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A disturbing security incident has reportedly occurred following an attack by armed bandits on a vehicle conveying police officers from Sokoto State to Zamfara State for a special duty assignment. According to information accompanying images circulating from the incident, the officers were travelling between the two states when their vehicle came under gunfire from suspected bandits. The disturbing photograph shows several uniformed personnel lying inside the vehicle, while other individuals appear to be assisting them. However, the exact number of casualties, the identities of those affected and the circumstances surrounding the attack have yet to be independently established. The incident, as confirmed through our sources raises further concerns about the persistent insecurity confronting security personnel and commuters across parts of Nigeria's North-West as the country approaches its next general elections." It also underscores the dangers faced by security operatives in ...

Scenes from this year's Halloween celebration in Saudi Arabia have attracted attention, with videos showing large crowds participating in a lively outdoor event featuring elaborate costumes, themed entertainment and colourful displays. The footage captures people dressed in different Halloween-inspired outfits, alongside attendees wearing traditional Saudi clothing, reflecting the diverse atmosphere of the gathering. The development has once again brought attention to Saudi Arabia's evolving social and entertainment landscape under its ambitious Vision 2030 programme. Once widely associated with strict restrictions on public entertainment, the Kingdom has increasingly opened its doors to large-scale recreational events, international entertainment and new social experiences. However, the celebrations may also reignite conversations about the relationship between modernisation, cultural identity and religious values in Saudi society. By Muhammad Isa Ramat RAMAT UNLIMITED   ...

THE QUESTION EVERY ENFRANCHISED NIGERIAN SHOULD ASK BEFORE ELECTION DAY By Muhammad Isa Ramat   As another election approaches, Nigerians must begin to ask themselves some difficult but necessary questions. Beyond political parties, campaign promises, religious affiliations, ethnic sentiments and personal interests, there is one fundamental question every eligible voter must confront: Am I voting for someone who genuinely deserves the responsibility of governing me, or am I simply voting out of loyalty, sentiment or temporary personal gain? Democracy is not merely about casting a ballot every four years. It is about making informed choices and holding elected officials accountable for the mandate entrusted to them. Unfortunately, our political environment has increasingly become one where political loyalty sometimes outweighs competence, accountability and performance. Some voters defend political officeholders even when their records raise serious questions. Others are easily infl...

  By Muhammad Isah Ramat The recent reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to about ₦700 per litre has been widely welcomed by Nigerians. While the federal government has linked the development to ongoing reforms in the petroleum sector, industry analysts point to the emergence of the Dangote Refinery as a major factor influencing the new pricing dynamics. Nigeria’s state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna remain largely non-operational despite years of rehabilitation efforts and significant public spending. As a result, fuel supply has historically depended on importation, exposing prices to foreign exchange volatility and global market shocks. The entry of the 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Refinery—the largest in Africa—has introduced a new supply reality. Even before full nationwide distribution, its production of PMS has increased competition in the downstream market and reduced the pricing power previously held by fuel importer...

🖊️ Muhammad Isah Ramat Introduction The Nigerian president’s recent directive to crash food prices across the country has sparked widespread debate. While the move aims to reduce the burden of high living costs on ordinary citizens, many analysts warn that the policy could backfire, especially in the northern region, which produces the bulk of Nigeria’s food supply. Northern Nigeria: The Food Basket Under Siege The northern region accounts for nearly 90% of the food consumed in Nigeria. Despite this, it faces persistent challenges: insecurity from banditry and insurgency, widespread unemployment, and crippling poverty. Thousands of farmers have been displaced from their farmlands, and agricultural output has already declined. Against this backdrop, the president’s plan to force a reduction in food prices may have unintended and damaging consequences. Negative Impacts on Farmers 1. Loss of Income   Lower food prices mean farmers will earn far less for their produce. Small-scale far...

The President of the United States has continued his online rants, escalating tensions with India—not over oil, but over a failed bid for the Nobel Peace Prize. Reports suggest the dispute arose after India declined to nominate Donald Trump for the prestigious award, despite Pakistan putting his name forward. Trump had reportedly expected both nations to endorse him, even though he played no direct role in brokering a ceasefire. India’s refusal prompted the U.S. leader to unleash a wave of sanctions and tariffs on New Delhi, fueling further strain in bilateral relations. Contrary to Trump’s claims, the issue is not linked to India’s growing purchases of Russian oil. Diplomats note that India began importing Russian crude at the request of European partners, who then re-import it indirectly to avoid openly dealing with Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine war. Analysts say the move allows Europe to maintain diplomatic appearances while still securing vital energy supplies. ...

Israel on Monday announced it will deliver humanitarian assistance to South Sudan, even as it maintains a crippling blockade on the Gaza Strip where millions face the risk of famine. According to a statement carried by Army Radio, the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed it would provide emergency support to South Sudan in response to a cholera outbreak that has spread since September 2024. Israel’s public broadcaster, KAN , reported that the move comes “amid reports of discussions with South Sudan on the possible transfer of Gaza residents to its territory.” However, Juba has denied any such deal. The aid package, supervised by Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, is expected to include basic medical supplies, water purification systems, and food parcels , according to Israel Hayom . The development has drawn global attention, as Israel continues to keep Gaza’s border crossings sealed since March 2, blocking humanitarian convoys and allowing only limited shipments—far below th...

August 18, 2025 Onitsha, Anambra State –  A Nigerian fashion designer, Samuel Chinecherem Ezeh , has entered the world record books by creating a robe with astonishingly long sleeves measuring 51.20 metres (167.97 ft) . The record-breaking creation surpasses the height of the Statue of Liberty (46.5 m; 152.5 ft) and is longer than an Olympic-size swimming pool (50 m; 164 ft) . Samuel, 27, combines his work as a designer and tailor with his studies at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University . Despite challenges, he completed the garment and is determined to showcase it globally. In his words: “I wish to take it on a tour to display it in different countries and cities to show the world what it looks like.” This extraordinary accomplishment shines a spotlight on Nigerian innovation and talent in the global fashion industry. 📰 Ramat Unlimited © 2025 Ramat Unlimited. All rights reserved.

Published: June 18, 2025 By Abdulmumin Abdulwakil Illorin, Kwara State --- Northern Nigerian politics has sadly become a nightmare — a far cry from the ideals of our founding fathers. What we witness today is a painful distortion: men in agbadas and babanrigas who parade as leaders, yet dance like puppets to the tunes of power brokers and financial interests. Where once we had visionaries, we now have opportunists. Where once we had protectors of Arewa’s pride, we now have merchants auctioning it off for selfish gain. Just recently , the drama involving Abdullahi Ganduje highlighted at Gombe involved is Zulum, and people mostly from Maiduguri once again how far we have strayed. A former governor, once entrusted with the governing of Kano’s people, now caught in a storm that further dents the dignity of Northern leadership. This is not just about one man — it’s a reflection of a rotting system that elevates the connected and buries the competent. But it wasn’t always like th...

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso –  In a remarkable show of patriotism and solidarity, a Burkinabe businessman based in Abuja, Nigeria, Ibrahim Koanda, has made a significant donation to support agricultural development and assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Burkina Faso. On Friday, May 16, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad formally received the donation during a ceremony recognizing efforts to bolster national peace and resilience. Mr. Koanda's contribution includes a set of pump motors and various agricultural equipment valued at over 8 million CFA francs. In addition, he presented a cash donation of 500,000 CFA francs to the Patriotic Support Fund. The donation aims to support the presidential initiative in the agricultural sector and contribute to the empowerment of internally displaced communities affected by insecurity and conflict. Speaking at the event, Ibrahim Koanda emphasized that his gesture was in direct respons...

Vatican City —  Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was seen attending the inauguration of the new Pope at the Vatican City accompanied by his son, Seyi, in a scene that has sparked fresh controversy back home over the growing influence of unelected family members within the presidency. Photographs from the prestigious ceremony show the President seated among world leaders, while his son was observed interacting with key dignitaries and accompanying his father in a capacity that has raised eyebrows across Nigeria’s political landscape. Critics argue that Seyi Tinubu, who holds no official position in government, appears to be wielding increasing influence over state affairs. His frequent presence at diplomatic events, high-level meetings, and official functions has drawn comparisons to political dynasties and accusations of nepotism. “This is not just about optics,” said Dr. Ifeoma Ogundipe, a political analyst. “We’re seeing a worrying trend where a private citizen — the ...

“No affliction strikes except by permission of ALLAH. And whoever believes in ALLAH, He will guide his heart. And ALLAH is knowing of all things.” (Quran 64:11) It’s been a year—twelve months marked by the quiet ache of absence and memories that keep us company since we lost our beloved mother (fondly called ‘Mama’ by us and her grandchildren), Hajiya Sa’adatu Musa Kofa on the 17th of May 2024, corresponding to the 9th of Dhu’l-Qadah, 1445 AH.  Time has flown, yet the silence left in the wake of our mother’s passing has been deafening. Still, it remains painfully difficult to accept that my time with Mama (being her last child), has come to an end. Equally, Mama’s death has hit my beloved father, four older siblings, four grandchildren, her sisters, in-laws, relatives, domestic staff and acquaintances in unquantifiable proportion. Married to my father, Engr. Usman Shehu Liman for close to four decades, Mama was born into the family of Late Alh. Musa Kofa’s family, Gidan Garko, Kofa...

Gaza City –  The Palestinian group Hamas has announced its willingness to release an Israeli-American soldier held hostage, following undisclosed negotiations with the United States. In a statement released Sunday, Hamas declared it is "ready for immediate negotiations" aimed at reaching a comprehensive ceasefire agreement with Israel. The announcement marks a significant development as the conflict in Gaza continues to draw international concern. According to Israeli media reports, Israel was not informed in advance of the US-Hamas discussions regarding the soldier’s release, raising questions about coordination between allies amid ongoing tensions. Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, emphasized Washington’s desire to see all hostages returned safely. “We want to bring the hostages home, but Israel is not willing to end the war,” Witkoff said, calling on the Israeli government to seize what he described as a crucial “opportunity” to facilitate th...

May 7th, 2025 [Washington, D.C.]  — In a significant update on the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip, U.S. President Donald Trump announced today that an official statement regarding the situation is expected within the next 24 hours. This announcement comes amid rising tensions and humanitarian concerns in the region. During a press briefing, President Trump emphasized the urgency of addressing the escalating conflict in Gaza, which has drawn international scrutiny and heightened calls for intervention. “We are monitoring the situation very closely and are prepared to make an announcement that will hopefully bring clarity and assistance to those affected,” Trump stated. As the situation evolves, reports indicate that various stakeholders, including local leaders and international organizations, are advocating for immediate humanitarian aid and a ceasefire. The upcoming announcement is anticipated to address these critical needs and outline potential U.S. involvement in alleviating ...

May 4, 2025 Ankara, Turkey  In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Turkish fighter jets reportedly attempted to repel Israeli aircraft that had intruded into Syrian airspace earlier this week. According to sources familiar with the incident, Turkish forces employed electronic warning signals and jamming operations in response to the Israeli maneuvers, signaling a potentially new level of direct confrontation between Turkey and Israel. The reported aerial standoff comes amid a surge in Israeli military operations across Syria. In recent days, Israel has conducted a broad campaign of airstrikes targeting multiple locations, including areas near the presidential palace in Damascus. Israeli officials claim the operations are aimed at safeguarding the Druze minority, following armed clashes between Druze militias and newly deployed Syrian government forces. The incident underscores growing geopolitical friction in the region, with Ankara increasingly asserting its role in reg...

In a world where childbirth is always a moment of wonder, one Malian couple has rewritten the definition of extraordinary. On May 4, 2021, Halima Cissé and her husband, Adjudant Kader Arby, from Timbuktu, Mali, welcomed nine babies—five girls and four boys—in a single day. Against enormous odds, every single one of the nonuplets survived and thrived, making global headlines and entering medical history. A Pregnancy That Surprised Everyone Halima, just 25 years old at the time, initially believed she was carrying seven children, as shown in early ultrasounds conducted in Mali. But doctors were in for a shock when she delivered nine babies by cesarean section at the Ain Borja Clinic in Casablanca, Morocco, where she was transferred for specialized care. The government of Mali stepped in to support her journey, covering the costs of the medical treatment abroad—an indication of just how rare and high-risk the situation was. Survival Against the Odds The birth of nonuplets is extraord...

- May 3, 2025 ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI  In a surprising diplomatic development, Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, is scheduled to visit Pakistan on Monday, followed by a high-level visit to India later this week. Sources close to Tehran suggest that Iran may be positioning itself as a neutral mediator in the longstanding and often volatile relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The timing of the visits has fueled speculation of a behind-the-scenes initiative aimed at de-escalating tensions that have persisted in the region, particularly over Kashmir, cross-border militancy, and economic competition. Both countries have recently signaled cautious openness to third-party engagement, with Iran — a regional power maintaining historically cordial ties with both New Delhi and Islamabad — seen as a credible interlocutor. "Iran is committed to regional stability and believes dialogue is the only path to peace," an Iranian foreign ministry official told...

-- Abuja, Nigeria  In a major development shaking Nigeria’s oil sector, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the recently sacked managing directors and top officials of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries following the discovery of N80 billion in the account of one of the former MDs. The arrests come as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged mismanagement of a staggering $2.9 billion earmarked for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s state-owned refineries. Findings by PUNCH reveal that the anti-graft agency is probing: $1.5 billion allocated to Port Harcourt Refinery, $740 million to Kaduna Refinery, and $656 million to Warri Refinery. The ex-Managing Director of Port Harcourt Refining Company Ltd, Mr. Ibrahim Onoja; the former MD of Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company Ltd, Efifia Chu; and the former MD of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company Ltd, Mustafa Sugungun, are all currently in EFCC custody. A top EFCC official, who r...