We will Hand Ahịa Ọhụrụ Lines 1 & 2 Over to Traders Before Christmas – Okiyi

-Government to Subsidise Shops for the First 100 Traders

The Abia State Honorable Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, has said the Government of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu will work to ensure that the remodeled Ahịa Ọhụrụ Lines 1 and 2 is handed over to traders before Christmas.

The Commissioner also said that the State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has promised to subsidise the shops to the tune of N50m for the first 100 traders that will return to the shops, assuring that the sum has already been set aside. He further assured that the Governor will personally hand over the allocation papers to the traders at a date to be announced soon.

Chief Okiyi stated this when he met and interacted with Ahịa Ọhụrụ traders and other market leaders during a Town Hall meeting organized by the ministry of trade and investment at the Hotel Du Golf, Aba.

He pledged that traders displaced as a result of the demolition of the market would be given preferential treatment when the allocation begins as the Governor has directed that none of them should lose their shop.

The Commissioner reiterated Governor Ikpeazu’s commitment to leave a lasting impact in Aba and Abia State as a whole assuring that Port Harcourt, Ngwa, Ohanku, Obohia and other ongoing road projects in Aba would be completed.

The Commissioner emphasized the importance of Port Harcourt Road to Ahịa Ọhụrụ market and said that work would commence there next week. He bemoaned the impact of heavy rainfall this year which halted the pace of work on different road projects currently ongoing across the city, describing it as natural occurrence beyond human control.

“Our hardworking traders should exercise more patience as Governor Ikpeazu has resolved to complete all ongoing projects in consonance with his promise not to abandon any project started by his administration”, he said.

Responding, the traders who expressed appreciation to the government for organizing the meeting to update them on such critical matters affecting them restated their support to the Governor Ikpeazu-led administration and promised to continue to work with the developer handling the Ahịa Ọhụrụ project to ensure that the remodelling process is completed on time.

The meeting also had in attendance Special adviser to the governor on Trade and Investment, Hon Kalu A. Orji, the MD of Peacock Urban Regeneration Corporation Ltd (developers), Dr. Uju Anusionwu, Chairman of Ngwa Road Market Committee, Mr Chijindu Ojogho and Hon. James Ochunkwo, among others.

IKPEAZU: We are confident in You, - PDP Abiriba


The stakeholders forum of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Abiriba chapter has expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu.

Rising from a meeting of the chapter at Ugwuezi, Abiriba, the forum in a communiqué took particular notice of the various infrastructural and human capital development projects of the governor that has in no small measure impacted the economic growth of Abiriba people.

The communiqué eulogised the sterling qualities and support of the wife of the governor with particular note of her support for women and the girl child.

The statement further expressed appreciation to the deputy governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu for his loyalty and support to the governor as he pilots the affairs of the State.

The forum went further to appreciate the governor for re-assigning their son Chief John Okiyi Kalu to the ministry of trade and investment as well as the appointment of other sons and daughters of Abiriba into various positions in government.

Furthermore, the forum passed a vote of confidence on the executive chairman of Ohafia LGA Dr Okorafor Ukiwe for his leadership and achievements at the local government, adding that capable and qualified members of PDP Abiriba will
contest all positions zoned to Abia North and the local government especially the Arochukwu / Ohafia federal Constituency House of Representatives position which is naturally zoned to Abiriba.

Finally, the forum urged the ministry of works Abia State to intervene and fix the dilapidated portions of the Ugwu Court road in Abiriba as well as complete the ring road project to enable her people enjoy the yuletide without hardship.

Everyone smokes, not legalising weed in Nigeria is hypocritical – Burna Boy

Popular Nigerian music star, Burna Boy has said that hypocrisy is why marijuana is yet to be legalised in Nigeria

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/10/everyone-smokes-not-legalising-weed-in.html

Alleged N4.6bn Fraud: Court Awards N.2m Fine Against Ex-Minister, Fani-Kayode

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/10/alleged-n46bn-fraud-court-awards-n2m.html

NACA Boss Hails Ikpeazu's Commitment to Eradicating HIV/AIDS in Abia

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has promised to pool resources together with the US Mission and National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, NACA, towards mounting agressive advocacy for the eradication of HIV/AIDS in the State.

The Governor who stated this when he received a delegation of the US Deputy Chief of Mission, Mrs Kathleen FitzGibbon and the Director General, National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS (NACA), Dr Aliyu Gambo at Government House, Umuahia, promised to deploy the same zeal he has brought to the health sector of the State to battle the HIV/AIDS scourge headlong.

The Governor declared that the State must ramp up HIV test as well as other curative interventions that would lead to eradication of the scourge.

He added that the State would mobilize all the necessary platforms in order to beat the 18 months deadline given by the team as target to bring HIV/AIDS under control.

Governor Ikpeazu used the forum to call on the US Deputy Chief of Mission to continue to support Abia in its quest to win the war against HIV/AIDS.

While highlighting some of his innovative interventions in the health sector including the tele-health initiative, geriatric outreach and mother & child hospital, the Governor noted that these interventions account for the minimal cases of Covid-19 infections in the state.

Earlier, the US Deputy Chief of Mission, Mrs Kathleen FitzGibbon said that they were in Nigeria partnering the Federal and State Governments in pooling resources together towards reducing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the county even as the disease is no longer a death sentence.

She urged the state government to mount advocacy aimed at eliminating stigma against carriers, increase HIV awareness coverage and encourage people with the infection to willingly come out to access treatment.

Also speaking, the Director General, NACA, Dr Aliyu Gambo said that Abia has remained one of the strategic partners of the federal government in the fight against HIV/AIDS as it has been active in the payment of its counterpart funding.

He thanked the Governor for sustaining support for the program including providing office space for NACA and assured that joining hands with the US and Abia State governments, they would achieve epidemic control in the State.

The Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Mr Chris Ezem, the Head of Service (HOS), Sir Onyii Wamah, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Professor ACB Agbazuere, Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, and his Health counterpart, Dr Joe Osuji, Deputy Chief of Staff (Office of the Deputy Governor), Sir Don Ubani, among other government functionaries were present during the visit.

PHOTOS: Chinwetalu Agu released from DSS custody

Veteran actor Chinwetalu Agu released from DSS custody

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/10/photos-chinwetalu-agu-released-from-dss.html

IPOB sit-at-home: Again, commercial activities grounded in Owerri

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/10/ipob-sit-at-home-again-commercial.html

Man Arrested for Masterminding Own ‘Robbery’ of N3 Million


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2023: INC intensifies call for the arrest of Sheikh Gum


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BREAKING: APGA Lawmaker Defects to PDP in Abia



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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/10/breaking-apga-lawmaker-defects-to-pdp.html

The Honourable Member Representing Aba North and South in the National Assembly, Hon. Chimaobi Ebisike has expressed concern over the alleged sexual assault of an Abia Polythenic female student by a police officer.

The lawmaker who expressed dissatisfaction over the development, called on the Abia State Commissioner of Police and Aba Area Commander to carry out a thorough investigation with a view to bring the culprit to book.
He sternly warned the RRS unit of the Nigerian Police in Aba, to discharge their duties according to the Federal Government directives, rather than humiliating, intimidating, or extorting from the good and hardworking people of Aba.

Ebisike also extolled the wife of the governor, Dr. Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu for her prompt intervention, especially for visiting the sexually abused girl who was receiving treatment in a hospital.

While sympathising with the family, the lawmaker advised the young girl, not to allow the ugly incident break or traumatise her.

Hon. Ebisike who was the Chairman of the Committee set up by the State government to ascertain the level of damage caused by the Endsars protest in October last year, recalled that properties and businesses of Aba residents worth billions of naira were destroyed. He therefore advised Abia Polytechnic students on the need to explore other democratic means in resolving complains.
Chief Hon. Chimaobi Ebisike expressed concern that while it is their right to protest, it could be hijacked by certain elements and endanger the purpose. He further said that he has made himself totally accessible to everyone by the means of his liaison office located at No. 79 Okigwe road, where complaints can be brought to his notice for proper follow-up, utilizing the capacity of his good office, to avoid endangering the lives and properties of the good people of Aba during protests that can be hijacked.

Ogugbue Chukwudi KT
Legislative Aide
HMHR Aba North and South Federal Constituency.

Government Special Announcement

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has approved the commencement of phased redevelopment of Ariaria International Market, Aba, from Sunday, 5th September, 2021.

Recall that the administration has made several efforts to reconstruct the 47-year old market in order to tackle its age-long structural issues with many of the shops as well as provide the necessary modern infrastructure to deal with the perennial flooding challenges particularly with A-Line while delivering other amenities like befitting car parks, conveniences, beautification of the surroundings, improved fire fighting capacity and such other facilities to our traders.

A cabal in the market that had been profiting from its current state had sought to place unnecessary legal and other obstacles on the path of government’s efforts and had hampered previous attempts at commencing works in the market in April 2021, but in the interest of overwhelming public good, we are compelled to go ahead with redevelopment efforts in one of the foremost markets in the country.

In recent days, different social media platforms have been inundated with uncomplimentary videos of flooded A-Line that obviously also endangers traders and shoppers alike while bringing the government into public odium. No responsible government will, in the face of such images making the rounds on social media, sit back and watch without taking appropriate actions to deliver the much needed solution as quickly as possible.

Consequently, after a final consultative meeting with stakeholders of Ariaria International Market on Tuesday, 24th August, 2021, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has approved the phased redevelopment of the market as follows:

1. Traders currently doing business along A-Line, C-Line and Medical Line are to relocate from their shops on or before close of business on Saturday, 4th September, 2021 to enable the commencement of work the following day, Sunday, 5th September, 2021.

2. Those affected are to temporarily relocate to Ekumi Shopping plaza or other available shops within the market.

3. The developers have committed to completing the required work in the phase which includes establishment of proper drainage channels within the affected lines, construction of new shops and parks, before the first week of December 2021.

4. Abia state government will through subsequent press releases publish the names of existing shop allottees who are guaranteed of their return to the reconstructed shops after completion of the first phase. It is important to state that no existing shop allottee will lose his/her shop after the work.

5. Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is expected to personally hand back new allocation papers to all the existing allottees on Friday, 5th December, 2021.

6. Trading activities are expected to continue in other lines that are not affected by the first phase of the redevelopment project while the appointed developers, Messrs Blessed Henkel International Company, are expected to work with the market committee and security agents to ensure full security within the market during the period of redevelopment.

Government wishes to assure traders that it will work to ensure minimal disruptions to trading activities while executing this project which has now been made more urgent and crucial because of the recent flooding forecast from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, NiMet.

We will also not in any way tolerate any attempt by any individual or group to disrupt the planned work as we have consulted widely enough and given enough grace period, long before now, for alternative solutions which never yielded any meaningful result.

Finally, we solicit the understanding and support of all Abians as we restate our commitment to delivering a modern market to our people.

Thank you.

Chief John Okiyi Kalu
Honorable Commissioner for Information, Abia State
28/08/2021

HON PRINCESS PEACE NWOBILO EXTOLS ALWEL ASIFORO OKERE

The Deputy Chairman of Aba South Local Government, Hon Princess Peace Nwobilor has felicitated with Rt.Hon Asiforo Okor, The Chairman of People's Democratic Party in Abia State as he marks his 57th Birthday Anniversary.

The Deputy Chairman said Rt. Hon Alwel Asiforo Okere has become a force to reckon with among the PDP family in Abia, saying his contributions to the development of the party over the years are legion.

Hon Princess Peace Nwobilo who eulogised Asiforo for his unique leadership qualities, said his likes are needed to move the PDP family forward.

"I join millions of Abians today to celebrate an illustrious son of ours, ALWEL ASIFORO OKERE* who turns 57

"I am particularly delighted and proud of Hon Alwel Asiforo Okere, who is one of the trailblazers of the PDP in Abia, for what he has achieved individually and collectively over the years.

"He is a shining star. A man of honour who has his people at heart. He possesses a lot of qualities that our upcoming politicians should emulate.

"I pray that the Almighty will continue to protect and guide this great mind as he continues to do good things for the people of Abia and other Nigerians," the Deputy Chairman said.

IKPEAZU COMMISSIONS BRAND NEW COTTAGE HOSPITAL AT NKPORO, OHAFIA LGA

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has commissioned the newly constructed Nkporo Cottage Hospital in Ohafia Local Government Area of the State to provide adequate secondary healthcare for the people at the grassroots.

Commissioning the Cottage hospital as part of the Governor's 'Kinetic Abia' Project Inspection and Commissioning, Governor Ikpeazu said the facility is fully equipped with mother & care facilities, radiant warmers, ultra sound machines, incubators, a modern theatre that can undertake orthopedic surgeries, laboratory facilities and 24 hours solar power. He said the management structure of the hospital is such that the medical personnel are indigenes of the Community who must reside within the community.

Governor Ikpeazu, who urged indigenes of Nkporo and Ohafia LGA to leverage on the establishment of the hospital to provide medical services to their people,said that they should support the hospital with their expertise. He announced that the hospital would have a Management Board comprising members of the Nkporo Development Union, the Youths and the Women of Nkporo to enable have a sense of ownership of the hospital.

The Governor disclosed that the State Government will support the hospital with a monthly subvention, and promised to commence the building of staff quarters and donate ambulance for the facility as well as absorb the staff into the State Hospital Management Board (HMB) and retain them in the hospital.

Also speaking, the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, who is an indigene of the benefiting community said the Governor has changed the narrative in healthcare in Nkporo. He said his people are full of joy for the giant strides of the Governor in his community. He saluted the Governor for ensuring that the medical facilities in the hospital are comparable to what is obtainable in modern hospitals and assured that they will own the hospital and protect it.

Contributing, the Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Honorable Uko Nkole and Member, representing Ohafia North at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mandela Obasi lauded the Governor for his efforts in remembering those in the rural areas by building the facility. They said the people are excited over the provision of the hospital that would serve the healthcare needs of the people.
Hon. Uko Nkole specifically thanked the Governor for the ongoing construction of a similar medical facility at Abam, Arochukwu LGA.

Speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joe Osuji informed that the hospital has all that is needed for a hospital to function effectively including all the departments and trained personnel to manage it. He said the hospital would give the people affordable and accessible healthcare and charged the community authorities to take the facility as their own and secure it

Dr. Osuji said the Governor is providing an ultra modern pediatric hospital, Mother & Child Healthcare Centre and is renovating Schools of Nursing in the State, including the recent award of contract for the construction of 100 bed building project in the School of Midwifery, Amachara, Umuahia. He added the efforts of the Governor in the healthcare is a sign that health center delivery in the State will get a boost

In their speeches, the Executive Chairman of Ohafia LGA, Dr. Okoroafor Ukiwe and the President, Nkporo Development Union, Chief Benjamin Imeri thanked the Governor for many things done for the Nkporo community including changing their stories of bad road networks for good. They appreciated the Governor for commissioning their road and training youths of the area in different skills to contribute to the development of the State and the provision of the hospital. They assured that the people would protect the facility.

All the Chairmen of the Local Government Areas in Abia North also spoke at the event and hailed the Governor for his people oriented activities.

Also, the Chairman, Nigeria Medical Association, Abia State, Dr Chimezie Okwuonu affirmed that the hospital would help in reducing infant mortality and will provide health care for the people at the grassroots saying that the people would no longer travel to far places for medical services

Highlights of the occasion was the conferment of the Chieftaincy Title of AHAINYI on the Governor by the Abia North Council of the Traditional Rulers led by its Chairnan, Eze Uwakwe Ukaegbu.

The event attracted an array of dignitaries from across the State, including the Secretary to Government, Barrister Chris Ezem, State Chairman of the PDP, Rt Hon Asiforo Okere, present and serving members of the National and State Assemblies and a host of political leaders especially from Abia North.

HON CHIMAOBI EBISIKE HMHR SHOWS GRATITUDE TO THE WIFE OF ABIA GOVERNOR DEACONESS NKECHI IKPEAZU .

The Honourable Member Representing Aba North and South at the Federal House of Representatives, Hon Chief Chimaobi Ebisike said that no one achieves success without acknowledging the help of others.

He stated this at Umuobiakwa when he paid a thank you visit to the wife of the Governor of Abia State, Deaconess Nkechi lkpeazu Phd in the company of his adorable wife Mrs Ijeoma Ebisike.

Addressing the wife of the Governor, the Federal lawmaker described her as his mother and destiny helper sent by God to achieve his destiny faster.

He used the opportunity to inform the wife of the Governor of his political journey in the last 3 months in office which includes securing employment opportunities to some youths in his constituency, maintaining and consolidating unity in his constituency, promised to build a 4 class room block at Osusu community junior secondary school which will commence next week Monday, organised a unique thank you meeting for the party, extended his thank you visits to the churches and heads of security outfits within his constituency and a lot more for their supports during the Bye-Election.

Adding her voice also, the wife of the Honorable Member, Mrs. Ijeoma Ebisike said she was overwhelmed with joy at the love showed on her husband by the Governor, Okezie Victor lkpeazu by handing over the responsibility of representing Aba North and South at the National Assembly while praying for God's continued guidance on the Governor and his wife Mrs Nkechi Ikpeazu.

Responding, the wife of the Governor and Mother of Abia state Deaconess Nkechi lkpeazu PhD applauded the federal lawmaker for his large heart within 3 months in office and encouraged him to make the people his priority.

The wife of the Deputy Governor of Abia state, Lady Vivian Ude Oko Chukwu and Umunwanyi Da Nkechi was present at the visit, and the event featured the donation of wrappers to the women (Umunwanyi Da Nkechi) by the honorable member.

Ebisike Media Team

BREAKING: Okorocha Loses Properties, Court Rules.


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HMHR Chief Chimaobi Ebisike Starts with Rehabilitation of Classrooms in Osusu Junior Secondary Aba North.

Today The Honourable Member House of Representatives Aba North and South Federal Constituency, visited Osusu Primary School complex housing the primary School 1 and 2, Osusu junior Secondary School and senior Secondary School. During the visit it was identified that the Junior Secondary School, Osusu Aba has dilapidated classroom blocks. HMHR, Chief Chimaobi Ebisike promised to renovate and provide basic amenities to enable efficient school tutelage to continue in the school.

It must be noted that HMHR Chimaobi Ebisike representing the good and hardworking people of Aba North and South Federal Constituency studied in Osusu Primary School. Osusu Aba is his indigenous home as well. To that effect he believes that, his first democratic dividends should be dispensed at the school. He pledged that starting from Monday, the 16th of August, after school closure in Abia State, work will resume in earnest to the effect of ensuring the 4 classrooms will be in perfect shape to accommodate school management and teaching.

In their response, the school management gleefully rejoiced and thanked HMHR Chimaobi Ebisike profusely stating that they have tried severally to ensure that the classrooms are put in order but God has answered their prayers through HMHR of Aba North and South Federal Constituency.

We will deliver.

Kenneth Tuga Ogugbue
Legislative Aide
Aba North and South Federal Constituency 2021.

*Aba South Deputy Chairman Felicitates Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu on August Meeting*


The Deputy Chairman Aba South LGA, Hon. Princess Peace Nwaobilor felicitates the Wife of the Governor of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu Ph.D on the auspicious occasion of 2021 edition of August Meeting.

The Deputy Chairman heartily commends the wife of the Governor for her generosity towards Abia women and her effort in ensuring that the cherished cultures of Ndi-Igbo especially those values associated with the wonderful women of Abia extraction are not lost in the turbulent period of civilization.

The Deputy Chairman considers August meeting as a rallying point for Abia and Igbo women to come together to re-evaluate and re-invigorate those values that distinguish Igbo women.

Princess Nwaobilor, therefore, called on all Abia women to support the effort of Her. Excellency Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu even as she continues to be a great pillar of support to Abia Women in particular and Ndị Igbo in general.

She also urges them to use the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas on better ways, in their supporting role, to help in strengthening their families, since it is the bedrock of the society.

The Deputy Chairman commended the Wife of the Governor for her numerous empowerment programs for Abia women, the numerous Housing projects embarked upon by the wife of the Governor which has contributed in no small measure towards uplifting Abia indigent women.

Princess Nwaobilor prayed for more wisdom and God's sustainance on the life of Mrs. Ikpeazu as she continues to be a great role model for women of Abia extraction and Ndị Igbo in general.

Kinetic Abia: Understanding the Ndiegoro Flood Control Project in Aba
(Part 2)

-John Okiyi Kalu

12. It is important to note that the World Bank financial intervention in this Ndiegoro project is a loan as against a grant. The implication is that Abia State Government will pay back the portion of the money invested by the bank on the basis of agreed terms. When you review the debt profile of the state and see a spike, it is because of this project and other necessary similar interventions. It is also wrong for unscrupulous politicians and their hirelings to claim that the project is not a state government project because it is the state government (on behalf of the people of the state) that is ultimately paying while World Bank is only bridging a funding gap.

13. After winning his landslide re-election in 2019, Governor Ikpeazu moved again to get the Ndiegoro project commenced. By the end of that year he received assurances that all was done, dusted and just a matter of few months before the funds would be provided. His government subsequently paid the required counterpart fund as agreed and he smartly paused further work along Port Harcourt Road, which was then state funded, to allow for synchronization of its storm water management plan with that of the World Bank project which is expected to intersect with parts of Port Harcourt Road. Note that not all of Port Harcourt Road fall within the scope of the World Bank project but the storm water management must align to deliver a lasting solution to the Ndiegoro area.

14. In March 2020, the government of Dr Ikpeazu unveiled its total plan for the Ndiegoro area including the following:

a. Reconstruction of Ngwa, Uratta and Obohia Roads as part of the World Bank project.

b. Reconstruction of Ohanku and Cemetery Roads with drains, to be funded by the state government to align drains and also end flooding of Cemetery market, provide good access road along Ohanku Road which was left in a mess by APGA and remains in very terrible state. Those two projects will have drains that will flow into the mega underground drain envisaged with the World Bank project so the pace of work of the state funded projects must align with the emergency project of the global funding institution.

c. Establishment of underground drainage system using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) for the first time anywhere in Nigeria to ensure that houses along the path of the NEWMAP drainages are not knocked down within the high population density areas of the city.

d. Connection of Ngwa Road to Opobo junction area of Ogbor Hill to ease traffic on waterside bridge which the state government undertook and is funding.

e. Reconstruction of Ngwa Road market in phases to ensure safety and protection of the traders as part of the mega efforts to bring about a new city within the area popularly called “azu Aba” (back of Aba or Aba slum).

15. In May 2020, while the country was battling with COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu announced that the contract for the Aba Emergency Flood Mitigation works for Uratta and Umuagbai flood plains project has been awarded at the contract sum of N27.4b and that work was expected to commence with the leading contractor being Hartland Construction Company, a division of Setraco Construction Company that won the international bidding process supervised by the Workd Bank itself.

16. Recall that in March 2017, the World Bank supervised a transition from "statement of expenditure" (SOE) accounting method to the "interim financial report" (IFR) method. The IFR requires that each state "project management unit(PMU) submits a request for funding based on projections on activities that had received a "No Objection" from the World Bank. Under this "result based disbursement" (RBD) pattern, Abia state NEWMAP like all other state PMUs made a submission which included projections for the Aba Flood Mitigation Works and all on-going/outstanding works. In May 2017 Abia State got $54.4m dollars from this RBD in addition to the replenishment of a little less than $2m already in her account. This money was deposited in the Abia State NEWMAP account. Every expenditure by Abia NEWMAP since May 2017 has been from this account. The World Bank and the Federal Government have audited this account annually till date. The World Bank approved the award of the Uratta and Ndiegoro Flood Mitigation contract based on this fund and have recently noted the balance in the said account and what will be required to complete the project and all outstanding commitments.

17. For emphasis, the fund for the Ndiegoro project had been deposited in a project account which can only be drawn according to agreed milestones with World Bank approval. Indeed, the state government cannot access the money, even if she wants to, as only a “no objection certificate” from the World Bank will authorize the bank to release any part of the fund. With this arrangement, only a criminally minded person will falsely claim that the government misappropriated money from that account.

18. The planned duration of the Aba Emergency Flood Mitigation works is 30 months with the contract signed April 30th, 2020 and the site handed over to the contractor on the 6th of June, 2020.

19. With the raging COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent EndSARS protests, it was not until January 2021 that effective work started along Ngwa and Obohia Roads. The global consequence of the pandemic unfortunately ensured that a key equipment required by the contractors, TBM, which had never been used anywhere in Nigeria before now, couldn’t be imported into the country by the contractors as planned.

20. The original emergency works were designed as underground drainage channels to be constructed by means of open cuts and backfill along sections of Uratta, Port Harcourt, Obohia and Ngwa Roads. This had a huge implication for demolishing of virtually all buildings on both sides of these roads to achieve the required depths for gravity flow. Such demolitions carried grave cost implications for compensations which neither the state government nor the World Bank could bear. To avoid this, the option of using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) was introduced.

21. The delay by the contractor in acquiring the TBM is subject of recent review by the World Bank project team. The primary issue is the execution of civil works by the contractors appointed by World Bank, Hartland and NBHH of United Arab Emirates. Absolutely nothing about state government mismanagement was on the table or discussed at all as such does not exist. Yet, the direct engagement of Governor Ikpeazu with the World Bank team in Abuja on Thursday smoothened the grey areas and generated alternative courses to deliver the project.

22. For the avoidance of doubt, the World Bank has not terminated the N27.4b contract. Any information to that effect is coming from the same crowd that never wanted the project to take off in the first place just because of their own selfish political reasons.

23. To those who may not know, hence engage in propaganda of spreading fake news and false narratives, each state expresses interest in any multilateral agency intervention according to their needs in writing, then goes on to meet the funding and implementation requirements which include the payment of counterpart funds among others. NEWMAP, RAMP, which is now RAAMP, FADAMA, CSDP, which is now CSDA, ABSACA etc are some of the programs which the state indicated interest in. NEWMAP was literally dying and could not implement any of her civil works until Dr Okezie Ikpeazu came on board and started providing the much-needed counterpart funds for compensation activities. Today there are over 10 of such World Bank assisted programs running in Abia state.

24. Prior to the coming of Governor Ikpeazu in 2015, it was difficult for the state to participate in these programs because of several challenges which the Governor has been able to tackle thus creating the needed room for the programs to flourish in the State.

25. The current efforts being explored by Abia state government in the Ndiegoro project with active support of the World Bank is to find alternative ways of achieving the desired results of evacuating storm water from these flood plains within the time left for NEWMAP as a program to end nationally. The deployment of the Tunnel Boring Machine has been bugged by several de-facto force majeure incidents like the global lockdown due to COVID-19 for the greater part of 2020 and the #EndSARS protests that followed on its heels.

Conclusion

I have taken time to detail all these because of the tendency of professional politicians and political professionals to mislead and obsfucate facts to achieve their anti-Abia political objectives. Indeed, there is nothing I’ve stated here that is not available within the public sphere in the state and only those conspiring to punish the people of Abia State for their political choice in 2015 and 2019 will claim ignorance or attempt to use subterfuge to sabotage the project of the people of the state.

The people of Aba South State Constituency and Ndi Abia in general must now rally round Governor Ikpeazu to reciprocate his goodwill, that of his government and party, the PDP, of focusing on delivering to them in the midst of several attempts at distracting him and sabotaging the Ndiegoro project by those who obviously do not mean well for them and the state.

There is absolutely no cause for alarm except that our people must remain alert and prayerful against the devices of the enemies of progress.

Thank you.

-John Okiyi Kalu is an Aba boy and citizen of Abia State

Abia Emerges Best in Implementation of COVID-19 Vaccination in South East

Abia State has been rated the best in the entire Southeast Nigeria in the implementation of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19.

This was made known by the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Faisal Shuaib during the Covid-19 rollout vaccination review meeting held on Friday, July 16 at the NCDC Emergency Operation Centre (EOC), Abia State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ABSPHCDA) premises in Umuahia.

The Executive Director/CEO who was represented by a senior officer of the Agency, Dr Sam Obasi said apart from Abia performing best in the Southeast in the implementation of the AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19, the State also emerged the 7th best in the entire federation in the exercise. He therefore extolled the Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu and the Abia State Primary Health Care Development Agency led by Dr Chinagozi Adindu for their accomplishments in the exercise.

Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) through its representative, Mrs Ogechi Chigbo, had commended Nigeria generally for the effective management and utilization of the 4 million doses of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine she received saying that the vaccine remains a potent tool for combating the spread of the virus.

Ikpeazu Charges Stakeholders to Sustain and Improve Gains Made in Education

Abia State Ministry of Education has been challenged to rise up to its co-ordinating responsibility that will build stronger synergy amongst the major stakeholders in the education sector so as to align with the global vision of producing children capable of being society's desirable leaders of tommorow.

The State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu who gave the charge during a meeting with education managers in the state at his Aba Lodge identified capacity building, conducive learning environment and harmony among the education stakeholders as the leading factors toward the vision of bequeathing qualitative education for Abia children by his administration.

He noted that the setting up of the Continuing Education Center for teachers training, renovation of about 700 classroom blocks, building of four model schools, procurement of smart boxes to enable Abia State Universal Education Board (ASUBEB) start up with the digital teaching platform for Abia children were all aimed at equipping the school children for their future endeavours and enable them compete favourably with their peers.

Governor Ikpeazu revealed that plans have already been concluded to establish a Garment Factory within the year in addition to Enyimba Automated Shoe Factory which will produce uniforms and shoes for the school children describing them as motivations towards realizing and sustaining high public school enrollment which the State's School Feeding Programme has achieved.

He also reminded the stakeholders of the need to adopt innovations and technological ways of teaching that will expose the children to the current and dynamic learning trends of today's world adding that education is a pillar and enabler to any career which his administration recognized and adopted even to the point of formalizing artisanal shoe making. He therefore encouraged them to toe the same path.

Contributing, the Deputy Governor, Sir Udo Oko Chukwu expressed appreciation to the Governor for the immense interest he has shown towards improving the education sector which he described as a paradigm shift to the global challenge, and encouraged the education stakeholders to complement these efforts by restructuring the school system of the state.

In their separate speeches, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Mr Eze Ajuzie, the Executive Secretary Secondary Education Management Board Umuahia, Mr Christopher Osuagwu, the representative of ASUBEB chairman - Elder Ogunta Nwogu and the Chairman, Continuing Teachers Training Center, Lady Ngozi Nwogwugwu explained some of the steps taken by their respective organs towards improving education system in the state and assured of their greater commitment going forward.

The session featured a documentary presentation captioned "Leave No Child" based on Governor Ikpeazu's strides in the education sector, by Miss Nneka Orji while Commissioners for Information, Health, Works and the Chief of Staff to the Governor were present during the stakeholders meeting.

BREAKING NEWS: FEDERAL HIGH COURT ORDERS INEC TO PUBLISH VALENTINE OZIGBO AS PDP CANDIDATE

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/breaking-news-federal-high-court-orders.html

Lai Mohammed denies begging Obi Cubana for money

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/lai-mohammed-denies-begging-obi-cubana.html

Electronic Transmission of Election Result: See names of Senators who Voted YES & NAY


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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/electronic-transmission-of-election.html

PRESS RELEASE: *Any Attempt to Impeach Princess, You will have us to Contend with - Aba Women for Good Governance*


We have received reports on plans by the Chairman Aba South LGA Hon. Clinton Ebere to illegally impeach his Deputy Hon. Princess Nwaobilor from office over issues rocking the council for months now.


We gathered intelligence that the chairman will be meeting with some councilors to begin the process of impeachment of his Deputy, even after the Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has called for calm and urged both parties to partner for the progress of the Local Government Area.

This is rather a surprising and very disturbing development that would hinder efforts to make peace and bring progress for the wellbeing of Ndị Aba la ohazu.

We are using this medium to send a Motherly note of warning to the Chairman to let peace reign and also appeal to the conscience of our Councilors to note the following:


1. That We want a thorough investigation into the Allegation of sexual harassment made by Women of the council against the Chairman


2. That the allegations of sexual harassment is weighty, and we must protect our Daughters, Mothers and Sister's from being sexually harassed.


3. That any attempt to impeach the Deputy Chairman will be resisted as the Women of Aba will ensure it does not happen. We are ready to protest naked to ensure this does not happen.


4. We wish to put our Councilors on notice that the issue at stake is one of importance to us as Mothers. Protecting our Daughters from individuals who would seek to take undue advantage of them.


5. We wish to restate our support to our Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu and appreciate him for his timely intervention on this issue. We are committed to his administration's effort to move Aba forward through his many developmental projects in Aba.


6. We have also read the Statement from the Member Representing us at the State House of Assembly Hon. Obinna Ichita, also calling for Police investigation into the Allegation of sexual harassment made by Women of the council against the Chairman, we align with him totally as this will help restore confidence in our system. We appreciate his support.


7. Our Councilors should not be used or allow themselves to be used to advance Personal political goals of an individual. Our Councilors Must protect the image of our Council. It is a Duty they must do.


8. As Mothers, we see our children especially our Daughters who may be vulnerable due to societal pressure, we are worried that they may be taken advantage of by individuals who do not wish them well.

9. A Mothers, we are calling on our Children and the People of Aba, to help us protect their Sisters from being sexually harassed.


10. Finally, We are calling on the police to investigate this weighty Allegations.


Signed

Mrs. Ngozi Jolly
Lady Goodness Chigbu
Mrs. Rebecca Dennis
Mrs. Kalu Oluchi Kalu

BREAKING: Unkown Gunmen attack police station, injure three Police officers


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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/breaking-unknown-gunmen-attack-police.html

PHOTOS:
Youths arrested in Dunamis Church for wearing ‘Buhari Must Go’ shirts

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/youths-arrested-in-dunamis-church-for.html

*PRESS RELEASE: Sexual harassment in Aba South LGA, in Defense of Truth.*


The attention of Aba Women for Good Governance, has been drawn to the news making the rounds on Social and other media platforms in Aba, and Abia in general, on the alleged sexual harassment melted on the Deputy Chairman, Aba South LGA, Hon Princess Peace Nwaobilor by the Chairman Aba south LGA, Hon Clinton Ebere.

We wish to set the record straight and inform our People on the true situation of events.

1. We have it on record that the Honourable Chairman Aba South LGA, Hon. Clinton Ebere, in his quest to silence his Deputy and render her irrelevant in the media and public space, gathered some Bloggers to brief them on issues of personal interest, promised to pay them hugely but eventually reneged on his promise to them.

2. The aggrieved bloggers who felt used by the Chairman published a concocted interview where it was alleged the Deputy Chairman Hon. PRINCESS NWAOBILOR accused the Chairman of Sexually harassing her.

3. We wish to STATE categorically that at NO TIME DID PRINCESS NWAOBILOR GRANT ANY INTERVIEW TO BLOGGERS ACCUSING THE CHAIRMAN OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT, IT WAS THE CHAIRMAN HIMSELF WHO INVITED BLOGGERS TO INTERVIEW HIM.

4. In as much as we don't want to join issues with the chairman and the Blogger whom he failed to pay and who is on a revenge mission against the Chairman, we want to appeal to his conscience to allow a virtuous Woman do the job she was elected by the people of Aba to do.

5. Aba Women are known for good conduct and uprightness and we will not allow our fellow woman to be ridiculed in the game of Politics and in the name of been loyal to the Chairman. She has committed no crime.

6. That the Chairman should see his Deputy as a Partner in progress and not as an adversary.

7. That the Chairman should stop the intimidation of his Deputy, he is not the only Chairman in Abia with a Female Deputy. If this Media harassment by the Chairman continues against his Deputy, we will mobilize other Women of goodwill in Aba and beyond and walk down to Aba town Hall naked, so that he will have a taste of us one after the other since he can't zip up.

8. We have also received a lot of sexual harassment complaints and reports from Women in the Council. This is very disturbing as some of the women have also made same complaints to Party leaders in Aba.

9. We commend the Deputy Chairman Hon. Princess Nwaobilor for her candor in handling the situation so far even as We all await the report of the Committee set up by the Governor to Investigate this issue.

10. Women are known for peace and that is our watch word.

11. We are happy with the performance of Hon. Princess Peace Nwaobilor in her effort to reach out to the women and Aba people in General, our Husbands and children are grateful to her for providing medical assistance to our people and empowering our women.

God bless you.
Long live Aba la ohazu
Long live Aba women
Long live Abia state.

Signed

Mrs. Ngozi Jolly
Lady Goodness Chigbu
Mrs. Rebecca Dennis
Mrs. Kalu Oluchi Kalu

Photos
Nigerian troops eliminate 28 Boko Haram terrorists along Damaturu-Maiduguri highway

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/nigerian-troops-eliminate-28-boko-haram.html

How Gov. Ikpeazu Battled Deplorable Roads in Aba

Aba was a city synonymous with Its bad roads before Gov. Ikpeazu took charge and changed the narratives of that commercial nerve center, writes *Loveday Chidi*


From the dual carriage way to the inner streets, it is a story of near total neglect and great abandonment as the level of decay was unprecedented and in the full glare of and and sundry.

All sizes of potholes and eroding portions painted part of the ugly story then that residents as well as visitors were left with just one question on their lips, as to when the frustration felt by citizens over the poor network of roads in this all important cosmopolitan city, will likely end.

State-owned roads were just as horrible as the stretches of roads controlled by the federal government. It was a tale of promises delayed or unfulfilled and sometimes, forgotten outrightly.

Everyday, Aba residents groan under those bad roads. Anybody who is just coming to the city for the first time would think that it just came out from a civil war. But this is not the case.

For many, it is simply a case of bad governance or poor leadership or both. It does not matter how big and expensive your car or vehicle is, it can’t stand the daily challenge on these deplorable roads that bedeck the entire city.

Aba Residents spent more on the repairs of their vehicles due to the effect of the bad roads. And because of the state of roads in the city, people now preferred driving Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), which are not even exempted from constant break down.

Some times, petrol tankers and container trucks have fallen at bad portions of the roads with it's resultant gridlock, thereby causing hard times to people and a couple of residents who spoke to Newsmen then, had lamented that many roads had worsened in the city despite the high internal revenue generated by the government

Important roads in this unmotorable state included Immaculate Avenue, Brass, Ngwa Road, Umuola in Ogbor Hill, Aharandu, Chima Nwafor, faulks, Kamalu in Umungasi, MCC, Ovom, Ehere, Omuma, Ohanku, Obiohia, Ariaria, St. Michael, udeagbala, Georges street, Park Roads.


Added to the bad roads is the embarrassing flood seen on a daily basis each time it rains, making movement difficult for motorists. This is usually due to the blockage of channels that make easy flow of water possible.

Above all this, businesses in the city was seriously hit below the belt by the poor condition of roads even as some business owners who couldn't take it again left Aba.

From time to time, people have questioned the whereabouts of the state government. The last time Aba Residents could remember that they enjoyed a semblance of good roads was when the late Sam Mbakwe was in charge of the old Imo state.

Then, many years after. The new administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu came on board, which many had thought will be like other past administrations, was now a ray of hope. Though many criticised him too early with "Thought they said Nwaba ga Aru Aba".

The good news is that today, the story has changed many residents of Aba have continued to express delight with the zeal and efforts of the Ikpeazu's led government to have made the major roads of Aba metropolis to wear a new look.

His first 100 days in Office, while some state governors was being distracted by courtesy visits and attending events, Governor Ikpeazu had one or two projects to showcase. He focused on how to tackle the multifaceted challenges confronting Aba and other parts of the state.

His administration has constructed 160 roads across the state since inauguration in 2015. Over 50 out of the 160 roads constructed are located in Aba including the road mentioned above, while about 105 construction sites are currently active in the state.

His government has maintained the services of reputable road construction companies to ensure quality and high standard of the roads, as the roads constructed by his administration will have at least, 30 years span.

The state in general under Ikpeazu's leadership has witnessed greater development in all sectors and all Ndi Abia need now is to be patient with the governor to deliver his remaining mandate.

I am very confident that the governor will not fail Abians. He has been doing well. Don’t forget that he met the problems facing Abians on ground when he took the mantle of leadership. I am very sure that he will tackle them.

*BREAKING: Hope Uzodinma Seals Rochas Okorocha's Radio Station in Owerri*

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http://www.nigeriatelegraphng.com/2021/07/breaking-hope-uzodinma-seals-rochas.html