“Southern Kaduna Crisis: 138 Kidnapped, 16 Killed in Less Than Two Months — Communities Petition Governor Sani”

Communities in Southern Kaduna have submitted an urgent petition to Governor Uba Sani and top Nigerian security officials, highlighting a “silent and neglected crisis” that has left 138 people kidnapped and 16 others killed between late November 2025 and early January 2026. The petition, presented by Comrade Nasiru Jagaba, provides a detailed village-by-village account of the violence in Kauru Local Government Area, underlining the severe human toll on residents.
The worst-affected village, Kabari (Gobirawa), recorded 53 abductions and four killings, followed by Rumaya (28 kidnapped, 3 killed) and Nasarawan Kadage (29 kidnapped, 2 killed). Other villages, including Kajunga, Fadan Rishiwa, Darmanu, and Ningi Karku, reported similar abductions and deaths. Smaller incidents occurred in Rafin Iwa, Fagen Rawa, Unguwan Baka, and Zaman Chawai, showing the widespread nature of the attacks.
The petition emphasizes that the victims are not mere statistics but farmers, women, youths, and breadwinners whose lives have been shattered. It draws particular attention to a 30 November 2025 incident, in which the Chawai Youth Leader and six others were killed just meters from a military checkpoint, yet there was no immediate response from security forces.
The petition criticizes local authorities, highlighting the “continued silence” of the Kauru LGA Chairman and the absence of advocacy from state and national lawmakers, which has deepened the community’s sense of abandonment.
The community is calling for urgent action, including:
Immediate deployment of security personnel.
Intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts.
A public government plan to address ongoing insecurity.
An independent investigation into the November killings.
Accountability from elected officials.
While Governor Sani has promoted a “whole-of-society approach” to tackle insecurity, at the time of reporting, neither the Kaduna State Government nor federal security agencies had responded to the petition, leaving residents desperate for intervention.

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Refutes Viral Claims of Being Targeted in US Airstrikes, Says Video is Old and Misleading

Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has dismissed viral claims suggesting he was marked for elimination in recent US airstrikes in Sokoto State. The cleric clarified that the circulating video is an old clip taken out of context and unrelated to any current military operations.

Gumi explained that the misunderstanding arose from a 2012 incident when Boko Haram allegedly attempted to assassinate him. In that event, an explosive device killed the assailants before reaching him, which Gumi attributed to divine intervention. He emphasized that he is currently living peacefully with his family and faces no present threat.

The cleric called the viral report false, urging the public to verify information before spreading unsubstantiated claims, reinforcing concerns about misinformation and misinterpretation in online media.

Topics: Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Viral Video, US Airstrikes, Boko Haram, Misinformation, Nigerian Security, Public Clarification.

Terrorists Attack Kasuwa Daji Market in Niger State, Kill Over 40, Kidnap Women and Children

Terrorists have carried out a deadly attack on Kasuwa Daji market along the Sokobara–Tunga Demo axis in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, killing more than 40 people and abducting an unknown number of women and children. The assault occurred on Saturday during market activities, plunging the rural community into chaos and fear.

Eyewitnesses described the attackers as rounding up victims, shooting some on the spot, tying others, and slaughtering them. Shops and nearby villages were set on fire, with thick smoke visible from neighbouring communities. Dozens of bodies were reportedly scattered around the market and surrounding areas, with more being discovered near bushes and water sources.

Residents accused Nigerian security forces of failing to respond during and immediately after the massacre. Many locals have fled their homes, while those remaining are traumatised and uncertain about the fate of missing relatives. Community leaders are appealing urgently to the government for security deployment, humanitarian assistance, and intervention to prevent further attacks.

The massacre underscores the continuing insecurity in rural Niger State and highlights persistent gaps in local protection against terrorist violence.

BREAKING: Bandits Burn Vehicles and Abduct All Passengers on Danjibga–Kalgo Road in Zamfara

Armed bandits attacked commuters on the Danjibga–Kuncin Kalgo road in Tsafe Local Government Area, Zamfara State, on Friday, burning two vehicles and abducting all passengers onboard. The assailants reportedly blocked the road before the assault, and the whereabouts of the victims remain unknown.

Security alert platform Bakatsine confirmed the incident, highlighting the ongoing insecurity on major roads in Zamfara. This comes days after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion on the Gusau–Magami–Dansadau road, which killed at least eight people. Following that attack, Nigerian security forces, including Police and Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams and the Joint Task Force under Operation Fansa-Yamma, cleared the road to ensure safety.

The recent abduction underscores persistent security challenges in the region and raises concerns over the safety of travelers on Zamfara State highways.

Nigerian Troops Kill Three Bandits in Fierce Gun Battle in Katsina Community, Arrest One Suspect and Recover Weapons, Motorcycles

Nigerian security forces have killed three suspected bandits during a gun battle in Karaduwa village, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, as part of ongoing operations to combat banditry in the North-West. According to reports shared on social media, troops engaged criminal elements operating in the community, resulting in the deaths of three bandits, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.

During the operation, security operatives arrested one suspect alive and recovered weapons from the scene, along with eight motorcycles believed to have been used by the bandits for attacks and mobility. The encounter underscores continued efforts by the military and other security agencies to dismantle bandit networks, curb violent attacks, and restore peace in Katsina State, which has faced persistent security challenges in recent years.

Nnamdi Kanu: IPOB Leader’s International Lawyer Accuses UK of Ignoring Illegal Abduction, Torture and Detention, Urges Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Intervene

The international lawyer and spokesperson for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has accused the United Kingdom of deliberately ignoring what he described as Kanu’s illegal abduction, torture and continued imprisonment in Nigeria. In a strongly worded letter addressed to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, Kanu’s counsel, Bruce Fein, called for urgent diplomatic intervention to secure the release of the British citizen.

Fein alleged that Kanu was kidnapped in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2021, tortured and extraordinarily renditioned to Nigeria by Nigerian security agents, actions he said violated international law and multiple human rights conventions. According to the lawyer, Kanu has since been held in prolonged solitary confinement without adequate medical care under Nigeria’s security services.

The letter recalled a July 2022 ruling by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which found that Nigeria violated 16 international human rights covenants in Kanu’s arrest and detention. The UN body ordered his immediate and unconditional release and payment of reparations—directives Fein said the Nigerian government has ignored for more than three years.

Fein also condemned Kanu’s life sentence handed down by a Federal High Court in Abuja on November 20, 2025, describing the trial as a “show trial” and insisting that Kanu’s advocacy for Biafran self-determination was pursued through peaceful means. He accused successive UK governments of failing to act despite Kanu’s British citizenship and questioned whether Britain’s silence was motivated by political interests, oil diplomacy or racial bias.

Drawing comparisons with the UK’s recent intervention in securing the release of British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah, Fein described the contrasting response as a troubling double standard. He urged Prime Minister Starmer to use diplomatic channels to negotiate Kanu’s release, arguing that doing so would reinforce Britain’s commitment to human rights and correct what he called a historic injustice tied to colonial-era decisions and Britain’s role during the Biafran Civil War.

Kanu remains in the custody of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), as calls from rights groups, lawyers and supporters intensify for his release amid growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s handling of the case.

Nigerian Police, Army Clear Zamfara Highway After Deadly IED Blast Kills Eight

Days after a deadly IED explosion on December 27 killed at least eight people along the Gusau–Magami–Dansadau Road in Zamfara State, Nigerian security forces have cleared the highway and declared it safe. The joint operation involved Police and Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams under Operation Fansa-Yamma, with armed security providing cover throughout the sweep. Authorities confirmed the road is now safe for public use but urged residents to remain vigilant amid ongoing security concerns in the state.

#ZamfaraSecurity #IEDBlast #NigeriaNews #HighwayCleared #OperationFansaYamma #PublicSafety

Nigeria Partners Facebook, TikTok, X and Other Social Media Platforms to Delete Terrorists’ Accounts, Disrupt Online Propaganda and Terror Financing — NCTC Chief

The Federal Government has disclosed that Nigerian security agencies are working closely with major social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and X to identify and remove accounts used by terrorists and criminal gangs to spread propaganda, showcase attacks and raise funds. Speaking during an end-of-year briefing in Abuja, the Director-General of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major-General Adamu Laka, said sustained engagements with the tech companies have led to the takedown of numerous extremist accounts, significantly curbing activities such as livestreaming of attacks and display of looted items. Laka also revealed that ransom payments remain a major source of terrorist financing, often facilitated through point-of-sale (POS) operators, prompting intensified investigations, arrests and asset seizures. He warned that evolving terror tactics, porous borders and instability in neighbouring Sahel countries continue to pose serious security challenges, stressing the need for regional cooperation and stronger counter-terrorism measures.

#CounterTerrorism
#SocialMediaRegulation
#NationalSecurity

BREAKING: All 230 Abducted Niger Catholic School Pupils Released As Final 130 Victims Regain Freedom After Weeks In Captivity

All pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in the Papiri community of Niger State have been successfully released, following the rescue of the final batch of 130 victims, Nigerian security authorities have confirmed. The Office of the National Security Adviser disclosed the development on Sunday, describing it as a major breakthrough after weeks of fear, uncertainty, and national outrage. The schoolchildren were kidnapped on November 21, 2025, when armed men stormed the boarding school, triggering widespread concerns over the safety of educational institutions across Nigeria. Officials said the release was achieved through sustained security pressure and coordinated rescue operations. Earlier in December, 100 students and staff members had been freed, while religious authorities lamented the harsh conditions faced by those still in captivity. The school is managed by the OLA Sisters and owned by the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora. The successful rescue has brought relief to families and renewed calls for stronger protection of schools nationwide.

Nigerian Whistleblower Nnamdi Emeh Wins Global Prize While Detained for Exposing Police Organ Trafficking

Blueprint for Free Speech has honoured Nigerian whistleblower Nnamdi Emeh with a 2025 global Whistleblowing Prize, even as he remains imprisoned despite a court-ordered bail. Emeh, 26, exposed a notorious police-led organ trafficking and extortion ring in Anambra State, triggering international attention and investigations. After fleeing Nigeria, he was arrested on an Interpol Red Notice in 2023 and charged with offences civil society groups describe as fabricated retaliation. Despite meeting bail conditions, he has remained in detention for nearly three years amid alleged assassination attempts, court obstruction, and claims that implicated officers were promoted instead of prosecuted. Rights groups say the case exposes deepening impunity in the Nigerian security system and poses a critical test for whistleblower protection and rule of law in the country.




#NnamdiEmeh
#NigerianWhistleblower
#PoliceOrgantraffickingNigeria
#BlueprintforFreeSpeechPrize
#WhistleblowingAwards2025
#AnambraPoliceAtrocities
#ExtrajudicialKillingsNigeria
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#WhistleblowerRetaliation
#HumanRightsAbusesNigeria
#AwkaCorrectionalCentre
#RULAAC
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#PoliceCorruptionNigeria
#WhistleblowerProtectionAfrica
#NigerianJusticeSystemFailures

Nigerian security expert questions sincerity of Nigerian security agents who were quick to apprehend man who called for a cøup via social media but are yet to apprehend terrørists who made threåtening videos and post them on TikTøk.

FG says Trump’s Remarks Embolden Violent Groups in Nigeria.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has warned that recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump have unintentionally encouraged violent groups in Nigeria. Speaking in a press release on Wednesday, Akume said some extremists are now exploiting international narratives to justify attacks on soft targets.

He noted that prior to these statements, insurgency networks in the country had been largely weakened and reduced to isolated banditry. Akume stressed that the remarks have given opportunistic groups a platform to gain visibility, underscoring the need for collaboration rather than public labeling between Nigeria and the United States.

Akume reaffirmed that Nigeria does not require foreign troops, highlighting the Nigerian Armed Forces’ successes in reclaiming territories and degrading Boko Haram and ISWAP leadership. He emphasized that targeted support particularly in intelligence, technology, and equipment would be more effective than direct foreign intervention.

The SGF also rejected claims that the conflict represents a “Christian genocide,” noting that both Muslims and Christians have been victims of attacks on churches and mosques. He reiterated that Nigeria is a secular state and that government appointments reflect the country’s diversity, with Christians and Muslims equally represented in key positions, including the Federal Executive Council and the Nigerian Security Council.

Akume concluded that while Nigeria remains open to international cooperation, the focus should be on dismantling extremist networks with appropriate support rather than imposing external labels or interventions.

Large Movement of Fulani Herdsmen Reportedly Leaving Nigeria for Cameroon via Adamawa Border.

Reports from Fufore Local Government Area in Adamawa State indicate that a significant number of Fulani herdsmen, many traveling on motorbikes, are moving out of Nigeria across the border into Cameroon. According to eyewitness accounts, including that of local observer Patrick Anum, the movement has been steady and organized, with groups seen heading towards border communities in the early hours of the day.

The movement is suspected to be an act of fleeing the country by the killer herdsmen due to the threat by the head of the American Government, President Donald Trump that the US could intervene in Northern Nigeria, killing terrorists allegedly persecuting Christians if the Nigerian Government refuses to ‘act fast’.

What has drawn attention, however, is the apparent lack of interference by Nigerian security agencies stationed along the border routes. Sources suggest that the herdsmen are being allowed to cross freely, raising questions about whether the movement is coordinated or part of a broader security realignment in the region.

This development comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity and shifting dynamics in Nigeria’s northern states. In recent months, the Nigerian security architecture has undergone multiple operations targeting banditry, terrorism, and cross-border criminal activities, particularly in the North East and North West regions. Military offensives in parts of Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna have reportedly displaced several armed groups, pushing some to seek refuge or reorganize in neighboring countries.

Security analysts suggest that the movement of Fulani groups toward Cameroon could be linked to these intensified operations. Some observers fear that the exodus might not merely be pastoral migration but could involve elements retreating from ongoing military pressure or attempting to regroup across the border. Others, however, view it as part of the seasonal transhumance pattern traditional herding movements that have been complicated in recent years by conflict, climate change, and growing insecurity.

The federal government has recently emphasized the need for tighter border surveillance and regional cooperation to manage such cross border movements. Yet, the apparent passivity of local security personnel in Adamawa has sparked debate over whether this current migration is being tacitly permitted or simply beyond the capacity of existing border control mechanisms.

As northern Nigeria continues to grapple with overlapping security challenges from insurgency and banditry to farmer-herder tensions this latest development underscores the fragile nature of border management and the deep interconnection between internal security and regional mobility.

Sowore Alleges Security Operatives Fired Gunshots, Tear Gas at #FreeNnamdiKanu Protesters.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused Nigerian security operatives of opening fire and releasing tear gas on peaceful protesters during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu rally in Abuja.

Speaking on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, Sowore claimed that the protest had barely begun in front of the Transcorp Hilton when security forces arrived in large numbers and launched an unprovoked attack.

“There were about 10 trucks that arrived as soon as we started the protest. There was no provocation on our part, like we had promised, it was an orderly and peaceful protest,” he said.

“Suddenly, from nowhere, they started shooting at us, tear gas, some live bullets were f+red. Luckily, I don’t think anybody was hit with live bullets, but they were just shooting all around us.

Eventually, they did arrest some people. I heard Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother was arrested and beaten, and his lawyer was also arrested and beaten. They’ve all been taken to the FCT Command,” Sowore added.

He alleged that a combined team of police, army, and civil defence personnel carried out the operation but confirmed that none of his team members was hit by live rounds.

The protest, led by Sowore, went ahead despite a court injunction restricting demonstrations around Aso Rock, the National Assembly, and Eagle Square. Protesters chanted, “Free Nnamdi Kanu now,” and “Don’t tear gas us,” before being dispersed by the gunfire and tear gas.

Security was heavy across central Abuja, with roads barricaded and Unity Fountain sealed off. Witnesses also reported security forces firing tear gas near the Nigeria Union of Journalists secretariat in Utako, scattering a nearby crowd.

Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains in custody as his trial on terrorism charges continues. Sowore has described his prolonged detention as “a sham designed to obstruct justice.”

Ohanaeze President Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release, Urges Igbos to Register to Vote

Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has appealed to the Federal Government to release the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to allow him access to proper medical care.

In a video message shared on Thursday, Azuta-Mbata also urged Igbos across Nigeria to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Azuta-Mbata emphasized that Kanu’s prolonged detention has been a major source of political and security tension in Nigeria. Kanu was initially arrested in 2015 on charges of treasonable felony, jumped bail in 2017, and fled the country. He was rearrested in Kenya in June 2021 during a controversial operation by Nigerian security operatives and has since been held by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Calling for a political resolution, Azuta-Mbata stated that the Federal Government gains no advantage from continuing Kanu’s detention. He stressed the importance of safeguarding Kanu’s welfare and providing him with medical attention.

He said,

“I’m calling upon Ndigbo—wherever you are in Nigeria—to take advantage of the voter registration exercise going on now. Go and get your PVCs as quickly as possible.

“Secondly, I urge the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu. There is no real advantage in keeping him detained. The government must ensure his safety and allow him to receive medical treatment promptly. A political solution should be pursued, as continued detention serves no meaningful purpose.”

Azuta-Mbata’s remarks underscore the ongoing calls for a resolution to one of Nigeria’s most contentious political issues while encouraging civic engagement among Igbos ahead of upcoming elections.

US reacts to arrest of Ansaru terrorist group leaders.

The United States of America on Monday reacted to the arrest of two key leaders of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as the Ansaru terrorist group.

The US commended the Nigerian government and its security forces over the unprecedented feat.

The group are known to operate around the Kanji National Park alongside their criminal members.

In a statement issued by the US Mission on its X page, the arrest of Mahmud Muhammad Usman aka Abu Bara’a and Mahmud al-Nigeri aka Mallam Mamuda is evidence of the efforts put in by the Federal Government to end terrorism in Nigeria.

It said, “We commend the Nigerian Government and security forces on the successful arrest of wanted #Ansaru leaders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda).

“This is a significant forward in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and extremism,” the US Mission stated.

Recall that the Federal Government had on Sunday announced the arrest of Usman and Al-Nigeri by operatives of the Nigerian security agencies.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, while making the announcement said the wanted terrorists were captured in a “high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation” conducted between May and July 2025.

#US reacts to arrest of Ansaruterroristgroup leaders. #arrestoftwokey leadersoftheJama’atu AnsarulMusliminafi-Biladis Sudancommonlyknownas theAnsaruterroristgroup. #NigerianGovernmentand securityforcesonthe successfularrestofwanted.

Two Sisters Arrested for Allegedly Orchestrating Brother’s Kidnap for N30M in Enugu.

Two women, Juliet Chukwu and Ngozi Nancy Chukwu, have been arrested by police in Enugu State for allegedly plotting the abduction of their elder brother, Mr. Friday Chukwu.

The sisters, both from Amaeze village in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, reportedly conspired to kidnap Friday along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway near the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla. The incident occurred last month, and N30 million was allegedly paid as ransom to secure his release.

Juliet is said to be a member of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), while Ngozi reportedly works with the Nigeria Immigration Service. Their roles in the abduction remain under investigation.

Sources claim the duo was also behind the recent kidnapping of Dennis Igwe, a manager at China Oriental Mining Company, in the same area on July 14.

They were apprehended while allegedly attempting to split a N10 million ransom in a secluded hotel. The sisters have also been linked to other criminal activities in their hometown, including staged kidnappings in collaboration with armed groups, looting of railway infrastructure, and pipeline vandalism.

Though past cases reportedly went unresolved, community members and local leaders are now calling for full prosecution. Chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Ajah, confirmed the arrests, noting that while the crimes occurred outside his jurisdiction, he has written to relevant authorities for updates and accountability. Police in both Ebonyi and Enugu States have yet to officially comment on the matter.

Major Arms Seizure in Anambra: Troops Intercept Truck with Over 164,000 Live Ammunition

In a significant security operation, Nigerian troops have intercepted a truck loaded with over 164,000 live ammunition in Anambra State. The operation, which took place on July 15, 2023, was a result of actionable intelligence and vigilant efforts by the Nigerian Army.

Troops of the 192 Battalion Nigerian Army, operating within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility, conducted a stop-and-search operation along the Ajilete-Owode Road in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State. During the operation, they uncovered a truck with registration number ENU 697 XY, which was loaded with 720 packets of Red Star Cartridges (12 Calibre), each containing 25 cartridges, totaling 18,000 cartridges. 250 packets of live (black) cartridges, each containing 10 packets, totaling 2,500 cartridges.

The ammunition was cleverly concealed in a truck that appeared empty, highlighting the sophistication of the smuggling attempt.

Two individuals were arrested in connection with the illicit shipment:

Eric Seworvor, a Ghanaian national.

Lukman Sani, the Nigerian driver of the truck.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the ammunition was imported from Mali through the Idiroko International Border. The suspects had successfully evaded several checkpoints en route to their final destination in Onitsha, Anambra State, where they intended to deliver the illegal cargo.
The timely intervention by the Nigerian Army prevented what could have been a catastrophic security breach. The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, commended the troops for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts in ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
This operation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by illegal arms trafficking and the commitment of Nigerian security forces to combat such threats.

#AnambraArmsSeizure #NigerianArmy #SecurityOperation #IllegalAmmunition