At least 22 miners are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed at an illegal site in the Gashaka-Gumti National Park, which spans Gashaka LGA in Taraba State and Toungo LGA in Adamawa State. The miners were searching for gold in a restricted area known as Buffa.

Local sources report that all 22 miners are presumed dead. Toungo LGA Chairman Suleiman Toungo confirmed five bodies have been recovered, though he couldn’t specify the total number still buried. The area, despite frequent ranger patrols, is known for continued unregulated mining activities, often carried out at night.

Adamawa Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje noted recent fatalities from pit collapses, adding that police are working with park authorities to address the illegal mining.

Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and a prominent opposition figure, shared his thoughts on social media following the announcement of President Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election.

Atiku, posting on his X handle, expressed admiration and respect for the American democratic process, describing it as a powerful example of resilience and faith in democracy.

Reflecting on Trump’s win, Atiku hailed it as a significant achievement for the Republican Party, emphasizing that it marks a momentous comeback for Trump himself.

The former Vice President described Trump’s journey as one filled with setbacks and hard-fought battles, showcasing his resilience and determination.

According to Atiku, this victory is not just a personal milestone for Trump but also a symbol of democracy’s strength and capacity for renewal.

Trump, who has faced considerable political challenges over the years, has managed to keep his support base strong, appealing to Americans who feel that he represents a voice for change and a return to conservative values.

His victory, Atiku stated, demonstrates the power of the people and the spirit of American democracy.

Atiku also pointed out that Trump’s win serves as a lesson for democracies worldwide, especially in countries like Nigeria, where calls for credible elections remain critical.

He encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the integrity of the American electoral process and urged leaders in his own country to work towards strengthening their democratic institutions.

For Atiku, Trump’s success is more than a political story; it’s a reminder that fair elections are fundamental to any functioning democracy.

He expressed his hope that Trump, during his administration, would advocate for electoral transparency and free elections, not just within the U.S. but globally, including in Nigeria.

In his post, Atiku extended congratulations to the American people, applauding their unwavering commitment to the democratic process.

A Federal High Court in Kano has ordered the remand of Sadiq Zubairu, 35, charged with the abduction and murder of his friend, Bello Bukar, a Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) employee.

Zubairu allegedly conspired with others to kill Bello after failing to repay an N3 million loan taken to help secure him a job at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

The suspect reportedly admitted to taking Bello’s phone and hiding his vehicle, valued at N12 million.

Bello was reported missing by his family on May 5, and his body was later discovered in Kumbotso. Justice Yusuf Ubale Muhammad has adjourned the case to January 23, 2025.