Family Of Slain Student Plan Protest In Kaduna Over Alleged Neglect

The family of late Ahmed Musa are set to embark on a mass protest in the city of Kaduna state following what they described as neglect in the part of the state government after the death of their beloved son.

According to the father of the deceased, Comrade Musa Mohammed otherwise known as moonlight told our reporter that all promises made by the authority were broken, as justice suffered.

The deceased who was a student of Government Technical College Malali, Kaduna was said to have been brutally killed in February 16th, 2025 by some students of the school.

An experience that has left many from within and far in a state of dilemma, as the family of the late Ahmed Musa are yet to get justice.

The father of the deceased who is a senior journalist explained that despite the horrible experience and the trauma, the school authority and the state government continued to show no concern over the matter.

“The lukewarm attitude of the government and the school authority posed serious danger to the future of our children in their various schools. This shows that students within their schools can carry out unlawful act and go scot- free without any punishment.

” As at today, to our surprise, the prime suspects were released without our consent.
This is an act that should be completely condernmed by every individual and the people in the position of authority,” the father of the deceased explained.

While speaking, Mohammed disclosed that a mass protest will be carried out on the 16th of February 2026 to commemorate one year remembrance of their late son.

He said: ” you all know that losing a child is one of the most painful experiences, and it’s even more heartbreaking when it’s a case of injustice.

“The kaduna state government and the security agencies should know that the pain and grief are still raw, and it’s completely normal to feel angry, hurt, and frustrated, because we feel that justice hasn’t been served.

The fact that the prime suspects were released without our consent is also distressing.”

‎“Yungur is Home to Me“, Dr Girei Hails Fintiri’s ‘Gift’ of Yungur Chiefdom, Pledges Govt Support

By Tom Garba,Yola

‎The Yungur Chiefdom in Song Local Government Area of Adamawa State recently celebrated its one-year anniversary with a vibrant ceremony that highlighted cultural pride, community unity, and strong endorsements for state leadership.

‎The event, held at the chiefdom’s palace, drew traditional rulers, elders, youth and women groups, and residents from neighboring areas, featuring cultural performances, prayers for peace, and messages of goodwill.

‎Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, a senior representative of the Adamawa Emirate Council and a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape, delivered a keynote address that resonated deeply with attendees.

‎He praised Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for creating additional chiefdoms and kingdoms, including Yungur, calling the policy a “historic intervention” that has fostered unity, peace, and inclusion across diverse communities.

‎Dr. Girei described the establishment of the Yungur Chiefdom as one of the “greatest gifts” bestowed upon the people, bringing governance closer to the grassroots and restoring a sense of identity and belonging.

‎ In a personal touch that underscored his emotional connection, he declared, “Yungur is Home to Me,” citing his parents’ ancestral ties and long-standing relationship with the community. This statement amplified his deep-rooted affinity for the area, positioning him as someone intimately invested in its progress.

Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei emphasized that his deep-rooted affinity and sense of belonging extend far beyond Girei Local Government Area, his paternal homeland, encompassing broader maternal ties across Adamawa State.

He highlighted his maternal linkages to the Maiha Emirate, along with strong personal connections to the Kilba and Gombi communities, among others.

These familial and cultural bonds, according to Dr. Girei, have cultivated enduring relationships and fostered seamless cooperation, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to regional development and champion unity among the state’s diverse ethnic groups.

‎Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Girei acknowledged his former teacher, Mrs. Rejoice, for instilling values of culture, unity, and leadership that continue to guide him. He also highlighted his longstanding friendship and schoolmate bond with Governor Fintiri, which he said has enhanced cooperation in managing traditional affairs.

This revelation underscores his inclusive vision for Adamawa, positioning him as a bridge-builder capable of uniting various communities in pursuit of shared progress and harmony.

‎Emphasizing the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture, Dr. Girei stressed that sustainable peace and development depend on their active involvement.

‎He assured the Yungur traditional council of the state government’s ongoing support and protection, urging leaders to prioritize peace, unity, and community advancement. He commended the people for their cooperation, crediting it for the area’s peaceful coexistence.

‎While the anniversary focused on celebrating one year of the chiefdom’s achievements, Dr. Girei’s presence and remarks fueled speculation about his broader ambitions.

‎As a former commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Higher Education, Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board, and current Director of Research and Development at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Dr. Girei has built a reputation for impactful service in education and governance.

‎His gubernatorial aspiration for the 2027 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained significant momentum in recent months.

‎Grassroots movements, youth groups, and APC stakeholders across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas have endorsed him, with rallies and calls describing him as a visionary leader capable of transforming the state into a secure, educated, healthy, and economically vibrant entity.

‎Supporters highlight his track record of employment creation, educational reforms, and commitment to inclusive development, often framing him as the APC’s strongest contender to reclaim the governorship.

‎Dr. Girei has repeatedly expressed sincerity in responding to widespread calls to contest, vowing to lead with passion, leave an “unforgettable legacy,” and model servant leadership.

‎His appearance at the Yungur event, where he hyped grassroots empowerment through traditional institutions, aligns with his “Adamawa Transformation Mission,” reinforcing his image as a unifier with personal stakes in the state’s diverse communities.

‎The celebration concluded on a high note, with renewed optimism for continued progress in Yungur and broader implications for Adamawa’s political future as figures like Dr. Girei continue to engage communities ahead of 2027.

EXCLUSIVE: APC Chairman’s Recorded Interview Validates Our Report on Gov. Fintiri’s Potential Defection – Denial Dismissed as Political Spin

In a swift rebuttal to the All Progressives Congress (APC) Adamawa State Chapter’s press release labeling TGNews’ recent breaking report as “fake news,” a detailed examination of the APC State Chairman Barr. Idris Shuaibu’s own recorded interview reveals clear affirmations of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s anticipated switch from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

TGNews stands firmly by its original story, dismissing the APC’s denial as an attempt to downplay the chairman’s optimistic and explicit statements amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The controversy erupted following TGNews’ February 3, 2026, exclusive report headlined: “BREAKING: Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri Set to Dump PDP for APC – State Chairman Confirms Imminent Switch.”

The article, based on direct insights from Barr. Shuaibu’s remarks at the APC State Secretariat, highlighted the party’s active efforts to woo the governor and his “imminent” defection.

In response, the APC’s Publicity Secretary, Mohammed Abdullahi, issued a press release on the same day, accusing TGNews publisher Mr. Tom Garba of fabricating the story for “cheap publicity” and demanding an audio clip as evidence or a retraction with an apology.

However, a verbatim transcript of the chairman’s interview—widely circulating on social media and verified by TGNews—directly contradicts the APC’s claims.

Far from being a product of “imagination,” the report draws on Barr. Shuaibu’s unscripted responses, where he not only expresses strong optimism but also timelines the governor’s potential joining as “as soon as practicable.”

This phrase, delivered in the context of ongoing recruitment efforts, underscores the imminence of the switch, aligning precisely with TGNews’ characterization.

Key Excerpts from the Chairman’s Interview Undermine APC Denial

During the interview, conducted at the APC Secretariat amid discussions on national politics and the party’s expansion strategy, Barr. Shuaibu was pressed on rumors of Gov. Fintiri’s defection. His responses were candid and revealing:

• On the prospects of capturing the entire country by 2027: The chairman praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements in financial autonomy, livestock development, student loans, and security, crediting National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu a key APC figure in Adamawa for combating insecurities.

He asserted that these successes would make it “easier than before” for the APC to dominate nationally, setting the stage for local gains like Fintiri’s defection.

• Directly addressing the governor’s switch: Journalists asked, “There are rumors meddling around for a very long time for the governor of Adamawa who is on the platform of PDP. When are you expecting him in APC?”

Barr. Shuaibu replied, “Actually, we are hoping, we are very, very, very optimistic to have the governor of Adamawa state in APC. We are doing all what we can do.”

He emphasized that the APC is not engaging in “blind opposition,” acknowledging Fintiri’s strong performance in security and development, and argued that the governor would be “better off with APC than PDP because there is no PDP.”

• On the timeline: In a pivotal moment, the interviewer probed further: “When is he joining?”

The chairman’s response was unequivocal: “As soon as practicable.”

He elaborated that the APC is an “open party” with no barriers to entry, offering equal rights and opportunities to newcomers, including the right to contest elections.

“We are welcoming them. Let them come and join APC. They will have equal opportunity, equal right with the people that joined this party since the formation stage in 14 November 2013. Therefore, he is much welcome and we need people with experience like him to join us in APC.”

These statements form the backbone of TGNews’ report, portraying the defection not as mere speculation but as an actively pursued and near-term possibility confirmed by the party’s top official in the state.

The APC’s press release claims the chairman “never said this in his comments,” yet the transcript available proves otherwise.

TGNews challenges the APC to explain how such direct quotes could be dismissed as fabrication, especially when multiple media outlets were present and the audio is publicly accessible.

Political Context: A Broader Strategy Amid PDP’s Woes

The interview also touched on a recent defector, described as a “young chap” and president of the Angola community, who joined with gubernatorial ambitions.

Barr. Shuaibu saluted his courage and reiterated the party’s open-door policy: “APC, as it presently constituted, we did not adopt any candidate or endorse any candidate for the governorship. Anybody… can contest under the platform of APC.”

When asked about leadership dynamics post-Fintiri’s potential arrival—”With the coming of the Gov Fintiri into APC, what will be the chances of, or let me say, who will be the leader of the party?”—the chairman deferred: “When we reach the bridge we’ll know how to cross it.”

This exchange highlights the APC’s strategic positioning in Adamawa, where Gov. Fintiri’s administration has earned praise for infrastructure and security gains, even from opposition figures.

TGNews’ Commitment to Journalistic Integrity

In response to the APC’s demand for an audio clip, TGNews invite the public and media colleagues to review the embedded footage independently.

Mr. Tom Garba, who was not physically present but relied on verified recordings and correspondent reports, maintains that the story is neither opinion nor fabrication but factual journalism grounded in the chairman’s words.

“We urge the APC to focus on substantive issues rather than attempting to intimidate independent media,” Garba stated. “Professional reporting demands accountability, and we stand ready to defend our work in any forum. No retraction or apology is warranted, as the evidence speaks for itself.”

Members of the correspondence chapel and other outlets are encouraged to cross-verify the transcript against the audio.

TGNews remains committed to balanced, accurate coverage, avoiding sensationalism while highlighting truths that matter to Adamawa’s residents.

How INEC’s Refusal To Register New Political Parties May Be Frustrating Opposition Ahead Of 2027

By Kings Ofurhe

As the 2027 elections draw near, electioneering activities and politicking are getting more intense, and part of what constitutes the crux of the electioneering and politicking processes are the activities of political parties many of which form the opposition against the ruling party. The ruling party naturally does everything within its power to frustrate the springing up of more opposition parties, and this has probably been the case in almost all climes of the world from time immemorial.

In the current case of Nigeria, the electoral umpire, being the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has demonstrated through very direct gestures that it is in cahoots with the political party in power towards frustrating the opposition; a clear case being the electoral body’s refusal to register a new political party for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his supporters, thus forcing them to pitch their tent with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The above-mentioned matter is currently pending before a competent court in Nigeria, and will be determined in due time.
When confronted with glaring proofs of its complicity in frustrating Nigeria’s opposition, INEC offers very flimsy excuses to save its face. For instance, how can INEC reject the application for registration of a political party on the grounds that the acronym ‘NSE’ is similar to that of the Nigerian Society of Engineers? INEC’s dismissal of applications on the basis of mere technicalities has been deemed totally unacceptable and unreasonable by critics.

Again, taking a good look at the 2027 vista, it becomes imperative to ask whether INEC is not deliberately stifling the efforts being made to synthesize a formidable opposition ahead of the general elections. There is no gainsaying the fact that INEC, as the body saddled with the constitutional responsibility of registering political parties and regulating their activities in Nigeria, is directly and indirectly frustrating the development of a superlative opposition that will give the government of the day a run for its money. We can consider the electoral commission’s disqualification of over 157 applications for registration of political parties as a major hit on the associations seeking to join forces with existing oppositions in ousting the APC in 2027.

Watchers of political activities in Nigeria have expressed dismay over INEC’s rejection of applications for registration of political parties for reasons such as a proposed name or acronym resembling a name INEC linked to gross domestic product. Concerns grew when after corrections had been made to the proposed name and acronym, INEC still hesitated in perfecting the registration process.

Critics of these anomalous tendencies of INEC have wondered why the Commission has allowed itself to be used as a pawn by the government in power. A legal practitioner, Patrick Okereke Nwajah, has given a good perspective on why INEC cannot truly be independent and fully exercise its constitutional powers towards effectively handling the affairs of political parties and delivering on expectations. The legal luminary averred that the Commission is never independent even though it is nomenclaturally an independent body because its head is appointed by the president and must thus compromise on standards to satisfy the interests and yearnings of the government in power.

Nwajah maintained that the law gives INEC the discretionary power to sometimes act arbitrarily in deciding what happens with political parties and how they can be registered and run. He then concluded by saying that unless the law is amended to clarify and simplify some ambiguous clauses attached to the discretionary powers of INEC, the Commission will continue to exhibit unacceptable heights of arbitrariness without any consequences.

Nwajah asked how for instance, INEC can justifiably and satisfactorily determine persons of upright character who as prescribed by the law, must comprise the composition of a proposed party’s executive officers. He argued that the phrase “person of upright character” is vague and cannot be determined based on INEC’s discretion, but can be relative to the person or persons forming an opinion. Nwajah asserted that the above-mentioned phrase would mean different things to different people, and should therefore not be part of the clauses enshrined in the guidelines for the registration of a political party.

Still dissecting the procedural flaws in INEC’s modus operandi pertaining to the registration of political parties, renowned political analyst and public affairs commentator, Kings Ofurhe, interrogated the rationale behind INEC’s decline of assent based merely on similarity of logos, symbols and names, and asked if the acronym ‘APC’ does not share resemblance with the Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) which is also an acronym for military communication.

Ofurhe further alluded to the fact that some burgeoning political parties or associations can spring a thunderous surprise in the coming elections if accorded the necessary support by INEC and peopled by political heavyweights. He referenced the unbelievable performance of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, whose first outing as a presidential standard bearer was greeted with staggering votes and widespread acceptance.

Other concerns raised by political pundits with regard to INEC’s subtle frustration of a formidable opposition border on the sundry requirements for the registration of a political party such as the setting up of structures in at least two-third of states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the length of time required for the consummation of the registration.

Ofurhe wondered if new political parties that need time to build their structures and get quality spread can achieve this with the slow pace at which INEC operates, and condemned the customary laxity of INEC staff who are usually seen idling away at the Commission’s headquarters when there is clearly a lot of work to be done.

Still looking at the role INEC has played in frustrating the development of a formidable opposition, it will be trite to say that the Commission, even though it is known and addressed as an independent body, does not operate independently but rather works to foster the aims and objectives of the party or government in power. INEC disqualified a large number of associations that applied to register as political parties on grounds of technicalities. It is not uncommon that mistakes and errors will be made while trying to actualize a task such as registering a political party, yet INEC looked at some of these dismissible oversights and used them to frustrate the efforts of the associations seeking its nod. In exercising its discretionary power, INEC can waive some of the unmet requirements and register the associations that have desperately sought its endorsement. INEC does not seem to appreciate the political consciousness and wokeness that appear to have taken over the collective psyche of Nigerians and which drive them to demand good governance and quality leadership.

INEC needs to attain true independence so that like the electoral bodies of other developed countries, it can bestow on the country quality leadership that is deserving of the people’s maximum support.

INEC needs to evolve into an invincible system that can function on auto-pilot without any external interference.

There are clamours that INEC, which is headed by a Chairman, is hamstrung by the excessive control exercised over it by the government in power, and that the Commission should therefore be subjected to a form of revolutionization so that it can function as a self-driving institution. With such a feat achieved, democracy will be fostered in Nigeria and will spark off the much needed economic and all-round transformation.