CNG cautions against planned protests for Kanu’s release

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has cautioned against planned nationwide protests calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), warning that such demonstrations could undermine national stability and the rule of law. National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, made the position known during […]

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has cautioned against planned nationwide protests calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), warning that such demonstrations could undermine national stability and the rule of law.

National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, made the position known during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.

He said the proposed protests, reportedly being coordinated by some political and activist groups, could put pressure on the judiciary and compromise the legal process currently ongoing.

“No amount of street protest or emotional pressure should be allowed to interfere with the judicial process or compromise national peace,” Charanchi said.

Charanchi reaffirmed the CNG’s position that all legal proceedings involving Kanu should run their full course in accordance with Nigeria’s laws. He urged the Federal Government to ensure that justice is served “without delay or political interference.”

The group called on security agencies to remain vigilant to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the planned demonstrations, while also appealing for calm among citizens.

“We urge the authorities to allow the courts to complete the ongoing trial and ensure that justice is neither delayed nor influenced by political considerations,” he added.

The CNG also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uphold the independence of the judiciary and resist any form of political pressure regarding the matter.

Charanchi appealed to Nigerians, particularly residents of the Southeast, to support peace efforts and avoid actions capable of inflaming tension.

“We appeal to peace-loving citizens to embrace dialogue and reject calls that may lead to disorder or division,” he said.

The group further called for investigations into the sources of funding and coordination behind the planned protests, noting that genuine human rights advocacy should align with national interest and respect for due process.

Charanchi said the CNG remains committed to promoting peace, justice, and national unity. He maintained that adherence to the rule of law remains the best path toward resolving all grievances in a democratic society.

“Nigeria can only achieve lasting peace through justice, fairness, and respect for the rule of law,” he stated.

The Coalition reiterated its support for measures that strengthen judicial independence and national security, while encouraging continued dialogue among all sections of the country.

 

Non-surgical procedure against fibroids gains momentum in Abuja

 

 

A non-surgical treatment option for uterine fibroids known as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is gaining traction in Abuja as doctors intensify awareness about its safety and effectiveness for women, especially those of reproductive age.

The Fibroid Care Centre of the Nordica Fertility Centre, Abuja at a virtual press briefing to mark its one year anniversary of HIFU treatment at the Centre, said it has successfully treated over 100 women for uterine fibroids using HIFU in the nation’s capital.

Chief Executive Officer of the centre, Dr Abayomi Ajayi, who disclosed this during the briefing, described HIFU as a form of treatment that converts waves of ultrasound energy to heat to burn off fibroids.

“We have treated 100 patients in Abuja using HIFU, all successful treatments. We started in July 2024 and as of now; we have treated 101 patients in total. We felt it was worth sharing our experience, because in Lagos, we have treated over 670 patients.

“HIFU is here in Abuja, it’s working, and it will continue to work. Too many women still die from fibroid surgeries that could have been avoided. This treatment gives hope to women who want to preserve their fertility and avoid surgical complications,” he said.

Dr Ajayi explained that the treatment uses focused ultrasound waves to shrink fibroid tissue without cutting through the skin, allowing patients to resume normal activities within a short time.

“HIFU does not affect fertility. Our tests on patients before and after treatment confirm that ovarian function remains intact,” he said.

On research and collaboration, the medical expert said Nigeria’s HIFU practitioners are part of a global network of about 40 countries, sharing clinical data and innovations.

Addressing concerns about cost, Dr Ajayi acknowledged economic constraints but called for expanded health insurance coverage and government’s partnerships with the private sector to make the treatment more accessible.

He appealed to the media to help raise public awareness, stressing that many women still lose their lives to fibroid-related complications due to ignorance of available alternatives.