The 13-year-old boy allegedly shot dead by operatives of Operation Udo Ga-Achi, a security outfit attached to the Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State, has been revealed as Fabian Ugo.
According to the family, as obtained from Anambarapeople.com.ng Fabian was not involved in any criminal activity but was tragically killed while simply relieving himself near his uncle’s compound.
Fabian’s uncle, Nnamdi Ugo,the immediate younger brother of the deceased’s father has confirmed the boy’s identity and shared details of his life.
He explained that Fabian was a Junior Secondary School (JSS 2) student at Comprehensive Secondary School, Igidiagu, located in Abakaliki Local Government Area, Ebonyi State.
The young boy, Nnamdi said, used to travel to Onitsha during school holidays to engage in vacation jobs in order to support himself and gain some work experience. His latest visit to Onitsha was meant to be part of this routine.
“If he was killed following involvement in any crime, we will not feel the pains so much, but for the fact that he was killed while easing himself, we will ensure that he gets justice, for his soul to rest In Peace,” Nnamdi vowed on behalf of the grieving family.
Eyewitnesses claim that the boy was unarmed and posed no threat to the operatives. His sudden death has sparked public condemnation and renewed concerns about the abuse of power by local security outfits operating across various communities in Nigeria.
The family has insisted that they will not be silenced and have called on both the Anambra State Government and relevant security authorities to take immediate steps to investigate and prosecute those responsible for Fabian’s death
IMO STATE POLICE COMMAND BURSTS CHILD-STEALING SYNDICATE: FOUR SUSPECTS ARRESTED, INFANT RESCUED AND REUNITED WITH MOTHER
…..We are committed to protecting vulnerable persons says Imo CP
The Imo State Police Command, through the diligent efforts of its X-Squad Unit, has bursted a child-stealing syndicate, arresting four suspects and rescuing a 20-month-old girl, Chimamanda Joy—the daughter of 35-year-old visually impaired Mrs. Joy Ekwennaya from Amuri Omanze, Isu LGA.
The breakthrough came after an intensive investigation into a case reported by Mrs. Ekwennaya on April 8th, 2025. She was deceitfully lured to Umuahia, Abia State, with false promises of financial aid from a fake charity—a ploy by the syndicate to abduct her child.
Acting on credible intelligence, detectives of the unit arrested two key suspects—Maria Nwaeze (63) of Ariam Oboro and Rejoice Odimba (29) of Ahai Eke—both from Abia State, in Aba on 23rd May 2025. Their arrest provided crucial insights into the syndicate’s modus operandi.
Upon interrogation, the suspects provided actionable intelligence, leading to a follow-up operation in Aba. On 27th May 2025 at about 1700hrs, operatives rescued the stolen child and arrested another suspect, Chioma Theresa (42) of Aboh Mbaise, Imo State. During questioning, Chioma confessed to buying the child for ₦1,500,000 from Gabriel Amarachi (41) of Ngwa,Aba South, Abia State who had falsely posed as a Social Welfare officer.
Further investigation revealed that the entire scheme was masterminded by a woman identified as Precious and her husband, who are currently at large. The couple orchestrated the deceitful invitation that led Mrs. Ekwennaya to Aba, exploiting her vulnerability under the guise of offering assistance.
Efforts are underway to arrest the remaining suspects. Meanwhile, the rescued infant has been medically examined and safely reunited with her mother on 28th May 2025 after due documentation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, assures the public of the Command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons, especially children. He warns that there is no hiding place for criminals in Imo State and urges residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines. Further updates will follow.
DSP Henry Okoye, anipr Police Public Relations Officer Imo State Police Command
“History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.” ~ Lord Acton
In a move both symbolically charged and ecclesiastically profound, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Cardinal Robert Sarah as a Special Papal Envoy, an office without precedent, a mission without boundaries, and a moment charged with meaning for a Church at the crossroads of tradition and transition.
The announcement came quietly, yet it echoed thunderously through the corridors of Vatican diplomacy and among the faithful who watch the signs of the times. This is not merely an appointment. It is a declaration.
Cardinal Robert Sarah, the Guinean prelate once dubbed “the conscience of Catholic orthodoxy,” had been for years a voice of steady conservatism in a Church swinging between modern adaptation and ancient rootedness. As Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments under Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, his stance on liturgical integrity, moral clarity, and spiritual discipline placed him at times at odds with the prevailing current. That difference cost him influence, and for a time, it seemed his voice had been muffled into ecclesiastical retirement.
But the winds have changed.
With the election of Pope Leo XIV; the first American Pontiff, and a man perceived as a bridge-builder within the polarized terrain of the global Catholic Church, a new chapter has opened. His decision to appoint Cardinal Sarah not only restores a once-sidelined voice, but crafts it into an instrument of global outreach and reconciliation. This is not a rollback to yesterday’s conservatism, nor a surrender to liberal appeasement. It is something subtler and more ambitious: synthesis.
The office of Special Papal Envoy, created under the authority of Pope Leo XIV, is without historical precedent. Unlike the traditional apostolic nuncios or dicastery officials, Cardinal Sarah will not report to the Cardinal Secretary of State. He will report directly to the Pope.
His mission field? The Global South—where the Church is not shrinking, but swelling with vigor; where doctrine is not a debate, but a compass; where the laity kneel in faith, not in apathy.
To send Sarah there is to send a message. The African cardinal represents not just theological orthodoxy but cultural authenticity. He knows the terrain. He speaks the language, not merely linguistically, but spiritually. In a time when many in the Global North are rethinking the Church, the South is rediscovering it. And it is to that rediscovery that Pope Leo is now entrusting a man once deemed too traditional for modern times.
Let us not be naïve. The appointment is also a calculated gesture. Cardinal Sarah’s past critiques of some Vatican initiatives under Pope Francis were not whispered. His warnings about secular encroachments and liturgical laxity were sounded clearly. Yet here he is – chosen by a new Pope, not as an enemy to placate, but as a partner to deploy.
It is a signal of something long prayed for but rarely seen: unity without uniformity. Pope Leo XIV is no ideologue. In entrusting Sarah with such delicate missions, he demonstrates that fidelity to tradition need not be feared, nor progressive instincts despised. It is not the age of winners and losers in the Church; it is the age of workers in the vineyard; each called at different hours, yet paid in full.
This moment, then, is not merely about a man or a mission. It is about a Church in motion, toward wholeness, toward integrity, toward the margins where the Gospel still stirs hearts and reshapes cultures.
And Cardinal Sarah, now no longer a sidelined sage, but a pilgrim of papal intent, embarks on a journey not just across continents, but across the fractures of the soul of the Church itself.
As he sets forth, he does not carry a message of nostalgia, but a flame of continuity.
And as Pope Leo XIV looks toward the vast harvest fields of the Global South, he sends one who knows what it means to pray in silence, preach in boldness, and suffer in loyalty.
Together, they are writing a new page in the old book of Rome, one where orthodoxy and outreach no longer collide, but collaborate.
May the Church of Christ grow not just in numbers, but in unity, in wisdom, and in grace.
As a staunch advocate for a formidable judiciary and the rule of law, I am compelled to address you with a heavy heart but unyielding resolve on the grave matter of your persistent failure to comply with the directive of the National Judicial Council (NJC) issued at its 108th Meeting on 29 and 30 April 2025.
The NJC, in its wisdom and authority, mandated Your Excellency to immediately reverse the appointment of Hon. Justice T.N. Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State and swear in the most senior judge of the Imo State High Court as the Acting Chief Judge.
Today, Friday 9 May 2025, [nine days after this unequivocal directive and your public assurance of compliance], your inaction speaks louder than words, plunging the Imo State judiciary into a state of unprecedented chaos and disarray.
For starters, let me commend the prompt response from your administration through your spokesman, Hon. Declan Emelumba, on 1 May 2025, wherein you assured the people of Imo State and the nation of your commitment to obey the NJC’s directive. This initial reaction kindled hope that your government would uphold the sanctity of the judiciary and respect the authority of the NJC.
However, your continued delay in implementing this directive has shattered that hope and cast a dark cloud over the sincerity of your administration’s intentions. The people of Imo State are beginning to perceive your spokesman’s statement as a mere ploy to distract the public while you remain resolute in pursuing an agenda that undermines the Imo State judiciary and the rule of law.
Such perceptions, if allowed to persist, will irreparably damage public trust in your leadership and tarnish Imo State’s reputation as a beacon of justice.
Your Excellency, the NJC’s directive was not a mere suggestion but a binding order from the highest judicial oversight body in Nigeria, tasked with safeguarding the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
Your refusal to act promptly has unleashed a cascade of inconveniences and irregularities that threaten the very foundation of justice in Imo State.
In the last six days alone, your inaction has precipitated a series of disturbing developments that underscore the urgency of this matter:
Unlawful Removal of the Substantive Chief Registrar of Imo State High Court by the Imo State Judicial Service Commission:
It is deeply troubling that the Substantive Chief Registrar, Mrs. Naomi Achunulo, was removed without any query or fair hearing, purportedly following a meeting of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on 1 May 2025.
This action is not only procedurally defective but also calls into question the propriety of such a meeting, given that the JSC is improperly constituted, 1 May 2025 was a public holiday, and no Acting Chief Judge was in place following the NJC’s directive of 29 and 30 April 2025. The absence of a Chief Judge to oversee the JSC’s operations renders such a meeting and its outcomes legally suspect, further deepening the administrative crisis in the judiciary.
Selective and Prejudicial Postings of Magistrates:
The selective and prejudicial posting of some Magistrates hastily executed by the new Chief Registrar, which ought to be carried out only under the directive of a duly appointed Chief Judge, has been undertaken in the absence of such authority.
This has sown seeds of discord, mistrust, and accusations of favouritism within the judiciary, eroding the morale of judicial officers and undermining public confidence in the system.
Breach of Judicial Sanctity through Unauthorized Access to JSC Records:
Most alarmingly, it has come to light that an individual related to a member of the Imo State Judicial Service Commission, either by marriage or concubinage, has gained access to sacred records of the JSC. This individual, operating under the guise of an unregistered civil society association – as a search in CAC this morning reveals – by name Civil Society Engagement Platform [CSEP], has used these confidential records to embarrass 18 of our esteemed judges for selfish aims that will quench their ravenous, ravaging judicial thirsts.
This egregious breach of confidentiality and abuse of privileged information is a direct consequence of the leadership vacuum in the Imo judiciary, which a duly appointed Chief Judge would have prevented by ensuring strict oversight and regulation of the JSC’s operations. Such a scandal not only tarnishes the judiciary’s reputation but also exposes the grave risks of leaving the judiciary without a head.
Your Excellency, these developments are not mere inconveniences but a full-blown crisis precipitated by your failure to act swiftly in compliance with the NJC’s directive.
The judiciary is the last hope of the common man, and any action or inaction that undermines its functionality strikes at the heart of democracy and the rule of law. Your delay in swearing in the most senior judge of the Imo State High Court as Acting Chief Judge is a grave disservice to the people of Imo State and a dangerous precedent that could embolden further disregard for judicial authority.
While I hope that your administration would render any legal action unnecessary by promptly complying with the NJC’s directive, your continued inaction shall compel me to pursue all available legal remedies to ensure this compliance.
Be assured that I will not hesitate to seek further redress in court to compel compliance should your Excellency fail to obey the NJC’s directive immediately.
Your Excellency, the judiciary is not a political arena but a sacred institution that must be insulated from undue interference. The eyes of Imo State, Nigeria, and the international community are upon you.
I respectfully and humbly urge you to swear in the most senior judge of the Imo State High Court as Acting Chief Judge without further delay. This is not only a matter of legal obligation but also a moral imperative to restore public confidence in your administration and the judiciary.
The people of Imo State deserve a judiciary that is functional, independent, and free from the taint of scandal and chaos. Let it not be said that under your watch, the judiciary in Imo State was allowed to descend into anarchy due to avoidable delays and disregard for lawful directives.
Act now, Your Excellency, with the urgency and decisiveness that this crisis demands. History will judge your actions or inactions in this critical moment.
Yours in the service of a formidable judiciary.
Chinedu Agu, Esq. Past Secretary, NBA Owerri. 9 May 2025
I want to sincerely appreciate the Executive Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodinma, for the timely intervention and reconstruction of the Orji–Owaelu–Toronto Road, which has greatly improved access for the people of Owerri North—especially residents of Orji, Owaelu, Umuoba, and surrounding communities.
However, what was once a source of great joy has sadly turned into a cause of pain, sorrow, and regret for many families due to the misuse of this road by reckless road users.
Image from the scene
Since the reconstruction, there have been numerous accidents involving motorcycles (Okada), tricycles (Keke), private vehicles, buses, and heavy-duty lorries (Tippers). These tragic incidents have led to the loss of innocent lives, serious injuries, damaged vehicles, and even permanent disabilities. I am personally aware of over fifteen accidents that have occurred on this road since its completion.
Just this evening, a Toyota Spider had a head-on collision with a fully loaded Keke Napep near Plaza Owaelu. The victims were rushed to the hospital, and we are praying for their quick recovery.
This is a heartfelt appeal to our dear Governor and the Executive Chairman of Owerri North LGA: please approve and construct speed bumps at strategic points along this road. These traffic-calming measures are urgently needed to protect lives and prevent further tragedies.
The affected Keke
We need help. We need action. We need to save lives before more are lost.
Imo State is on the cusp of a critical juncture in its political journey. As the 2027 governorship election draws near, the need for Owerri Zone to form a strategic alliance with Okigwe Zone has become increasingly imperative. This alliance is rooted in the principles of the charter of equity, which seeks to promote fairness, justice, and equity among the three senatorial zones in Imo State.
The charter of equity was established to ensure that each zone has an equal opportunity to produce the governor of the state. However, this charter has been breached in the past, leading to a sense of marginalization and discontent among Okigwe and Owerri Zones. It is against this backdrop that the need for an Owerri-Okigwe alliance becomes crucial.
This was the crux of the argument by an elder stateman from Owerri Zone, Paddy Obinna, in an interview on Saturday. He argued that by supporting an Okigwe Zone candidate in the 2027 governorship election, Owerri Zone can help to restore balance and equity to the polity. This alliance would not only be a strategic move but also a moral imperative, as it seeks to address the historical injustices that have been perpetrated against Okigwe Zone, adding that Owerri Zone led the injustice done against Okigwe Zone in 2011. Except:
On Monday, March 11, the Imo Harmony Project (IHP) met with the governor at the government house, Owerri. Predictably, the charter of equity and 2027 governorship election came up. The governor told the delegation led by Captain Emma Ihenacho to go back home and unite the people. He said that he believes in the charter of equity, but that merit must be considered. What do you make of that visit?
Thank you. That was a very intelligent response from the governor to the Imo Harmony Project delegation. The people who visited were only one in a million organizations in the state, but some people seem to be running faster than their legs, as far as I’m concerned. I appreciate His Excellency’s response when he told them that he still has about three years to go, and he wants to be busy.
Pix
So, I see the visit as more of a distraction; they were just disturbing the governor about what was going to happen in 2027. The intention of some of these organizations is to give attention to the fact that some of them are selfishly interested in the 2027 governorship election and not for the collective interest of the people.
The business of governance goes with political parties. Candidates come from different political parties, not clubs or gang of people who think that when they now say it is our turn, it is, therefore, their turn. It doesn’t happen that way. And as a result, you know we are a zone and you can find out that there are not less than 50 people angling to become the governor of Imo State in 2027 from Owerri Zone alone, which means that you have over 50 groups supporting them.
Because after the zonal thing, the governor, if I get him right, was talking about the charter of equity, and his own concept of the charter of equity is that it would go from one zone to the other, not to individuals.
The governor didn’t talk about individuals and their aspirations. But since his last comment, too many individuals have gone around and told their kings and queens that the governor has sometimes promised them the governorship. In an attempt to win, you tell your people, “Oh, this is our thing. The governor has promised me,” even when he has not promised anybody. The charter of equity has not put a stamp that it must go to a particular zone.
If a particular zone is disorganized, they can’t get the governorship. There are three zones in Imo State, three solid zones: Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu. And mind you, when this issue of charter of equity started, it started as a programme of a certain political party.
Now, if we want to take it from that angle, and considering that His Excellency is of the APC, it means that the charter of equity is an arrangement of a political party that may not be bought by other parties. And these individuals, who will be looking for where they will now become the governor of Imo State, it then means that you are bringing confusion to the state and distracting His Excellency. That is the way I see that Monday visit.
The Charter of Equity was meant to rotate power fairly among the three zones you earlier mentioned. But in 2011, Owerri Zone backed an Orlu Zone candidate, Rochas Okorocha, instead of standing with Okigwe Zone. Looking back to what happened in 2011, do you think that Owerri made a mistake?
You are bringing me back to the ugly story of Ikedi Ohakim not getting his second term in 2011, and Orlu now took it, backed by Owerri Zone. Funny enough, each time this question is asked, I feel guilty as an Obinna that the Obinnas directly and indirectly were involved in that story of backing an Orlu man. When you recall that the Obinnas and the Owerri people, especially with the fact that it was the church that backed the Orlu people, you wouldn’t say they were fair to Ohakim. At that time, you know, we were suffering from colonization and evangelization. Evangelization came and colonized our people.
Pictorial
At this stage, it is even worse that our people believe almost everything the Rev Father says. So, the story about the Rev. Father saga was like a story told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. That’s exactly what I see that happened in 2011, where a man was denied what belonged to him based on a devilish propaganda. As of right, when you now consider that every governor from Achike, Okorocha, and Uzodimma are doing two terms of eight years, given all of them from Orlu Zone 24 years, and Okigwe Zone was denied what belonged to them, and yet they are talking about justice, equity, fairness. That was the greatest mistake we made, and it needs to be corrected.
If we must survive in this state and let the charter of equity go from zone to zone, truth must be in place after justice, equity, and fairness. So, if you have had a turn and had another turn, did you also consider justice, equity, fair play, and truth in taking what others ought to have taken?
When you consider what happened in 2011, I think what we should be talking about now is atonement in the religious terms, especially now that we are in a lent period. We should be thinking about atonement for our sin, the sins we committed against Okigwe Zone, and that atonement must be done in public. Okigwe Zone does not need anyone to come kneeling down to apologize. Rather, we should atone for our sins by coming publicly with our votes to say sorry for the sin we have committed against Ohakim. Then, there will be justice. When you have this justice, it will now make it convenient for an Owerri Zone man to come to power and stay for eight years. So, the best way to correct this anomaly is by allowing the zone that hasn’t completed their tenure to complete it so that Owerri Zone can complete theirs, and then we can move on. Otherwise, we will make no progress with the charter of equity.
Owerri Zone was promised power in 2015 as part of the deal with Rochas in 2011, but that promise was broken. Do you feel betrayed as somebody from Owerri Zone? If so, would Owerri Zone have been in a better position today if they had worked with Okigwe instead?
Anyone who was an active participant in what happened in 2011 must feel disappointed that Owerri Zone did not get power in 2015 as they were promised, because Rochas said he was going to do only one term and handover to Owerri Zone. When you understand the fact that every governor is entitled to two terms, you will also better appreciate the fact that Owerri Zone was deceived to believe that Okorocha was going to do only one term as governor. We made the mistake of believing him, and that is the problem. That is why I’m saying that if we must correct these anomalies, we must go back to where this four-year thing started – it started with Okigwe not completing their term in 2011. With hindsight, if we had continued with Ohakim, we wouldn’t be here discussing this issue because Owerri Zone would have completed their eight years and handed over to someone from Orlu by now.
Some argue that Owerri’s refusal to support Okigwe Zone in 2011 was what disrupted the charter of equity and left Owerri sidelined for years. Do you agree that fixing that mistake by letting Okigwe complete its turn is the best strategy to ensure Owerri gets power next?
This is what I have been saying all along. Unless we fix the mistake of 2011, we won’t make headway with the charter of equity. Oweri Zone refusing to support Okigwe in 2011 was worsened by a heavy propaganda from the church. I have said it many times that some of us come from religious families, and we tend to agree with anything because it comes from the church. How many people can refuse to do what their Reverend Father has told them? How many of them can refuse to go by what the pastors have said? So, blame the elders. those who were leading us, from the hierarchy of the priesthood to the hierarchy of the political leadership at the time.
Justice and fairness demand that the first injustice should be corrected before moving forward. If Okigwe’s tenure was cut short, wouldn’t true equity mean allowing them to finish it first before Owerri claims their turn?
That is what equity ought to be. Even in the traditional environment, when we go for meat sharing, if either by omission or commission, you don’t get a fair share, you will always tell the person to wait for the next time around. The next time around, the person will be the first to get a fair share, after which everyone else will move ahead. That is how it is done, and that is how culture looks at equity. Unfortunately, we are now living within the concept of foreign culture than living within the concept of our traditional culture that has peace and brotherhood as the bedrock of our living. So, when you now look at your brother crying, you would allow your brother to take his own share because you want peace with your brother. So, for this charter of equity to work, we must go to our cultural norms and respect our culture and atone for the wrong we have done to our brothers for peace to reign.
Pix
Considering the historical injustice done to Okigwe, would Owerri Zone be open to forming a political alliance with Okigwe to reclaim the lost balance and secure 2031 for themselves?
As an elder stateman, I believe that is the best thing they should do. Owerri Zone should consider being a true brother’s keeper, form alliance with Okigwe Zone, and allow Okigwe to complete their term so that it will be easy for them to have their eight full years. But if Owerri Zone doesn’t allow alliance between them and Okigwe Zone, then they will be forcing Okigwe Zone to enter into alliance with Orlu, and they are more brothers than Owerri is to Okigwe Zone. They are like two neglected brothers or two downtrodden brothers that have now sprung up, and they also want to grow. So, the best thing is for Owerri Zone to have an alliance with Okigwe Zone and wait for 2031. That will help Owerri Zone to prepare and do what the governor has now asked them to do. By that time, they will have enough time to go and unite and begin to prune down the number that are mushrooming for governorship every day.
2027 presents another opportunity to correct the mistakes of the past. What would be your message to political leaders in Imo on the importance of keeping agreements and respecting fairness in leadership?
We should start by not telling our people lies of what we will do when we get into office. Many people will promise you they will not do, but we should stick with the man who is limited by our grundnorm to do just one term.
A building under construction collapsed on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the Uratta axis of Aba North, Aba, Nigeria. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded, thanks to the swift response of emergency responders and local authorities.
The incident occurred along Old Express Road, near the Church of Resurrection Parish, and initial assessments suggest possible structural deficiencies as the cause of the collapse.
Pix of the collapsed building
Investigation Ongoing
The Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) has been directed to evaluate the extent of damage and determine necessary actions to address the situation. Authorities are calling on residents and property developers to cooperate with investigators to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.
Government Response
The government has reiterated the importance of adhering to building regulations to safeguard lives and property. This incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of building codes and regulations to prevent such tragedies.
Further updates will be provided as investigations continue.
In a significant breakthrough, the Anambra State Police have arrested two suspected cultists and armed robbers in separate operations. The suspects, identified as Kosiso Okonwko and Augustine Okafor, were found with arms and other incriminating items .
Recovered Arms & Ammunition
According to the Police Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, the arrests were made possible through intelligent-led patrols. On March 22, 2025, operatives from the Obosi Division arrested Kosiso Okonwko along the Obosi/Nkpor Road and recovered a Berreta pistol.
This development comes as part of the police’s efforts to curb cult-related violence and armed robbery in the state. Previously, the police had arrested two suspected serial killer cultists in Ihiala Local Government Area .
The Imo State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping, arresting three suspects in connection with the abduction of Mr. Sabinus Ibe, a 48-year-old resident of Owerri. The suspects, Favour Dike, Ifeanyi Kingsley, and Wisdom Chikodi, were apprehended on March 18, 2025, following thorough investigations and strategic operations .
The Kidnapping Incident
Mr. Sabinus Ibe was kidnapped on February 22, 2025, at around 8:00 PM in Egbu, Owerri. The kidnappers demanded a ransom, which was paid through a POS transaction. The payment was traced to a Moniepoint account operated by Favour Dike.
Arms recovered
The Investigation
Upon arrest, Favour Dike admitted to receiving a two million naira ransom payment on the instructions of Ifeanyi Kingsley. Kingsley later confessed to providing Dike’s POS account details at the request of Wisdom Chikodi, a member of the kidnapping syndicate.
Recovery of Arms and Additional Arrests
A search of an ash-colored Toyota Camry 2.4 model abandoned by the gang members uncovered two pump-action rifles, one locally made gun, and 18 live cartridges. Several additional arrests were made as operatives pursued the fleeing suspects.
Commitment to Fighting Crime
The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Police Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to fighting crime. He assured that the suspects will be arraigned in court after the investigation, and efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via 0803 477 3600.
The Charles Obinna Foundation (COF) in line is set to launch its Free JAMB Registration Support Programme for 1,000 indigent students in Imo State.
The launch event is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri Auditorium Hall, with Governor Hope Uzodinma as the Special Guest of Honor.
According to a press release by the Executive Director, Charles Obinna Foundation and erudite professor at Lagos Business School, Prof Bongo Adi, “40 academically promising students from each of the 27 local governments in Imo State will benefit from the programme”
The release further stressed that the initiative is expected to provide a lifeline to many students who would otherwise be unable to afford the JAMB registration fee, adding that the programme is in line with COF’s core Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) cum humanitarian gestures.
“Students who need support for JAMB registration should make their way to Alvan auditorium by 9am on Tuesday.
“Eligible students are encouraged to apply through the programme’s LGA coordinators as Identification and selection of eligible students is ongoing across the 27 LGAs of the state by higher education Volunteer coordinators.
“Applications will close on Friday, March 7, 2025. Community leaders, educators, and parents are urged to share this opportunity widely to ensure all deserving students are roundly captured”
The Charles Obinna Foundation has demonstrated its commitment to education and youth development in Imo State, and this programme is a testament to its dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders across boards.
Charles Obinna, Founder of the Charles Obinna Foundation, however emphasised the programme’s transformative potential: “Education is the bedrock of sustainable development. By empowering these young minds, we are not only investing in their futures but also nurturing the human capital needed to drive Imo State’s prosperity. This initiative aligns seamlessly with His Excellency Governor Uzodinma’s visionary leadership in education and infrastructure.”
Speaking to Zionfelix, Lilwin said he had to pay over $40,000 to get Nigerian actor, Ramsey Noah for his role in the movie.
The film starred other top Nigerian actors, such as Charles Awurum, Victor Osuagwu, and notable Ghanaian actors.
Before its premiere, Lil Win flew Ramsey Nouah and his Nigerian castmates to Ghana for a special event.
“I paid Ramsey Noah more than $40,000. There was one guy I wanted to feature but the money he wanted to charge was too much, I couldn’t pay.
When I called him, they thought I was a Nigerian so they wanted to charge higher. Even accommodation and feeding are not included in the $40,000 I paid him,” he said.
There were two big premieres for the movie: one in Accra which did not end successfully and the other in Kumasi.
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant victories in its fight against crime through intelligence-driven policing, foiling multiple bandit attacks, recovering sophisticated weapons, and rescuing over 200 abducted children across the nation.
In Kogi State, operatives from the state command successfully intercepted armed bandits planning an attack in Budon forest on January 18, 2025. After a fierce gun battle, one bandit was neutralized, four others were arrested, and the operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, 30 rounds of live ammunition, and two motorcycles according to Abntv.
Pictorial representation
Similarly, in Katsina State, police operatives, in collaboration with other security agencies, responded to a distress call about an impending attack on Ruwan Doruwa Village, Dutsinma LGA. Seven bandits were neutralized during a gunfight, with the remaining attackers fleeing and abandoning 109 livestock suspected to have been rustled.
In another breakthrough, the Nigeria Police intensified efforts against human trafficking, rescuing 207 abducted children nationwide. A major success was recorded by the Ondo State Police Command, where operatives apprehended a child trafficking syndicate in Akure. The suspects—Abosede Olanipekun, Lukman Isiaka, and Sabira Izuorah—were arrested, and 14 children aged between one week and seven years were rescued.
The Force described these operations as significant blows to criminal elements threatening national security and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, emphasized that the Police would continue to maintain a firm stance against criminal activities and ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
The Chiarman/Group Managing Director of Double Shillings group and Arondizuogu Okigwe born entrepreneur and humanitarian Mazi Ikenna Aniche whose firm was represented at the 2025 car exhibition fair in Lagos Nigeria yesterday informed us through his press Secretary Ms offiong Sophia that luxury awaits any customer who either wants a new car, swap his or her old car, lease vehicles from DSA or even sale his or her unserviceable vehicles for effective environmental decency.
The President of Nke Nke Enyi Izuogu foundation for the needy and the Aged opined that his automobile company and Exquisitely exquisite car mart seek to meet any potential customer where their budget is by offering a wide range of competitively priced used cars within customer’s desired price range to enable anyone to easily find a vehicle that fits budget…
Ms Linda Nwankwo the business Development Manager of Double Shillings Auto in her remarks applauded her Chiarman Chief Aniche for professionally and passionately ensuring that the company made it to the fair and maintained that the company are not only transparent but creates a haggle free, stress free and seamless buying experience. She stated that the company has made very remarkable progress and positive impact as they import and sell direct tokunbo cars and SUVS with little profit in Imo State…In her words they don’t park cars in their stands and heap huge prices on them. Once any customer makes an offer that is little above the cost…they sell…is this not a good marketing strategy.
For those in imo state that has cars abandoned, dilapidated and unmovable. . Call Double Shillings Auto recycling plant for Best price offer, instant payment and hazzle free paper work…Your luxury awaits you. Keep your environment clean
The Arondizuogu born astute finiancial guru insisted that his vision to aggressively delve into the automotive industry was born out of his desire to meeting the dreams and desires of customers and DSA is committed to meeting all their customers’ car-related needs while offering you a positive and enjoyable dealership experience across the board.
Their customer service contact centre number remains 08067780429
Double Shillings Auto… A first class leading name in quality used car sales with Corporate Head office at Owerri and branches in Abuja and Port Harcourt has aggressively and passionately stormed the South East automotive market and redefined used car-buying experience with a hassle-free approach that ensures confidence and satisfaction by offering assuring and reassuring benefits with peace of mind thus exploring the company’s vast selection of used cars, trucks, and SUVs and advising Nigerians to stop littering their surroundings with unserviceable scraps in the name of a car and imploring them to call 08067780429 to find their perfect dream car.
Double Shillings Auto has shamed doubting critics.
Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has paid a visit to the family of the late Professor Uche Ikonne, the 2023 PDP Governorship Candidate, who passed away before the election.
During the visit to the Ikonne family’s country home in Agburuike, Isiala Ngwa North, Dr. Ikpeazu commended them for their resilience and for upholding the legacy of the late professor. He remarked that their strength and positivity reflect the enduring spirit of the late professor, who was also a former Vice Chancellor of Abia State University.
Fmr. Gov. Ikpeazu @ the Grave side
In her remarks, Barr. (Mrs.) Uche Ikonne, wife of the late Professor of Optometry, expressed gratitude to the former governor for maintaining a close relationship with the family.
She said, “If there was any regret Uche had, even in his last moments, it was the feeling that he (Prof. Ikonne) might have disappointed you, Dr. Ikpeazu, ala Ngwa, and Abia State.”
Dr. Chike Uche Ikonne, the son of the late professor, echoed his mother’s sentiments, emphasizing his father’s deep concern for Dr. Ikpeazu and their shared aspirations for Abia State. He also thanked the former governor for remembering and visiting them during this challenging time.
Dr. Ikpeazu, while consoling the family, reiterated that the death of Professor Ikonne was not only a loss to the Ikonne family but also a significant setback to ala Ngwa and Abia State as a whole.
The visit concluded with Dr. Ikpeazu offering prayers at the tomb of the late Professor Ikonne.
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama, has expressed his sorrow over the victims of the stampede that occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, on Saturday.
Bishop of Abuja
10 people, including children, lost their lives during a palliative distribution event at the church premises. In a statement on Sunday, the Archbishop extended his condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, describing the incident as “a devastating blow” to the parish and the church. He noted that the charity event, organised by the St Vincent de Paul Society, highlighted the church’s dedication to “serving the least among us.” He also prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and the healing of the injured. The statement read, “It is with profound shock and sadness that I, on behalf of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, mourn the tragic loss of lives and those injured at the St Vincent de Paul Society’s food-sharing event at Holy Trinity Parish, Maitama, Abuja. “This great tragedy, which claimed the lives of over ten people, is a devastating blow to our community. The St Vincent de Paul Society’s selfless efforts to support the poor and vulnerable in our midst are a testament to the Catholic Church’s commitment to serving the least among us. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and injured. May God grant them the strength and comfort they need during this difficult time. “Let us come together as a community to pray for the souls of the departed, for the healing of the injured, and for the consolation of all those affected by this tragedy. Please join me in praying for the eternal repose of the souls of the faithful departed and the healing of the injured.”
The families of Nurudeen Adesiyan and Kehinde Akintunde have cried for help after the lovers were taken away by men of the Department of State Services suspected to be from the Abuja headquarters.
DSS
Dr. Nurudeen and Kehinde were reportedly apprehended on November 29 at Arowosola Quarters, Ajape, Modakeke, Osun State. According to family members, the lovers have been held incommunicado since their arrest, and their whereabouts are unknown. Speaking with newsmen, Boyenle Adesiyan, the elder brother to Nurudeen, said efforts to locate the duo had been abortive. He said the DSS officers, who invaded their house around 5 am with four vehicles, did not disclose the station they came from and where they were taking the lovers to. Boyenle said, “My brother (Nurudeen) texted me around 5 am on the 29th of November, telling me that security men were at our house but they were yet to arrest anybody. I replied to the message immediately but Nurudeen didn’t respond. “Around 6 am, my mother called to inform me that the personnel hijacked the door from her when she wanted to bathe. She said the officers took her phone and asked who ‘Kehinde 2’ on her call log was. “She said the officers asked her to lead them to Kehinde’s house, unknown to them that the said Kehinde was with her and standing beside them. Kehinde is my brother’s fiancée and she stays in our house frequently. They arrested my brother and Kehinde, and my mother, and led them to Kehinde’s house.” According to Boyenle, when the men got to Kehinde’s house, they allegedly ransacked the place and destroyed some things. She added that the operatives also seized phones and beat up the victims. “They arrested every member of Kehinde’s family and drove them away. But when they got to Community Grammar School, they freed Kehinde’s family members. But she and my brother, Nurudeen, were taken away. “Since then, we have not heard anything from the DSS, Nurudeen and Kehinde. The DSS didn’t tell us where they came from or where they were taking our people to. We visited the DSS office in Ile-Ife, and we were told the officers who arrested Nurudeen and Kehinde were personnel of the service. “However, they didn’t disclose where they came from. When we visited their office a second time, they didn’t give us any reasonable response again. “We want the general public to help us; we want to know the whereabouts of our people and the offence they were arrested for. They are not criminals. They have rights,” she stated. Giving an account of the arrest, Gbenga Akintunde, an elder brother to Kehinde, said the DSS officers threatened to shoot him when he demanded what his sister’s offence was and where they were taking him to.
The Taraba State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has deployed 1,600 personnel across the state to ensure a peaceful Yuletide. This was disclosed by the State Commandant, Anthony Bala Bitrus, who announced that all tactical units of the Corps have been mobilized to safeguard lives and property during the festive season.
Commandant NSCDC
The Command’s spokesman, IliyaSamaila, shared the details in a press statement issued out to journalists in the state. The commandant revealed that the units, which he listed to include the Rapid Response Squad, Special Female Squad, Anti-Kidnapping Squad, and Operation Safe Jalingo, have been activated to address potential threats to peace and security before, during and after the celebrations. He emphasized the importance of professionalism among deployed personnel, warning that acts of indiscipline would not be tolerated. Congratulating the the Christian faithful in the state on the occasion of Christmas, he urged them to embrace the spirit of love and neighborliness, which embodies the essence of the celebration. He also advised residents to celebrate moderately and remain vigilant, calling on citizens spread across the state to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest security agency, stressing that collective efforts were vital to initiating peace and security throughout the state.
Soludo launch investigations The Anambra State Police Command has secured the site of the tragic stampede in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, where several people lost their lives during the Obijackson Foundation’s Christmas rice distribution.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the deployment was to prevent further incidents, noting that the stampede occurred due to a large, uncontrolled crowd overrunning the venue before the event began.
The Obijackson Foundation, deeply saddened by the tragedy, announced plans for a thorough investigation to determine the cause and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. In a statement, the Foundation pledged continued commitment to philanthropy, expressing sorrow for the families affected and vowing to enhance safety measures at future events.
The statement read: “Our Annual Rice Sharing event, designed to bring joy and relief to the less privileged, turned tragic, claiming lives and leaving families in grief. This sorrowful incident strengthens our resolve to serve the vulnerable better and ensure such tragedies are never repeated.” Governor Chukwuma Soludo also extended condolences, expressing grief for the loss of lives, particularly among women, children, the elderly, and pregnant or nursing mothers. In a statement by his press secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, the governor acknowledged the Foundation’s noble intentions but emphasized the need for safer distribution practices. The Anambra State government has launched an investigation into the stampede, pledging to identify lapses and address safety concerns. Soludo called on charities to adopt structured, decentralized distribution methods and prioritize vulnerable groups.
As part of the efforts to mitigate the socio-economic challenges faced by elderly citizens, the Imo state government has launched the second edition of Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS).
The event, which took place at the Imo State Government House, brought together, stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, community leaders and representatives of civil society organizations.
In her remarks, Imo First Lady, Her Excellency, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, who represented the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of elderly citizens. She said: “The Imo state government is committed to ensuring that our elderly citizens live dignified lives, free from poverty and neglect.” As part of the initiative, 250 beneficiaries received ₦200,000 grants each, while 100 widows from all 27 Local Government Areas received a ₦100,000 support grant. The event also featured the provision of free medical checkups and assistance to the elderly citizens. This initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote social welfare and reduce poverty among vulnerable populations.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has described the passing of Retired Major General Godwin Abbe, the second Military Governor of the State, as a sad and painful loss to the state and the nation. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, and made available to journalists on Sunday, Governor Eno expressed the state’s deepest condolences to the family of the late military leader, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the people and Government of Edo State.
Gov. Umo Eno
Governor Eno highlighted General Abbe’s pivotal role in laying the foundation for the state’s growth and development during his tenure. “The late former Military Governor helped lay the foundation of an ascendant Akwa Ibom State, where the dreams of our founding fathers for a prosperous, united, and peaceful state would become a reality.” He acknowledged that the late Abbe’s leadership exemplified selflessness, passion, and dedication, setting a standard that successive leaders have strived to uphold. “Today, because he interpreted those ideals perfectly, our state has experienced exponential growth across all sectors. We remain dedicated to continuing and expanding on the path of peace, progress, and development he championed.” Governor Eno extended heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the loss, stating: “We offer our deepest condolences to the family, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the people and Government of Edo State on the sad and painful passing of this gallant and patriotic Nigerian military tactician and statesman.” The governor assured that the Akwa Ibom State Government would collaborate with the family and the Nigerian Army to ensure that General Abbe receives a befitting funeral.
The Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, has expressed sadness over the demise of three students of the institution in a lone accident.
Three students of the university, Nifesimi Dada (300-level, geology), Opeyemi Joshua (200-level, taxation) and Ogooluwa Daniel (200-level, mass communication) died on Friday in the accident that occurred on Ilisan-Ago-Iwoye road, Ogun State.
Agboola, in a statement on Saturday by Dr Wale Balogun of the Corporate Affairs Division of the university, said the institution was sad over the loss of the students. He stated that the university was working with relevant authorities to provide support and assistance to the affected families. Agboola said, “The loss of precious lives is always devastating, and it is especially heartbreaking when it happens unexpectedly and under such tragic circumstances. “Our university community is still reeling from the shock of this incident, and we pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed,” he stated.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Supreme Court Justice Uthman Argungu, describing his passing as a profound personal and national loss. Justice Argungu, who died at the age of 90, was laid to rest on Sunday in his hometown of Argungu, Kebbi State, following Islamic rites.
A respected legal luminary and cherished associate of the President, Justice Argungu leaves behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to the service of his nation. In a heartfelt tribute, President Tinubu remembered the late elder statesman as a distinguished jurist whose contributions to the judiciary and the legal profession remain invaluable.
“Justice Argungu lived a life devoted to humanity and the service of his country with unmatched integrity and commitment,” Tinubu remarked. A Sunday statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, detailed Justice Argungu’s illustrious career, beginning with his early years as a teacher in the old Sokoto Province. “This was followed by an illustrious legal career that began with his call to the bar in 1965 and culminated in his elevation to the Supreme Court bench in 1993,” Onanuga quoted the President as saying. Justice Argungu’s influence reached beyond Nigeria, with notable service as a visiting justice of the Supreme Court of the Gambia.In honour of his enduring contributions, Tinubu offered prayers for the repose of his soul and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the government, and the people of Kebbi State. “This is indeed a moment of grief, but we take solace in the remarkable life and legacy he left behind,” Tinubu added
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said the Federal Government will support families of victims of recent stampedes across the country. Shettima made this known in a condolence message on Sunday in Abuja. He expressed sorrow over the losses and offered prayers and condolences to the affected families. Recall that on Saturday in Okija, Anambra, a Christmas palliative distribution event turned tragic with 22 persons losing their lives in an early morning stampede. The same day in Abuja, another tragedy struck when ten persons died during an annual Christmas food-sharing event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama. There was also a stampede on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, where about 35 children lost their lives and others sustained injuries during a holiday fun fair. The vice-president, who described the incidents as a national tragedy, revealed that the Federal Government had directed relevant agencies to provide immediate support to affected families. “I am extremely saddened by these tragic incidents that have claimed innocent lives. My prayers and thoughts are with the grieving families of all victims, including those who sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment. “I am particularly distraught by the fact that so many lives of Nigerians, particularly children, have been lost in stampedes that ought to have been avoided through proper planning and organisation,” he said. He prayed the Almighty God to grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed. “We stand ready to support the bereaved families through this difficult period, and no effort will be spared in providing the necessary assistance they need.”
FG
Allow us breathe, save Nigeria from debt – OsitaOkechukwu to Tinubu A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), OsitaOkechukwu, on Sunday appealed to President Bola Tinubu to rescue Nigerians from a debt trap in order to fulfill his Renewed Hope Agenda and allow citizens to breathe. Okechukwu lamented that he cannot fathom how the Renewed Hope Agenda will bring the intended succor to Nigerians when the country is burdened with all manner of debts, both local and foreign, “prohibitive interest rates on treasury bills, dangerous dollar-denominated loans, and short-term Eurobonds, making the fiscal restructuring of debt service imperative.” In a statement he signed, Okechukwu humbly appealed to the president, citing Benjamin Franklin’s admonition that “he who goes a borrowing goes a sorrowing,” and called for a high-powered panel of inquiry to reexamine Nigeria’s debts to uncover genuine and less-than-transparent debt transactions. He cautioned that the huge debt burden threatens Nigeria’s nascent democracy and drains resources meant for health, education, and poverty alleviation. According to Okechukwu: “It is regrettable that the budget for Defence (N4.91tr), Infrastructure (N4.06tr), Education (N3.52tr), and Health (N2.48tr), totaling N14.97tr, is far less than the N15.8trillion budgeted for debt service.” Okechukwu acknowledged the removal of fuel subsidies, giving kudos to President Tinubu, but lamented that the humongous debt service has now become the new anti-production elephant in the room. He said: “Yes, the fuel subsidy is gone, albeit the subsidy regime had links to the planlessness and squandermania that governed the sordid debt exercise. Or do we forget outliers like when Dr. NgoziOkonjo-Iweala, the current WTO President, instituted a panel that probed and found that the fuel subsidy was riddled with corruption, upon which the culprits resorted to kidnapping her mother?” “Accordingly, Mr. President should dust off Okonjo-Iweala’s files and other bad loan files with the intent to recover monies and return Nigeria to a productive economy.” Okechukwu recalled with nostalgia that Nigeria’s first loan from the Paris Club in 1964 was $13.1 million for the construction of the Niger Dam. He also mentioned Nigeria’s debt relief deal under President OlusegunObasanjo’s administration in 2005, where $35.994 billion in debt was canceled. He noted, paradoxically, that today, Nigeria’s debt burden stands at N121.67 trillion, equivalent to $91.46 billion USD. “The only way to break the fetters of the debt burden, as we did in 2005, is through fiscal restructuring. In other words, a high-powered multilateral panel of inquiry must ascertain our actual debt and seek debt cancellation,” he said. On what must be done, the former Director General of Voice of Nigeria urged PresidentTinubu to make bold decisions. Okechukwu added: “I agree totally with President Tinubu that we must make bold decisions, even though they may be painful. Accordingly, the necessary bold decisions at this critical juncture are not excessive taxation or high tariffs, but a multilateral, high-powered panel of inquiry comprising eminent local and international statesmen to reexamine our domestic and foreign debts as the only answer to save Nigerians from the debt trap.
The Chairman of Ideato North Local Government Area, Hon. Arc. Chukwunonso Okpareke, has officially launched the grading of roads across the local government. The initiative, which kicked off at Ndi Akunwanta Uno in Ndi Iheme Ward, signals a determined push toward improving road infrastructure and boosting accessibility within the region.
During the ceremony, Hon. Okpareke assured residents that the project would reach all 14 wards in Ideato North, underscoring the administration’s commitment to equitable development. To speed up the process, he announced that an additional grader would be deployed to other wards the following day.
Hon. Okpareke expressed deep gratitude to the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his steadfast support of grassroots development. He applauded the Governor’s 3R framework—Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Recovery—as a transformative approach to addressing the needs of rural communities.
In attendance were several key stakeholders, including Hon. Kanu Kenechukwu Chimaobi, the councilor representing Iheme Ward and Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. Julian Offor, councilor for Izuogu Ward 2 and Chairman of the House Committee on Works, as well as Mr. Njoku, the HOD for Works, and Mr. Ikechukwu Owete, Secretary to the Local Government Chairman. They praised the road grading initiative as a vital step in driving infrastructural development and pledged their commitment to its success.
This landmark project is a significant stride toward fostering growth, improving transportation, and enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Ideato North.
The members of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri Chapter, have dissociated themselves from the planned industrial action, hate speeches, and “Pull Her Down Politics” of ASUP National body against the 9th Substantive Rector of the institution, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe vis-a-vis her emergence as Rector, describing the petitions and inactions as mischievous and self-serving.
Solidarity campaign
“The Congress resolved to disassociate themselves from the Industrial Action planned by ASUP National of which one of the reasons has to do with the selection and appointment of the 9th Substantive Rector of our institution. The Congress considers such a move as embarrassing and self-serving which does not have the blessings and endorsement of the chapter Congress”
“We urge the general public, and particularly the Honourable Minister of Education to disregard the petition authored by Mr. Shammah Kpanja and to support the new Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede in her efforts to restore the institution to its former glory. We say no to any form of industrial action that seeks to undermine the progress we have made. We stand in solidarity with Dr. Basilia Igbokwe and the entire management team of the institution”
ASUPNEK alongside the leadership of National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS among other union leaders in FEDPONEK in a recent protest in the institution registered their grievances against “the clandestine, destructive and unprogressive activities of the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) led by Comrade Shamma Kpanja and Comrade Ezeibe as the immediate past National President against the appointment of Dr. Basilia Igbokwe as the 9th Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede”
Addressing pressmen shortly after the demonstration, the Dean of, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr. Anayo Uhiara stressed that the unholy activities and petitions of ASUP The national body led by Comrade Kpanja and spearheaded by Comrade Ezeibe against the appointment of Dr. Basilia Igbokwe is “self-serving, misleading and mischievous as it lacks authorization of the chapter Congress to work with the national leadership of ASUP to write a petition against the process of selection and appointment of the Rector.
Dr. Uhiara, however, disclosed that the existence of a particular group known as “Like Minds” in the institution had been responsible for the sorry state of our FEDPONEK before the emergence of Dr. Igbokwe.
“This group, in the name of Like Minds, has been perpetuating nefarious activities, including employment racketeering, abuse of due process, management rascality, nepotism, etc. Their activities pushed our once prestigious institution into a debt profile running into billions of naira without commiserate infrastructural development, while all the once flourishing Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Sources were run- down”
“We must not allow them to hold us to ransom again. We need to liberate our institution from the strongholds of this group, hiding under the ASUP national body to breach the peace on campus and to petition against the seamless and transparent selection and appointment process of our new Rector”
The Dean added that the ASUP Nekede chapter chairman’s refusal to disassociate himself and the chapter from the ASUP National Executive Council (NEC) resolutions against the appointment of the Rector led to a vote of No Confidence on him by 5 members of his executive in the first instance, and the subsequent vote of No Confidence by the chapter Congress on the entire Chapter Executive Council (CEC) under the leadership of Engr. Stanley Nwadike.
“Consequent on the observed violation of the union’s grievance procedure and channels of communication, a vote of no confidence was earlier passed on Engr. Stanley Nwadike (Chapter chairman of ASUPNek) by 5 out of the 9 Members of the Chapter Executive Council in direct response to his refusal to write a disclaimer disassociating Himself and ASUPNek Chapter from the ASUP national leadership’s clandestine activities against the seamless, peaceful, and transparent selection and appointment processes of the 9th substantive rector of our institution. On the strength of this vote of No Confidence by the majority members of Chapter Executive Council and other identified Executive Rascality so manifest in the management of the affairs of the Union, the congress of ASUPNek in their 3rd Quarter Congress held on the 30th of October, 2024 in unity passed a vote of no confidence in the entire Chapter Executive Council and directed the past Chairmen of ASUPNek chapter to Oversee the activities of the chapter pending resolution of the crisis”
Solidarity campaign
“We hoped that the measure taken by the Congress members will cause the sacked ASUPNek chairman, Engr Stanley NWADIKE, and his cohorts to have a sober reflection on their activities and the resultant effects on him, our chapter, the institution, and the ASUP national as a body, they chose to hide under the support of ASUP National leadership to disrespect the Rector of our institution, disrespect their senior colleagues in the institution and those who have held leadership positions in the Union, and perhaps contributes more money as check off dues by the virtue of the ASUP constitution. For the sake of emphasis, it is most disappointing that Engr. Stanley Nwadike and the National leadership of ASUP referred to their colleagues and members, former Chairmen of ASUPNek, and most Deans and Directors in the institution- as mobs and renegades. This is most saddening and must be condemned by all well-meaning general public. We must note, and very importantly too, that in unionism, the power is at the base- it lies with the Congress who freely gave the mandate to a few of their members to lead them. At any point Congress feels that the mandate given to these few persons to lead them is being used against their interests and well-being, it can be withdrawn irrespective of whatever the Constitution says. This decision to sack the chapter Executive Council of ASUPNek and to disassociate with all activities of the ASUP national leadership against the collective interest of Academic Staff members in this institution is a clear demonstration of the fact that the power of the Union lies with the Congress”
In the foregoing, the Congress reversed the renaming of the ASUPNek Solidarity Complex to Anderson Ezeibe Solidarity Complex; noting that the idea of the complex was initiated by past Chairmen and the completion and its Continuous improvement were done by other past Chairmen besides Mr. Ezeibe.
With a heart full of love and compassion, Mummy Amarachi Esom the wife of the District Superintendent of Owerri East of Assemblies of God Nigeria is dedicated to putting smiles on the faces of widows and the less privileged in our society.
Mummy Esom calling out the beneficiaries.
Her selfless efforts aim to bring hope, support, and joy to those who need it most.
This this woman Evangelist cum Womens coordinator of Owerri East District of her church through her tireless work, is making a tangible difference in the lives of many. Her kindness and generosity are a beacon of light, inspiring others to join her in making a positive impact.
Some of the beneficiaries receiving their gifts.
Let’s thank God and support Mummy Esom’s remarkable work and the joy she brings to others!”
You can assist her to give your support to the poor and less privileged.
The police in Imo state have arrested a secondary school teacher in the state, Mrs Blessing Emmanuel, for dehumanizing her 12- year- old step daughter, Amarachi Emmanuel.
Mrs Emmanuel was arrested Tuesday following a complaint made by an Owerri based activist journalist, Chidiebube Okeoma, at Owerri Area command headquarters located in the Owerri metropolis.
The victim’s plight was brought to Okeoma’s attention by two Owerri based women, Eunice and and Amarachi, who saw the girl selling sachet water on the streets of Owerri with her battered body.
The Battered 12year old girl
A video clip posted by Okeoma on social media which had gone viral, the girl was seen with bruises, scars and matchet cuts.
Okeoma who confirmed the arrest of the woman in Owerri, on Thursday, said that he took the girl to Umuguma General hospital in Owerri, where she is receiving intense medical attention, currently.
The journalist said” Amarachi Emmanuel is 12 years old. Her mother died in 2018 and her father married the suspect in 2019. They live in Nekede area of Owerri. The girl and her two siblings are out of school for years now. The woman commanded them to be harking satchet water for her everyday and be making returns to her while their mates are in schools.
“The girl told me that her step mom dehumanizes them. They sell pure water for her from morning till night and mostly go to bed hungry. The latest bartering was because the girl said she cooked rice and eat without the woman’s permission and on getting home, the woman battered her.
“I took the girl to Owerri Area command police headquarters and got the woman arrested, immediately. In order to save the girl’s life, I took her to Umuguma General hospital where she was admitted. I have also enrolled her into the Imo State Health Insurance Scheme for vulnerable children in the state.
“I have involved National Human Rights commission, Owerri Municipal Council welfare Department and the Imo State ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
“Many Human Rights Organizations have also contacted me in regards to this case. The Owerri branch of the Nigeria Bar Association has also contacted me. Various media organizations are interested in the girl’s matter now.
“Bartering of children has no place in the 21st century. Police are investigating and my request is that the woman be arraigned. The woman turned the girl and her siblings to slaves, simply because their mother is late and their father is medically unstable.
“I want to get the girl and her siblings off the streets. My idea is to enroll her in a school and her siblings too. Currently, they leave in a shanty. They will need a decent apartment once she gets back on her feet, again.
“Her lapse, eyes, Virginia, left leg, right hand and stomach were battered with burns and matchet cuts. Little Amarachi Emmanuel needs all of us now. Let us tell her that humanity is not wicked. There are compassionate Nigerians all over.”
When contacted, the spokesperson for the police in the state, Henry Okoye, disclosed that the state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, had ordered that the right things be done in the matter.
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, urging the resolution of various longstanding issues affecting the polytechnic sector.
According to the union, the ultimatum, which begins on October 7, 2024, and ends on October 25, 2024, could lead to industrial action if the demands are not met.
ASUP’s National President, Shammah Kpanja, revealed this decision on Thursday after a National Executive Council of the union in Abuja when he addressed the press.
Among the issues raised by ASUP are alleged violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act and other governing laws, which affect the appointment of key administrative officers in both federal and state-owned polytechnics.
Kpanja warned that if the government does not take action, ASUP will not hesitate to mobilise its members for industrial action, including strikes and protests.
He said, “In line with our commitment to advocating for a functional polytechnic education system in Nigeria, we hereby issue a 15-day ultimatum, starting from October 7, 2024.
“If these issues are not resolved within this period, we will consider various forms of trade disputes, including a possible withdrawal of services by our members nationwide.”
He added that after the expiration of the ultimatum, ASUP’s NEC will reconvene to determine the next course of action.
A former Acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Folashodun Shonubi, has said he learnt that there were intrigues and politics in the naira redesign exercise carried out in 2022.
Shonubi, then Deputy Governor (Operations) before his appointment as Acting CBN Governor, said the former Governor of the CBN, Godwin Emefiele, told him and others that there were intrigues and politics in the whole exercise.
Shonubi, now retired, who is the Prosecution’s third witness, made this claim in reaction to a question from Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo, at the resumed hearing in the trial of the ex-governor of the CBN.
Emefiele is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory FCT (FCT) on four counts bordering on disobedience to the direction of law and illegal act causing injury to the public about the naira redesign exercise.
Ojo had asked Shonubi if, as a seasoned CBN banker, he was aware of the intrigues and politics in the naira redesign exercise.
The witness said he ordinarily did not know, but learnt from Emefiele, during one of their meetings, that there were indeed intrigues and politics in the exercise.
The witness however did not say if Emefiele told them what the intrigues and politics were.
When asked if indeed there was presidential approval for the naira redesign, the witness said the defendant presented a document during one of the meetings of the CBN’s Committee of Governors (COG) containing the signature of the president.
Shonubi, however, said what the CBN under Emefiele produced after the naira redesign exercise was different from what President Bola Buhari approved.
He said the redesigned naira notes were launched by President Buhari, adding that he was not aware of a letter from the president complaining about the naira redesign.
The witness also said he did not come across any letter from either the COG or the board of the CBN protesting against or condemning the approval of the president for currency redesign.
On whether he knew all that transpired between President Buhari and Emefiele in the course of the naira redesign exercise, the witness said no.
Shonubi said he is not aware of the oral discussions between the defendant and the then-president about the naira redesign exercise.
He said it was only the defendant who was interacting with the president on the issue.
Shonubi confirmed that he was invited once by the EFCC about the case and that he made statements.
He however said the EFCC did not have a physical confrontation between him and the defendant in respect of what was contained in his statements that related to him (the defendant).
While being led in evidence by prosecuting lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, earlier, the witness said what was produced by the CBN under Emefiele as the redesigned naira notes were not the same as approved by the President.
He said the memo presented to the president for the naira redesign was solely prepared by Emefiele and sent to the president.
The Federal Lawmaker representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has reassured indigenes of Umuchima Community in Ideato South local government area of Imo state of both the federal and state governments resolve to arrest the devastating gully erosion in the community which has claimed lots of lives as well as over thirty residential buildings and shops among billions of properties in the area.
Hon. Ugochinyere gave the assurance on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, when he visited the gully erosion site to inspect the federal government-powered construction works in the area to remedy the situation while disclosing the State government plans to take over the site, noting that the people’s overall interest is to get a lasting solution to the menace irrespective of the government in question.
The dogged federal lawmaker who cheered the high level of work ongoing at the site as well as the state government’s interest in taking over the site to give the people a sense of belonging, however, expressed utmost worry that construction may slow down or hit the bricks in the long run due to change in operational intervention plans, hence he equally urged the state government to live up to the high expectations of the people.
“We decided to come to see the extent of the work, and we are so pleased that they have covered almost one kilometer in the alternative route, and from their works when the sands coming from the river burst out to Umuchima market, they will start filling the other part of the Gully. They have been able to excavate the sand to recover the whole road and waterways.
“With the speed at which they are going, they should have continued if not for the interruption that might occur by now; by December, they would have laid a temporary bridge to make the area motorable up to the market while they fill up other sides. But also, we received news that the State government is interested in the project, and this is the thing we have been praying and asking for because it is not my job as a lawmaker to get involved in project construction as I do representation and law-making. …it was because the state and federal governments abandoned it over time that we started screaming and pleading and got the attention of the Federal government to award the contract to Rock View Construction Company. Since then, the contractor has been doing fantastic work despite the unavailability of funds.
“I thank the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi who kept the promises they made to us alongside the Contractor that they would recover the Umuchima Gully Erosion site and as you can see; bursting the road up to Umuchima market is close to 30 percent completion But at the same time, we have received the news that the state government led by Governor Hope Uzodimma wants to take over the project and is also adding the road from Orlu to Orie Akokwa”
“It doesn’t matter who does it, whether the state government or the federal government because what is important to our people is that they have a right to access good roads and also have the problem of this Gully Erosion solved. Whether Governor Hope Uzodimma takes over the project to complete what they are doing now it will be commendable but I must add that before we started this advocacy; it took almost two years after the award of the project the first time under former President Buhari and it was abandoned”
Ikenga equally decried the sufferings and yearnings of the people for change in past ugly narratives of interventions across the locality as he expressed mixed feelings about the project takeover plans, adding that past governments had played politics with the menace; hence, the people are resolute not to create rooms for excuses, failures, and disappointments.
“I’m using this opportunity to let our people know that the speed of work you are seeing here may be slowed or temporary but we pray it doesn’t become permanent because the state government said they want to take over this place and fix it”
“We have received the news and it is good news and bad news at the same time. …it is good news as it is commendable if it is done and will be bad news if after they are demobilized and we come back to the same problem.
“It was because they didn’t do what they were supposed to do that made us leave our legislative duties to start going from ministry to ministry to seek government attention which we got hence our people will not want any situation where the wonderful works which the federal government contractors are doing on-site stops: going by the intervention by the state government; …that when we come back by December, or January and nothing is happening on-site and when the rainy season comes again, it takes over Umuchima community.
The promising lawmaker lauded the management of Rockview Construction company for their good initiatives and concrete works, especially their show of commitment, had visited the site and hit the ground running on time.
He also commended the people of Umuchima for their patience, understanding, and support while urging them to keep all hope alive, having attracted the full attention of the Federal and state governments as bonafide citizens of Imo state and Nigeria at large.
“If Uzodimma fixes it, it is commendable, but at the same time, our people will not forgive if he now chases away the federal government people on grounds that you are going to do it and suddenly you do not finish it because from the day they came to site and today you can see the visible impact as one can walk inside the gully unlike before”
Speaking to newsmen, the Federal government contractor and team lead of Rockview Construction company onsite Mr Friday Okorobia said when they arrived, “there was no way one can access the gully which was initially about 26 meters wide and 38 meters high”, adding that the gully can now be accessed due to dedicated works hence the gully is currently less than 15 meters wide on a stretch bed up to a kilometer.
The Contractor who emphasized the Company’s determination to deliver noted that what is left of the sand bed to burst out at Nkwo Umuchima market is less than 100 meters which according to him is calculated to be completed in the next two weeks, stressing that the road should be accessible and motorable by all light-weight vehicles by the end of November if their works are not halted.
He thanked the Lawmaker and the people of Umuchima Community for their morale support, and confidence in them to deliver noting that “we are not here to struggle or fight with the government; if the state wants to take over, no problems, we are not battling with anybody as the glory when done irrespective of the government is for Umuchima Community.
Speaking also, the President General of Umuchima Community, Mr Nelson Okpara, while extolling the human-faced lawmaker for his critical and sensitive intervention barely a year in office as a Member of the Federal House of Representatives, decried that the community had suffered untold devastation following the gully erosion since 2019 after several calls for government intervention failed.
“We have been trying different levels of government, both the state, federal, and even the local government area when it was small since 2019 when this Gully started, but it was only Hon. Barr. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere who came to our rescue,
“We have lost a lot, over thirty buildings, farmlands and other properties of the community as well as displaced persons”
The PG also appealed to the state government to live up to the community’s expectations when she take over the project site, assuring them of the peoples support.
“We appeal to Governor Hope Uzodimma to deliver on time to save the people as the community is fastly going into extinction.
The level of havoc caused over the years, according to the youths of Umuchima who spoke to journalists, cannot be valued as different types of buildings, such as well-furnished duplexes, bungalows, shops, and parts of Nkwo Umuchima, have gone down the deep, including the home of a one-time Imo High Court Judge.
They expressed sadness over the ugly developments which have not only hampered their businesses, and movements but have killed and displaced families in the area and further threatens to cut them off power supply and network coverage as power and electricity facilities in the locality are being quaked and fallen by the gully erosion daily especially when it rains.
Police arrest Bishop Timothy Otu after Married female Evangelist who Lodged with him in a Hotel was found dead in Aba.
General Overseer of Agape Evangelical Ministeries (City of Miracles)Located in Obikabia Junction Aba , Abia State has been arrested by the Police after a married female Evangelist and mother of five identified as “Evangelist Happiness”who lodged in with him at Jubilee Guest House Ovom, Ogborhill was found dead in the hotel room.
PUO Reports gathered that the incident happened around 11pm on Saturday 12th August 2023 after the Bishop who booked the room with her absconded after deceiving the receptionist that he was going to buy food at that time of the night.
The manager of the Hotel who suspected foul play immediately reported to the Eastern Ngwa Police Station in Obingwa Local Government Area around around 1am on Sunday morning.
When officers of the Nigerian Police went to the hotel, the woman was lying naked with foam coming out of her mouth and nose.
PUO Reports gathered that when her Phone was opened , it was discovered that the woman and mother of Five Children is a member of the Agape Evangelical Ministeries Incorporated founded by Bishop Timothy Otu and they have been having romantic relationship and discussion via text messages which were seen by the Police.
Investigations revealed that the woman died during the marathon s@x with the Bishop.
The Police Officers traced the Bishop to his Church at Obikabia Junction, attended his Sunday Service with mofty, Bishop Timothy Otu who was heavily preaching about repentance was arrested immediately after his sermon and currently being detained at the Eastern Ngwa Police Station Obingwa.
The late Evangelist Happiness who is a mother of Five hails from Umuatakawom in Obingwa while her husband was at work in Bayelsa State when the ugly incident happened.
Benjamin Netanyahu In a speech that will be remembered for years to come, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu captivated global leaders at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) today, September 27, 2024. His address, rich with references to biblical history and modern-day geopolitics, left world leaders in awe as he artfully linked Israel’s ancient past to its present and future on the global stage.
Netanyahu’s speech was far more than a standard diplomatic address as it was an invitation to view Israel not just as a nation with contemporary challenges but as a civilization with a storied legacy. By drawing on ancient biblical references, he evoked powerful imagery that transcended politics and reached into the heart of Israel’s cultural and spiritual identity. The speech resonated on a deeply emotional level, not just for Israelis, but for people across the globe who see the Bible as a shared heritage.
Israeli Prime Minister
With a commanding presence, Netanyahu began by referencing King David’s battles for Jerusalem, framing Israel’s current position in the Middle East as a continuation of biblical struggles. “Just as David faced Goliath with courage and faith, today Israel stands before great adversaries. But like David, we will prevail,” he declared, his voice ringing through the hall. The analogy drew a standing ovation from many in attendance, with several world leaders visibly moved by his words.
Netanyahu’s references to the Bible did not stop there. He invoked the prophetic wisdom of Isaiah and Ezekiel to discuss the turbulent dynamics of the Middle East and the constant threats Israel faces, particularly from Iran. “As the prophets warned of destruction, we are tasked with vigilance in our time,” he said, turning the attention of the assembly to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. His plea for the international community to unite against the Iranian threat was bolstered by this historical context, giving his words a timeless, almost sacred weight.
In an era of fleeting political sound bites, Netanyahu’s speech stood apart, rich with substance and history. His eloquent invocation of biblical scripture was not just rhetoric, it was a profound reminder that Israel’s story spans millennia, and that its survival has always been a matter of divine providence as much as human resilience.
Benjamin Netanyahu
Many in the room acknowledged after the speech that it was a moment destined to be remembered. Political analysts, diplomats, and scholars were quick to note that Netanyahu’s address could be a defining moment in both his career and in Israel’s diplomatic narrative at the UN. It was not just his words that stirred the assembly, it was the depth of his message.
Netanyahu’s ability to weave together ancient texts and modern concerns created an extraordinary impact. “This wasn’t just a speech, it was a moment in history,” said one European diplomat. “He reminded us all that Israel’s survival and its pursuit of peace are part of a much larger story, one that has been unfolding for thousands of years.”
The speech also marked a turning point in Netanyahu’s leadership style. Known for his hardline stance on security and diplomacy, today he showed a different side, a leader deeply in tune with the cultural and spiritual currents of his people. His speech at UNGA today will likely be studied for years as an example of how a leader can use history and tradition to reinforce national sovereignty and diplomacy.
World leaders, from the United States to the Middle East, were left with much to ponder after his address. Netanyahu’s remarks on the Abraham Accords were particularly striking. He described the agreements as not just political pacts, but as the fulfillment of ancient prophecies of peace between Israel and its neighbors. “These accords are the dawn of a new Middle East, one that embraces peace, mutual respect, and shared prosperity,” he said.
…Urges him to disregard media propaganda against her…
South East Media Editors Forum (SEMEF) has called on the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to disregard the negative media propaganda by some sponsored agents against the recent appointment of Dr. Basilia Igbokwe as the 9 Substantial Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri-West Imo State. This is even though she is ably qualified for the office.
Rising from our emergency meeting in Owerri on Friday, SEMEF resolved to condemn the media attack as it is uncalled for.
“The media attacks by a group who is using their access to the judiciary and media to cause unnecessary trouble is condemnable and we are appealing to President Tinubu to ignore the unwarranted allegations that her appointment as the Rector was in non-compliance with the Polytechnic’s Act.
Dr. Basilia Igbokwe is a seasoned academic and an attitude administrator having emerged as the best candidate after a rigorous and keenly contested election process.
Furthermore, her appointment was legally and duly ratified by the Governing Council of the institution before approval by the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Igbokwe has paid her dues in the development of the Polytechnic over the years. She didn’t fall from the moon to be elected, ratified, and appointed respectively as the Rector of the institution. It is an aberration why some individuals are sponsoring a group to tarnish her image. This can be described as an emotional tendency. In fact, it is ridiculous and a disappointment to every right-thinking person in society for one in his or her right senses to attack a mother without any tangible reason.
Igbokwe merited the appointment having demonstrated exceptional qualifications, experience, and leadership expertise. Her credentials are not in doubt, and she has the ability and confidence to drive the institution to more lofty heights.
On inquiries, the Polytechnic’s staff students and the Host Community are very happy with the appointment and have vowed to make her succeed in her new position.
She is a beacon of hope, and we have taken our time to investigate Igbokwe’s background both in the institution and outside the institution and discovered that she is impeccable and exceptionally prudent in her leadership qualities and has good track records of delivery in her previous leadership roles in the institution and beyond.
To the best of our knowledge, without mincing words, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe is the right choice for the institution at this particular point in time because of her vision, passion, and commitment to excellence.
It is worthy of note that the jobless attackers are not talking against her credentials or experience or even about her inability to lead the institution over the appointment; rather, they are talking about “not following due process.” this is very unfortunate.
This is a clear sign that they have nothing against her if not for jealousy. They prepared to fail in their bid to bring her down from abinitio. Let her attackers wait for their own time, refrain from their childish attitude, and stop playing to the gallery as more than one person can never be the Rector of an institution at a time.
The sponsoring of the media attacks will immediately die down when the financial backers become tired and outspend their budgets.
The new Rector, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe, is an outstanding Leader, and she is the best among the best for the Office of the Rector, Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri West Imo State.
We urge the public to disregard those unfounded claims by money mongers and to always verify information nation through the official channels of the institution.
It is no longer news that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President BOLA AHMED TINUBU on September 10, 2024, appointed the 9th substantive Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, in the person of DR. BASILIA IGBOKWE. This meritorious appointment of the President followed well supervised and conducted interviews and selection process by the Polytechnic Governing Council, under heavily secured and monitored atmosphere (records are available in various formats to verify the process), in which DR. (MRS.) BASILIA IGBOKWE emerged in the first position.
For the records, it is worth mentioning hitherto that, there was, prior to the final selection by the Polytechnic Governing Council, a previous election for the same purpose, conducted by the Governing Council, in which DR (MRS.) BASILIA IGBOKWE also emerged as the Primus Inter pares, but was met with thuggery and violence orchestrated by unscrupulous elements who were “obviously sponsored” by a few deviant members of the Polytechnic Community, to overturn the outcome of the free and fair process. The Kingdom Human Rights Foundation Int’l are conspicuously now, playing THE SAME SCRIPT on the outer stage. The general public should beware, and please take note.
Dr. Mrs Basilia Igbokwe left
It is imperative to state that, there is no breach of the peace, chaos or distractions WHATSOEVER looming or happening within the environment of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri at the moment. If there is any perceived and expressed feelings to report, it is the fact that students, non-academic staff, academic staff, management staff and the general Polytechnic Community are overwhelmed with expressed feelings of joy and satisfaction that the Polytechnic has been favoured with such a God-sent in the person of DR. (MRS.) BASILIA IGBOKWE as the Rector.
According to the students in one of their jubilations around the school environment, they chanted in songs: “the good days of DR. (MRS.) NJOKU, former Rector of FedpolyNek have returned”; “the days of hope have returned”…..
Letter of Appointment
We therefore condemn in the strongest possible terms, the negative efforts of any person or group of persons, within and/or outside the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri Community to cause confusion, return the school to backwardness and dash the hopes of the entire happy Polytechnic, Nekede. Such elements are no doubt, the enemies of the school, enemies of progress, enemies of the Government of President BOLA AHMED TINUBU, and of course, enemies of God. They can strive, but, evil SHALL NOT prevail over good.
DR. (MRS.) BASILIA IGBOKWE remains the 9th Substantive Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, with credence of the office of the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Affirmative release from the Registry
Prof Eleanya Asoya
National President,
Integrity, Accountability & Transparency Group (IATG)
There is no gain saying that nothing good comes so easily because the monster dreaded counters, setbacks, battles and all worth not; are all the spices that forms the uneasiness of every good cause hence the general public, the polytechnic community, lovers of good progress, and goodwill are urged not to be blown away by the sweet cotted and lie-laden reports against the newly and duly appointed 9th Substantive Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri, Dr Mrs Basilia Igbokwe.
From the counters raised by the unpatriotic fellows whose target was to hold down the polytechnic in their selfish interests of undue enrichment, aggrandizement, and racketeering; it is crystal clear to note that they are mostly concerned about the institution’s account and properties so not to have traces of their sharp practices hence their full resolve to fight against the tide that promises to end bad, irresponsible, cabal and cartel leadership in the institution.
Dr. Mrs Basilia Igbokwe
In the foregoing, Please discard their disjointed, concocted press release and memos and treat all information therein with zero credence as they are all works of mischief makers shopping for innocent and unsuspecting audience to buy off. The originators of the false press statements are mischievous and desperate individuals whose quest for power was frustrated to the core hence they can go any length to make noises to overheat the polity.
Recall that Dr. Basilia Igbokwe credibly emerged 1st position in the Rectorship contest in Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri Imo State few weeks ago with wide margins to beat.
Kindly note that the 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions names were forwarded to Abuja and Mr. President of Federal Republic of Nigeria opted to confirm Dr. Basilia Igbokwe who was the 1st in the Rectorship contest inspite of high level plotted conspiracies.
The President further issued Letter of Appointment to her as the 9th Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State having met the requirements of the office to be so appointed. So the illogical arguments that the letter of appointment was given to her while President Tinubu on was away on a foreign trip does not add up because such hallowed appointment comes with the President’s endorsements.
Besides, she is already inaugurated as the 9th Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri Imo State in Abuja by the Minister of Education over three weeks ago hence their actions and inactions were just to stop the ceremonial conclusion that appeals much to a layman that she has taken over.
The press release is full of calumny and lacks the merit of human rights abuse as pointed out to be their rationale. Further questions begging for answers are:
Why are they only out to embarrass themselves by unnecessary sensationalism;
Who are these NGOs getting so interested in Federal Polytechnic Nekede Community internal matter to had initiated law suit?
Were these NGOs contestants in the just concluded Rectorship race in Federal Polytechnic Nekede and if they were not, in what premise are they filing a suit?
Who are those sponsoring and financing this faceless NGO to detract the new Rector from hitting the ground running?
. Why did they file their suit on August 4 as they claimed and evidently had not served all the parties and obtained an order? Which makes their efforts defeated, hence no court would sustain such rubbish because is not tenable.
Why did the former acting Rector whose tenure expired 10am on September 10 after he had submitted his hand over note to the governing council chairman before 9am on September 10, returned with a controversial injunction on 11th September about 2pm, just about two hours after the Governing council had adopted the appointment and fixed ceremonial reception of the Rector for September 17?
Above all, I strongly believe the Defendants have lawyers to defend them in the matter to disgrace these detractors for Federal Polytechnic Nekede Community to breath fresh air.
Those threatening the new Rector of FEDPOLYNEK are more like hoodlums as it is very evident that the originators of this ill-conceived memo lack sleep and only attempted to feed the public with a drowning man’s last resort fight.
Make no mistake, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe is the Confirmed and appointed 9th Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State by Mr. President of Federal Republic of Nigeria. She is fully in charge and control of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Community following the appointment of President Tinubu, the letter of appointment already handed over to her by the Minister of Education and the adoption and announcement of her appointment as the 9th Substantive Rector by the Governing body on 11th September, 2024.
Besides, we duly gathered that the planned Welcome and Presentation Ceremony postponement was never in respect to the faceless group’s unfounded memos or press release. A new date will soon be out to ensure all well wishers are adequately carried along in the celebration.
Letter of Appointment
We advise the public to keep calm and herald a new dawn/era in Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State. Nothing good they say comes easily but it must surely come because there is light at the end of the tunnel and no darkness has ever outshined Light.
Dr John Chukwu , National Coordinator, Centre for Educational Leadership & Development (CELD) 17/09/24.
Cheers abound as members, host community and the general public anticipates the highly powered 8-day programme of Assemblies of God Church, Owaelu Uratta, captioned “September To Remember”
The programme themed “Jehovah My Ebenezer” is billed to run from Sunday 22nd September to Sunday, 29th September 2024.
Venue: Assemblies of God Church Owaelu along Orji Toronto road, Owerri, Imo state.
Time: Sundays -8am while from Monday to Saturday is 5pm prompt.
According to the Conveners, Pastor Prince and Evang Goodness Ukwu, assured that the programme will not only be a great gathering but a soul lifting and destiny driven encounter with God.
Pastor Prince Ukwu added that the programme is for all and sundry as it creates the spiritual and all-round stages for the Ember months.
The special Guest of Honour is the Owerri East District Superintendent, Rev Dr. Okechulwu Esom while the Word Ministers expected at the programme include Rev Chris Kalu Orji (Rabbii) from Umuahia, Rev Evang. Chidi Oken from Abakiliki, Rev James Anya from Owerri just as Evang Mrs Stone O Eunice will be the Music Minister.
The glory and Jubilation that enveloped the 2024 Assemblies of God Church Women Convention of Owerri East District is yet to be told in full across boards as the heaven of heavens came down and made manifest to restore health joy, peace, hope and lost glories of the participants.
The 4-day power-packed conference (4th-7th September) held at AGC Owerri East District Headquarters Toronto/Road Safety road Owerri Imo state, with the Theme “Divine Manifestation”, according to the participants was zero-short of all expectations, noting that they were reached at their different points of need.
The programme however resonated God’s word, revelations, prophecies and miracles as the women celebrated deliverance from evil strongholds among which Cancerous patients gained instant healing, hence all round expressions of joy and happiness.
Addressing thewomen at the confab, the District Superintendent (DS) of Assembies of God Church Owerri East District, Rev. Dr. Okechukwu Esom extolled the women for their commitment, sacrifice and service to God and prayed God to strengthen them for greater exploits.
The DS equally charged them to continue to earnestly seek the face of God in their numbers, lead examplary lives and set the pace for younger generations to follow, noting that “when you seek God, you shall surely find Him”
Preaching on the theme of the Convention, the Guest Speaker, Rev. Dr. Elisha Anyanwu charged the congregation to draw nearer to God and be open to God’s instructions at all times so to be fully used by God to manifest His glory.
Rev. Anyanwu commended the women for theme of the programme and their exceptional performances, adding that “God is really showing Himself and using them to do exploits and none should take the credit for the wonders” but return all the Glory to Him.
“It was a spiritual gathering where you see the raw power of God and it is already happening… God is the one doing it”
In her address earlier, the District Women Coordinator and Wife of the DS, Rev. Mrs Amarachi Esom thanked God for His infinite mercies throughout the programme while noting that God manifested His power in fullness as they witnessed “instant healing, all round deliverance, peace and joy”
Rev. Mrs Esom who expressed appreciation to the women for turning out en masse for the event, however prayed and tasked the women to be good wives and mothers at home to make the home a peaceful abode, noting that the lessons from the event ought make the women better beings going forward.
You are specially invited to Revival Programme, Jesus our Stone of help.
“I pray that this joy will continue and will never go down spiritually, and may God uphold us with his Right hands and let His glory follow us to our different destinations and continue to radiate so that our families will know that we are from the presence of God…”
“By Divine Manifestation; We are going home to manifest and our husbands must surely know that we are from the presence of God, hence our characters will change because God has touched us and we are now calm, blessed, informed, happy and spirit filled women”
Assessing the programme, the Women Ministries (W.M.) President Owerri East District, Deaconess Jessy Nkwocha said the programme was a success even right from the planning stage as it recorded hundred percent turnout, punctuality, good conducts and “Divine Manifestation” as themed.
Deaconess Nkwocha prayed God to abundantly bless the District WM Coordinator and her team, as well as the women in General for their love for God evident in their collective and individual supports, and participation.
Speaking also, the District WM Secretary, Pastor Mrs. Charity Ibe expressed utmost happiness over the programme, stressing that the conduct and success of the event were “evidence of answered prayers”.
She thanked God for keeping them alive and manifesting His power in their midst, adding that the theme is timely to guide and guard the women out of problems as they go about their engagement in today’s turbulent society.
One of the participants, Evangelist Mrs Goodness Ukwu while thanking God for life and opportunity, lauded the W.M. leadership for the conduct and success of the programme, noting that the presence of God manifested in all ramifications to transform the women.
Evang. Ukwu added that the 2024 convention stands out as one of the best hence she was fulfilled and called on women to always make it a point of duty to attend.
Mummy Esom and one of the guest
Adding her voice, Mrs MaryJane Opara who could not contain her joy, said she was a fulfilled participant as she described the WM Convention as “a super duper programme filled with the presence of God; miracles, testimonies” adding that the Confab’s theme was well thought out.
She also urged women to avail themselves the opportunity to be in the presence of God at all times as “God presents His present to people who are presently present in His Presence”
Commending the District WM leadership, Pastor Mrs Goodness Ogoke said the programme was topnotch and prayed God to grant them more insights to lead.
Moreso, Mrs Praise Ihunanyachi who spoke alongside Mrs Cynthia Amos and Mrs Eunice Chibueze emphasized that their Take-home from the conference include victory, diverse healings, revelations and teachings for a better living while praying for more expositions and thanking God for the success of the confab.
Women sited listen to the word of God.
The highlights of the conference include “Salute Jesus” parade by the participants on Sectional arrangements among others.
A priest of the Enugu Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. Linus Okwu, has reportedly flogged members of his church, including women, girls and choir members, for allegedly failing to clear grasses within the church premises.
Okwu is said to be the parish priest of St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church, Agbani in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The Nation reports that the cleric allegedly whipped the parishioners, comprising mothers, young men, ladies and teenagers.
According to the report, trouble started when the angry priest, armed with canes, interrupted a choir practice in his parish and demanded an explanation on why the church field was yet to be cleared.
Not satisfied with the responses he got, he ordered the choir members to kneel and started flogging them mercilessly.
One of the victims who pleaded anonymity said she went home with bruises.
The victim further stated that the shock would continue to live with her for a lifetime.
“The Priest, who was visibly furious while addressing the choir members told us that since we hardly comply with the teaching and instruction of the church, that he would apply the stick approach to ensure compliance.
“I was sitting on a row of seats where teenage members of our choir were, so, when he started flogging, I withdrew to the back seat with the hope that he wouldn’t flog adults and mothers amongst us, but to my surprise, he flogged everybody, including myself.
“When I tried to put up resistance, he told me that if my father flogs me at home when I wrong him, he also reserves the right to whip members of his congregation as the father of the church if they falter. I was badly bruised when he finished with me,” the victim said.
The Director of Communication of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Anthony Aneke, was yet to react to the incident.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority(,NMDPRA), said it has not licensed the Dangote refinery.
The Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed, who disclosed this on Thursday said the refinery was still at the pre-commissioning stage.
Mr Ahmed who was responding to reports of alleged sabotaged of the Dangote refinery expressed concerns over the consistency and standardization of the refinery’s output.
He noted that products coming from Dangote refinery are inferior compared to the imported products.
“Well, just like you rightly asked, there are lots of concerns about the supply of petroleum products nationwide and the claims by some media houses that we were trying to scuttle the Dangote refinery; that is not so.
“Dangote refinery is still in the pre-commissioning stage. It has not been licensed yet. We have not licensed them yet,” he said.
According to him, the demand for the Dangote refinery cannot be met by the authorities at this time hence it could lead to energy insecurity and market monopoly.
He said: “So we can not rely heavily on one refinery to feed the nation because Dangote is requesting that we should suspend or stop all importation of petroleum products, especially automotive gas oil (AGO) or jet kero, and direct all marketers to the refinery.
“Dangote refinery as well as some major refineries like Waltersmith refinery, produce between 650 to 1200 ppm. So, in terms of quality, their quality is much more inferior to the imported quality,” Mr Ahmed added.
Presidential candidate of the Republican, Donald Trump has pledged to carry out “the largest deportation operation in the history of the United States of America”.
In his official nomination acceptance speech on Thursday, Trump spoke to members of the Republican Party.
The GOP platform calls for “the largest deportation operation in our country’s history,” according to Trump.
The former President stated that crime is decreasing in Central American nations such as El Salvador because “they’re sending their murders to the United States of America”.
Trump, who escaped an assassination attempt a few days earlier, stated that his deportations would be “even larger than that of President Dwight D Eisenhower from many years ago.”
“You know, he was a moderate but he believed very strongly in borders. He had the largest deportation operation we’ve ever had.”
As government continues to engage with stakeholders on the economic, social and political challenges of the country, the National Orientation Agency has urged the promoters of the proposed nationwide protests to pursue dialogue instead of its recourse to disorder.
In a statement by Paul Odenyi, the Deputy Director, Press, the NOA stated that its nationwide structure has successfully identified the sponsors of the proposed protest and likely flashpoints saying government will take measures to forestall any violent occurences in the identified locations.
Director General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu who made it clear that the channels of communication to government and its various arms remain open to dialogue sais it will continue to respects citizens’ right to protest and associate freely in line with democratic principles.
Further the Director General said: “that the identities of many of the brains behind the protest have been known, along with their collaborators who are safely residing abroad and the government is taking necessary actions to stop their subversive plans.
“that the intentions of the elements behind the planned protest are not about governance or state of the economy but a decoy to destabilize the country, cause mayhem and carry out arson, killings, maiming of innocent citizens for narrow political reasons.
“that NOA is intensifying efforts in civil intelligence gathering and sensitization of community leaders, parents and youths across the 774 local governments on the need for vigilance and collective preventive actions.
“that the other objective of the protest is to project to the international community, a picture of an unstable country as part of the grand design to intimidate the government and seek patronage of the bigger sponsors of the planned protest”.
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC), has incorporated the National Identification Number (NIN) into digital birth registration in Nigeria.
It also says that the new e-birth registration will give a child an identity and the opportunity to be a Nigerian citizen.
UNICEF child protection specialist Denis Onoise stated these in an interview in Lagos, on the sideline of a two-day media dialogue on e-birth registration in the South-West held in Lagos.
According to Mr Onoise, the e-birth registration certificate will automatically generate and secure NIN for such a child. Therefore, he urged parents to ensure that their children were registered digitally, as it would be useful during school enrollment or visa or international passport applications.
Mr Onoise added that the e-birth registration could be done immediately after the child’s birth, either by the mother or the father, before such a baby would be discharged from the hospital.
The director of NPC in Lagos, Bamidele Sadiku, said e-birth registration would promote efficient government planning and effective use of resources.
Mr Sadiku said that a well-developed and functioning civil registration system entailed the registration of all vital events, including births and deaths.
He added that e-birth registration would provide an identity that usually enabled access to various basic rights and services as bona fide citizens.
According to him, e-birth registration has the potential to check double registration, identity forgery, and other birth data manipulations.
Mr Sadiku said plans were underway by the government to launch e-birth registration in five states, with the target of capturing 928,523 birth registrations of under-five children in Southern Nigeria before the end of the year.
Leaders of the organised Labour have confirmed accepting the N70,000 minimum wage President Bola Tinubu approved for Nigerian workers.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information, had told State House correspondents that the president announced the offer at a meeting with the labour leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, on Thursday.
Briefing reporters after the meeting, Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said the unions had accepted the offer.
Flanked by Comrade Festus Usifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other representatives of Nigerian workers, who attended the meeting, Ajaero said the unions agreed to the offer because of other incentives attached.
He said another reason for accepting the offer is because the president promised a review every three years as against what obtained in the past.
Pomp and pageantry, coupled with ecstacy reigned supreme in Imo State as the Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA), Owerri branch, elected erudite scholar, Barr. Chris Ihentuge as chairmen in a keenly contested election.
Barr. Ihentuge emerged victorious with 119 votes while his opponent, Mazi Udegbulem, secured 92 votes
respectively. The enthusiastic event saw lawyers cast their votes to elect new officers for key positions within the branch.
In the race for the position of Publicity Secretary, Franklin Amandi emerged as the winner with 123 votes, while his opponent, Ewelike Nnadozie, secured 78 votes. There were 8 invalid votes in this category.
Nneoma Iwu clinched the position of Treasurer, garnering 129 votes against Anulika Okoro’s 81 votes. Only 1 vote was declared invalid in the treasurer’s contest.
The battle for the Social Secretary position was closely contested between Onyinye Ugbogu and Chinenye Akaah. Ugbogu emerged victorious with 103 votes, while Akaah received 97 votes. The Social Secretary’s election had 10 invalid votes.
The newly elected officers are expected to assume their positions immediately and serve for the next two years.
The NBA Owerri Branch expressed its commitment to work with the new leadership to advance the interests of lawyers and promote the rule of law in the state.
Speaking, the new NBA chairman, Owerri branch, Barr. Ihentuge commended members for trusting his ability to steer the ship of the association.
He promised not to disappoint and rather bring his wealth of experience, accumen and dexterity in piloting the affairs of this noble profession.
Barr Ihentuge stressed that in this contest, every body is a winner and urged his opponent to join hands with him and work assiduously and conscentiously for a brighter future for the association..
His words, “I appreciate you all for the enormous support and tenacity of purpose. We all are winners, i call on my opponent to join hands with me to lift Imo NBA to greater heights. God is with us and we shall emerge victorious in rendering selfless services to the association and the Nation”
In his comment, the outgoing Chairman, Barr. Ugochukwu Allinor commended the newly elected officers and urged them to build on the successes recorded during his tenure. He also thanked the members of the branch for their support and participation in the electoral process.
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It was a Tragedy on Ikot Ekpene Road in Aba, Abia State, as a Sienna vehicle operated by Akwa Ibom Integrated Transport had a head-on collision with a tipper truck loaded with sharp sand, resulting in the death of all 7 passengers on board.
The incident which happened at Okpakiri, Ikot Ekpene Road has left families and loved ones in mourning.
The cause of the accident is still unknown and under investigation.
Many speculations has been making rounds over the weekend concerning the disrespectful comments made against the Nigeria super eagles coach Finidi George by Osimen. Now the super eagles coach has debunked the rumours of attack on the person of Osimen.
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has responded to the recent accusations made by Napoli forward Victor Osimhen in a viral video.
In an interview with Nigerian journalist Colins Udoh, according to ABN TV, Finidi George expressed his disappointment in Osimhen’s approach, stating that the player should have reached out to him directly to verify the allegations before going public.
His words; “Osimhen should have reached out to me first to find out if I did say what I was alleged to have said, rather than going public with such disrespect.”
Finidi George’s response comes after Osimhen accused him of making certain comments, which the player perceived as disrespectful.
The former coach’s remarks have sparked a heated debate in the Nigerian football community, with many calling for a resolution to the issue.
The exchange has raised questions about the relationship between coaches and players in the Super Eagles setup and the need for effective communication to avoid such public disputes.
