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Fear, Anguish In Southern Kaduna Over Recurrent Killings

Published

4 years ago

March 26, 2022

Fear, anguish and gloom have once again engulfed parts of Kaduna’s southern senatorial district after a night attack claimed over 30 lives, while at least 200 homes were razed down on Sunday, March 20.

In a matter of hours, hundreds of residents of Agban community in Kagoro chiefdom and Maraban Kagoro, both in Kaura Local Government Area of the state, fled their communities.

Security agents answering a distress call were equally ambushed, and two personnel attached to the Operation Safe Haven, a multi-security taskforce of the Defence headquarters maintaining peace in Plateau State and parts of southern Kaduna had paid the ultimate price.

As the attack took a reprisal tendency and threatened to engulf Kafanchan in Jema’a and Zangon Kataf local government areas, the state government had to slam a 24-hour curfew on Kaura and Jema’s local government areas to avert further loss of lives.

This, however, did not curtail several reprisal attacks that took place on highways in Kaura Local Government, as well as Fulani settlements of Zauru and Kurdan of Zangon Kataf.

The latest upheaval in southern Kaduna is the continuation of many years of mutual suspicion partly between the Fulani and the Atyap people.

Even though leaders of the various groups have identified other factors as responsible for the continued loss of lives and property in the affected communities, experts are of the opinion that both the federal and Kaduna State governments must fashion out a holistic roadmap that will bring peace.

Unforgettable moments

Speaking with Daily Trust, Maryam Zauru, whose community was attacked in the latest reprisal on Monday, March 21, 2022, said one of her relatives, Hussaini, was still missing while the rest of them are now taking refuge at Isa Muhammed LEA Primary School in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of the state.

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“We used to live peacefully with our neighbours under Bajju chiefdom, but following the recent attacks in Kaura, some people came and attacked us and burnt all our properties.

“We are now homeless and taking refuge in a primary school. And we don’t have food and clothes,” she said

Daily Trust reports that the recent breakdown of law and order has created more suspicion while also sabotaging months of peace building efforts by the government, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, as well as civil society organisations that have relentlessly engaged stakeholders and residents in months of peace process.

As dust begins to settle in southern Kaduna, Luka Abah, who survived the attack on Maraban Kagoro, narrated how he lost four members of his family and neighbours.

“I lost my father, mother and two of my children to the attackers. We were sitting at home on Sunday evening, and around 9pm we started hearing gunshots.

“Before we realised what was happening, there was pandemonium and people were running in various directions.

“The attackers took advantage of the confusion and shot at will. While they continued to shoot as they advanced, another set of attackers were setting fire to our houses,” he said.

Gwafan Kefas, who also survived the attack on Agban in Kagoro chiefdom, said he lost three members of his family as they tried to rescue children and the elderly from the gunshots.

“We could have lost many more people if not for the foresight to quickly move children and the elderly to a safe location,” he said.

Derek Christopher, a resident of Agban community, said that due to the lack of camps for displaced persons in the area, their people, mostly women and children, were scattered across various communities in an effort to find succour among friends and relatives.

Our correspondent reports that a few hours before the attack on Agban and Maraban Kagoro, there had been peace meetings between the various tribes in the area.

It was gathered that three days earlier, a young herder identified as Aminu had climbed a mango tree to cut fresh leaves for the cattle he was rearing in Kaura and got into an altercation with some young men who claimed ownership of the tree. Aminu, it was gathered, was allegedly killed.

Twenty-four out of the cows were also killed and 25 others were missing.

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No serious measures to support us

Speaking on the issue, the Kaduna State spokesman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ibrahim Bayero, confirmed the killing of the herder and said no measure had been taken to condole his family.

While condemning the killings in Agban and Maraban Kagoro, the MACBAN state chairman, Haruna Usman Tugga, said the fact that some criminals attacked and killed innocent people a few hours after a peace meeting was an indication that there were merchants of crisis in the area.

In southern Kaduna, Kaura, Kauru and Zangon Kataf local government areas have witnessed a series of attacks and counterattacks recently, which have led to loss of lives and property.

The first of the recent attacks around the axis occurred on January 30, 2022 in Kurmin Masara in Atyap chiefdom of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.

The attackers had killed 11 people and burnt 30 houses, Daily Trust gathered.

Veronica Jerry from Kurmin Masara in Atyap chiefdom said the attackers had killed her 20-year-old nephew and his corpse was never seen by the family.

“Pictures of those killed were brought to us, including that of my nephew, but up till now, we haven’t seen his corpse,” she said.

Before the attack on Kurmin Masara, a Fulani herder was reportedly beheaded at the Zaman Dabo district of Atyap chiefdom.

Two days later, another Fulani herder was killed in Bakin Kogi market in Kauru Local Government Area.

Cause of recent attack

According to Bayero, the root cause of the renewed crises in Atyap chiefdom of Zango Kataf can be linked to the killing of the two Fulani herders who were grazing their cows.

He alleged that local armed militias who crossed the river from Kurmin Masara had attacked the herders and killed them.

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“The armed militias also went to the houses of the Fulani and burned them down with a one-year-old baby boy, Bilal Bukar in one of the rooms,” he said.

He said that days later, a 19-year-old herder was also killed at Ungwan Gankon village in Gora district of Zango Kataf .

We must live together – Atyap leader

However, the national president of Atyap Community Development Association (ACDA), Samuel Achi, said no matter the causes of the crisis, both Atyap and Fulani must put an end to the killings and learn to live with each other.

“It is time to stop killing ourselves in the name of ancestral land,” he said, adding that the causes of the killings in the area are numerous but can be reduced to the desire to grab lands by the conflicting parties.

On his part, the Kaduna State secretary of the youth wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Joel Adegboyega, said most of the conflicts in southern Kaduna could be avoided if the parties learnt to forgive one another.

“There should be forgiveness before it results into violent conflict. Attacking innocent travellers who know nothing about the local conflict is very wrong.

“People should stop taking laws into their hands, it is a very bad signal,” he said.

Also, the secretary, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Jema’a Local Government Area, Alhaji Ilyasu Musa Kalla, said drug abuse and the mounting roadblocks to attack innocent travellers must stop.

He said government and security agencies must take drastic steps to stop the circulation of hard drugs among the youth and ensure they punish the perpetrators of the killings.

“We have lost many of our people on roads across southern Kaduna, just because of ethnicity or religion. The recent one is in connection with Sunday’s attack in Kaura.

The protesting youths blocked the road and killed one of our sons while two others were killed behind Kafanchan camp of the Kaduna State University,” he said.

Address poverty to end killings

Two security experts, Khamis Ismail and Michael John said there is no problem that has no solution.

According to Ismail, “the crises in southern Kaduna dates back to the 80s and honestly they are all about resource control and inclusion.

“Hundreds of people have been killed over the decades and the truth is that nobody has been held responsible. People from across the divide with each other with impunity because they know nothing will happen.”

He said the way forward is for the government to punish offenders.

“And beyond that basic privileges of existence should be provided for them. The Kaduna State government should look at how it can empower the people economically.

“It should empower the traditional institutions and give them a sense of belonging so that they can call their people to other.

“It appears there is a wide gap between the government and the governed not only in Kaduna but everywhere in Nigeria,” he said.

On his part, John said the Fulani, the Atyap and other tribes in southern Kaduna and beyond cannot dislodge one another.

“All the parties in the crises have been there for hundreds of years so who will leave the place for others?” he asked.

DAILY TRUST

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Oyo Grand Chief Imam Declares Marathon Prayers Over Insecurity, Peace of Oyoland

Published

7 hours ago

May 20, 2026

Trends Admin

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu

Oyo Grand Chief Imam Declares Marathon Prayers Over Insecurity, Peace of Oyoland

OYO, Nigeria – Deeply troubled by the rising wave of insecurity sweeping across the nation, the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has declared a special marathon prayer programme to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and sustainable development in Oyoland and Nigeria as a whole.

The announcement came through an official press release issued on Wednesday, 20th May 2026, from the Office of the Grand Chief Imam. The revered Islamic leader expressed profound concern over the persistent security challenges plaguing the country, with particular emphasis on Oyo State, stressing that the current situation demands both practical security measures and sincere spiritual intervention from all stakeholders. According to the Grand Chief Imam, the marathon prayers will feature Adhkaar (remembrances of Allah), Nawaafil (supererogatory prayers), recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, and special supplications dedicated exclusively to the peace and progress of the land. The spiritual gathering is designed to be a continuous session of worship and fervent prayer.

The spiritual gathering is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 26th May 2026, which coincides with the blessed Day of Arafah – widely regarded as the holiest day in the Islamic calendar. The event will take place at the Oyo Central Mosque, commencing from 12:00 PM and continuing uninterruptedly until Maghrib (sunset) time, by the grace of Allah. The prayer session will focus intensely on seeking Allah’s mercy and protection for Oyoland, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large. Special attention will be directed at the rising wave of insecurity, including fear, kidnapping, violence, banditry, and social unrest that have increasingly disrupted communities across the nation.

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In a show of reverence for traditional institutions, special prayers will also be offered for the wellbeing, sound health, wisdom, and divine guidance of His Imperial Majesty, Abdul Hakeem Abimbola Owoade I, the Elewuetu the Great. The Grand Chief Imam further called for supplications for increasing prosperity, progress, infrastructural development, and human capacity advancement across all sectors of Oyoland. In a significant political declaration, the Grand Chief Imam announced that prayers shall be made for the emergence of Oyo Town as the capital of the proposed Oyo State in the coming political dispensation, by the grace of Allah. This marks a bold spiritual endorsement of long-standing political aspirations within the community.

The Grand Chief Imam called on all stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Ustads, Afas, community leaders, youth groups, and all meaningful Nigerians to unite in prayers and collective efforts towards restoring peace, harmony, and development to the nation. He emphasized that insecurity is a challenge that transcends religious and ethnic boundaries, requiring a unified response from all citizens. He also encouraged all Muslims to observe fasting on the Day of Arafah, describing it as one of the most spiritually rewarding days in Islam and a unique opportunity for supplication, seeking Allah’s forgiveness, and obtaining divine mercy.

Adequate arrangements, according to the Imam, will be put in place to ensure comfort and convenience for all participants throughout the programme. Security and crowd management measures are expected to be established to facilitate a smooth and focused spiritual exercise without disruptions. The Grand Chief Imam concluded by praying for Allah’s divine intervention in the affairs of the nation and for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity across Oyoland and Nigeria. The press release was signed by the Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, for and on behalf of Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, with the closing invocation: Wallahul Musta’aan (Allah is the One Whose help is sought) and Assalaamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakaatuh.

Oyo Grand Chief Imam Declares Marathon Prayers Over Insecurity, Peace of Oyoland

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No Fatalities in Zaria Mosque Collapse Despite Social Media Rumors

Published

7 hours ago

May 20, 2026

Trends Admin

No Fatalities in Zaria Mosque Collapse Despite Social Media Rumors

ZARIA, Nigeria – A partial collapse at the historic Zaria Central Mosque during ongoing renovation work has left three construction workers injured, but authorities have confirmed that no lives were lost – contradicting earlier social media claims that two people had died.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when a section of decking beside the southern minaret gave way while workers were carrying out casting work on the second floor of the mosque. The collapse is part of a larger mosque reconstruction project currently underway at the revered religious landmark.

Despite unverified reports circulating online that two persons had died in the collapse, emergency responders and officials at the scene have confirmed zero fatalities. The three injured workers were promptly evacuated and taken to a hospital in Zaria for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly detailed, but sources indicate they are stable and receiving care.

The collapse happened specifically during decking casting – a process involving the pouring of concrete for floor slabs. Workers were focused on the second floor area adjacent to the southern minaret when the structure gave way. The reconstruction project has been ongoing for several months, aimed at renovating and modernizing the historic prayer space.

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The Zazzau Emirate Council, which has oversight of the Zaria Central Mosque, has declined to provide operational details regarding the collapse. A Council spokesperson stated that the mosque reconstruction is managed by a dedicated technical committee in collaboration with the private construction company handling the renovation. “We are leaving all operational comments to the technical committee and the construction firm,” a Council official said. “Our primary concern is the well-being of the workers and the integrity of the project.”

Following the incident, security personnel quickly cordoned off the affected section of the mosque to prevent unauthorized access. A preliminary assessment of the structural damage is expected to be conducted by the technical committee and the construction company. Other sections of the mosque have not been reported as compromised. The collapse has raised questions about construction site safety protocols for religious building renovations. It remains unclear whether work will be paused or if safety reviews will be conducted before casting operations resume.

The Zaria Central Mosque is a landmark of immense historical and religious significance to the Zazzau Emirate. Its ongoing reconstruction has been closely watched by community members and religious leaders. Wednesday’s incident marks the first reported accident during the renovation period.

Representatives of the construction company responsible for the project had not responded to requests for comment as of the time of this report. Further details regarding the cause of the collapse and any planned safety reviews are expected in the coming days.

No Fatalities in Zaria Mosque Collapse Despite Social Media Rumors

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Son, Grandson Kidnap Father Twice for N6.5m Ransom in Kaduna

Published

13 hours ago

May 20, 2026

Trends Admin

Son, Grandson Kidnap Father Twice for N6.5m Ransom in Kaduna

Published: May 20, 2026 | Read Time: 4 minutes

The Kaduna Police Command has uncovered a shocking case of family betrayal, revealing that an elderly man, Alhaji Rabo Jelani, was allegedly kidnapped twice by his own son and grandson. The suspects reportedly collected a total of N6.5 million in ransom and operated with multiple AK-47 rifles, one of which has been recovered by police.

The Kaduna Police Command announced on Tuesday that Yusuf Rabo (the victim’s son) and Musa Adamu (an accomplice) have been arrested following intensive investigations into the abduction of Alhaji Rabo Jelani, an elderly man from Kaduna State. Both suspects are currently in custody and have been charged with criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms. According to police spokesperson DCP Anthony Okon Placid, investigations revealed that Yusuf Rabo allegedly conspired with Musa Adamu and Ali Haruna—the victim’s own grandson—to kidnap the elderly man for ransom. The motive was that the syndicate believed that Alhaji Rabo Jelani possessed substantial wealth and large livestock holdings.

While two suspects are in custody, police have confirmed that Ali Haruna, the victim’s grandson, remains at large. Authorities have launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional weapons and exhibits connected to the crimes. The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public of sustained intelligence-led operations against violent criminal groups across the country.

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Findings revealed that the victim was abducted on separate occasions and taken to forest hideouts where ransom negotiations were allegedly coordinated by Yusuf Rabo himself. In a chilling twist, the son was reportedly negotiating with his own family for the release of his father while the elderly man was held captive in the forest. The first abduction reportedly yielded a ransom payment of Two Million Naira (N2,000,000) , while a subsequent operation generated Four Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N4,500,000) . This brings the total amount extorted from the family to N6.5 million.

Investigations further established that the criminal syndicate procured and deployed multiple AK-47 rifles for their operations. In a shocking revelation, police allege that Ali Haruna (the grandson) supplied one of the firearms belonging to his own father —meaning the grandson allegedly took his father’s rifle to help kidnap his grandfather. Additional weapons were sourced by other members of the gang. During the police operation, authorities successfully recovered one AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine.

The police have also linked the syndicate to several other violent crimes within Kaduna State and surrounding communities. These include the kidnapping of a trader identified as Mr. Iyke and an armed robbery attack along the Kagoma axis where commuters were dispossessed of cash, phones, and other valuables. The suspects are believed to be part of a larger criminal network operating in the area.

The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to tackling violent crime, stating that the Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery networks across the country and assures members of the public of sustained intelligence-led operations against violent criminal groups. The police have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover more weapons and items connected to the case.