🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Atiku Abubakar supports CAN's security reform demands, urges Muslim leaders to join campaign
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has endorsed the resolutions from the Christian Association of Nigeria's 2026 National Church Leaders Summit. The former Vice President expressed support for CAN's call for urgent reforms to address Nigeria's worsening security situation. In a post on his verified X handle, Atiku aligned with the concerns raised by the Christian body and sympathized with Nigerians affected by insecurity. He noted that CAN's demand for a comprehensive review of the nation's security framework, enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency cooperation, improved operational effectiveness, and greater accountability in combating terrorism, banditry, and violent crime aligns with his own criticisms of the current administration's performance. Atiku commended Christian leaders for their unified stance on security challenges, describing it as a timely intervention. He added that the declaration of three days of national mourning by Christian leaders should prompt reflection from those in leadership. Atiku emphasized that insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of background and called for broader support in addressing the crisis. He also urged Islamic organizations and leaders to join the call for urgent action on insecurity and implored President Bola Tinubu to heed CAN's concerns and take concrete steps to address the country's security challenges.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday called for Cuba to immediately release over 700 political prisoners. This statement followed the arrival in Miami of Cuban dissident artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara, who had been imprisoned for five years. Rubio confirmed Alcantara's arrival in the United States and emphasized the need for the international community to address the human rights abuses by the Cuban regime and demand an end to their repression.
The African Democratic Congress ADC in Kebbi State claims that the investigation and prosecution of its governorship candidate and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, are politically motivated. In a statement signed by State Chairman Sufiyanu Bala and ADC Elders Forum Chairman Alhaji Shehu Sambawa, the party asserted it would not be intimidated ahead of the 2027 general elections. While stating it does not oppose lawful investigations, the ADC accused the ruling All Progressives Congress APC of using state institutions to weaken opposition parties. The party described the process against Malami, who served as Attorney-General from 2015 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, as orchestrated to achieve a predetermined goal. The ADC highlighted that Malami was arrested for a bailable offense and his properties were allegedly searched in his absence. The party also argued that allegations regarding Malami’s assets failed to consider his background before his appointment. The ADC reaffirmed its support for Malami, stating its members in Kebbi State remain united behind him and are committed to unseating the APC in the 2027 elections, despite what it calls political persecution and intimidation. Anti-graft agencies, however, maintain that investigations and prosecutions are evidence-based and lawful, regardless of political affiliation.
Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo unveiled a monumental statue dedicated to the late literary icon Professor Chinua Achebe at Nwasike Roundabout, Ogidi. Governor Soludo challenged the youth to reject cultism and materialism, instead embracing the intellectual and moral integrity championed by Achebe. He stated that the monument serves as a roadmap for the future and a permanent public conscience for the state, encouraging Nigerian youth to derive inspiration and live by Achebe's values. The Governor lamented the rise of cult-related elements in Idemili North LGA, historically Achebe's home, suggesting Achebe would be saddened by such developments. He emphasized that those involved in cults or displaying obscene wealth are insulting Achebe's memory. Governor Soludo also highlighted that the Anambra International Passenger and Cargo Airport was previously renamed in Achebe's honor. Professor Ike Achebe, representing the Achebe family, expressed appreciation for the state's dedication. The event included tributes from the Chairman of Idemili North, Stanley Nkwoka, and the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, both stressing the importance of preserving Achebe’s intellectual trajectory for future generations.