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 Colleges of Education Old Students Association of Nigeria (COEOSAN) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to consider appointing an individual with verifiable College of Education background and experience as the next Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

This appeal was made by the President General of the Association, Dr. Shehu Salisu Rogo (Dallatun Rogo), during a press conference held in Kano.

Dr. Rogo emphasized that Colleges of Education remain the backbone of teacher preparation in Nigeria and therefore deserve leadership at the regulatory level that clearly understands their structure, challenges, and operational realities. According to him, appointing someone with direct experience in the College of Education system will strengthen policy implementation, improve institutional standards, and reposition the sector for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
He noted that individuals who have passed through or worked extensively within the Colleges of Education system possess first-hand knowledge of curriculum development, teacher training dynamics, accreditation processes, and institutional administration. Such experience, he stated, is critical for effective leadership of the NCCE.
He urged the Federal Government to prioritize competence, experience, and deep sectoral understanding in making the appointment.

He thanked the Honourable Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa for the ongoing reforms and initiatives introduced by the Minister, this reflects a clear vision to address longstanding challenges while laying a solid foundation for future growth and global competitiveness.

COEOSAN therefore applauds the Honourable Minister for his dedication, foresight, and proactive leadership. The Association reaffirms its support for policies and programmes that will further strengthen Colleges of Education and enhance the training of professional teachers in Nigeria.

The Association further stressed that this recommendation is in the best interest of Nigeria’s education sector and aligns with ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen teacher education across the country.

Dr. Rogo reaffirmed COEOSAN’s commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote quality teacher education and national development.

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.