Mustapha Shehu

Sheikh Gumi and the Case for Dialogue

It is against this background that I offer my views on the issues of banditry and kidnappings, particularly in northern Nigeria. My perspective is informed by knowledge acquired during my graduate studies at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, in the United States. Two courses, in particular, shaped my understanding of conflicts and their resolution. The first was International Security Studies, taught by Professor Richard Shultz, a consultant to the Pentagon. The second was International Negotiation, taught by Professor Diana Chigas, a member of the team that helped negotiate the end of apartheid in South Africa.

Sheikh Gumi: An Asset Nigeria Should Not Ignore

For many years, Gumi has attracted criticism because of his contacts with bandits. Some commentators have accused him of being too sympathetic to them. Others have questioned why he meets with them in their forest hideouts. But instead of seeing him as part of the problem, Nigerians should ask whether he can be part of the solution.

Why the FG Should Subsidize Cooking Gas

As LPG becomes more expensive, many households are forced to abandon it and return to firewood and charcoal. While these fuels may appear cheaper in the short term, their widespread use carries enormous long-term costs for the nation.

No Terrorists Were Killed in U.S. Strike on ‘ISIS’ in Nigeria 

Abu Jabo dismissed reports that terrorists were killed in the strike, stressing that Jabo has no history of insurgency or bandit activity. “There are no terrorists here. There are no Christians here either. Jabo is a peaceful, Muslim community. We do not have security problems,” he added. Local sources also dispute claims that the area harbors ISIS-linked elements, describing Jabo as a quiet farming settlement with no record of extremist activity.

Goodbye, Dharmendra 

His career spanned over six decades, during which he acted in more than 300 films. Known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, he captivated audiences with his charisma, rugged good looks, and versatile performances. Some of his most memorable roles include Veeru in the legendary film Sholay (1975), where his chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan became the stuff of legends, and his performances in hits such as Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Satyakam (1969), Chupke Chupke (1975), Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), and Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973). 

Judicial and Political Suppression of Opposition: Threats to our Democracy

The suppression of opposition undermines the fundamental tenets of democracy by stifling dissent, eroding public trust in institutions, and limiting voter choice. When the judiciary and politicians collaborate, wittingly or unwittingly, to silence alternative voices, accountability suffers and democratic norms weaken. As seen during the Shagari era, these practices can precipitate political crises, disenfranchise citizens, and pave the way for authoritarian interventions, such as military coups.
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Implications of the Wike-Yerima Altercation

When considering Africa’s present political landscape, the dispute between Wike and Yerima serves as a timely caution. It underlines how critical it is for Nigeria’s leaders to enforce institutional boundaries, respect legal frameworks, and preserve disciplined relations between civilians and the military. Actions such as making public apologies, conducting open investigations, and recommitting to procedures are more than just formalities—they help safeguard against potential military involvement and protect democratic institutions. Most importantly, President Bola Tinubu must reconsider his alliance with Wike, who increasingly seems to be a problematic figure within his administration.

Conservative Pundit Urges Emergency U.S. Base and Possible Strike in Nigeria

Port Harcourt is Nigeria’s oil heart. That’s the entry point to the Niger Delta, where most of Nigeria’s crude is refined and exported. Whoever controls that region controls Nigeria’s economic pulse. ‘Protection of Christians’ is the narrative oil, is the motive. They use religion because it divides and distracts. But if their goal was purely humanitarian, they’d build hospitals, schools, and trauma centers not military bases beside oil pipelines and export terminals.

Amending the PIA is Not in the Best Interest of the Nigerian Oil Industry 

The shift of power to MOFI, a government-controlled entity, increases the risk of political influence over NNPCL’s operations. Modern oil companies thrive when operational and strategic decisions are insulated from shifting political priorities. Excessive state intervention can lead to short-termism, policy reversals, or decisions influenced by political expediency rather than sound commercial reasoning. 

Israeli Airstrike in Qatar and the Dwindling Credibility of the U.S. 

In nutshell, the Israeli bombing of Hamas leaders in Qatar has been described by international observers as affecting perceptions of U.S. credibility. The incident has drawn attention to the scope of American influence over Israel and its implications for a U.S.-supported diplomatic initiative, as well as U.S. relations with regional partners. This development has prompted discussions about the U.S.'s role as a security guarantor and mediator in the Middle East.

Nigeria Discusses Global Energy Challenges in Milan

The Gastech Exhibition and Conference 2025 commenced on Tuesday in Milan. The Conferences provide an essential forum for industry...

The PDP, Wike, and the Media 

Supportive media coverage can inadvertently validate disparaging remarks or aggressive criticism directed at political adversaries. When platforms, particularly those in bed with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), provide extensive airtime to statements that undermine opposition party unity or target specific individuals, the result may be an erosion of internal cohesion. In the case of the PDP, frequent media reporting on internal disagreements—particularly those involving high-profile figures like Wike -- can contribute to perceptions of division and crisis, regardless of the underlying realities.