Author Archives: MOONLIGHT NEWS

By Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight

Hon. Abubakar Mahmoud (Jarma Abakwa) has Tuesday, announced his intention to contest for the Kaduna North Federal House of Representatives seat, gathering supporters at his ward office in Unguwan Shanu/Abakwa, Kaduna State.

 APC party stakeholders, including the local government chairman, Hon. Sule Wada, Chairman APC stakeholders Elders forum (Unguwan Shanu/Abakwa) Alhaji Danjummai Maikatifa, Hon. Abdullahi Lema SSA to Executive Governor of Kaduna state, ALGON Chairman of ward chairmen Hon. Tukur Gwarzo, Past and present Councillors, the APC women leader of Unguwan Shanu/Abakwa ward, wards party chairmen, ward executives. 

and other officials, attended the event, pledging support for Jarma’s candidacy and the party’s 2027 general election efforts.

APC party chairman, Hon. Sule Wada, has rallied support for Hon. Abubakar Mahmoud Jarma’s candidacy, citing his grassroots efforts and commitment to empowering the less privileged. Jarma pledged to prioritize education, job creation, and development projects in Kaduna North if elected, while expressing gratitude for party support and unity.

Hon. Abubakar Mahmoud Jarma expressed gratitude to APC party leadership for their unity and support, promising to back the party’s 2027 general election efforts. He vowed to prioritize women and youth empowerment, education, job creation, and developmental projects in Kaduna North, collaborating with party leaders to achieve these goals.

THE REPORTERS Nigeria Magazine, now nine years old in Nigeria’s dynamic media landscape, has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its West African Person of the Year 2025, citing what it described as “measurable stabilisation, reform boldness, and macroeconomic recalibration with regional implications.”

Founded in March 2017, THE REPORTERS Nigeria Magazine is a fortnightly publication focused on politics, economy, energy, security, leadership, and both local and international affairs. Its editorial philosophy centers on development journalism, good governance, national unity, and peaceful co-existence.

In a statement released by its editorial board and signed by its Chairman/CEO – Malam Abdullahi Sabiu, the Magazine explained that the decision followed a multi-year performance assessment of leadership outcomes across West Africa, with emphasis on economic management, inflation trends, food security, security architecture reforms, and investor confidence indicators.

According to the editors, developments in Nigeria under President Tinubu’s administration stood out in scale and measurable impact.

“The recognition is rooted in performance metrics,” the board stated.

“Within three years of assuming office in 2023, the administration has overseen a notable shift in inflation moderation, food price trends, security coordination, fiscal restructuring, and investment flows — outcomes that carry weight not only nationally but across the subregion”, it added.

The Magazine noted improvements in headline and food inflation figures, renewed agricultural activity linked to improved security, FX market reforms, subsidy restructuring, strengthened federal revenues, and growing foreign investor engagement as central factors in its decision.

Beyond its print edition, THE REPORTERS operates THE REPORTERS Newspaper, its online arm, delivering round-the-clock updates on governance, economy, security, and development issues. Both platforms share a guiding belief that journalism is a veritable tool to uplift humanity, spotlight critical issues, and contribute to practical solutions.

Reaffirming its mission, the organization stated that it remains committed to neutrality, objectivity, fairness, and accuracy, while supporting government and private initiatives that advance the cause of the Nigerian masses — alongside holding public office holders accountable.

Its long-term vision, the editorial board added, is to build one of the most credible and reliable development-driven media platforms in the country, anchored on patriotism and responsible journalism.

By naming President Tinubu as its West African Person of the Year 2025, THE REPORTERS says it is continuing its tradition of spotlighting leadership decisions that reshape national direction and influence broader regional stability.

By Comrade Nasiru Goronyo

Today, Sokoto is not merely experiencing empowerment; it is being swept by it. Across towns, villages and wards, a political force is translating leadership into livelihood, and that force is Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko. What is unfolding today is nothing short of an empowerment tsunami—loud, visible, relentless and impossible to ignore.

This is not empowerment crafted for headlines alone. It is empowerment felt on the streets.

Electric tricycles are rolling out to energise local transport and commerce. Motorcycles are restoring mobility to young hustlers. Sewing machines are reopening doors for women entrepreneurs. Grinding machines are reviving small-scale businesses. Food items are reaching homes strained by economic pressure. From Sokoto North to Sokoto South, from Wamakko to Kware, the impact is immediate and unmistakable: lives are moving again.

At a time when many public office holders are content with policy talk and ceremonial gestures, Senator Wamakko has chosen the harder path — direct intervention. He has taken governance beyond the Senate floor and planted it firmly among the people. Youths who once waited endlessly for opportunities are now creating them. Women are converting skills into income. Artisans are reclaiming dignity through work. This is empowerment with results, not rhetoric.

But the Wamakko story does not end at Nigeria’s borders.

In a move that has already entered the record books, Senator Wamakko has broken a rare and historic barrier by becoming the first Nigerian Senator to physically visit students studying abroad under his scholarship scheme. Not phone calls. Not intermediaries. Personal visits — to check on their welfare, learning conditions and living standards, and to ensure that those flying Sokoto’s flag overseas are studying in comfort and dignity.

That singular act has sent a powerful message across the country: this is a leader who does not abandon responsibility at a distance. A leader who understands that investing in education is not complete until the student’s wellbeing is secured. For parents, guardians and beneficiaries, it was reassurance at the highest level. For Nigerian politics, it was a new benchmark.

Community leaders have applauded the empowerment drive as bold and timely. Beneficiaries describe it in simpler terms: “Our lives have changed.” And in a nation desperate for leadership that delivers, such testimonies carry weight.

This empowerment tsunami also carries political significance. It underscores a philosophy that has defined Senator Wamakko’s career — that true leadership must be seen, felt and remembered. It is a reminder that representation is hollow if it does not translate into opportunity, and power is meaningless if it does not uplift.

As the wave continues to surge across Sokoto — from local markets to foreign campuses — one fact is now firmly established: This is not just charity. This is vision. This is legacy in motion.

And the applause lines are writing themselves.

Goronyo, a commentator on public affairs, wrote from Sokoto

ABUJA — Outrage is boiling over as the Kwankwasiyya Ambassadors for Good Governance (KAGG) has detonated a political bombshell, fiercely rejecting the proposed United States visa ban targeting former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing it as “a calculated political attack dressed up as human rights advocacy.”

In what analysts are already calling a diplomatic flashpoint, the KAGG group accused certain U.S. lawmakers of advancing what it termed a “dangerously shallow and geopolitically reckless narrative” that misrepresents Nigeria’s internal realities.

In a blistering press release by the group’s Coordinator, Barrister Abubakar Kurawa, the group said “This is not about religious freedom. This is not about accountability,” the group thundered. “This is about power, perception, and an attempt to redraw Nigeria’s political map from Washington.”

KAGG warned that placing Kwankwaso’s name in a sanctions conversation alongside armed groups amounts to “international political defamation of the highest order,” insisting that no credible judicial findings or internationally recognized investigative outcomes justify such drastic action.

The group further alleged that the proposal reflects “external lobbying influence and partisan intelligence briefings,” arguing that the move risks weaponizing visa policy as a tool for political intimidation.

“Today it is Kwankwaso. Tomorrow it could be any Nigerian leader who refuses to align with external interests,” the statement read.

“Nigeria’s democracy cannot and must not be subcontracted to foreign legislatures”, it added.

In a dramatic escalation, KAGG warned that if pursued, the proposed measure could trigger diplomatic friction and provoke calls for a reassessment of bilateral engagements between Nigeria and the United States.

“This is a test of mutual respect between sovereign nations,” the group declared, urging U.S. lawmakers to retract this ill-advised move before it damages decades of “strategic partnership” between the two nations.

The controversy has now ignited fierce debate across political and diplomatic circles, with supporters describing the visa proposal as an “overreach,” while critics argue it reflects growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s governance challenges.

But for KAGG, the message is unmistakable: “Hands off Nigeria’s democracy.”

As reactions mount and pressure builds, what began as a legislative proposal in Washington is rapidly evolving into a full-blown geopolitical storm — with implications that could reverberate far beyond visa desks and diplomatic cables.

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of criticising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu out of frustration and unmet personal expectations rather than genuine concern for democracy or citizens’ welfare.

Sani made the remarks during an interview with journalists, where he argued that El-Rufai ignored democratic principles and human rights while in office but only began championing them after leaving power.

According to him, El-Rufai’s eight-year administration in Kaduna State was characterised by repression, insecurity and deep division, leaving behind what he described as a troubling legacy.

“El-Rufai forgot democracy and human rights when he was in power and remembered them only when he left office,” Sani said. “He planted tyranny and insecurity and is now preaching democracy and security.”

While acknowledging that President Tinubu is not without flaws, the former lawmaker maintained that the president’s record does not compare with what he described as “years of tyranny” under El-Rufai’s leadership in Kaduna State.

“Asiwaju is not a perfect leader—there is no perfect leader anywhere in the world—but he did not leave behind a legacy of divisiveness, persecution, repression, violation of human rights and wholesale evil, as witnessed by the people of Kaduna State,” Sani stated.

He further alleged that El-Rufai’s administration treated parts of Kaduna State as though they were detention centres, claiming that Northern Kaduna was treated like Kuje Prison while Southern Kaduna resembled Kiri Kiri Prison.

Sani also warned Nigerians against embracing El-Rufai as a political alternative, urging caution over what he described as a dangerous misjudgment.
“Nigerians searching for an alternative to an eagle should not make the mistake of embracing a vulture,” he warned.

In his concluding remarks, Sani said that when measured by service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai falls far below President Tinubu.

“In the barometer of record of service, history, character and morality, El-Rufai is an apprentice to Tinubu,” he said.

Sani’s remarks were in response to El-Rufai’s recent statements in which the former governor claimed that he never had a personal relationship with President Tinubu comparable to the one he had with former President Muhammadu Buhari, of blessed memory.

A Southern Kaduna activist, Steven Kefas, has launched a blistering attack on former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent comments on national security and citizens’ wellbeing.

El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023, had taken to his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), to share a commentary titled “National Security, Justice, and the People’s Wellbeing: Reclaiming the Purpose of Power.” In the post, the former governor reflected on governance, justice, and the need for leaders to prioritise the safety and welfare of citizens.

However, Kefas, a vocal rights advocate from Southern Kaduna, responded sharply, accusing El-Rufai of lacking the moral authority to speak on security matters.

“You, amongst all people, do not have the moral standing to talk about security and the people’s wellbeing,” Kefas wrote on his X handle. “You are one of the architects of the insecurity facing our dear country today.”

Kefas’ reaction has since sparked widespread debate on social media, reopening long-standing controversies surrounding El-Rufai’s handling of security challenges during his eight-year tenure as governor.

Kaduna State ,particularly Southern Kaduna, witnessed repeated incidents of banditry, communal clashes, and deadly attacks on rural communities during El-Rufai’s administration. Human rights organisations and community leaders frequently criticised his government over its response to violence, alleged insensitivity to victims, and policies which critics claimed exacerbated ethnic and religious tensions.

While El-Rufai consistently defended his security strategies, maintaining that his administration worked closely with federal authorities and security agencies, critics argue that many communities remained vulnerable, with thousands displaced and numerous lives lost.

Kefas’ remarks reflect the views of several Southern Kaduna activists who have long accused the former governor of downplaying attacks in the region and failing to adequately protect minority communities.

The exchange comes amid renewed national conversations on insecurity, governance accountability, and the role of past leaders in shaping Nigeria’s current security challenges.

It would be recalled that in 2019, Kefas—who has been a persistent critic of El-Rufai—was arrested and detained in Kaduna, reportedly on alleged “orders from above,” an incident that further heightened tensions between the activist and the former governor’s administration.

The Senate of the National Assembly in passing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, generated controversy by removing or not making mandatory the clause for real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) result-viewing portal.

Political leaders and critics — including opposition parties, civil society groups, and activists — argue the move undermines electoral transparency and could erode trust ahead of the 2027 general elections. While some senators later clarified that electronic transmission remains permitted under the retained law and only the “real-time” wording was dropped, public outcry continues over fears of ambiguity and potential loopholes in the results process.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has not aligned fully with the Senate’s controversial adjustment on electronic transmission of election results. While the Senate’s version of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 dropped the clause making real-time electronic transmission mandatory, the House had earlier passed its own version that explicitly endorsed real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) IREV portal to boost transparency.

To reconcile differences, both Chambers (the House of Representatives and Senate) have now set up a Conference committee to harmonize their differing positions — including on electronic transmission — ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Paul Iza, a political stalwart and member of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, while speaking on the current political dispensation especially as it concerns the recent pronouncement by the “Senate rejecting real time electronic transmission of election results”, opined that, “the Senate rejecting the bill might make people/voters doubt the electoral process integrity, and voters might think their votes won’t count or be tampered with. The House already approved live transmission of results from polling units, so it’s confusing why the Senate isn’t on board with that.

He urged the Senate to listen to the people who voted them in and are accountable to, and reconsider the bill, warning that going contrary would affect voter’s confidence and empathy.

Reacting to concerns from electorates on the loss of confidence in the electoral body; INEC to conduct credible and free elections with their votes no longer coming to count, stressed that there is still for INEC to do the needful to encourage voter’s participation in the entire exercise as Nigerians truly deserve the best.

… Accuses of him of Being only Visible on Social media

The Kaduna Central Elders Forum has asked Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, to render an account of his stewardship at the National Assembly, citing what it described as poor performance and weak engagement with constituents since his election.

The elders accused the senator of being more visible on social media than in the communities he represents, saying his approach to representation has failed to address the pressing challenges facing Kaduna Central.

In a statement jointly issued and signed by Mal. Inuwa Rigachikun and Mr Moses Bulus Madami, the forum described Senator Lawal Adamu as a lawmaker who relies largely on Facebook posts to communicate with constituents, rather than regular physical engagement, consultations and constituency outreach.

“Our Kaduna senator appears to exist only on Facebook. Representation goes beyond online posts. The people need to see, feel and interact with their elected representative,” the forum stated.

The group, made up of traditional rulers, retired civil servants and community stakeholders across the senatorial district, said the senator’s poor physical presence had widened the gap between him and grassroots communities, especially at a time when Kaduna Central is grappling with insecurity, unemployment and deteriorating infrastructure.

According to the elders, several communities within the district have not had any direct engagement with the senator since he assumed office, either through town hall meetings, constituency visits or stakeholder consultations.

They also accused the senator of failing to take strong positions on critical local issues, including repeated security challenges affecting rural communities, economic hardship, youth unemployment and the poor state of roads and public facilities.

“The people of Kaduna Central are facing serious challenges. These problems cannot be addressed from Abuja or through Facebook posts alone,” the elders said, adding that constituents expect their representative to be vocal both on the floor of the Senate and within the district.

The forum further called on the senator to publicly outline constituency projects attracted so far and explain his legislative contributions in clear terms to the people he represents.

The elders who underscores the senator’s performance as underwhelming, said physical presence was critical to effective representation. “Even if motions are sponsored, people want to see their senator. Physical engagement builds trust,” they said.

In a profound expression of sorrow, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire people of Biu Emirate, Borno State, following the recent tragic attack attributed to Boko Haram. This devastating assault, which occurred at a work site in northeastern Nigeria, claimed the lives of dozens, including brave soldiers committed to protecting the nation.

In a statement released to the press and signed by the Chairman of the foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the Grand Patron of the Foundation, His Excellency Amb. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai CFR (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, described the incident as “one too many senseless, barbaric, and ruthless displays of inhumanity.” His Excellency emphasized the heartbreaking impact of such attacks on innocent, hardworking citizens striving to make a positive difference in their communities.

The Grand Patron praised the swift and decisive response of military personnel during this critical time, underscoring their brave commitment to safeguarding the nation. He called upon them to maintain this momentum, commending their courage and sacrifice in the face of adversity. “May Almighty Allah forgive their souls and grant them Aljannah Firdouse,” he remarked, encouraging the nation to honor their spirit of sacrifice as they rally together to rebuild and restore hope across the region.

In his statement, Gen. Buratai highlighted the importance of collective action in overcoming the challenges posed by insecurity, urging concerned citizens to increase their efforts in fostering a virile community that future generations can cherish. “Together, we can surmount these troubles,” he asserted, calling on all patriotic leaders and citizens to unite in the fight against violence and insecurity.

The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, unity, and prosperity. As the foundation extends its condolences to the bereaved, it also calls upon all segments of society to collaborate in creating a better and safer future. May Allah guide and protect the nation and lead it toward enduring peace. Amen.

An Islamic group, the Young Muslim League of Nigeria (YMLN), has publicly disagreed with the position of the Sharia Council on recent electoral matters, declaring its support for the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.

In a press statement issued by the National Coordinator of the group, Mal. Ibrahim Mohammed Abdullahi, the League’s position was based on its assessment of the INEC chair’s leadership, which it described as “professional, fair and committed to the democratic process.”

According to the group, while it holds the Sharia Council in high regard as a respected religious body, it believes that differences of opinion on national issues—especially governance and elections—should be expressed constructively and without undermining democratic institutions.

The statement reads: “The Young Muslim League of Nigeria wishes to clearly state that we differ with the recent stance taken by the Sharia Council concerning INEC,” the coordinator said. “Our support for Chairman Amupitan is anchored on his commitment to transparency, rule of law and the conduct of credible elections, which are essential for national stability.”

The group however,cautioned against what it described as attempts to politicise religion or discredit public officials without verifiable evidence, noting that such actions could deepen divisions in the country.

It further urged religious and civil society organisations to play complementary roles by promoting peace, voter education and national unity, rather than actions that could erode public confidence in electoral institutions.

“We believe that constructive engagement, not confrontation, is the best way to strengthen democracy,” the statement added.

The League also called on INEC to sustain reforms aimed at improving electoral integrity, while encouraging citizens—especially Muslim youths—to participate actively and responsibly in the democratic process.

The Sharia Council had earlier expressed concerns over electoral issues, prompting reactions from various groups across the country.