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Malaria remains one of Nigeria’s most serious public health challenges. The combination of warm weather and seasonal rains creates ideal breeding conditions for Female Anopheles mosquitoes, the insects responsible for spreading malaria. Fortunately, most malaria cases are preventable through consistent, simple measures.

The push to curb crime in Rivers State has taken a sharper, more strategic turn, as the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) declared that only sustained intelligence-sharing between residents and law enforcement can decisively check rising security threats—particularly the resurgence of kidnapping.

Marking its 42nd anniversary in Port Harcourt, the PCRC noted that without real-time community cooperation, efforts to combat evolving criminal networks could falter.

Speaking at the Rivers State Police Headquarters on Moscow Road, the State Chairman of PCRC, Dr Voke Emore, said crime prevention must move beyond routine policing to a model anchored on active civilian participation and timely intelligence.

“We cannot secure our communities in isolation,” Emore stated. “Criminals are becoming more sophisticated. If residents do not provide credible and timely information, the police will always be a step behind.”

While noting a significant drop in crime rates across parts of the state, Emore noted that renewed kidnapping attempts as a growing concern, stressing that early reporting and vigilance at the grassroots remain critical to neutralising threats before they escalate.

He further revealed that the Inspector-General of Police has ranked the Rivers PCRC as the most effective in the country—a recognition he attributed to consistent engagement between the police and the public.

“Our responsibility is clear—bridge the gap between the people and the police. That is what guarantees safety and creates an environment where businesses can thrive,” he added.

Echoing the urgency, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, described the PCRC as a central pillar in the command’s ongoing reforms aimed at restoring public trust and enforcing accountability within the force.

Adepoju disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is recalibrating its operational framework to prioritise transparency, warning that officers found culpable of misconduct will be decisively sanctioned.

“Reforming the police is not optional—it is ongoing,” he said. “But we cannot achieve it without the community. PCRC has not only supported us but has also held us accountable, and that is critical.”

In a significant policy shift, the CP announced the introduction of a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU)—a tactical formation that will integrate community stakeholders, including PCRC members, into frontline crime-fighting efforts.

The unit, he explained, is designed to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response to violent crimes, and deepen civilian oversight of police operations.

“You will remain watchdogs,” Adepoju told PCRC members. “Help us identify officers who undermine public trust while working with us to confront criminal elements.”

The anniversary event featured a symbolic solidarity walk by PCRC members from the Police Officers’ Mess in Old GRA to the command headquarters, underscoring a unified front in the fight against crime.

The procession drew participation from transport and civic groups, including the Commercial Drivers Welfare Association, the Bikers Association, and the PCRC youth wing.

Rivers PCRC Urges Public To Share Intelligence With Police is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) has declared its support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, insisting that the North should wait until 2031 in line with Nigeria’s informal zoning arrangement. In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its Speaker, Mohammed Salihu Danlami, the group noted that the 2027 presidential […]

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday adjourned a suit seeking to restrain Sen. Ireti Kingibe from parading herself as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) until June 9, 2026, for hearing.

Justice Peter Lifu fixed the new date after counsel to the plaintiffs, I. G. Ogugwa, applied for an adjournment, noting that the matter is not a pre-election case.

On April 2, 2026, Justice Lifu had declined an application for an interim order restraining Sen. Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate, from participating in ADC activities.

Instead, the judge ordered the plaintiffs to put the senator on notice to show cause why the reliefs sought should not be granted. He then adjourned the matter until April 20 for the hearing of all pending applications, including a preliminary objection filed by Kingibe’s counsel, Marshall Abubakar.

Two executive members of the ADC in Wuse Ward, Abuja, Mr. Okezuo Kanayo, Ward Chairman, and his Secretary, Mr. Isaiah Samuel, instituted the suit against Sen. Kingibe as the sole defendant.

Through their counsel, Kolawole Olowookere, SAN, the plaintiffs had filed an ex parte motion dated March 17, 2026 seeking an interim injunction to bar Kingibe from performing any functions or participating in activities reserved for ADC members pending the determination of the substantive suit.

They argued that as a member of the ADC, Sen. Kingibe is bound by the party’s constitution. They claimed that following allegations of anti party activities, gross misconduct, and the alleged confiscation of the ward’s statutory records, the Wuse Ward Executive Committee suspended her on March 10, 2026.

The suspension, according to the plaintiffs, was ratified by a two thirds majority of the executive committee in line with the ADC constitution.

Counsel further alleged that despite the suspension, Sen. Kingibe has continued to hold parallel meetings, issue press statements as an ADC member, and allegedly use her security details to intimidate ward executives, creating a state of unrest in the ward.

ADC Crisis: Court Adjourns Hearing In Suit Against Ireti Kingibe is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Bandits that abducted residents of Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State are demanding N1bn as ransom before they are released.

The villagers were abducted on Easter Sunday. During the attack, some residents were killed, throwing the community into mourning and fear.

A statement issued on Monday by the chairman and Secretary of Concerned Ariko Youths, Linus Audu and Kefas Likita, the group described the incident as a tragic assault on innocent worshippers during a solemn period of reflection.

The statement explained that the victims included vulnerable members of the community such as two elderly blind men, women, children, and many families.

The statement laminated, “Among those abducted are two elderly blind men, two women whose husbands were killed during the attack alongside their children, several young children, two critically ill women, and entire families.”

The youths noted that the incident has created a humanitarian crisis in the community, with families left traumatised and uncertain about the fate of their loved ones, describing the N1bn ransom by the bandits as outrageous and impossible for the rural community to meet.

It added that it is neither reasonable nor humane to expect affected families, already devastated by loss and trauma, to raise such an amount, saying that
the latest incident is part of a troubling pattern of insecurity in Southern Kaduna, where rural communities have repeatedly come under attack by armed groups engaging in kidnapping and killings.

Residents have often been forced to rely on communal efforts and contributions to secure the release of abducted relatives, amid worsening economic conditions.

The group called on the Kachia Local Government authorities to urgently collaborate with security agencies and provide immediate support to affected families.

They also appealed to the Kaduna State Government to deploy adequate security measures to ensure the safe rescue of the victims, and urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts in tackling banditry across the country.

“We urge swift, transparent, and effective action to rescue the abducted victims unconditionally and bring the perpetrators to justice. Continued delay will only deepen the suffering of affected families and erode public confidence,” the statement added.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official response on the incident.

Kidnappers demand N1bn from victims of Kaduna Easter Day attack

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested members of a unit accused of having links to Iran, according to state media reports.

The UAE-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported on Monday that the arrested individuals were alleged to hold extremist views and operate as part of a “terrorist” unit. They were accused of holding secret meetings, threatening internal security, planning to share sensitive location information, and attempting to recruit individuals into suspicious foreign groups.

The latest arrests come amid heightened regional tensions between Gulf states and Iran.

The development follows a similar security operation in March 2026, when UAE authorities said they dismantled an alleged Iran- and Hezbollah-linked network and arrested members accused of involvement in activities deemed a threat to national security.

Dubai has also previously taken security-related measures during periods of tension with Iran, including the closure of Iranian-linked institutions such as the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club, as well as heightened monitoring of suspected foreign-linked activities within its borders.

No further details on the number of arrests or the identities of those detained in the latest case were immediately released.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing.

UAE Arrests Members Of Alleged Iran-Linked Security Unit is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as Shi’ites, has called on Muslims and Christians across the world to unite in confronting injustice and oppression, saying the global solidarity is necessary to promote justice and improve living conditions.

The appeal was made on Sunday by Malama Zeenatuddeen Ibraheem Zakzaky, wife of the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, during the closing ceremony of the 5th International Conference on Islamic Thought themed, “The State of Affairs and the Way Out.”

DAILY POST reports that the event was organised by the Sisters Forum and Academic Forum under the leadership of Sheikh Zakzaky and held in Bauchi.

The three-day conference attracted participants from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and other African countries.

Zeenatuddeen Zakzaky urged Muslims to live strictly according to the teachings of the Qur’an and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

“Muslims must live their lives according to how Allah enjoined us in the Qur’an and the way the Prophet has brought it to us,” she said.

She explained that the purpose of the conference was to remind believers of their responsibilities as Muslims.

“We are not saying that everybody should become Muslim, but we also cannot afford to live against the teachings of the Qur’an,” she added.

Speaking on ongoing global tensions, including conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, she described the situation as a struggle between oppression and resistance.

“I don’t want people to ask me about this war, but as all can see, it is now clear. I am siding with the axis of resistance against aggression. We know who the aggressors are,” she said.

She further stated that peace and development cannot exist in a world that ignores injustice.

“It is mandatory to act against injustice. All the Prophets of God came to fight oppression and establish justice,” she said.

According to her, the conference also aimed to raise awareness of the Islamic Movement’s objectives in Nigeria and strengthen opposition to what she described as global oppression, particularly against Palestinians.

She added that the United States and Israel were pursuing expansionist and self-interest policies, urging Nigerians to be cautious of foreign influence and protect national sovereignty.

“The US is only after the wealth and resources of other countries. Nigerians must be careful and protect their sovereignty,” she warned.

Also addressing the gathering, a lecturer from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Dr Fatima said the conference was designed to promote justice and encourage resistance to oppression globally.

She called for unity among Muslims and Christians, adding that silence in the face of injustice worsens global suffering.

Muslims, Christians must confront injustice worldwide – Zakzaky

The Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted nine exhibits against a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alongside his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Monday admitted the documents at the resumed trial of the former Chief Law Officer of the Federation on fraud related matters.

The exhibits were presented before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its ongoing trial of the former Minister and some family members.

The EFCC is prosecuting the defendants on an amended 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, procuring, disguising, concealing and laundering proceeds of unlawful activities to the tune of N8,713,923,759.49 contrary to the provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

The exhibits, which are documentary in nature, were tendered through the fourth prosecution witness, Mashelia Arhyel Bata, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank Plc.

Led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, the witness told the court that, in the course of his official duties, he received correspondence from the EFCC requesting documents relating to several accounts linked to the defendants and associated entities.

“I work as a compliance officer with Zenith Bank, Maitama branch. My duty includes receiving correspondence from law enforcement agencies and responding accordingly,” he said.

Bata further disclosed that the bank complied with EFCC’s requests by providing both soft and hard copies of documents relating to accounts belonging to the defendants and companies such as Rayhaan Hotels Limited, Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited, Nashab Limited, Golden Age Global Ventures, and Rahamaniyya Properties Limited.

“My lord, the documents are nine,” he stated, confirming his ability to identify them when presented in court.

Upon application by Okutepa, the court admitted the documents, dated between July 19, 2024 and March 12, 2026, as Exhibits D1 to D9, despite an initial objection by defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, who noted that “the dates are almost all in March.”

Continuing his testimony under further examination by prosecution counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, the witness provided details of transactions contained in the exhibits.

He identified Exhibit D1 as containing account opening documents and statements for accounts belonging to Abubakar Malami and A.A. Malami & Co, including a naira account and a dollar account.

According to him, the statement of account for one of the accounts covered the period from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2023.

The witness confirmed that the accounts were active between 2015 and 2023, noting that “there were transfers within that period.”

He further revealed that total credits into one of the accounts stood at N383,637,21.55 between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2023, while total credits from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2015 amounted to N560,506,465.12.

On debits, he stated that N384,322,120.85 was recorded between 2016 and 2023, while N571,891,174.08 was debited between 2012 and 2015.

Giving further breakdown of transactions, the witness told the court that on November 11, 2020, the account received N194,791,608.00 from New Horizons Limited, and on June 24, 2022, it received N622,500,000.00 from Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited.

He added that on July 1 and July 7, 2022, the account received N250 million each from Rayhaan Hotels Limited, while on December 22, 2022, there was an inflow of N500 million linked to Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited.

Continuing in that format, the witness identified so many transactions running into billions.

Following the testimony, the defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN sought an adjournment to enable him study the exhibits and prepare for cross-examination.

“My lord, we need time to go through the nine exhibits tendered,” Daudu said.

Justice Abdulmalik subsequently fixed May 13, 2026, for continuation of trial.

Court admits nine exhibits against Malami, family in money laundering charges

The Osun Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has announced the official resumption of Corps Commander Sunday Adebayo has officially assumed duty as the new Sector Commander in the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by Agnes Ogungbemi, the Sector Public Education Officer, confirming that Adebayo took over leadership on Tuesday, April 13,n2026.

According to the statement, “Adebayo is an experienced officer with extensive background in road safety administration, traffic management, and public service within the Corps.”

It noted that he had previously served in several operational and administrative roles, where he demonstrated leadership, discipline, and effective coordination in executing the Corps’ mandate.

The statement indicated that his appointment followed recognition of his competence and outstanding service record within the organisation.

“As Sector Commander, Adebayo is expected to oversee road safety operations, enforcement of traffic regulations, public enlightenment campaigns, and administrative coordination across Osun State.”

Meanwhile, Adebayo upon assumption of duty expressed appreciation to the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, for the confidence placed in him.

“I am grateful to the Corps Marshal for this opportunity to serve. I remain committed to upholding the core values of the Corps through discipline, professionalism and teamwork,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of sustained public education, strict enforcement of traffic laws, and stronger collaboration with stakeholders in the transport sector.

He assured motorists and other road users of the Command’s continued dedication to safer roads and urged full compliance with traffic regulations to enhance safety across the state.

Adebayo assumes office as Osun FRSC Sector Commander

Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has sparked widespread reactions online after stating that his N100m in savings is strictly off-limits, even in the face of urgent family emergencies.

The Nigerian content creator remarked in a viral video featuring skit maker Sir Balo, on Monday, where he explained his disciplined approach to personal finance. The conversations revolved around money management, savings culture, and family responsibility.

In the video, Peller revealed that he operates a strict financial rule, insisting he never allows his account balance to fall below N100m under any circumstance.

“I don’t ever allow myself to be broke below N100 million. Even if anybody wants to die in the family, I won’t touch it,” he said, adding that he prefers to seek alternative income streams, such as paid promotions, whenever he faces urgent financial needs.

His comments have triggered mixed reactions across social media platforms, with supporters praising his financial discipline and long-term thinking, particularly in Nigeria’s challenging economic climate.

Others, however, have criticised the stance as overly rigid, arguing that it overlooks the cultural expectations of family support, especially during emergencies where immediate financial assistance may be critical.

In Nigeria, extended family responsibilities often play a central role in financial decision-making, with many individuals expected to contribute to medical expenses, education, and other urgent needs beyond their immediate households.

Peller’s position has therefore sparked a broader debate about the balance between maintaining financial boundaries and fulfilling social obligations in a system where informal family support often substitutes for institutional safety nets.

Some social media users reacted humorously, with one commenter joking about needing “financial approval” before responding to emergencies, while others questioned the practicality of such a strict rule.

@didiezenwa said “But if the person finally kpai for your family, you’ll donate money for his burial after refusing to help them abi? Congratulations”

Another reaction from @thatibm lol, look at who y’all take advice from. Life never humbles you sha continue spilling rubbish. Even if this is your mentality, is it okay to say this out in public?

@chyddo Imagine being able to make this statement in your early 20s while graduates can barely afford food. Pick your struggle wisely!!!

Peller Sparks Debate After Declaring N100m Savings Untouchable is first published on The Whistler Newspaper