Nigeria’s Top Headlines Today – Sunday, 15 February 2026

A violent attack rocked communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving at least 32 people dead. Bandits stormed Tugan-Makeri, Konsoko, and Pissa early Saturday morning. Residents said the initial assault occurred at Tugan-Makeri around 3:00 a.m., killing six individuals. Later, the attackers reportedly moved to Konsoko and Pissa around 6:00 a.m., where 26 more people were killed and several buildings, including a police outpost, were set ablaze. Sources confirmed that the total number of casualties in Pissa is still being determined. Hassan Abdullahi, a local resident, said over 200 assailants operated for several hours, noting that the affected villages are approximately 200 kilometers from the Nigerian Air Force Base in New Bussa. The Niger State Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the attacks and noted that some residents were also kidnapped.

Political tensions continue ahead of the 2027 general elections, as a senior chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Idris Kalgo, asserted that President Bola Tinubu has lost support among Northern Nigerians, except for those benefiting from political appointments. Speaking during an interview on Saturday, Kalgo expressed confidence that the ADC would replace the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) next year, adding that surveys indicate widespread dissatisfaction with the President across the North.

Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the fate of officers accused of plotting a coup against President Tinubu, as the Federal Government has yet to issue clear instructions on whether they will face court-martial or be tried in civilian courts. Military sources told reporters that while the leadership favors court-martial, the Presidency has not confirmed whether this would be the appropriate legal avenue, citing concerns over democratic legal processes.

In response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recently released 2027 election timetable, the House of Representatives has scheduled an emergency sitting for Tuesday, 17 February. The House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, stated that legislators have been formally notified and stressed the constitutional importance of addressing the timetable promptly, highlighting the chamber’s commitment to ensuring the smooth conduct of Nigeria’s democratic process.

The Presidency has also called for a full investigation into allegations that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai wiretapped the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. El-Rufai reportedly admitted on ARISE Television that he listened to conversations of the NSA after his phone was tapped, claiming the practice is commonly conducted by the government. The Special Adviser to the President on Information, Garba Onanuga, emphasized that the matter should not be ignored and that those responsible must face legal consequences.

In Kwara State, suspected Boko Haram insurgents paraded 176 abducted victims from the Woro community in a newly released video. The captives, including women, children, and a nursing mother, were interrogated by the insurgents, who accused the state government of downplaying the number of kidnapped individuals. The Kwara State government stated that it is working with security agencies to ensure the safe return of all abductees and that some victims have already been identified by community leaders.

The 2026 Argungu International Fishing Festival commenced in Kebbi State on Saturday, drawing tens of thousands of participants and spectators. The event, held at the historic Mata Fada fishing arena, saw fishermen surge into the river ahead of the formal commencement, creating moments of chaos before order was restored by security operatives. The festival, which began in 1934, celebrates local cultural traditions and has become a globally recognized spectacle.

Comedian Aderombi Adedayo Martin, known as DeeOne, has commented on the political landscape, warning that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi is unlikely to benefit from sympathy votes in the 2027 elections. DeeOne encouraged Obi to actively campaign and invest in his political machinery, noting that supporters in previous elections were aided by external parties.

Finally, Nigeria has retained the hosting rights for the 2027 Africa Running Conference following a successful debut in Lagos. Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, said the decision reflects confidence in Nigeria’s capacity to host major continental sporting events and highlighted the long-term impact of the conference on road running development in Africa.