The Ondo State Government has introduced new security measures restricting the operations of commercial motorcycles across all 18 local government areas of the state.

The directive, which took effect on Wednesday, limits motorcycle operations between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., as part of efforts to strengthen security and maintain public order.

The announcement was made by Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, the commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency Amotekun Corps, during a briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Akure.

Adeleye explained that the directive was issued on the instruction of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and in line with existing state laws on public safety.

“I want to put it on record that by the directive of the governor of Ondo State and pursuant to the relevant laws and public safety regulations of Ondo State, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, hereby notifies the general public of the following security measures and regulatory directives currently in force within the state.

“These measures are aimed at strengthening security, maintaining public order, and protecting lives and property across Ondo State. Members of the public are therefore required to take note of and comply with the following directives. One, a restriction on the use of motorcycles at night. The operational use of motorcycles within Ondo State is prohibited between the hours of 7 pm and 6 am.”

According to him, the restriction applies to all motorcycle operators except security personnel and individuals providing essential services who are officially exempted by the government.

He also stated that all motorcycle riders must register with the Amotekun Corps and obtain the required certification before operating within the state.

“All motorcycle users and operators within the state shall register and obtain the requisite certification from the Ondo State Security Network Agency either at the headquarters of the Corps or the various local government commands of the Corps. Any person who fails to comply with this registration requirement shall be deemed to be operating unlawfully within the state.”

As part of the broader security strategy, the government also banned the activities of cart pushers in major cities across the state.

“The activities of cart pushes within major metropolises across Ondo State are hereby prohibited. This measure is intended to promote public safety, ensure better traffic management, and maintain environmental order within urban centres.”

Authorities further directed dealers in condemned iron scrap metals to register with the government within two weeks.

“Mandatory registrations of dealers in condemned iron scrap metals. All persons and businesses dealing in condemned iron scraps or related metallic materials within Ondo State are hereby directed to register with the Ondo State government within two weeks from the date of this announcement, that is today. Failure to comply with this directive within the stipulated period may result in appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with the law.”

The government also banned the display and sale of farm produce in unauthorized locations across the state.

“The display or sale of farm produce in any place other than the approved market is hereby prohibited.”

Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps disclosed that 70 suspects have been arrested across the state for various criminal offences.

While presenting the suspects on Wednesday, Adeleye said they were linked to crimes including kidnapping, burglary, vandalism, theft and human trafficking.

“Today, I’m parading 70 suspects, and out of these 70, we have 39 breaking the law and order. We have 18 kidnapped suspects arrested across the state. We have one anti-grazing, one human trafficking, and 11 arrests on court-related cases.”

He added that the arrests were part of ongoing operations to strengthen security and protect residents across Ondo State.

At least 14 people have lost their lives and several others were injured in two separate bandit attacks in Katsina State’s Dandume and Musawa local government areas.

In the first incident, armed assailants stormed the Dansoda community in Dandume LGA around 8 p.m. on Tuesday, killing 11 residents.

A local, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the harrowing attack:

“People ran helter-skelter as the bandits shot sporadically and also targeted some of the fleeing community members.
After they left, we cautiously came out and discovered that 11 people had been killed during the mayhem.”

The victims were buried according to Islamic rites on Wednesday morning, while the injured were taken to hospitals for treatment. As of filing this report, the state police command had not commented on the Dandume incident.

In a related attack, Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed that bandits struck Jikamshi village in Musawa LGA at about 6:10 p.m. the same day, leaving three people dead and 11 others injured.

“On March 10th, 2026, at about 1805 hrs, a distress call was received at Musawa Division that suspected armed bandits attacked Jikamshi village, injuring 14 persons before the arrival of security agencies.
A joint security team responded and engaged the bandits in a gun duel, successfully foiling the attack,” DSP Sadiq said.

He added:

“The injured victims were rushed to the nearest hospital. Unfortunately, three were confirmed dead, while 11 are receiving treatment.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the attack and directed further investigation to apprehend the perpetrators.”

Sources revealed that the bandits operated for over an hour, looting shops and carting away food items and other valuables worth millions of naira. Residents had reportedly informed security operatives and government officials prior to the attacks.

These incidents come shortly after a peace agreement between security-prone communities and repentant bandits, which included the release of about 70 suspected and convicted bandits, a move that drew criticism from many Nigerians.

Nigeria today paused to honour General Murtala Ramat Muhammed on the 50th anniversary of his assassination, remembering a leader whose brief tenure left an indelible mark on the nation.

Commemorative events were held across the country, including wreath-laying ceremonies at the Murtala Muhammed Arcade in Abuja, national moments of silence, Anti-Corruption Day activities, and lectures organised by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF).

President Bola Tinubu described the late general as “a moral compass for Africa,” while former heads of state, diplomats, and civil society leaders gathered to reflect on his decisive 200-day leadership that reshaped governance, confronted corruption, and elevated Nigeria’s standing on the global stage.

Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, the general’s daughter and MMF CEO, captured the mood of the nation: “His sacrifice was worth it. The legacy lives on.”

Dignitaries attending the ceremony at the Murtala Muhammed Arcade included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, the Ambassador of Angola, and other distinguished guests.

The events highlighted the enduring relevance of Murtala’s leadership and his commitment to anti-corruption, national discipline, and African unity.

Early Life

Murtala Ramat Muhammed was born on November 8, 1938, in the Kurawa quarters of Kano, into a family with rich Hausa-Fulani and Kanuri heritage.

His father, Risqua Muhammed, served in the Kano Native Authority, while his mother, Uwani Ramatu, came from a lineage known for its Islamic scholarship and judicial service.

He began his education at Cikin Gida and Gidan Makama primary schools before attending Government College Zaria (now Barewa College), one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions.

At 19, he enlisted in the Nigerian Army, training initially in Ghana and later at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1961.

Murtala’s military career advanced rapidly. He served in the Congo under the United Nations peacekeeping mission, rose to brigadier general by 1971, and played a crucial role in the Nigerian Civil War as a divisional commander.

His leadership style was defined early on by decisiveness, patriotism, and a reputation for discipline.

His Family

In 1963, Murtala married Hafsatu Ajoke Muhammed, who would later serve as Nigeria’s Fourth First Lady and champion conservation efforts. Together, they had six children: Aisha, Zakari (deceased), Fatima, Abba (Risqua), Zeliha, and Jummai.

Ajoke Muhammed has been a steadfast custodian of her husband’s legacy, establishing the Murtala Muhammed Foundation to promote leadership, anti-corruption initiatives, and development across Africa.

The family has remained committed to preserving his vision and principles decades after his death.

His Legacies

Fifty years after his death, Murtala’s contributions remain deeply ingrained in Nigeria’s identity. The Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos stands as a daily reminder of his forward-looking vision.

The announcement of relocating the nation’s capital to Abuja during his tenure paved the way for a neutral, purpose-built center of governance. His uncompromising stance against corruption established a benchmark for integrity in public service.

Beyond physical infrastructure, Murtala left a lasting intangible legacy: a belief in decisive, bold leadership capable of reshaping a nation. Analysts frequently cite his tenure as evidence that transformative governance is possible even in a short span.

Impact

Murtala’s 200 days in power brought swift and profound changes. He restored discipline in the civil service, overhauled Nigeria’s foreign policy with a Pan-African emphasis, and positioned Nigeria as a leading voice against apartheid and colonialism.

At the 1976 OAU summit in Addis Ababa, he declared that “Africa has come of age,” signaling a new assertiveness in African diplomacy.

Domestically, he created seven new states, addressing regional imbalances and ethnic tensions, and laid the groundwork for a planned transition to civilian rule. His leadership inspired a generation, generating what many referred to as the “Murtala effect”, a surge in national pride, accountability, and hope.

Challenges and Criticisms During His Tenure

No tenure is without controversy. Murtala’s mass civil service purge in 1975, which dismissed over 10,000 officials—including judges, diplomats, and administrators—was seen as heavy-handed and caused social disruption. Critics argue the abrupt approach created insecurity and hardship, even as it sought to cleanse the system of corruption.

His temporary control of major newspapers, including the Daily Times and New Nigerian, drew criticism for perceived authoritarianism. Additionally, some policies were implemented without sufficient planning or resources, highlighting the risks of rapid reform. His casual approach to personal security, often driving with minimal escort, ultimately made him vulnerable.

Achievements

Despite his short tenure from July 29, 1975, to February 13, 1976, Murtala achieved reforms that have endured for decades.

His anti-corruption drive implemented strict accountability measures with public officials facing trials, asset seizures, and in one high-profile case, execution for gross misconduct.

Civil service reform restructured public service, instilling discipline and efficiency.

He created Bauchi, Benue, Gongola (now Adamawa/Taraba), Imo, Niger, Ogun, and Bendel (now Delta/Edo), increasing Nigeria’s states from 12 to 19, promoting balance and reducing ethnic tensions.

The move of the federal capital from Lagos to Abuja established a purpose-built, central capital.

A Constitution Drafting Committee was formed, democratic timelines set, and key government institutions restructured to ensure a smooth transition to civilian rule.

In foreign policy, he championed African liberation movements, recognised the MPLA in Angola, and positioned Nigeria as a leading voice against colonialism and apartheid.

National development initiatives included reviewing the Third National Development Plan, demobilising post-civil war troops, cancelling the 1973 census due to irregularities, and promoting unity by neutralising regional attachments.

Foundations for future national projects and modernization initiatives were also laid.

His swift, decisive reforms showed that even a brief period in office could leave an enduring impact.

At 37, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed became Nigeria’s youngest head of state to die in office, yet his influence persists across generations.

The 50th anniversary commemorations, spanning Abuja, Kano, and beyond, reaffirm that his courage, discipline, and vision remain guiding principles for Nigeria’s ongoing pursuit of good governance, national unity, and African leadership.

The message from today’s events is clear: the spirit of Murtala Muhammed continues to inspire, challenge, and call Nigeria to action.

The attempted arrest of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja has sparked nationwide debate and drawn fresh attention to ongoing corruption investigations linked to his administration.

The incident, which occurred on February 12, 2026, followed long running probes by anti graft agencies into alleged financial misconduct during El-Rufai’s eight year tenure as governor of Kaduna State.

Attempt Arrest

Tension unfolded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja when security operatives approached El-Rufai shortly after he arrived from Cairo aboard Egypt Air flight MS 877.

His media aide Muyiwa Adekeye disclosed the development on X, stating that the former governor was confronted by security personnel upon disembarking. El-Rufai reportedly declined to accompany the operatives, insisting on a formal warrant or invitation.

His lawyer Ubong Esop Akpan later accused the Department of State Services of attempting an unlawful arrest and confiscating El-Rufai’s international passport through one of his aides. The legal team argued that his constitutional rights to liberty and property were violated.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission denied involvement in the airport confrontation. Its spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the commission had earlier invited El-Rufai in December 2025 while he was abroad for medical treatment and that his team assured the agency he would appear voluntarily at its Abuja office on February 16, 2026.

Reports indicated that the Department of State Services may have acted in collaboration with anti graft agencies to ensure compliance with the invitation.

Videos of the confrontation circulated widely on social media, showing El-Rufai engaged in a heated exchange with security personnel as onlookers gathered.

The Allegations Against Him

At the heart of the EFCC interest is a 2024 probe by the Kaduna State House of Assembly which indicted El-Rufai and several former officials over alleged financial irregularities amounting to N423 billion.

An ad hoc committee of the assembly accused the former administration of mismanaging loans obtained for infrastructure projects. Lawmakers claimed that substantial portions of the funds were not applied to their intended purposes, leaving the state with heavy debt obligations.

The probe also cited contract irregularities, including a controversial light rail project. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission obtained a court order for the temporary forfeiture of N1.37 billion linked to the project.

Further allegations involved abuse of office and money laundering. Some former appointees have already faced arraignment in connection with alleged diversion of public funds, including a former finance commissioner accused of laundering N64 million through a company associated with an aide.

Investigators also reportedly discovered that a Kaduna State capital projects account remained linked to El-Rufai and former officials months after he left office in 2023.

El-Rufai has consistently denied wrongdoing, maintaining that no evidence of corruption has been established against him despite multiple investigations.

Political context

The airport incident has intensified speculation about political undertones surrounding the investigation.

El-Rufai was once a close ally of President Bola Tinubu and played a prominent role in the 2023 presidential campaign. However, his ministerial nomination was later rejected by the Senate, after which he distanced himself from the ruling All Progressives Congress and joined the African Democratic Congress.

Since then, he has emerged as a vocal critic of the Tinubu administration and has pledged to oppose the president’s reelection bid in 2027.

His successor in Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has publicly accused the previous administration of gross corruption, while several of El-Rufai’s former associates have been questioned or detained in related investigations.

El-Rufai himself alleged in an interview that he was being targeted as the “next victim” after associates were arrested.

Supporters of the former governor describe the probe as politically motivated, while critics insist that the allegations warrant thorough scrutiny.

What Next

El-Rufai has indicated that he will honour the EFCC invitation scheduled for February 16, 2026. His legal team is demanding the immediate return of his passport and a formal apology over the airport incident.

As of February 13, 2026, neither the EFCC nor the Department of State Services has issued a detailed public statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the attempted arrest.

The outcome of El-Rufai’s scheduled appearance before the EFCC could determine whether formal charges will follow or whether the matter will be resolved without prosecution.

For now, the case has reignited broader concerns about rule of law, selective prosecution, and the role of anti corruption agencies in Nigeria’s political landscape.