A Kano State High Court has sentenced a 32-year-old man, Muhammad Zulfalalu, popularly known as “Mai Siket”, to 20 years imprisonment for raping an 85-year-old woman in Kiru Local Government Area of the state.

Justice Aisha Mahmoud delivered the judgment after finding the defendant guilty of a nine-count charge bordering on rape and housebreaking, holding that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

The court sentenced Zulfalalu to 20 years imprisonment for rape and an additional six years for housebreaking. Both sentences are to run concurrently. The court also awarded N500,000 compensation to the victim.

According to the prosecution counsel, Aisha Adamu, the offences were committed between August 2019 and June 2020 at Gidan Kwano, Kwanar Dangora, in Kiru LGA.

Adamu told the court that the convict unlawfully entered the victim’s residence at night and sexually assaulted her. She further alleged that Zulfalalu, widely known in the area as “Mai Siket”, had been involved in a pattern of breaking into homes during nighttime before his eventual arrest.

The prosecution presented six witnesses in support of its case and argued that the offences contravened Sections 283 and 356 of the Penal Code.

Reacting to the verdict, Kano State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Maude (SAN), described the conviction as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Dr Abubakar Ibrahim, Maude said the judgment would strengthen public confidence in the justice system and demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society.

He commended the prosecution team for its dedication and professionalism in securing the conviction, noting that the outcome reflected the effectiveness of the state’s justice system.

Kano court jails man 20 years for raping 85-year-old woman

Delta State Government has dispelled the death rumour of its former governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan.

This is contained in a statement by Ossai Ovie, media aide to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who said he spoke with the daughter of the ex-governor, Miss Orode Uduaghan and was told that the father is alive.

His statement titled: “Former governor uduaghan is alive – death rumor false

“I have just seen reports circulating online claiming that the former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, is dead. Some people have been reaching out to me asking ‘Ossai Ovie Success is the news real’.

“I immediately reached out to his family to confirm. I spoke directly with his daughter, Orode Uduaghan on the phone, and she confirmed that the news is false. Dr Uduaghan is alive. I am disappointed at those who spread such false information without verification,” the governor’s aide said.

He urged the public to disregard the rumour and avoid sharing unverified information.

Ex-governor Uduaghan alive – Delta govt dispels death rumour

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has denied allegations of defamation levelled against him by the former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The politician had alleged that Primate Ayodele defamed him in a prophecy he made some weeks ago, in which he stated that Kwankwaso would betray the former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, in his presidential bid.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele made it clear that there was no intention to defame Kwankwaso in his prophecy, noting that he did not directly attack his person.

The cleric explained that he merely shared the prophecy he received from God, as he has always done, and that it was not influenced by any personal issues with the politician.

He further stated that he never had any intention of defaming Kwankwaso, stressing that there is nothing personal between them and that he only spoke based on what he received from God.

However, he noted that the prophecy was greatly misunderstood.

He said: “It has come to my attention that the former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has alleged that I wrongly accused him in my recent prophecy concerning his political ambition.

“I wish to state clearly that the purpose of my prophecies has never been to defame, malign, or attack anyone’s personality. I only speak based on what I receive from the throne of God.

“I have never met Senator Kwankwaso, nor have I had any personal issues with him. Therefore, there is absolutely no reason for me to deliberately target or attack him. 

“Just as I speak concerning every individual I am divinely directed to address, I spoke about him and his political aspirations based solely on the message I received.”

The man of God stated that Kwankwaso is someone he respects, just as he respects every other individual, and that his prophecies are not influenced by personal relationships.

He added that if clarification had been sought from him, he would have explained his statement to make it clear that he had no intention of defaming the politician.

“Kwankwaso is someone I respect, just as I respect every individual. My prophecies are never influenced by personal relationships, sentiments, or grievances; they are simply divine messages and directives as revealed to me.

“For the sake of clarity, I would like to state that my message was greatly misunderstood and misrepresented by those interested in Kwankwaso’s political career.

“Sadly, even the politician misunderstood my statement and perceived it as a personal attack and an attempt to malign his character.

“It should never have come to this. If clarification had been sought from me, I would have explained what I meant, and it would have been clear that I had no intention of defaming the politician or anyone else I have spoken about in my prophecies,” he stated.

He urged individuals mentioned in his prophecies to seek clarification before issuing threats or making accusations.

He also warned those who manipulate his videos for personal or political agendas, stating that action would be taken against such individuals.

“I would appreciate it if individuals mentioned in my prophecies seek clarification before issuing threats or making accusations. 

“I would also like to use this opportunity to warn those who manipulate my videos to serve personal, political, or selfish agendas. Such actions are misleading and unacceptable.

“I strongly urge those involved to desist immediately, as appropriate action will be taken against anyone found guilty of deliberately altering my messages for ulterior motives,” he added.

‘I didn’t try to defame you’ – Primate Ayodele tells Kwankwaso 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State has directed churches across the state to suspend late-night programmes and fence their premises as part of renewed efforts to curb growing security threats.

The directive was contained in a communique issued in Ibadan and jointly signed by the state chairman, Elisha Ogundiya, and secretary, Samuel Owolabi on Wednesday.

According to the association, the decision follows increased cases of abduction and kidnapping across the state, which it said have raised serious concern among church leaders and members.

“Due to incessant abduction and kidnapping in recent times, Oyo CAN advises churches to be more security conscious by positioning security personnel and other electronic devices strategically within their premises and neighbourhood,” the communique stated.

It further urged churches to suspend late physical gatherings, intensify prayers for the release of abducted persons, and take urgent steps to strengthen perimeter security.

“Churches not fenced and gated should see it as their next project,” the association added.

CAN also advised church leaders to deploy trained security personnel during services and conduct proper vetting of guards and other essential workers within church premises.

It warned churches against allowing strangers to sleep within sanctuaries or church compounds, while urging worshippers and the general public to limit movement and avoid late-night travel.

The association also called on residents to comply with the existing curfew on commercial motorcycles imposed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, which restricts operations beyond 10:30pm.

Expressing concern over recent insecurity incidents, the group sympathised with families of victims and commended government efforts aimed at securing the release of abductees, particularly those involved in the May 15 incident in Oriire Local Government Area.

CAN urged both state and federal authorities to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped victims, while also calling for restraint in the public dissemination of sensitive security information.

The body reaffirmed its readiness to continue collaborating with government authorities in promoting peace and stability in the state.

Suspend late-night programmes, fence your premises – CAN orders Oyo churches over insecurity 

Abia State Government has said that a petroleum pipeline laid about seventy years ago is responsible for the explosion that occurred in Umuololo Owaza, Ukwa West LGA of the State.

The  pipeline, which is part of Oil Mining Lease (OML) 11,  exploded at about 1:30 am Monday, causing a serious oil spill that affected people’s homes, farms, schools, shops and livestock.

Inspecting the extent of damage, officials of the Abia State government expressed concern about the environmental impacts the  explosion had on residents of Umuololo.

The State government’s delegation led by Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Asonye Ogbonna and Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Joel Ogbonna,  lamented that several buildings and  other property were severely affected in Umuololo, though no life was lost.

Speaking at the site of the explosion, Abia State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Joel Ogbonna said that preliminary findings showed that the exploded pipeline  was laid about seventy years ago and should not have  remained in use by 2026.

He directed the oil company that owns the pipeline to immediately clean up the affected community and to replace the old pipeline, in order  to prevent a future disaster.

Also, Abia State Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, assured the affected villagers that the Abia State government was closely monitoring the situation, saying that efforts were on to address the incident.

Ogbonna said that the administration of Governor Alex Otti is determined to protect Abia communities from environmental pollution, degradation and other safety challenges.

One of the victims of the explosion, David Nwogu, said his house was extensively damaged by the incident.

Nwogu claimed  that the pipeline  was laid in 1958 and was yet to receive adequate maintenance,  alleging that the non-maintenance could have contributed to the explosion.

Abia Govt blames old oil pipeline for explosion in Owaza community 

Dr Bashir Kurfi, a lecturer in International Finance at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, says allegations linking some Bureau De Change (BDC) operators to terrorism financing are not surprising, considering the global nature of terrorism and the widespread use of foreign currencies in illegal transactions.

Speaking during an interview on Trust TV on Wednesday, Kurfi said terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which operate across the Sahel region, depend on international financial networks to move funds.

“When you talk of terrorism, it has an international dimension. Groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have networks across countries, so there will naturally be international movement of funds,” he said.

Commenting on reports from the United States linking some Nigerian BDC operators to suspicious financial transactions, Kurfi said BDCs could easily be used for illicit activities because they deal largely in cash and foreign currencies.

“Bureau De Change operators can become a vehicle because they handle cash and different currencies. The US dollar remains the dominant currency in international transactions, including illegal ones,” he said.

Kurfi blamed Nigeria’s weak economy and poor political leadership for the increasing preference for the dollar over the naira.

“The currency of a country is its dignity. Once it loses value and public confidence, people begin to look for alternatives,” he stated.

He also attributed the naira’s weakness to Nigeria’s heavy dependence on imports, noting that even local industries rely on imported raw materials.

The economist further linked insecurity in some parts of the country to illegal mining activities, saying mineral resources have fuelled conflicts in several African countries.

“There is a relationship between banditry and mining. In many conflict areas, valuable mineral resources help sustain violence,” he said.

Kurfi called for stronger regulation of the financial sector, improved economic policies and closer monitoring of mining activities to curb insecurity and illicit financial flows in the country.

Nigeria’s economic failures creating openings for terror financing – Kurfi on BDC involvement 

After spending six months in prison custody without the commencement of substantive trial proceedings, a Taraba State based journalist, Gabriel Olayinka may finally have an opportunity to defend himself in court as the Upper Area Court II in Jalingo, the state capital, has fixed July 2, 2026, for a definite hearing in his case.

The development came on Wednesday after the court, presided over by Justice Lawan Jika, granted a request by the defence for accelerated hearing in the case involving allegations of criminal breach of trust brought against the journalist by one Mr. Isa Jubri.

For Olayinka, the court’s decision represents a significant step in a legal battle that has kept him behind bars for half a year without witnesses being called or substantive proceedings commencing.

For observers, however, the case has become a symbol of growing concerns over prolonged pre-trial detention and delays in the administration of justice.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Barrister D.G. Tukura, informed the court that the prosecution was still awaiting statements of account and other relevant documents from three commercial banks. He also indicated that key witnesses required for the prosecution’s case had yet to appear before the court.

The request effectively signaled another possible delay in a matter that has already stretched over several months.

However, the defence strongly opposed any further adjournment. Representing Olayinka, Barrister Longs Lugnan of P.D. Pius & Associates argued that the prosecution had repeatedly failed to produce substantial witnesses despite the continued incarceration of his client.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. This matter has suffered prolonged delay while my client remains in prison. We pray for accelerated hearing,” Lugnan told the court.

His argument appeared to resonate with the court, as Justice Jika subsequently fixed July 2, 2026, for a definite hearing, signaling a determination to move the matter forward.

Olayinka’s continued detention has generated considerable attention within media and civil society circles in Taraba State and beyond.

The journalist has remained in custody since his arrest over allegations arising from a complaint lodged by Isa Jubri.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, critics have questioned why substantive trial proceedings have not commenced after six months, especially in a case involving an accused person who remains incarcerated.

Legal practitioners noted that prolonged detention before trial often raises concerns about the constitutional right to fair hearing within a reasonable time, a principle enshrined in Nigeria’s legal framework.

Although courts are sometimes confronted with procedural challenges, including delays in obtaining documentary evidence and securing witnesses, legal observers argue that prolonged adjournments can undermine public confidence in the justice system.

In a related development, the State High Court sitting in Jalingo, also on Wednesday mentioned Olayinka’s application seeking a review of his bail conditions.

The application is viewed by supporters of the journalist as another avenue through which he may regain his freedom pending the conclusion of his trial.

However, the matter suffered a setback after prosecuting counsel, Barrister Tukura, requested additional time to respond to the application.

He attributed the delay to technical difficulties involving his work device.
Following the request, the court adjourned proceedings on the bail review application until July 6, 2026.
Broader Concerns

The Olayinka case has increasingly drawn public scrutiny not only because of the allegations against him but also because of the length of time he has remained in custody without substantive trial proceedings.

Human rights advocates and legal analysts have repeatedly warned that prolonged pre-trial detention contributes to prison congestion and raises fundamental questions about access to justice.

For many observers, the July 2 hearing date will be closely watched as a test of whether the judicial process can finally move beyond preliminary delays and address the substance of the allegations before the court.

As Olayinka awaits the next hearing from prison custody, attention remains focused on whether the prosecution will be ready to present its witnesses and documentary evidence, and whether the long-awaited trial will finally begin after six months of legal uncertainty.

Public outcry grows over prolonged incarceration of Taraba journalist

Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has announced power restoration to Rivers, Imo, and Bayelsa states after fixing Alaoji-Owerri 132 kilovolt transmission lines 1 and 2. 

TCN spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday. 

Recall that TCN had announced a forced outage in its Alaoji transmission line on Tuesday, which resulted in electricity supply disruptions in three states. 

In an update, TCN said the affected transmission lines have been energized on Wednesday after successful repair. 

TCN said Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company and Enugu Electricity Distribution Company can off-take power supply to its customers in Imo, Yenagoa, and Rivers (Ahoada). 

“With the successful restoration of both transmission lines, the Alaoji–Owerri transmission corridor is now fully operational.

“EEDC and PHEDC can now off-take the full load for onward distribution to their customers,” TCN stated.

TCN restores electricity to Rivers, two other Nigerian states after blackout

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has said that bandits do not deserve a second chance to live.

Sani made this statement Wednesday when he appeared as a guest in an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

He lamented that bandits have caused a lot of havoc in communities across the country, killing people and kidnapping others, including women and children.

“I don’t believe they deserve a second chance because, in my opinion, they are terrorists.

“When you call them terrorists, it means they are people who have killed innocent citizens. Certainly, they have no right to live, they must be eliminated.

“For me, I don’t believe when someone kills someone, you should just allow him to live again. When he’s a terrorist, he’s a terrorist.

“A terrorist is a terrorist, meaning he’s someone that can kill, he can destroy, and as such, should be killed,” he said.

Bandits don’t deserve second chance – Kaduna Gov, Sani