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NiMet Warns of Dust Haze and Reduced Visibility Across Regions

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Tinubu Heads to Abu Dhabi for 2026 Sustainability Week

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NARD Suspends Planned January 12 Strike

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Dr. Ganduje

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Waiya Urges Kano Information Officers to Amplify Publicity of Govt Projects

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Trump Acknowledges Muslims Are Also Killed in Nigeria

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National Industrial Court Stops Doctors’ Strike Scheduled for January 12

Author name: The Historica Nigeria

Kano, News, Politics

Barau Cautions Gov. Yusuf Against Politicising Insecurity, Challenges Kano Govt to Produce Evidence

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Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has cautioned Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State against politicising issues of insecurity, urging him instead to focus on tackling the numerous challenges confronting the state. Senator Barau was reacting to allegations by the Kano State Government that his recent comments were capable of undermining ongoing security efforts. The accusation was made at the end of the 34th Executive Council Meeting presided over by Governor Yusuf. In a statement issued by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, the Deputy Senate President dismissed the claims as false, reckless, and malicious. He insisted that insecurity— including recent bandit incursions into parts of the state — should not be politicised and requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders. According to him, the state government must substantiate its allegations by producing the video clip where he purportedly made statements capable of escalating insecurity. Read Also: Jonathan Questions Legitimacy of Guinea-Bissau ‘Coup’, Demands Release of Election Results “There was no time Senator Barau uttered any statement capable of undermining security efforts,” the statement said. “Instead, he has consistently collaborated with stakeholders to address insecurity challenges in Kano and across the country.” Barau, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, called on Governor Yusuf to “wake up from slumber” and focus on restoring governance and development in the state. “Until governance was relegated to the background, Kano used to be a very close second to Lagos in terms of prosperity. Misgovernance has eroded this standing. We have everything necessary to restore the glorious days of our state, but the governor is not taking steps in that direction,” he added. Highlighting his contributions to improving security, Barau noted that he has donated operational vehicles to police formations across his senatorial district and beyond, provided motorcycles to policemen in Kano North, renovated parts of the state police headquarters, and constructed police stations in various communities. He has also supported the Department of State Services (DSS). Furthermore, he facilitated the establishment of key security training institutions including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Training College in Gwarzo, the Nigeria Police Service Commission Training Institute in Kabo, and the Nigeria Immigration Service Training School in Bichi — all currently under construction. He added that solar-powered streetlights installed across his senatorial district and other parts of the state have strengthened nighttime security operations. “The state government should emulate these efforts rather than casting aspersions on his personality,” the statement said.

Africa, News

Jonathan Questions Legitimacy of Guinea-Bissau ‘Coup’, Demands Release of Election Results

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has questioned the legitimacy of the reported military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, insisting that authorities must release the results of Sunday’s presidential election. Jonathan, who led an international observer mission to the country, became stranded during the unrest but was later evacuated and returned to Nigeria on Thursday. Speaking to journalists on Friday, the former Nigerian president described what he witnessed and cast doubt on whether the events amounted to a real coup. He noted that the situation appeared unusual and inconsistent with known patterns of military takeovers in Africa. Read Also: Army General Sworn in as Guinea-Bissau’s New Head of State “Specifically, what happened in Guinea-Bissau was not a coup; maybe for want of a better word, I would say it was a ceremonial coup. It is the president, Umaro Embaló, that announced the coup,” he said. Jonathan explained that before a military officer later addressed the world claiming control, President Embaló had already declared himself arrested and announced a coup — while still using his phone to speak with international media. He said such conduct was inconsistent with how heads of state are typically handled during coups, recalling his experience as a mediator in Mali during a real military takeover. “My conviction is that ECOWAS and the African Union must announce the results. They have the results because officials were in all nine regions when the votes were collated. They cannot change those results. They must tally them and let the world know who won that election,” he stated. Jonathan revealed that the results from all regions had been compiled and were awaiting formal declaration when Embaló abruptly announced a coup. He also expressed disappointment that Embaló — a former ECOWAS chairman and retired military officer — would be associated with an incident capable of derailing an electoral process he should have been committed to safeguarding. “He should be the person that can prevent any coup in Guinea-Bissau. I don’t expect a coup that would remove him from office,” he added.

National, News

Army Promotes 105 Senior Officers to Major General and Brigadier General

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The Nigerian Army has approved a major round of senior officers’ promotions, elevating 105 personnel to the ranks of Major General and Brigadier General. In a statement issued on Friday, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, confirmed that the promotions were ratified by the Army Council on Thursday, November 27, 2025. According to the breakdown, 28 Brigadier Generals were promoted to Major General, while 77 Colonels advanced to the rank of Brigadier General. Those elevated to the rank of Major General include O. Adegbe of the Defence Intelligence Agency; S.M. Uba, Director of Defence Information; R.E. Hedima, Acting Chief of Military Intelligence (Army); and R.T. Utsaha, Deputy Director of Defence Operations. Read Also: Navy Chief Abbas Reshuffles 65 Senior Officers in Strategic Leadership Overhaul FCTA Elevates 49 Deputy Directors After First-Ever CBT Promotion Exam Kogi Police Commissioner Hosts Walimah in Kano, Marks Promotion and Sons’ Qur’anic Feat Others are A.M. Umar, Commandant of the Warrant Officer Academy; S. Sulaiman, Deputy Military Secretary (Army); I.O. Bassey, Director of the Nigerian Army Operations Centre; C.A. Ekeator of the Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering; S.Y. Yakasai, Acting Director of Procurement in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff; W.L. Nzidee of the Army Logistics Department; S.A. Emmanuel of the Army Signals; S.S. Tilawan, Acting Commander Sector 3, Operation Hadin Kai; M.O. Agi of the NDA TETFund Desk; I.M. Abbas, Commander 34 Brigade; and Z.A. Saidu, who received a posthumous promotion. The Army also released a comprehensive list of Colonels promoted to Brigadier General across various formations, including the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Defence Headquarters, Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji, Army Headquarters Garrison, Nigerian Army Dog Centre, 9 Brigade, 401 Special Forces Brigade, Nigerian Army Medical Corps, and several Nigerian Army Reference Hospitals. Congratulating the officers and their families, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, urged the newly promoted personnel to rise to the responsibilities of their new ranks. He called on them to cultivate bold, innovative, and unconventional solutions as the military responds to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges. Shaibu also stressed the officers’ duty to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity, adding that their loyalty to the Constitution must remain absolute, firm, and beyond reproach.

News, Plateau

Jos Muslims Say Over 4,700 Members Killed Since 2001 Crises

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The Muslim community in Jos, Plateau State, has claimed that more than 4,700 of its members have been killed in violent crises in the state from 2001 to date. The Jasawa Community Development Association (JCDA) made the disclosure during a prayer session held on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Jos Central Mosque. The group said the figures counter the widely held perception that only Christians have suffered targeted killings in the state, insisting that Muslims have also been major victims of repeated violence. Speaking at the session marking the 17th commemoration prayers for victims of the crises, the National President of JCDA, Yawale Muhammad, said the association has kept detailed records of Muslim casualties from the various conflicts in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008, 2010, and other years. According to him, the documented number of Muslims killed since 2001 stands at over 4,700. Muhammad described the 2008 crisis as the most devastating, noting that hundreds of Muslims were killed during the violence that erupted after the local government elections in Jos North. “The Muslim community is gathered today to mark the 17th commemoration of the killing of our brothers and sisters since 2001 to date,” he said. Read Also: Insecurity and School Closures in Northern Nigeria – By Comrade Wali, mni He stated that for more than two decades, repeated crises—particularly in Jos North, which has a large Muslim population—have led to the deaths of numerous men, women, and children across different parts of the state. “For us, every 28th November is not just another date on the calendar. It is a date that subsumes many other painful days in which unfortunate crises befell us. It is a day for sober reflection, mourning, truth-telling, prayer, and renewed resolve,” Muhammad added. Giving a breakdown of the figures, the JCDA President said more than 700 Muslims were killed in the 2001 crisis, while hundreds more were killed in the 2002 Eto Baba violence in Jos. He added: “You will recall that in 2004 during the Yelwa-Shendam crisis, at least 700 Muslims were slaughtered. “In 2008, the post-election unrest in Jos resulted in over 1,000 Muslim deaths, followed by the 2010 multi-location attacks in Dutse Uku, Gero, Kuru Jenta, and other areas, where more than 2,000 Muslims were reportedly killed. “In 2011, attacks at the Rukuba Road Eid praying ground left 20 worshippers dead, while the 2021 Rukuba Road incident claimed hundreds of lives among Muslim travellers returning from a condolence visit to Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi. According to our records, we have lost 4,700 people.” Muhammad added that several mass graves exist at Jos Zaria Road Muslim Cemetery, Narkuta Muslim Cemetery, Dadin Kowa Muslim Cemetery, Yelwa-Shendam Muslim Cemetery, and other locations. Also speaking at the prayer session, a community leader, Alhaji Shehu Masalla, described November 28 as a significant day of remembrance for Muslims in Jos. “We remember those who were killed during these crises. We have also lost property worth millions of naira. This day is very important for us,” he said. Malam Hamisu Umaru, who led the prayer session, said the gathering was essential not only to honor the victims but also to seek Allah’s intervention for lasting peace in Plateau State. He emphasized that development would remain impossible without peaceful coexistence across ethno-religious lines. (Daily Post)

National, News

NAIC Boss Wins National Award

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The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC), Hon. Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani, has been honoured with the 2025 Nigeria Media Nite-Out Award of Excellence, earning national recognition for his leadership in Agricultural Risk Management and Rural Development. The award, presented at a ceremony attended by media executives, policymakers, and industry stakeholders in Lagos, celebrates the NAIC MD/CEO’s commitment to strengthening agricultural resilience and promoting inclusive growth across Nigeria. Receiving the award on behalf of the MD/CEO, the Head of Agric Service, Mr. Danladi Mato, dedicated the recognition to Nigerian farmers and NAIC staff nationwide. He stated that the honour underscores the increasing recognition of agriculture as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic sustainability. In his remarks, the NAIC boss emphasized that food security must remain a national priority, particularly amid climate change, rising production risks, and a growing population. He highlighted the Corporation’s ongoing efforts to expand agricultural insurance coverage, promote modern farming practices, and provide financial protection for farmers affected by floods, drought, pests, and other unforeseen challenges. Read Also: Lawal Umar Maradun Appointed Manager, Corporate Affairs at NAIC According to him, ensuring food security requires a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach involving insurance, technology, infrastructure, and strong government support. He reiterated NAIC’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to mitigate risks and strengthen resilience in the agricultural value chain. Event organizers commended Hon. Danfulani for his contributions to agricultural development and his advocacy for policies that safeguard farmers while enhancing national food sustainability. The award further reinforces NAIC’s role as a major driver of sustainable agricultural growth and a key contributor to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda. The MD/CEO’s representative was accompanied by NAIC’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Dr. Lawal Umar Maradun, and the Lagos Branch Manager, Mr. Titiloye Oyatolu.

National, News

CDCFIB Announces Date for NSCDC, NIS, Fire Service Screening

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The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has announced that the list of candidates shortlisted for physical screening and document verification in its ongoing recruitment exercise will be published from December 1. In a statement issued on Friday, the Board’s Secretary, Abdulmalik Jubril, urged applicants to log on to the recruitment portal, recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng, between December 1 and 3 to confirm their application status. “Applicants who performed well have been shortlisted on merit and are advised to visit www.recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng from Monday to Wednesday to select their preferred screening venue and date,” he stated. Read Also: Tinubu Orders Police Officers Off VIP Duty, Onto Streets as 30,000 Recruitment Begins The recruitment exercise covers several agencies under the Board, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service, Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). Jubril further disclosed that screening for successful candidates will take place from December 8 to 12, 2025, across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. “Kindly note that official communication regarding the next stage of the exercise shall be only through the Board’s portal. Applicants are advised to disregard any communication through email or other channels,” he warned. He congratulated applicants who made the shortlist and reaffirmed that the recruitment process complied with the Federal Character principle and reflected the manpower needs of each Service.

Kano, News

CP Bakori Deploys More Personnel To Strengthen Security Across Kano

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The Kano State Police Command has intensified security operations across the State following a strategic meeting convened by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, sfipma, mnim, mnips, masis, with all operational commanders. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, and sent to The Historica Nigeria. The meeting, held at the Command Headquarters, focused on strengthening security architecture in communities and schools, as well as boosting surveillance activities in border local government areas. The move, according to the Command, is part of a deliberate and proactive measure to enhance intelligence gathering and prevent emerging threats. Read Also: Nigeria Police Begin Nationwide Withdrawal of Officers Attached to VIPs Following Presidential Directive Following the meeting, the Command commenced the immediate deployment of additional personnel on Thursday, 27th November 2025. The reinforcement exercise is aimed at safeguarding the lives and property of residents across Kano State, while deterring criminal elements attempting to disrupt peace and security. The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s strong resolve to ensure the safety of residents and deal decisively with anyone found attempting to create fear or insecurity. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest police station or through the designated emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926. The Kano State Police Command expressed appreciation to the public for their continued cooperation and timely information that supports the Command’s operations. It reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, law, and order across the State.

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

2027: Kano stands firm behind Tinubu under Ganduje, says stalwart

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By Hussaini Ibrahim, Kano  Kano State leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have reaffirmed their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 presidential bid, hailing former National Chairman and Kano APC leader, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, for consolidating party structures and ensuring grassroots unity. The declaration followed a three-day stakeholders’ meeting at Ganduje’s residence on Miango Road, which drew representatives from all 44 local government areas and 484 wards of the state. Umar Idris Shuaibu, an APC stalwart in Kano, described the gathering as a “strategic demonstration of unity and preparedness,” emphasizing Ganduje’s pivotal role in strengthening the party’s influence in the state. “Kano stands firm behind Tinubu because of Dr. Ganduje’s visionary leadership,” Shuaibu said. “He has ensured that the APC operates as a disciplined, cohesive, and fully mobilized party.” Read Also: Ganduje Not Creating New Hisbah Commission, Ibn Sina Clarifies The meeting concluded with a unanimous endorsement of Tinubu as the APC’s sole presidential candidate for 2027. Party leaders pledged to maintain coordination across wards, strengthen party structures, and ensure readiness for the elections. Shuaibu noted that Ganduje instructed that all APC offices in local governments and wards remain accessible and functional to accommodate new members defecting from opposition parties. “This is not just about numbers,” he said. “It is about building a party machinery that works at every level, ensuring Kano remains an APC stronghold.” In a significant move to strengthen party infrastructure, Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar, Member of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations representing Bichi Federal Constituency, announced a donation of ₦5 million to each of the 44 local government APC offices in Kano State. The contribution, Shuaibu explained, is aimed at supporting the renovation or establishment of functional party offices across the state. “This gesture will enhance operational efficiency and grassroots cohesion, ensuring every LGA office is well-equipped to serve the party and its members,” he said. Political analysts highlighted Kano’s strategic importance in national elections, noting that the state recorded the highest number of APC members during the last registration exercise—a momentum party leaders aim to sustain. Shuaibu also said the meeting prepared the APC for its e-registration exercise, further consolidating membership and grassroots engagement. “Ganduje’s leadership ensures that the APC is not only ready for elections but ready to secure a decisive victory,” he added. He added that the unanimous endorsement of Tinubu sends a clear signal across the country: Kano APC under Ganduje is united, disciplined, and fully committed to the party’s national agenda. “Dr. Ganduje’s influence goes beyond party offices; it inspires confidence among leaders and members alike,” Shuaibu said. “His foresight ensures Kano will continue to play a decisive role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape in 2027 and beyond.” The three-day meeting also discussed strengthening party cohesion, coordinating activities at the ward level, and positioning Kano APC as a critical contributor to national electoral success. With Ganduje at the helm and the N5 million support to each LGA office, party leaders affirmed that the state is fully prepared to back Tinubu’s campaign and deliver a decisive mandate in 2027.

Feature, Kano

A Response to “Abba, Learn from Ganduje Before Kano Collapses” and Why Kano is Standing Strong Under Governor Abba

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By: Aliyu Isa Aliyu, Ph.D I came across a write up by one Hadiza Nasir Ahmad, Esq titled “Abba, learn from Ganduje before Kano collapses.” After reading it, I realized that the writer is either not living in Kano, is unaware of the facts, or is simply politically aligned in a way that prevents her from seeing the real efforts of the present administration under His Excellency, Governor Abba K Yusuf to support security in the state. I will respond to her claims with facts and provide reference publications at the end of this reply along with pictorial evidence. All of the assertions made in her write up are incorrect and do not reflect the true situation in Kano State. It is important to set the record straight so that the public is not misled. First, it is false to claim that the state government is silent on security matters. The present administration has done far more than most states facing similar challenges. In November 2024, the Governor distributed brand new Toyota Hilux vehicles and other operational vehicles to all police stations across the 44 local government areas. Kano is also the first state in the entire country to establish the Anti Illicit Drugs and Phone Snatching Taskforce, which works closely with security agencies. Only a few weeks ago, the Commandant of the taskforce was tragically killed in his home, yet the writer appears unaware of their existence or of the fact that phone and vehicle snatching in the metropolis has reduced significantly because of their operations. Are the nearly 20000 solar street lights installed across the state not measures to reduce insecurity? Has she not seen the various forms of support given to security agencies, many of which are not publicly announced for security reasons? These actions show clear commitment, not silence. It is also untrue to say there is no visible leadership or action. Just last week, the Governor provided vehicles and motorcycles to the Nigeria Army to help them respond to the recent incidents in Tsanyawa, Shanono and other affected areas. Additionally, hundreds of trained neighborhood guards from various local governments already have their operational vehicles ready at Government House. His Excellency has signed the law establishing the guards, and they will be fully deployed once their local government offices are completed. This is evidence of planning and readiness, not inaction. Read Also: Gov. Yusuf’s Bold Education Rescue: 2,000 New Staff Transform Teaching and Security in Kano Schools The attempt to compare the present situation with the previous administration is also misleading. Insecurity is a national challenge, and the writer conveniently failed to mention that security control rests with the Federal Government. The Governor does not control the police, the army or the civil defence. He holds regular state security council meetings, attends to the urgent needs of security agencies and has been consistent in doing so. The state government can only support, and that is exactly what this administration has been doing. Blaming the state for matters under federal authority is unfair and politically motivated. Another important point the writer ignored is that hundreds of police officers have been stationed at the unofficial residence of the dethroned Emir of Kano who currently resides in the Nasarawa Emirs Palace. These officers were originally deployed to vulnerable local governments like Tsanyawa and Shanono. If we are serious about improving security, they should be returned to their proper duty posts instead of guarding one individual. Operational vehicles from different local governments can also be seen parked there. This is a critical issue the writer completely overlooked. The claim that the government is not coordinating with security agencies is also false. His Excellency has been meeting regularly with heads of security agencies and supporting them with logistics, intelligence and operational resources. The allegation of lack of coordination does not reflect reality. Equally incorrect is the claim that nothing is being done to address farmers and herders conflicts. His Excellency created the Kano State Ministry of Livestock Development, the first of its kind in Kano state, to address such conflicts through dialogue and peaceful engagement. As the Honourable Commissioner, I have personally visited several local governments, met with leaders of farmers and herders and strengthened local peace committees to prevent conflict. Many of these interventions are not meant for public reporting, but they are taking place consistently and effectively. In conclusion, the write up presents a one sided and politically charged narrative that ignores the genuine efforts of the state government. Kano is not collapsing as claimed. The administration of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf is working daily to support security agencies, strengthen community protection and respond to emerging challenges. Security requires truth, unity and responsibility. What we need now is support and accurate information, not exaggerated claims designed to mislead the public. 1. [https://punchng.com/kano-gov-donates-78-patrol-vehicles-to-boost-security](https://punchng.com/kano-gov-donates-78-patrol-vehicles-to-boost-security) 2. [https://dailytrust.com/kano-declares-war-on-illicit-drug-abuse-phone-snatching/?noamp=available](https://dailytrust.com/kano-declares-war-on-illicit-drug-abuse-phone-snatching/?noamp=available 3.[https://www.channelstv.com/2025/02/18/gov-yusuf-signs-law-creating-kano-state-security-neighborhood-watch](https://www.channelstv.com/2025/02/18/gov-yusuf-signs-law-creating-kano-state-security-neighborhood-watch) 4. [https://tribuneonlineng.com/gov-yusuf-donates-10-vehicles-50-motorcycles-to-boost-jtf-operations-in-kano](https://tribuneonlineng.com/gov-yusuf-donates-10-vehicles-50-motorcycles-to-boost-jtf-operations-in-kano) Aliyu Isa Aliyu

Africa, International, News

Army General Sworn in as Guinea-Bissau’s New Head of State

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An army general has been sworn in as Guinea-Bissau’s new head of state a day after an apparent coup. Gen Horta N’Tam becomes the transitional president for a period of one year. He took the oath on Thursday, in brief and muted proceedings at army headquarters. N’Tam, who until a day earlier had been head of the presidential guard, barely cracked a smile during his swearing-in or while stood outside flanked by officers while for cameras. Some civil society groups in Guinea-Bissau have accused outgoing President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of masterminding a “simulated coup” against himself with the help of the military, saying it was a ruse to block election results from coming out in case he lost. “This manoeuvre aims to prevent the publication of the electoral results scheduled for tomorrow, November 27,” the civil society coalition Popular Front said in a statement on Wednesday. His closest election rival Fernando Dias has also echoed these claims. But Embaló has not responded to the allegations. He has said he has survived multiple coup attempts during his time in office. However, his critics have previously accused him of fabricating crises in order to crack down on dissent. The military has already suspended the electoral process and blocked the release of the results of Sunday’s presidential election which were expected on Thursday. An unnamed military source has told the AFP news agency that Embaló is being held by the army at its staff headquarters, where he is being “well-treated”. In response to news of the apparent coup, the chair of the African Union (AU) Mahmoud Ali Youssouf demanded “the immediate and unconditional release of President Embalo and all detained officials”. He also reminded Guinea-Bissau’s leaders of “the imperative of respecting the ongoing electoral process”. Read Also: Nigeria Police Begin Nationwide Withdrawal of Officers Attached to VIPs Following Presidential Directive Ganduje Urges Kano Government to Act Swiftly Against Bandit Attacks in Shanono and Tsanyawa Pregnant Women, Children Among 20 Farmers Kidnapped in Niger Sandwiched between Senegal and Guinea, the West African country is known as a drug-trafficking hub where the military has been influential since independence from Portugal in 1974. Guinea-Bissau has witnessed at least nine coups or attempted coups over the last five decades. The latest of these, on Wednesday, saw a group of military officers announce they had seized control of the country. Earlier, government sources told the BBC that Embaló had been arrested. Gunshots were heard in the capital, Bissau, but it was not immediately clear who was involved in the shooting or if there were any casualties. The officers then appeared on state TV, saying they had suspended the electoral process. They said they were acting to thwart a plot by unnamed politicians who had “the support of a well-known drug baron” to destabilise the country, and announced the closure of its borders and imposed a night-time curfew. The election results were expected on Thursday – both Embaló and his main challenger, Dias, had claimed victory. Dias was supported by former Prime Minister Domingos Pereira, who had been disqualified from running. Late on Wednesday afternoon, Embaló told France 24 in a phone call: “I have been deposed.” Government sources later told the BBC that Dias, Pereira and Interior Minister Botché Candé had also been detained. The same sources said the putschists had taken army chief Gen Biague Na Ntan and his deputy, Gen Mamadou Touré, into custody too. In a joint statement, leaders of election observation missions from the African Union and the West African bloc Ecowas expressed “deep concern with the announcement of a coup d’etat by the armed forces”. They said the country had been prepared for the announcement of the election results after what it described as an “orderly and peaceful” process. “It’s regrettable that this announcement came at a time when the missions had just concluded meeting with the two leading presidential candidates, who assured us of their willingness to accept the will of the people,” they said. Portugal, the country’s former colonial ruler, has called for a return to constitutional order, with its foreign ministry urging “all those involved to refrain from any act of institutional or civic violence”. As of Thursday, the AFP news agency reported that Guinea-Bissau’s borders had reopened. Embaló, 53, had wanted to make history as the country’s only president to secure a second consecutive mandate in the last 30 years. He had initially said he would not seek a second term. Prior to the delayed polls, his legitimacy was questioned, with the opposition saying his term should have officially ended in February 2025. Guinea-Bissau is one of the poorest countries in the world with a population of more than two million people. Its coastline has many uninhabited islands, making it ideal for drug traffickers – with the UN dubbing it a “narco-state” as it has been a key transit point for cocaine coming from Latin America to Europe. (BBC)

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