The National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, has criticized the decision by some northern state governments—including Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi—to close schools for five weeks during Ramadan.

Imam Adeyemi dismissed the move as politically motivated, arguing that fasting should not hinder education. He noted that Muslims in hotter climates, such as Saudi Arabia, observe Ramadan without shutting down essential activities.

Citing historical events, he referenced the Battle of Badr, where outnumbered Muslims triumphed over a larger army despite fasting. He emphasized that Ramadan is a period of spiritual dedication and discipline, not a time for inactivity.

Reflecting on his own academic experience, Imam Adeyemi highlighted how fasting enhanced his focus and performance during exams. He believes that closing schools during Ramadan contradicts Islamic teachings, which encourage continuous learning and work.

“For the first time, I’m hearing of a Ramadan holiday for schools. Islam promotes productivity; even on Fridays, business owners are only required to pause for prayers, not shut down entirely,” he said.

The cleric urged authorities to reconsider the policy, stressing that Islam has established guidelines that should not be altered arbitrarily.

Dr. Doyin Okupe, a veteran politician, medical doctor, and former presidential spokesperson, has passed away at the age of 72. His death was confirmed on Friday, March 7, 2025.

Family sources revealed that Dr. Okupe had been battling a critical illness for several weeks before his demise. Reports indicate that he succumbed to cancer after a prolonged struggle with the disease.

Okupe was first diagnosed with prostate cancer 16 years ago and later battled sarcoma in his right shoulder. In October 2023, he was hospitalized due to complications from prostate cancer and was flown to Israel for treatment. Despite medical efforts, his health continued to decline.

In October 2024, he shared a testimony video where he spoke about overcoming cancer twice, attributing his recovery to his faith in the Bible and the power of Jesus Christ. He encouraged Christians to hold on to their faith in times of hardship.

Beyond his medical battles, Okupe was a key player in Nigerian politics. He served as a senior adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan and played a pivotal role as the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign. However, his political career was not without controversy. In December 2022, he resigned from Obi’s campaign after a money laundering conviction. Following the 2023 general elections, he also left the Labour Party and later became an outspoken supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Dr. Okupe’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics. He will be remembered for his contributions to governance, his resilience in the face of health challenges, and his unwavering engagement in national political discourse.

The Nigerian Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following recommendations from its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.

According to the committee’s chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, the Kogi Central lawmaker was found in violation of Senate rules, prompting the disciplinary action. If the recommendation is upheld, her suspension will take effect from March 6, 2025.

As part of the proposed sanctions, Senator Natasha’s office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises for the duration of her suspension. Additionally, her salary and those of her legislative aides will be withheld. She will also be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as a senator during the suspension period.

However, the committee suggested that she could submit a written apology for the Senate to reconsider her suspension.

This development follows Senator Natasha’s latest attempt to present a petition before the Senate, alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Unlike her previous attempt, this petition was signed by her constituents.

During Thursday’s plenary session, she was asked whether the matter was already before a court of law, to which she responded in the negative. Following standard procedure, the Senate directed her to formally submit the petition, which was then referred to the Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct Committee for investigation. The committee has been given four weeks to conduct its probe and report back to the Senate.

This marks the second time Senator Natasha has raised allegations of harassment within the chamber, sparking concerns about the political implications of her possible suspension.