Suspect allegedly pursued and stabbed unidentified youth following altercation; police launch investigation into incident

Police in Cross River State have arrested a 49-year-old man, Idris Abdullahi, over the alleged killing of a young man during a knife attack in Calabar. The incident occurred along Mary Slessor Road on Friday, 14 June, according to a statement by the state police spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah.

Eitokpah said Abdullahi was involved in an altercation with several street boys at about 6:05 p.m., during which he reportedly sustained injuries. The spokesperson explained that after the initial confrontation, Abdullahi traced one of the alleged attackers to Chronicle Barracks Road, opposite Akim Police Barracks. There, he allegedly chased and stabbed the youth, who later died from his injuries.

The case has raised concerns among residents of Calabar North LGA about rising street violence and personal disputes escalating into deadly confrontations. Security analysts note that knife attacks remain a persistent threat in urban centres across Nigeria, often linked to unresolved quarrels and insufficient mediation mechanisms at community level.

Confirming the arrest on Monday, Eitokpah said the suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue. “The Command is committed to ensuring justice is served and will not tolerate acts of violence within the state,” Eitokpah stated. Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased youth and notify his family.

Police authorities have called on members of the public with relevant information about the incident or those involved to come forward. The Command also assured residents that patrols would be intensified in known hotspots as part of broader measures to prevent further incidents. As at press time, no charges had been formally filed against Abdullahi.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/man-arrested-after-youth-dies-in-calabar-knife-attack/

Sultan of Sokoto urges Muslims nationwide to sight crescent moon; states call for prayers and spiritual reflection

Governments in Oyo, Kwara, Borno and Kebbi States have declared Tuesday a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, known as Hijrah 1448 AH. The announcement, made on Monday, comes after the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, directed Muslims across Nigeria to look out for the new crescent moon signalling the start of Muharram.

In separate statements from state authorities, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State (PDP), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara (APC), and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno (APC) approved the work-free day in recognition of the religious significance of the occasion. The new year is determined by the lunar calendar and begins with confirmation of the new moon’s sighting.

The Islamic New Year marks the migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) from Mecca to Medina—an event considered pivotal in Islamic history. As at this year, Muharram is expected to commence following the Sultan’s directive for moon-sighting on Monday evening. The Hijrah calendar is widely observed by Muslim communities worldwide and shifts each year due to its lunar cycle being about eleven days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.

State governments encouraged Muslim faithful to use this period for prayers, reflection and spiritual renewal. In his earlier message, Sultan Abubakar III reminded Nigerians that sighting of the new moon is a core aspect of Islamic tradition marking monthly transitions. He said: “Muslims are enjoined to intensify prayers for peace and stability in our country.”

No major opposition statements had been issued as at press time regarding the holiday declaration. The work-free day is expected to be observed peacefully across Oyo, Kwara, Borno and Kebbi States with mosques organising special prayers and families gathering for reflection. Authorities emphasised that residents should use the opportunity for spiritual growth while observing all civic responsibilities.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/islamic-new-year-oyo-kwara-others-declare-tuesday-public-holiday-2026061517172474425

Ex-COAS recommends new strategies to address Nigeria’s persistent security challenges following years of violent attacks

Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has put forward a set of recommendations aimed at tackling the country’s ongoing security problems, years after his tenure saw widespread incidents of violence and instability. Buratai made the proposals on Monday in Abuja, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to end insecurity.

According to Buratai, addressing insecurity requires more than just military action. He emphasised that community engagement, intelligence gathering, and collaboration between security agencies must be strengthened if Nigeria is to achieve lasting peace. “Security is not only about boots on the ground; it involves cooperation among all stakeholders,” Buratai stated.

The call for new solutions comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with banditry, kidnappings, and terrorist activities across several states. During Buratai’s time as army chief from July 2015 to January 2021, the country experienced persistent attacks in the North-East by Boko Haram and ISWAP, as well as rising cases of armed banditry in the North-West and North-Central regions. The situation remains dire in many communities despite changes in military leadership.

Buratai advised that government should invest more in technology-driven security operations and prioritise youth empowerment programmes to tackle the root causes of unrest. He also urged for regular training and better welfare packages for security personnel to improve morale and operational effectiveness.

While some critics have questioned the effectiveness of military-led approaches under previous administrations, Buratai maintained that multi-sectoral collaboration is key. “We must involve traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society groups if we want real progress,” he said. There was no immediate response from government officials regarding his recommendations.

Security experts say that implementing such reforms could help restore stability in affected regions. However, many Nigerians remain sceptical about whether these proposals will translate into real action on ground.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887900-buratai-nigerias-former-army-chief-under-whom-insecurity-persisted-proposes-solutions.html