Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad for his timely intervention, which saved the child’s life.

Kebbi Assembly Passes Pre-Marital Medical Examination Bill

The Kebbi State House of Assembly has passed the Pre-Marital Medical Examination Bill 2025, making medical tests compulsory for intending couples.

If signed into law, couples must present valid medical certificates — covering tests such as genotype and blood group — from recognised health facilities at least three months before marriage.

Clerics, traditional rulers, or marriage officials who conduct weddings without valid certificates risk fines of ₦200,000 or six months’ imprisonment. Medical workers who issue falsified results face fines of ₦1 million or one year in prison.

The bill, adopted by Speaker Muhammad Usman, will be forwarded to Governor Nasir Idris for assent.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has approved the appointment of Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami as the new Emir of Zuru.

His appointment follows the death of Emir Muhammad Sani Sami Gomo II, who passed away on August 16, 2025, in London.

According to the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Garba Dutsin-Mari, Sami emerged winner after securing the highest votes from the Zuru Emirate election committee screening three candidates.

He urged the new Emir to lead with diligence and fear of God.

#Kebbi #Zuru #Emir #TraditionalRulers #BreakingNews

News Brief: Police Rescue Five Abductees, Kill Suspected Kidnappers

The Nigeria Police Force has rescued five kidnapped victims in Kebbi State and neutralised suspected kidnappers in separate operations.

Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the first incident occurred in Shanga LGA, where three abductees were rescued after a fierce gun battle that forced the kidnappers to flee with gunshot wounds.

In another operation at Danko/Wasagu LGA, police operatives on routine patrol engaged bandits and freed two victims who had been abducted in Zamfara State.

Arms and ammunition were recovered as investigations and pursuit of the fleeing criminals continue.

#PoliceRescue #KebbiState #SecurityUpdate

Ex-Kebbi PDP Governorship Candidate Resigns From Party
August 24, 2025

Former PDP governorship candidate in Kebbi State, Senator Isa Galaudu, has resigned from the party.

In a letter dated August 20 and addressed to his ward chairman, Galaudu—who also served as Chief of Staff to a former Senate President—said his decision was driven by internal crises and what he described as the PDP’s looming collapse.

Galaudu, who represented Kebbi North in the Senate from 2011 to 2015, announced that his resignation takes immediate effect.

#KebbiPolitics #PDP #NigeriaNews

News Brief: NOA Urges Kebbi Residents To Relocate Amid Dam Water Release, Flood Risk

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Kebbi State has warned communities along River Goronyo and River Niger to relocate immediately, citing imminent flooding risks following the planned release of water from nearby dams.

Assistant Director of Media, Larai Saminu Nazo, said the release is a safety measure to preserve dam structures but will significantly raise river levels, threatening low-lying communities.

She stressed that the directive must be taken seriously, urging residents to cooperate with local authorities and follow evacuation plans. The agency said it is working with emergency and river basin authorities to ensure affected communities receive support.

“Timely relocation now can avert disaster,” Nazo added.

#FloodAlert #KebbiState #NOA #DisasterPreparedness

Patients Left On Bare Floors As Kebbi Health Centre Lacks Equipment — Civic Group

Updated August 19, 2025

Civic accountability group MonITNG has decried the “total neglect and abandonment” of the only Primary Health Care facility in Gidan Dabi, Augie LGA, Kebbi State.

During a recent visit, the group reported patients left sitting on bare floors and improvised seats, with the centre lacking basic furniture, examination beds, and diagnostic tools. Health workers, it said, are struggling to save lives with almost no resources.

MonITNG warned that the poor state of the facility discourages residents from seeking care, worsening preventable health conditions. It urged government to urgently provide equipment, furniture, and staff, stressing that access to primary healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

#Kebbi #Healthcare #Nigeria

Emir of Zuru of Kebbi dies at 81.

Kebbi State has been thrown into mourning following the death of the Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami (retd).

The emir passed away on Saturday night at the age of 81.

The state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Garba Umar-Dutsinmari, confirmed the monarch’s death in a statement released to journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.

According to the statement, the Emir died in a London hospital after a brief illness.

He is survived by four wives and seven children.

In a condolence message, the Kebbi State Government expressed its deep grief over the passing of the revered traditional ruler, describing him as a respected leader whose contributions to peace and development in Zuru Emirate and Kebbi State will be remembered.

“The government extends its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late Emir, the Zuru Emirate Council, the people of Zuru, and the entire people of Kebbi State.

“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” the statement read.

Details regarding the burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

News Brief: Air Chief Warns Insecurity Could Threaten Peace in Kebbi

Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has raised concerns over rising insecurity in Kebbi State, warning it could undermine the peace the state has long enjoyed if not urgently addressed.

During a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi, Abubakar cited the state’s vast terrain and borders with two neighbouring countries as unique security challenges. He pledged intensified aerial surveillance and operations to combat terrorist activities.

Governor Idris urged the Federal Government to establish an Air Force base in Kebbi, highlighting the state’s quality airport and recent plans for a naval base in Yauri.

#Kebbi #Security #NigerianAirForce #HassanAbubakar

Nationwide alert: FG warns of five-day flooding in 19 states
6th August 2025.

The Federal Government has forecasted heavy rainfall over a five-day period that may trigger flooding across 19 states and 76 locations.

The warning, issued on Tuesday by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment, called on stakeholders and residents to take urgent precautionary measures.

This comes as devastating floods struck Ogun and Gombe states on Tuesday, with other states including Lagos, Plateau, Anambra, and Delta also affected by the disaster.

According to the centre’s flood prediction obtained by our correspondent, the affected areas are expected to experience rainfall likely to cause flooding from August 5 to August 9, 2025.

The predicted states and locations are Akwa-Ibom (Edor, Eket, Ikom, Oron, Upenekang); Bauchi (Tafawa-Balewa, Azare, Jama’are, Kari, Misau, Jama’a); Ebonyi (Abakaliki, Echara, Ezilo); Cross-River (Ogoja Edor, Obubra); Nasarawa (Keana, Keffi, Wamba); Benue (Agaku, Buruku, Gboko, Igumale, Ito, Katsina-Ala, Ugba, Vande-Ikya); Kaduna (Jaji, Kafancha, Birnin-Gwari, Zaria) and Katsina (Bindawa, Bakori, Daura, Funtua).

Others are Kebbi (Bagudo, Birnin-Kebbi, Bunza, Gwandu, Jega, Kalgo, Kamba, Kangiwa, Shanga, Ribah, Sakaba, Saminaka, Yelwa, Gauri-Banza); Kano (Bebeji, Gezawa, Gwarzo, Kano, Karaye, Tundun-wada, Wudil, Kunchi); Niger (Kontagora, Rijau, Ringim); Plateau (Mangu); Taraba (Donga, Takum); Jigawa (Diginsa, Gumel, Dutse, Gwaram, Hadejia, Miga); Yobe (Machina, Potiskum); Zamfara (Anka); Sokoto (Sokoto, Wamakko); Borno (Biu); and Gombe (Bajoga).

Flooding in Nigeria has become a yearly occurrence that claims lives and destroys many properties. Last year, 31 states were reportedly affected by flooding, causing hundreds of deaths, injuring thousands of others and affecting 1.2 million.

On September 10, 2024 the Alau Dam collapsed, causing floods in Borno State, killing at least 150 people, displacing 419,000 others and causing the community to submerge 70 per cent.

NSCDC Shuts Down ₦1.43 Trillion Illegal Lithium Mine In Kebbi Linked To Foreign Collusion

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sealed an illegal lithium mining site in Kebbi State over an alleged ₦1.43 trillion mineral theft — in what may be one of the biggest mining frauds in Nigeria’s history.

The site, operated by Three Crown Mines Ltd, was shut down following a Federal High Court order. Authorities revealed that the company, in collusion with foreign nationals, illegally extracted lithium far beyond their licensed limits, breaching both the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act and 2011 Mining Regulations.

Despite a formal summons, the company’s directors snubbed investigators, citing “inconvenience,” a move strongly condemned by NSCDC officials. The Corps warned of zero tolerance going forward.

The crackdown aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and underscores the strategic importance of lithium in Nigeria’s economic future — and the urgent need to curb mineral looting.

#LithiumLoot #NSCDCStrikeBack #IllegalMining #KebbiScandal #MineralTheft #NigeriaMiningCrisis

Nigeria NewsFull List: 28 States, 739 Communities At High Risk Of Impending Flood.

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued a new flood warning for 28 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, highlighting the risk of flooding in over 739 communities across 162 local government areas between Tuesday and August 5.
Full List: 28 States, 739 Communities At High Risk Of Impending Flood
Naija News reports that the alert, issued on Wednesday, follows the agency’s forecast and aligns with its 2025 Annual Flood Outlook released on April 10.

In a statement signed by the Director General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammad, the agency noted that the weekly flood alerts are designed to guide preparedness efforts by relevant authorities and residents.

States At Risk Of Heavy Flood
States identified in the latest flood watch include: Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, and Yobe.

NIHSA warned that the intensity and impact of flooding would vary across the affected states during the period under review, urging emergency management stakeholders to activate response mechanisms immediately.

The statement emphasized that key metropolitan areas such as Lagos and the FCT are also under flood threat.

The agency warned that over 100 major transportation routes face potential disruption, including economic corridors like Okene-Lokoja-Abuja Road, Birnin Kebbi-Bunza Road and Ibi-Wukari Road.

“There is also an increased risk of property damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure in low-lying and flood-prone areas,” the agency warned.

Beyond the physical damage, NIHSA flagged the threat to agricultural lands, warning that crops across multiple regions could be submerged, endangering food security nationwide.

“In addition, agricultural lands are under threat, potentially affecting food security in several regions,” the statement read.

The agency advised communities at risk to implement evacuation plans without delay and urged Nigerians to stay updated through NIHSA’s Flood Dashboard at www.nihsa.gov.ng and its official social media platforms.

“All emergency management stakeholders are strongly advised to activate preparedness and response protocols,” NIHSA concluded.

Suspected Lakurawa Terrorists Kill Three Policemen In Kebbi State During Attack.

The spokesperson of the command, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar, said in a statement on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi that the officers lost their lives during a fierce gun duel with bandits.

Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have killed three policemen after engaging officers in a fierce gun duel in the Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The spokesperson of the command, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar, said in a statement on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi that the officers lost their lives during a fierce gun duel with bandits.

Abubakar said that on July 11, about 7pm, the police command received information that suspected Lakurawa bandits were sighted in the forest along Zogirma/Tilli road in Bunza LG.

”On receipt of the report, the Zogirma Divisional Police Officer, promptly mobilised a team of policemen to the scene with reinforcement from No 36, Police Mobile Force Squadron, Birnin Kebbi.

”Upon arrival, the combined team of policemen engaged the suspected Lakurawa bandits in a fierce gun duel.

"As a result, several suspected Lakurawa bandits were neutralised while others escaped to nearby forest with fatal injuries.

“Regrettably, three brave police officers lost their lives during the encounter,” he said.

the Commissioner of Police in the state, Bello Sani, as commending the resilience, bravery and sacrifice of the fallen officers.

He prayed for their gentle souls to have eternal rest.

The CP reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the people of the state.

Sani urged the residents of the state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station for prompt response.

"It doesn't matter whether you're Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa or Benin, I'm Nupe, yet he appointed me"- Idris.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, dismissed the recent defection of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating that it held no political significance for either the state government or the people of Kebbi State.

According to Leadership, he maintained that the defection posed no threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or to the rising popularity of Governor Nasir Idris.

Ahmed Idris highlighted Governor Nasir Idris’s inclusive style of governance, pointing to the appointment of non-indigenes and the presence of cross-ethnic representation within his administration as evidence of his commitment to unity and fairness.

He said, “ He does not discriminate. Whether you are Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba or Benin—it does not matter.

"I am Nupe from Niger State, yet he appointed me as his Chief Press Secretary. That shows his commitment to inclusive leadership.”

BREAKING NEWS: Kebbi state Government Proposes Death Penalty For Band!t Informants

The Kebbi State Government has expressed displeasure over the comments made by a former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, accusing him of injecting political sentiments into sensitive security matters.