The Edo State Government has come under heavy criticism after reports emerged that public school teachers were allegedly being forced to perform non-educational tasks, such as cutting grass. The controversy has sparked widespread outrage, with civil society groups and members of the public denouncing the practice as exploitative.

The Edo State Civil Society Coalition, led by Coordinator General Marxist Kola Edokpayi and Secretary General Comrade Aghatise Raphael, issued a statement condemning the state government for what they described as an infringement on the rights of teachers. According to the coalition, teachers are professionals entrusted with the duty of educating students and should not be subjected to tasks that are outside their job scope, such as manual labour or janitorial duties.

The group expressed its concerns that these actions by the state government could lead to protests and legal challenges if not promptly addressed. They also warned that such practices undermine the dignity of teachers and could harm the integrity of the educational system.

In addition, the coalition took issue with the apparent failure of the Edo State Government to employ dedicated support staff, such as cleaners and groundskeepers, to take care of the maintenance needs of schools. As a result, the burden of performing these duties has fallen on teachers, who are already overwhelmed with their core responsibilities.

In response to the outcry, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the State Commissioner for Education, clarified that the reported menial tasks were not mandatory. He claimed that some teachers voluntarily engaged in these activities as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Dr. Iyamu reassured the public that an investigation would be conducted to address any concerns raised and ensure that teachers’ rights are respected.

As the controversy unfolds, many are calling for reform in the way teachers are treated and for the government to prioritize proper staffing in schools to prevent such situations from occurring in the future.

The Katsina State Police have made a significant arrest, capturing two men who were found with a machine gun and more than 1,200 rounds of live ammunition.

The two suspects, 28-year-old Abdulsalam Muhammad and 23-year-old Aminu Mamman, were apprehended on September 1, 2025, in what appears to be a major breakthrough in efforts to curb the spread of illegal arms in the region.

The suspects, both from Baure in Safana Local Government Area, were traveling from Hadejia in Jigawa State to Katsina when they were intercepted by police officers. The arrest took place along Karkarku Road in Ingawa Local Government Area. Upon conducting a search of their vehicle, a blue Golf with the registration number RSH 528 BV, officers discovered the machine gun and an astounding 1,295 rounds of live ammunition hidden inside the car.

This seizure marks a crucial moment in the ongoing battle against illegal arms trafficking and insecurity in the region. The police have urged local residents to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing timely and accurate information that can help curb criminal activities. With such weapons in the wrong hands, the risks to public safety and peace are elevated, making cooperation between the police and the public more vital than ever.

The suspects are currently in police custody, and further investigations are underway. This arrest serves as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by illegal firearms and the determination of the Katsina State Police Command to reduce such risks for the safety of its citizens.

The Nigerian government has praised the recent conviction of Simon Ekpa, a prominent pro-Biafra separatist, by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland.

On September 1, 2025, the court sentenced Ekpa to six years in prison after finding him guilty of terrorism-related offenses, including participating in a terrorist organization, inciting crimes for terrorist purposes, and committing aggravated tax fraud.

In a statement, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the ruling as a significant victory in the country’s ongoing war against terrorism.

He emphasized that Ekpa’s actions had caused considerable suffering in southeastern Nigeria, where communities had faced violence, fear, and economic disruption due to his promotion of separatist activities.

Idris commended the Finnish judiciary for upholding the rule of law and sending a strong message that individuals seeking to destabilize societies through terror would be held accountable, no matter where they are.

The Nigerian government also expressed gratitude to its security and intelligence agencies, including the National Security Adviser’s office, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the Nigeria Police, for their persistent efforts in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

The statement urged individuals involved in separatist movements to abandon violence and embrace peace, reaffirming the government’s commitment to national unity and security.

This conviction represents a significant step in the international response to separatist movements and highlights the importance of global cooperation in the fight against terrorism. It also underscores Finland’s role in addressing transnational threats and upholding international law.