By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The African Union (AU) has issued a strong condemnation of joint military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against targets in Iran, warning that the action constitutes a perilous escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement released on Saturday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf expressed deep concern over what he described as a “serious intensification of hostilities.” He urgently called for restraint and a return to dialogue, emphasizing that “all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.”

Youssouf warned that further military action could have cascading global effects, “with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.” He urged all parties to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation efforts facilitated by Oman, stressing that “sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”

The strikes also drew a concerned response from European Council President António Costa, who stated that the “developments in Iran are greatly concerning.” He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional stability, highlighting the critical importance of nuclear safety and preventing actions that could “undermine the global non-proliferation regime.”

Costa noted the EU’s extensive sanctions regime against Iran and called on “all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.” He added that the bloc is coordinating closely with member states to ensure the safety of EU citizens in the region.

The diplomatic reactions follow a wave of US and Israeli strikes on Saturday against sites in Iran, which included targets in the capital, Tehran. Witnesses reported explosions and plumes of smoke rising from the city.

US President Donald Trump characterized the operation as a measure to eliminate “imminent threats” from Iran. In a video message, he asserted, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran,” vowing to destroy the country’s missile capabilities and navy. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a “preventive strike.”

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Saudi Arabia issued a fiery condemnation of Iran on Saturday, accusing Tehran of committing “blatant aggression” and violating the sovereignty of multiple Arab nations.

In a strongly worded statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “unwavering support” for the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. Riyadh described the alleged actions as flagrant breaches of international law that threaten the peace and stability of the region.

The Kingdom declared its readiness to place “all its capabilities” at the disposal of the affected countries to support any defensive measures. It warned of “grave consequences” if the violations persist and called on the international community to take firm action against what it termed Iran’s destabilizing conduct.

While the statement did not specify the incidents that prompted the rebuke, the direct naming of five nations signals a concerted effort by Riyadh to project regional unity and strengthen collective deterrence against perceived Iranian assertiveness.

The Kano State Government has strongly dismissed allegations by Buba Galadima accusing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Kano State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) of suppressing opposition voices, describing the claims as false, malicious, and politically motivated.

At a press briefing issued on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the allegations lacked any factual basis and were aimed at tarnishing the image of the governor and undermining public confidence in democratic institutions.

According to the commissioner, the claims resurfaced shortly after Galadima’s removal as Chairman of the Board of Kano State Polytechnic, a decision he said was taken strictly on administrative grounds related to performance and competence.

“The timing and tone of these allegations clearly reveal that they are driven by personal grievance and political bitterness rather than any genuine concern for democracy or civil liberties,” Waiya stated.

The government categorically denied ever directing security agencies to harass, intimidate, or silence opposition figures, stressing that the administration of Governor Yusuf remains firmly committed to the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Waiya, however, noted that freedom of expression does not extend to defamation, incitement, or the deliberate spread of falsehood capable of threatening public peace and order.

“No responsible government will fold its arms while individuals weaponize misinformation to incite tension or damage reputations,” he said.

He further emphasized that security agencies, including the DSS, operate strictly within the confines of the law and their constitutional mandates, adding that any lawful action taken by security operatives is based on credible complaints and due process, not political directives.

The Kano State Government also expressed concern over what it described as the growing trend of weaponized misinformation on social media, warning that deliberate attempts to destabilize the state through false narratives would not be tolerated.

Reaffirming the openness of the current administration, Waiya said Kano remains one of the most inclusive states in the country, where opposition figures operate freely, civic engagement thrives, and the media functions without hindrance.

“These realities stand in sharp contrast to the alarmist picture being painted by Mr. Galadima,” the commissioner added.

He maintained that Governor Yusuf continues to enjoy widespread popularity across Kano State and has retained firm political control despite recent political realignments, noting that the administration’s focus remains on inclusive governance, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

The government concluded by calling on political actors and commentators to act responsibly, verify facts, and refrain from sensational claims capable of undermining public order.

“Kano State Government remains resolute in its commitment to democratic principles, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all residents of the state,” the statement said.