By Suleiman Yakubu

Police operatives from the Kpakungu Division, Niger State Command, in collaboration with local vigilante members, have arrested six suspects allegedly involved in the vandalism and theft of street lights and armored cables along Keteren Gwari Road, Minna.
Niger State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun, announced in a press release obtained by Newsline that the suspects were intercepted by police on October 27, 2024, at approximately 15:00 hours during a routine patrol in the Keteren Gwari area.
The suspects, identified as Umar Mustapha (40), Idris Abdullahi (20), Mahmud Mohammed (37), Musa Zakari (42), and Aliyu Musa (60), all residents of Alagbado and Keteren Gwari areas of Minna, confessed to the crime during interrogation. Some of the stolen cables were recovered from them.
SP Abiodun stated that the investigation is ongoing, and the suspects will be arraigned in court for prosecution upon its conclusion.

By Suleiman Yakubu

Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik, has underscored the critical importance of the legal framework within the State Judiciary, describing it as the foundation of peace, order, stability, and equality in society.
Speaking at the High Court complex in Minna on Monday, during the commencement of the New Legal Year, Justice Halima highlighted the legal framework’s role as both a protective shield for vulnerable individuals and a guiding force for those in power. She emphasized, “If one wants peace, one must work for justice.”
Justice Halima addressed the significant challenges posed by rapid societal changes, technological advancements, and global interactions, calling for a reassessment of current practices to ensure justice is effectively upheld in an increasingly complex world.
She announced notable improvements in court infrastructure, including the construction of two new courts and extensive renovations of existing facilities. A High Court was constructed in Lapai, and a Magistrate Court in Dikko, both equipped with modern amenities to foster a conducive working atmosphere for legal practitioners. Additionally, renovations of High Court Number Two in Suleja and the remodeling of the Magistrate Court in Pandogari were highlighted as part of the judiciary’s commitment to making access to justice a reality for all citizens.
During the welcome address, Chief Registrar of the Niger State Judiciary, Hajiya Amina Lamide Musa Saidu, emphasized the significance of the 2024 legal year as a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey of dispensing justice, reinforcing the rule of law, and advocating for the legal rights of Niger State residents. She called for reflection on past achievements and challenges, urging stakeholders to reaffirm their dedication to the core values of impartiality, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
Hajiya Amina commended the progress made under Justice Halima’s leadership, noting the judiciary’s resilience despite infrastructural challenges and the growing volume of cases. She also recognized the invaluable support from law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders, advocating for collaborative efforts to ensure justice is served promptly and fairly, without bias or favouritism.