
The Sokoto State Government has praised security agencies for recent successes against banditry while mourning five personnel who died in separate operations. Retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, noted that military, police, and other security agencies have rescued kidnapped victims and neutralized bandits. He described these achievements as a reflection of the operatives' courage and commitment. Usman urged security agencies to maintain their momentum against criminal elements. He expressed sadness over the deaths of three soldiers killed by an Improvised Explosive Device along the Isa鈥揃argaja axis and two police officers in a bandit ambush in Tureta Local Government Area. Usman extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing that their sacrifices would not be forgotten. This tribute comes as security forces continue operations across Sokoto and the North-West to dismantle bandit camps and restore security.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadThe Securities and Exchange Commission SEC has ordered capital market operators to immediately cease all promotional activities related to a purported initial public offering IPO by Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE. The SEC stated it has not received or approved any application for such an offer, despite the circulation of advertisements, flyers, and electronic mails promoting a supposed public offering. The commission expressed concern over the involvement of some registered capital market operators in what it described as an "unwholesome and manipulative exercise," noting that operators were soliciting advance subscriptions for an unapproved offer. The SEC warned that these activities could mislead investors, distort market expectations, and undermine capital market integrity. It clarified that invitations for investors to create accounts, pre-fund investments, or secure guaranteed allocations constitute market manipulation and violate the Investments and Securities Act. All registered capital market operators, including stockbrokers and digital platform promoters, are directed to stop publishing promotional materials, remove unauthorized content within 24 hours, and cease accepting deposits or expressions of interest. Operators are also ordered to reverse and refund all collected funds to clients within 24 hours. Non-compliance will result in sanctions under the Investments and Securities Act 2025 and SEC Rules and Regulations. The SEC advised investors to
Must ReadThe Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olutunji Disu, has deployed Assistant Inspector-General of Police Dankombo Morris, in charge of Zone 4 Headquarters, Makurdi, to Plateau State following a recent attack on Kawel community in Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed at least 20 lives. This deployment is part of immediate measures to assess the security situation and implement strategies to restore calm and prevent further attacks. The IGP also approved additional personnel and operational assets, including Police Mobile Force units and tactical teams, to strengthen security. During a visit to Bokkos, AIG Morris engaged with local government officials, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to coordinate the security response. The Executive Chairman of Bokkos LGA, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, commended the swift response and appealed for more security personnel. Mrs. Hajara Yunana, President of Women in Politics Initiative, Plateau State Chapter, expressed concern for women and families, urging concrete action and the deployment of modern policing technology. AIG Morris conveyed condolences, condemned the attack, and assured that perpetrators would be brought to justice. He urged community leaders, youth groups, and residents to remain calm and provide credible information to security agencies, assuring that the situation is under control.
Must ReadSaudi authorities have executed 100 individuals in 2026, with five executions on Tuesday bringing the total. Of these, 65 were for drug trafficking offenses, and 43 of those were foreign nationals. Amnesty International criticized this as a "grim milestone," highlighting that foreign nationals often face unfair trials for drug-related offenses. The organization noted that at least 63 Ethiopian nationals in a detention facility may be at imminent risk of execution for similar charges. Among the 100 executed, 48 were Saudis, 12 Ethiopians, seven Pakistanis, six Sudanese, four Yemenis, and four Syrians. In 2025, Saudi Arabia executed 356 people, 243 of whom were for drug-related offenses, a record since 1990. The death penalty for drug offenses was reinstated in late 2022 after a three-year suspension. Amnesty International ranks Saudi Arabia third globally for executions over the past three years, after China and Iran. While rights groups criticize the kingdom's use of capital punishment, authorities maintain it is essential for public order and applied only after all appeals are exhausted.