ABIA STATE COMMISSIONER FOR INFORMATION AWARDED "GOLDEN PEN IN GOD'S HAND" BY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GOD

Commissioner for Information ABIA STATE, Hon. John Okiyi Kalu was today at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Ehere Model Parish, Umuokahia Congregation conferred with the "Golden Pen In God's Hands" Award during their 2018 Father's Day Celebration held today, Sunday the 17th Day of June, 2018..

The Church as well used medium to appreciate the Executive Governor of the State Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu for reconstructing Ehere Road.. Ehere Road leads to the Presbyterian Church Headquarters, Aba.. The Road which was built to last for Decades with a good drainage system is of great Economic, Social Importance to the City of ABA..

More Details later...

Enyimba FC EMERGING NEW WORLD CLASS STADIUM, IS SECOND LARGEST PLAYING FIELD IN THE WORLD.

New Enyimba Stadium Trivia

Do you know that the playing field of the emerging Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, is the second largest in the world?

It measures 110 x 74 meters whereas Brazil’s Maracana Stadium, which is the largest in the world measures 110 x 78 meters.

#IkpeazuSabiTheWork
JOK

Public Service Information

Abia State Government received with sadness disturbing reports of an unfortunate confrontation between a group of soldiers and police officers at the Osisioma area of Aba earlier today.

We are working with the heads of the concerned security agencies in the state to ensure that the situation, which has been brought under control, does not repeat itself or escalate within the state.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has also directed full investigation of the circumstances that led to the breach of public peace with a view to preventing future occurrence of such armed confrontation that endanger the lives of innocent citizens and security agents working in the state.

While we are currently working with law enforcement agencies to review the immediate and remote cause of the incidence, members of the public are advised to go about their normal duties as the situation around the area has been pacified.

Those responsible for this breach of public peace will certainly be unraveled and punished according the law.

Thank you.

Chief John Okiyi Kalu
Honorable Commissioner For Information

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Sallah: Ikpeazu calls for national peace and understanding

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has called for peace and understanding among Nigerians as Muslims celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitri.

The Governor who made the call in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Enyinnaya Appolos, also called on muslims to pray for the peace and unity of the country.

According the him, “peace which Islam preaches is an absolute necessity for development and all Nigerians should invest in peace as their contribution to rapid socio-economic development in our country.”

He also called on Muslims to ensure that the principles and lessons of Ramadan are upheld and wishes Muslims in the state and country happy Eid Celebration.

Enyinnaya Appolos
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
15/06/2018

IKPEAZU: THE BEACON OF HOPE IN GOOD GOVERNANCE
-Reagan Ufomba

When we decided to down tool of over a decade of agitation for good governance and positive change, and opposition to bad governance, stealing and drifts in statecraft, so as to give vent to an emerging development-oriented phenomenon in our Gods own State, Abia, many did not believe us. Our reasons for so doing can be seen and felt.

In the last three years, characterized mainly by world-wide economic recession, pausity of funds, learning currves espected of a young governor, Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has consistently maintained a steady hand in governance with great commitment and panache to the admiration of many. That he enjoys overwhelming support from across the State speaks to his spirit of doggedness, equity, inclusiveness, fairness and justice. He has shown to have the gravitas, pressence of mind and understanding of the issues at stake, although limited by several imbalances and defficiencies plaguing our dear nation, requiring redress and restructuring.

The vibes across our State point to the fact that the performances of the Governor point to a glimering light at the end of the tunnel – and we shall get there.

It is therefore trite to state that his’ is a generational statement anchored on truth, commitment to service, positive change, faith in God, and trust in mankind which only sustainability can enable and perfect. Being a man committed to service delivery, humble, has listening ears, and the fear of God, I have no doubt in my mind that his uniterupted tenure of Eight ( years, would change the narrative of performance efficiency in the State.

It is in the light of the above that all well meaning Abian have decided in unison to collectively watch the moon from the same arena and not from our respective cocoons so as to give the required push, punch and pressure capable of breaking walls, racial, economic and political barriers, and engender growth and efficient service delivery for our people.

May I, therefore wish the Governor and the great people of Abia State well as we mark this Democracy Day, on this 29th day of the lord, 2018, which coincides with his third year in office.

I see light at the end of the tunnel, and even greater light in the years ahead; Happy Democracy Day !

-Ochiagha Reagan Ufomba was the 2011 Governorship candidate of APGA in Abia State.

https://www.facebook.com/119961132055926/posts/186494348735937/

Imo Liberation Team arrives Ihitteaforukwu

The one day consultation visit by the Imo Liberation train led by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has come to an end with an interactive session with Mpam Ward, Oparandim Ward, Umunomo/Umuchieze ward and Ogbor/Umueze Ward, all in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area.

In Ihitteaforukwu, the story did not change, the Liberator-in-Chief took his time to assure the good people of Ahiazu that Imo state under his watch will receive a holistic developmental approach. He urged the delegates not to look elsewhere for the time for salvation and liberation is here with us. According to him, Local Government election will be conducted across the state within the first Six months of the administration, pensioners will be respected and paid as at when due, workers will be given their wages as a right and not a privilege, vocational educational will be revived alongside moribund industries across the state, qualitative free education, rehabilitation of our primary health care system and huge investment in human capacity building will be witnessed. “Our government will be people oriented, we shall use the right people to get the best results for our people”, He noted.


Chief Ihedioha was received by the leaders, Women and the good people of Ihitteaforukwu who came out in their numbers to welcome an illustrious son of Mbaise, whom according to them raised the name of the clan to the National map.

Ihedioha arrives Nnarambia, meets with Ogbe, Otulu/Aguneze, Nnarambia and Amuzi/Ihenweorie wards

His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, CON, is at the moment meeting with the leaders, Stakeholders and the members of the People’s Democratic Party, in Ogbe Ward, Otulu/Aguneze Ward, Nnarambia Ward and Amuzi/Ihenweorie Ward.

Chief Ihedioha is in Ahiazu LGA today, touring the electoral wards, rejuvenating the consciousness of the PDP members in the area and above all, presenting self to the party, ahead of the 2019 general election. For Ihedioha, the victory of the PDP in 2019 is sacrosanct.

Chief Ihedioha was received by the LGA Chairman, Hon. Richard Iwu, Party Officials in the LGA, alongside friends and well wishers.

Lucky generation of Abia School Children

Earlier today, as Abia School Children interacted with their Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, I felt some jealousy towards them.

All through my primary and secondary school days I never saw any Governor to WAVE at from a distance not to talk of being in same room and even touching and shaking hands with him.

But this set of Abia students did not only just shake the hand and touch their Governor, they also asked him some very tough questions on teachers salary and equipping of our schools.

Abia School Children are the BEST: Intelligent, Bold and audacious High Performers.

Like the brilliant and loving father he is, Governor Ikpeazu answered all the questions and made a public commitment on ensuring that teachers are up to date with salaries before the end of the year, just like the rest of the state workers in Ministries, Departments and Agencies that make up more than 70% of our workforce are up to date.

Congratulations to Abia School Children of this generation. You are not just the best but also the luckiest ever.

Back to back, for 3 years, you delivered the best WASCE result in Nigeria and your Governor and Government remain very proud of you.

For your sake, impossible will remain nothing to Governor Ikpeazu. He will continue to innovate to solve all the challenges within our educational system and ensure sustained high performance.

JOK


https://www.facebook.com/119961132055926/posts/185568182161887/

Theodore A. Orji: Why Abians Celebrate Senator they also consider a Terminator

Senator Theodore Ahamefule Orji is the senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District at the Upper Legislative chmaber of the National Assembly. Before becoming a senator, he was the executive governor of Abia State from 2007 – 2015. Before then, he was the Chief of Staff to his predecessor governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu. His steady rise was smooth until he met a brick wall during his reign as governor.


Having become governor in 2007, he was expected to continue in the footstep of Orji Kalu’s administration of impunity where the people were at the mercy of Kalu’s mother who wielded enormous power that so many Abians thought she was the governor. Her influence in Abia State governance became so pronounced and disturbing that the terms “Mamacracy”, “Mother Excellency” and such other labels were invented and infamously became part of Abia State political lexicon.

That Orji Uzor Kalu is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, today, for an alleged fraud of N3.2bn involving the State’s money is an example of how Abia was run like a pub and a State under siege during Orji Kalu’s era.

Abia State was considered a conquered territory of the Kalu’s and every Abian particularly government appointees were expected to be servile to him and his mother. There were consequences for those who tried to be themselves. It is a known fact that Abia ran a very strange and deviant variant of democracy known as “Mamacracy” then, a system of democracy that was choking Abians and leaving them asphyxiated.

When Senator Theodore A. Orji came in as governor, he thought it was time to terminate the political brigandage and executive recklessness that had become the order of the day in the State. He knew the enormous financial and political powers which the Kalu’s wielded then. To rescue Abia from their grip even when they were out of government house was a risky, yet, inevitable task. He knew that Abia would not survive another 8 years of such rascality as he was supposed to continue as an appendage and lackey of his predecessor.

This much was confirmed by Mr Eze Chikamnayo who was Special Adviser on Information, Strategy and Civic Orientation, to T.A Orji when he was governor. Hear him, “By 2010, immediately after the victory of the PPA at the appeal court, the Orji Kalu clan moved in to quickly implement the next phase of the vicious hidden agenda of their dynasty.

Having used the admirable image and good name associated with T.A. Orji to cross the chasm of the 2007 election, they decided it was time for him to give way.”

Also Barrister Uche Ihediuwa said of the sad situation: “The crux of Kalu’s pain is the fact that he and members of his family no longer determine who get what, when and how in Abia State. Ask any Abian the meaning of “Mamacracy” that crept into Abia lexicon and he would define it as a “Government by a mother and her children for the benefit of themselves, their relations and friends”.

So T.A. Orji as a man of good conscience knew things could no longer continue like that. He had to do something, and something he did. He saved Abia by terminating all the shenanigans put up by the Kalu clan who fought back viciously using their media outfits to attempt to distract Orji by pouring unprintable vituperations on him, yet, he would not budge as the progress of Abia was paramount in his mind and he was ready to make sacrifices, even at the expense of his personal convenience and comfort, for this purpose.

Then came the naughty issues that had been tearing brothers apart in the State: the issue of fairness, equity and justice in ensuring that all senatorial zones of the State have equal opportunities of producing governors based on the principle of rotation. But for the “Charter of Equity” which Senator T.A Orji faithfully formulated and implemented despite enormous pressure on him from powerful quarters not to support a man from Abia South for the governorship position, he not only supported someone from there but also worked assiduously for him to become governor. Once again, he terminated the skewed system which greatly limited the possibility of people from certain parts of the State from becoming governor.

Today, it is a thing of joy and pride for every Abian that Senator T.A. Orji’s “Charter of Equity” did not only produce a great achiever as governor in Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, it has set the tone for rancour-free transition and sharing of power among the people. This fact was confirmed by many who attended the respective Ukwa Ngwa, Ohafia and Old Bende rallies and grand receptions organised for the governor. At the Old Bende rally, Senator T.A. Orji was so impressed with the work of his successor that he declared, “There is no success in life without a good successor”. Continuing, he said of Ikpeazu, “By his ascension, we have been able to institute equity in Abia State through rotation. He has shown that he can perform. Why should you deny him a second tenure?” he asked.

In an era where former governors and political godfathers are at loggerheads and would want to dictate to their successors how to run the state and interfere with governance, it is a known fact that T.A Orji has not in any way interfered with the running of Abia State under Ikpeazu. Instead, he has continued to give the governor maximum support and always eulogized his sterling credentials and performances everywhere he goes.

This rare show of political maturity by Senator T.A. Orji has seen him face his work as a Senator squarely and has records to show for it. Rather than try to destabilize the State like Orji Uzor Kalu did to him, T.A Orji has moved 14 bills and 4 motions so far in the Senate with the one to upgrade Abia State Polytechnic to a federal institution arguably the most pivotal.

That Bill to upgrade Abia State Polytechnic depicts Orji as a man who truly wants the best for his people. With the billions sunk into the institution already by the Okezie Ikpeazu administration, Orji knew that if the polytechnic could be taken over by the federal government, it would be a relief on the financial burden of the State as there would now be more money available to face other equally critically important aspects of the people’s lives in the State. Beyond that, the polytechnic would enjoy greater financial support from the enormous wealth at the disposal of the federal government and lead to a more equipped institution for Abia students in particular and those of Nigerians in general.

That Bill, thankfully, has passed Third reading in the Senate. If it was other senators with similar opportunities, in states where predecessors and successive governors are at loggerheads with each other, the plan would have been to look for means to pile more financial burdens on the state or frustrate its efforts to get low interest loans to implement people oriented projects so that the current governor would look bad before the people while the state suffers. But it is not so for T.A. Orji who has over time demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the prosperity of Abia State and her people.

In a complex country like ours where every state and region is struggling for almost the same thing at the same time, it takes political deftness, sagacity and goodwill to have your colleagues give overwhelming support to such a Bill as the upgrade of a state polytechnic.

In the Senate of today, there are two categories of achievers: those who achieve things by talking and those who achieve things by working. While T.A. Orji in his calm mien might not be a man who talks much, he certainly belongs to the category of those who adroitly work their ways into achievements.

His indelible legacies in Abia include the “towering ultra modern secretariat buildings for workers, Digital Library, ASEPA building, New High Court Complex, New BCA House, Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, newly-built school buildings and refurbished Old buildings, Amaokwe Housing Estate, completed legislators quarters, Traders Housing Estate, Afara Housing Estate, Government Guest House, Public Servants Housing Scheme, Isieke Housing Estate, Army Command quarters, many roads spanning several kilometers to mention a few”.

In a clime where some are empowering their youths with wheelbarrows, shoe shining kits, tea making kits and such other petty empowerment items, T.A. Orji bought over 4000 vehicles to be used for commercial purposes as empowerment scheme for Abia youths. There are also several Abia youths who are on scholarship through his initiative and at his own expense. The many functional Primary Health Care centres he built for Abia communities as governor are part of the reasons why the people gave freely gave him the mandate to go to the Senate and continue his good works.

It is therefore not surprising that Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has leveraged on this symbiotic relationship he is enjoying with his predecessor and benefactor, the solid foundation he (Orji) laid after extricating the State from the grip of Orji Uzor Kalu, to excel far beyond the reckoning of naysayers. But for his courage to terminate the slavish hold of Abia by those who held sway in the state from 1999 – 2007, Abia would have been in a sorry State today and T. A. Orji would not have forgiven himself if he did not do what he did then to rescue the State. Today, wherever he goes in Abia, the shout of “Ochendo Global” rent the air in celebration of a man who laid the foundation for a greater Abia. By Jude Ndukwe —jrndukwe@yahoo.co.uk; Twitter: @stjudendukwe

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/06/theodore-orji-abians-celebrate-senator-also-consider-terminator/

Imo needs a government with human face – Ihedioha

ON JUNE 11, 2018

By Chidi Nkwopara, OWERRI.

Former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, says “Imo State needs a government that will sincerely and conscientiously work for the people and save the citizenry from their current avoidable hardship”. Ihedioha Ihedioha, who stated this while addressing party faithful in Owerri municipality, also pointed out that “the economic health of the state, between when I contested the 2015 governorship election and now, has further deteriorated, while the growing concerns of well meaning stakeholders spurred me to offer myself, again for service.” He maintained that, “our dear state has gone through avoidable maladministration. We have not only become an object of caricature among the comity of states but have sadly also, become a reference for a collapse of government.” Chief Ihedioha reminded his hosts that sequel to the realities on ground today in the state, only a person with relevant capabilities, can perform the needed surgery to bring Imo back to life. “As we march towards 2019, we must always remember that Imo State of today is in dire need of an experienced surgeon in government, who will perform the needed surgery to bring the state back to life”, Chief Ihedioha said. After rolling out a litany of woes currently bedeviling the state, the former Deputy Speaker cautioned that Imo people cannot afford the luxury of making another mistake in the choice of who governs the state. “We obviously made some mistakes in the past. We have also identified the mistakes and we must be very determined to refrain from repeating the same costly mistakes in 2019. What Imo State requires now is a contented, sincere and accomplished man, who will not misuse people’s commonwealth, but will apply same, prudently to critical sectors, to instigate the needed economic growth and citizens welfare”, Ihedioha said. Earlier in their separate remarks, the PDP Chairman in the area, Engr. Okechukwu Opara, former party chairmen and leaders in the area, described the lawmaker, as a blessing to the party and the state in general and assured him of their support ahead of the party primaries.

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/06/imo-needs-government-human-face-ihedioha/

Njaba Bridge will be a priority when I’m Governor- Ihedioha

Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, now in Njaba LGA, in continuation of his Statewide - Ward-Ward consultation with the PDP, has assured that when he's sworn in as Governor of Imo State on 29th of May, 2019, he will immediately commence the redesign and reconstruction of the Njaba Bridge along, Owerri - Orlu road.

That "bridge", you will agree with us, is a death trap, an accident, waiting to happen and indeed an affirmation of a failure of government.

Congratulations Njaba!
His word is his bond.

#LiberateImo
#RebuildImo

GOVERNOR IKPEAZU: A BEACON OF HOPE IN SOCIAL INVESTMENT
-Chinenye Nwaogu

During the electioneering campaigns in 2015, one of the promises made by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu PhD was that as a Governor he would hold the hand of the weakest in the society and give them hope for a better tomorrow. The life history of the Governor exemplifies hope, sustained through hard work, preparation and taking advantage of opportunities that abound. Through deliberate government actions and programmes Governor Ikpeazu has touched lives, impacted communities and created a pathway for the most vulnerable in Abia to find succor.

As a Governor under the platform of the PDP coming from the South Eastern part of Nigeria, the Governor had set an example as a leader who understood the difference between the time for politics and the time for Governance. From the world go, the Governor knew that he had a mandate to serve the people of Abia state working with key development stakeholders to improve the life of the average Abia man/woman. He tried to set aside ego and pecuniary interest or playing to gallery to ensure that he worked closely with all agencies and interested parties to create a support ecosystem for the massive development of Abia State.

One area the Governor has so far distinguished himself is the domestication of federal introduced – Social Investment Programme. Leveraging the four-component part programme Governor Ikpeazu has ran the most robust and effective Social Investment Programme in Eastern Nigeria if not beyond. Continuously Abia Social Investment Office has remained the reference example to other Eastern States. Hear His Excellency the Vice President Prof Yemi Osinbajo SAN, GCON

“"On each of my visits to Abia State, I see something new, something different and something innovative. I am proud of Governor Ikpeazu and the passion he brings to governance. Perhaps, the greatest thing he has done, in my view, is the wonderful collaboration he engineers between the federal government and Abia State.
The telemedicine project is yet another of such innovations and it is worthy of note that Abia is the very first state in Nigeria to formally embrace this initiative.
From NPOWER to the School Feeding Program, from power generation and transmission to security and infrastructure, Governor Ikpeazu adopts a bipartisan approach in his engagements with the federal government. He brings an added exciting personal touch to the relationship, which translates, into a stronger relationship between Abia State and the Federal Government for the overall interest of the people of Abia State. I am indeed proud of my friend and brother, His Excellency, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu".

Under the N Power Programme, the Abia State Social Investment Office has successfully placed about 12, 000young hitherto unemployed graduates in the N Power graduate volunteer programme where they earn a monthly salary of 30,000 naira. Some of the employed youths are posted to public primary schools to support the education sector, others are posted to health centres for the health sector and other services the agriculture sector. This programme injects the sum of 360 million naira monthly into the state’s economy. Another 1670 are been trained at different centres in the state under the N Build Scheme to equip them with different building services skills. This programme runs on the foundation of the state-initiated E4E programme, which emphasizes retooling Abia youths to become not just self reliant but competitive at a time of high technological advancement. These programmes in addition to others alike have continued to impact positively on the lives of the young people in the state. Even though the federal government pays them, the state played pivotal role by mobilizing the youths during registration and screening processes. The state social investment office continues to play support services to the beneficiaries.

While campaigning to become the Governor of Abia, Okezie Ikpeazu PhD assured Abians that he will return the state as the MSME capital of Nigeria. Aba is one of the cities in Abia that serves as its commercial capital. Aba is a city with largest concentration of SMEs in Nigeria. Through GEEP a platform that delivers small loans to small businesses, the State Social Investment Office has funded about 17,865 small businesses with loan amounts ranging from 50,000 to 100,000. As further show of commitment to ensure that the issue of access to capital is no longer a major challenge to small businesses in the state the SIP Office entered into partnership with BoI to provide a loan basket of 3billion naira targeting about 30,000 individual businesses. The requirement for accessing the fund was also simplified to make it very easy for rural women with no collateral to access the funds. This programme has impacted very positively on rural women who run petty businesses and trade. This is not all the Governor has done to improve the lot of businesses in the state at that level. In partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency, the traders at Ariaria International Market will soon enjoy uninterrupted power supply on a regular basis. The pilot scheme has delivered uninterrupted power supply to about 1000 shops for the past 10 months.

Governor Ikpeazu like the Vice President mentioned, seeks for partnership that will touch the lives of the most vulnerable in the society. Upon assumption of office, the state government in partnership with the Vicar Hope Foundation the pet project of the Wife of the Governor launched a free school meal programme targeting pupils in public primary schools. The pilot scheme proved very successful and the programme was immediately expanded. Incidentally the Federal Government launched the Home Grown School Feeding Programme and requested interested states to partner to deliver the foods to primaries 1-3 pupils public primary schools. Abia having set the template and structures for the success of the programme adopted the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme and expanded the programme to primary 6. Consequently, today Abia is the only state in the country feeding from primary 1 to 6. The impact of this programme has immediately pushed school enrolment from about 150,000 to a little over 300,000 within such a short period of implementation. The programme engages over 3000 rural women as cooks and injects about 345 million naira monthly into the state’s economy affecting the agriculture and several other sectors. The programme has also enhanced school performance of these pupils supporting the continuous performance of Abia in national and international public examinations.

Governor Ikpeazu has continued to offer hope to the most vulnerable members of the society, pushing people up the social ladder. The next set of people being targeted now is the most poor in our communities who through conditional cash transfer about 17,000 of them will receive monthly inflow of 5,000.

These social inclusion and intervention programmes continues to provide succor to the citizens of the state especially the most vulnerable.

https://www.facebook.com/119961132055926/posts/184906158894756/

I will lead Imo to prosperity. I will restore credibility & honour ~ EMEKA IHEDIOHA

I will lead Imo to prosperity. I can fix Imo because am disciplined. ~ Ihedoha.

Dateline. Egbu. Owerri North LGA. Sunday 10th June 2018.
Opening Act was Hon. Ezenwa Onyewuchi, member, House of Representatives.

As the crowd listened, Hon Onyewuchi looked at Emeka Ihedoha saying, “” The incoming governor of Imo State, Owerri North is your home””.

Continuing, Onyewuchi told the crowd, “” We are here for one of us; Ihedoha is not here as an aspirant. He is here as one of us from Owerri North””. Turning to Ihedoha he assured,”” His Excellency, I want to tell you without fear of contradiction that the Ihedoha water will not leak in Owerri North””.

Beckoning the crowd, Onyewuchi told them, ”” My brothers and sisters from Owerri North, we are here to receive the incoming governor of Imo State. I, Hon. Ezenwa Onyewuchi, I am a member of team Ihedoha. We are here to close Owerri North for Ihedoha. I am happy our leader Sir Ambrose Ejiogu is here. Owerri North is Ihedoha compliant” he concluded to a thunderous applause.

Heralded into the arena by chants and singing, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedoha opens up, “” God has given us wisdom and knowledge and education to make the right choices. Do not support me because I am your brother and friend. Support me because I can fix Imo back. I am disciplined”” he said.

As Ihedoha moves closer into d crowd amidst the smiling faces he raised his voice”” your daughter Igolo Kema Chikwe played a great role. She is a truthful woman that followed the process methodically. Her role gave rise to the dissolution and installation of the caretaker committee that berthed the present exco of pdp in Imo State” .

Turning to Hon. Onyewuchi, Ihedoha revealed, ”” Ezenwa Onyewuchi was the Chairman of the Works Committee of the State Congress at Kanu Nwankwo centre that put in place the pdo state exco. Therein we decided, fought in the court in Port Harcourt and at the Supreme Court to liberate our people. If there was a decision to cut somebody’s head in the struggle, it would have been Ihedohas”.

At this point the crowd erupted into a frenzy.
Ihedoha did not stop there. He told the crowd “” I want to tell you, I have seen you have accepted me as one of you. Nobody in Owerri North is giving me heat. Owerri North will not give me problem. You are the owners of this project”” , he assured them.

Looking at Sir Ambrose Ejiogu, Ihedoha said, ” Our campaign is doing very well. The misconception about Owerri and Mbaise is over. I thank Sir Ambrose ( Ndaa Ambu) for this milestone. All the midnight meetings are his initiative. He is one fundermental leader behind this project””.

It was Sir Ambrose that guaranteed Ray Emeana at Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwus house. I am indeed proud to tell you today that Ray is okay””.

On the problems bedevelling Imo State, Ihedoha lowered his voice ,”” Our problem is to get out State back. We must get our moralty back. My desire to be governor is to do difficult things. Those things that will give us credibility and honour”” he said.

Ihedoha told the crowd that, “” Imo has failed in education. This is not the state bequitted to us. We have 578 schools with only 8 mathmatics teachers. We dont have teachers. Only 30 English teachers. We are in trouble. The head is rotten. We have fundamental issues. The local government have not operated in Imo State for more than seven years. Our local governments are dead. I am shocked. We will start education afresh. We cannot forget our yesterday. We must restore history. The task ahead of us is peculuar”.

As he looked back into the visitors canopy, Ihedoha called out, “” This is the first time I am inviting the leadership of Mbaise nation to accompany me. Dr. Aguwa has the permission of our leader Air Commodore Ochulo with Lambert Okeahialam to accompany me. That shows the significance of todays occasion. Here also are Chief Analine Nwaneri. As you can see, all the way from Orlu, the presence of Dr. Vin Udokwu here with me speaks volume”. Dr Vin can tell you the level of stupidity and weakedness in the health sector. Our children cannot graduate.

Rounding off, Ihedoha said to the people, “” I want to thank you. I want to encourage you that you are on the right cause. I understand the vision of our fathers. The founders of Imo”” he concluded amidst tremendous ovation.

Quality Assurance, The EMEKA IHEDIOHA Example

In the past seven years of the APGA cum APC administration in Imo State, one of the greatest challenges of the state has remained the inability of its leadership to appreciate and deliver quality projects to its people. Roads built in the last seven years have been reconstructed more than 10 times and yet, the end to the challenge is not in sight. School buildings which should be adjudged as one of the safest places for its nature of sheltering children are today very unsafe to even adults. The reason for this sad situation is not farfetched. The present government led by Rochas Okorocha is a government that pays no attention to details. When a governor is only interested in percentage, then the state suffers. There is no proper award of contracts to known contractors, all we have are food is ready contractors who are willing to negotiate and bring of the lager percentage for the Oga’s at the top.

However, the write up today is not to expose the already exposed challenges but to proffer solution to it by presenting a man who has impeccable record of quality assurance in leadership. To those who may not know the man Ihedioha, Ihedioha is a man of quality, a man who will place Imo at the center just like states like Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Ebonyi, Gombe, Lagos, Cross River, Sokoto, and others are being mentioned today when ever the urge for tourism comes to ones mind. While serving as a member of the house, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha used the period in question to show how qualitative his leadership will be when voted in as the State governor come 2019. Today, one of the gateways to Imo State for those living in Rivers State and beyond is the Okpala Igwiritta Road, which was facilitated by Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. Mere looking at the road, one will have no doubt than to appreciate the efforts of a man who at all times stands out for the best. A quality road, with road signs, super drainage system and all kinds of aesthetics for the pleasure of the road users.

The famous Mbaise ring road is also another significant project of the Ihedioha era of quality leadership. The 59 kilometer road which cuts across Ogbo Uvuru, Amuzu, Nri, Umuoda, Ife, Amumara, Itu, Afo Oru, and several other communities offers one another opportunity to rate Ihedioha as the Primus inter pares for Ndi Imo come 2019. The quality of construction on the said road can not be found anywhere in the State or compared with any road built by the Owelle Rochas Okorocha’s administration. The Umuhu Okwuato, Ibeku Road, the Enyiogwugwu, Mbutu, Uvuru, Chokoneze link roads, the Uvuru,Uwuohiagu, Airport Road, the Ahiara Junction Roundabout, Okpala junction, Alulu Road, just to mention but a very few goes a long way to show the level of commitment to leadership already displayed by Chief Emeka Ihedioha. The significant thing about some of these roads is that they were built in his first and second tenure. While they are still solid and strong for road users, those built and even reconstructed in the last 7 years are all seeking for help. Ihedioha must be commended for not being a man of “project percentage”. He must be commended for being a man of quality project delivery. The implication of project percentage is that you will end up reducing the quality of the work to be delivered to the people.

Ihedioha’s mantra of REBUILDING IMO is therefore apt and timely. The major challenges of taking over power from Rochas is not the election in 2019. The greater challenge is knowing what to do after the election. Putting the round pegs in the round holes, doting the I’s appropriately and crossing the T’s neatly. The job requires an experienced administrator, a leadership physician who will know the best drug to apply at the sight of every single patient. A leadership physician who will use technocrats to work for Ndi Imo. A leadership physician who is not greedy. A leadership physician who will not be carried away by the office, Ihedioha has served the nation in a capacity of its No 6 citizen, for him the concern is project delivery to the people and not the bravado of being a Governor.

Ndi Imo should take advantage of the 2019 election by voting in a leader they can trust, a leader who will serve them with true sense of sincerity. A leader who will not steal their money, a Leader who is compassionate and a leader who has the capacity to change the narratives of our State, Imo. Ihedioha is the answer, he has been tried and he never failed. He has been tested and he is trusted, Ihedioha is the answer to the strong agenda of “REBUILDING IMO”.

IKPEAZU WILL COAST HOME VICTORY IN 2019 - APC, ABIA STATE

Abians have expressed their satisfaction in the leadership prowess of Ikpeazu's administration. Some members of the factionalised opposition APC in the State, Isialangwa South LGA wing stated this when they paid a courtesy visit on the Abia finance commissioner, Mr. Obinna Oriaku.

The members stated that prior to this period, vehicular and human movements from one location of the State to the other was seemingly impossible owing to the dilapidated road networks and expressed joy and satisfaction that the infrastructural revolution in the State under Governor Ikpeazu has touched all parts of the State.

In the area of health, education, commerce, revitalization of moribund industries sold by some former governor, foreign direct investment, youth empowerment, they rated the Governor's performance 90%.

The members went further to state their resolve to dump the ailing APC party in the State to join the PDP stating that it is only a leadership of Governor Ikpeazu at this time that can take Abia to echelon shores.

Responding, the commissioner thanked them for taking the bold step to come over to the PDP, noted that they have taken the best decision to move Abia forward.

OHANEZE NDIGBO SETTLES FOR GOVERNOR OKEZIE IKPEAZU FOR 2019

#AbiaOnline

The leadership of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo youth wing, Abia State Chapter has thrown their weight behind the performing Governor of Abia State. Speaking during a solidarity visit to the commissioner for finance, Mr. Obinna Oriaku in his Office, the President of the association, Comr. Okey Paul Nwankwo stated that Abia State has never had it this good as regards the infrastructural revolution that is spelled across the length and breadth of the State.

The President stated that the infrastructure put in place in Abia so far has revived the hitherto dead economy of the State.

They used the occasion to state their unflinching and unalloyed support to the Governor Ikpeazu's administration in the State and maintained that they will stand by him come rain, come shine.

Responding, the commissioner for finance, Mr. Obinna Oriaku urged them to continue to lend their support to this government and maintained that the Governor has worked so closely with more youths than ever. He maintained that Government is working earnestly to ensure that a greater number of Abians live happily

Ihedioha: A man and His core Values

Ihedioha believes in COLLABORATION, collaboration is a core value in leadership, you need to partner with the people to identify their wants. Ihedioha’s mantra has remained unchanged on partnering with the people, especially for rural development.

LEADERSHIP as described by Achebe is the major problem with our society. The failure of leadership doesn’t mean that everybody has failed, it means that the people have failed in identifying the real leaders among them. Rather than choose a contented man, we go for greedy beings, rather than choose a disciplined man, we go for those who are immoral. An immoral leader can not think morally. Morality in leadership should be appreciated. Serving the nation for 12 years and till today without a trace of fraud is an ideal definition of morality, contentment and character. Ihedioha believes in Leadership as a process of transformation, reformation and restoration.

Without being contented, there is no way you can appreciate ACCOUNTABILITY. Accountability to the people requires that the people must know the cost of projects done for them. They should have access to them and know how their allocation is spent. Accountability has remained a cardinal core value of Emeka Ihedioha.

A leader must be RESPONSIVE. Responsive in attending to the People’s needs. A responsive leader is an ideal leader. Ihedioha will deliver a people oriented government where every sector of the state will be touched. This will happen through regular response to feedbacks from the people.

INTEGRITY is a scarce commodity in today’s politics. Politicians come with all kinds of promises only to fulfill non when elected. Ihedioha changed the narrative long time ago. A man who will not promise what He can not do and can not deviate from what He said He will do. Ihedioha has reminded consistent in any battle He engages, no matter how impossible it may seem. That’s the true character of a courageous man. Integrity is a part of life to Chief Emeka Ihedioha.

Another scarce commodity experienced in the business of leadership these days is TRANSPARENCY. Transparency means consultation, transparency means collaboration, transparency means accountability, transparency means responsiveness, transparency means Ihedioha. Ihedioha’s invaluable track record is equal to the task to restore the dignity of any State and country. With Ihedioha, there will be transparency in employment, there will be transparency in all sectors, there will be transparency in Governance.

A government must engage in things that will YIELD productivity in the state. The death of our moribund industries is alarming. ADAPALM, Avutu Poultry, Standard Shoes Industry and many others are enough to liberate our state from the unavoidable dependency on the federal allocation. Ihedioha believes that the state must be productive, Ohaji can be serving the entire state with garri together with Ngor Okpala, Mbaise can invest in other agricultural products, Okigwe and other sides in Orlu can also focus in the production of other agricultural products. The state will make it in form of exhibition annually to encourage the most productive areas. This will enhance development in agriculture, this will install the spirit of competition and hard work which Imo people are known for. Ihedioha’s resolve to return Imo to the basics shows how prepared he is for leadership. Yielding therefore is a through representation of Ihedioha.


CLARITY is a product of collaboration, Collaboration upgrades Leadership, Leadership requires accountability, accountability strengthens consultations, consultations encourages responsiveness, responsiveness builds integrity, integrity sustains Transparency, transparency yields a better result. Ihedioha will at all times clarify the people on its policies and plans for them.


“You don’t hurt a generation because you want to do a project for them. While building a road in my community, we had to pause the road for a good period of time because we needed to pay compensation to those whose buildings were along the road, relocate those that wanted to be relocated before demolishing the illegal structures. That to me is one of the sacrifices a leader should do for his people”, Ihedioha noted while addressing the people in one of his consultation visits with the members of the PDP across the state.

Ihedioha is a proper leader, compassionate and trustworthy, tested and He delivered. Together! We shall Rebuild Imo.

I’ll not waver. I’ve renounced my own happiness to liberate Imo ~ Ihedoha.


The Imo State opposition leader, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedoha has continued his unrelenting onslaught against the APC led government in Imo State.
Rt. Hon. Ihedoha who visited Owerri municipal in continuation of his IMO LIBERATION tour was visibly angry with the state of affairs in Imo and misgovernance.


He accused the Rochas Okorocha led government of illegal land grabbing, urban disslocation of traders and confiscation of innocent peoples properties thereby turning them into slaves in their own land.

According to Ihedoha, “”I will never accept to be a slave in my own land”

” They took our lands and destroyed our properties and source of living, they want us to be slaves, but we reject it””.

He warned against the debasement of the Igbo’s saying,

” it is against the culture of the Igbo’s to be slaves. The government of Imo State must be rejected and ejected by our. They have debased our culture””.


Still raging, he said ” I am not happy at all. I am filled with rage. The APC government in Imo State is running an unjust society against Imo people. It is a crime to keep silent. Me, Emeka Ihedoha must speak out. I will never keep silent”.

” I have renounced my own happiness, my own joy and my own privacy. Now, I only wear the garment of the sufferings of Imo people. I represent the resentment of Imo people towards a failed Rochas government, and I am devoted to the cause””.

” I will not waver. I will not relent. I am determined to destroy the enemies of Imo people. I can never engage in handshaking with those killing our people, its an abomination””

On the position of his party the pdp to wage the battle ahead, Ihedoha posited that the party is ready and prepared to do battle. He said, “” The pdp in Imo State represent the strength of the Imo people. The symbol of our party, Chief Charles Ezekwem is a fearless man. We have in him a positive energy and drive to victory”.

Ihedioha tours the State Capital


The Former Deputy Speaker of the Federal House Representative and a frontline guber aspirant under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, is at the moment touring Owerri Municipal Local Government, the Capital city of the State.

The first point of Call is at Fizzi Primary School GRA New Owerri, where He is Interacting with the leaders and the members of the PDP in New Owerri Ward 1,New Owerri Ward 2 & GRA ward. He will proceed to the ancient Oha Owerre Hall for the Second stop over.


Chief Ihedioha was received amidst cheers by the people along the streets who felt the sweet aroma of the Liberation train, youths and women of the PDP, leaders and various leadership of his support groups in Owerri Municipal.


#IhediohaConsultsOwerriMunicipal

Announcement!!!

PDP!Power To The Power

Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha Visits Owerri Municipal PDP For Consultation With The Leaders, Executives And Members Of PDP Owerri Municipal At The Underlisted Venues, On Wednesday 6th Of June 2018

New Owerri 1,New Owerri 2 & GRA ward Meets @ Fizzi Primary School, new Owerri/Temple Fuel Station,near control.
Time 10am.

Venue 2

Ikenegbu 1,Azuzi 1,Azuzi 2 &Azuzi 4 Meets @ Oha Owerre Hall,Tetlow rd,
Time 1pm.

Venue 3,

Ikenegbu ward 2,Aladinma ward 1,Aladinma ward 2 & Azuzi ward 3 Meets @ Item7 Aladinma,
Time 4pm.
Please all ward chairmen inform your leaders,executives and members accordingly.
Party members pls also help forward to other party members.
Signed
Engr Sir Okechukwu Oparah,
Party Chairman

Ikpeazu wants varsity lecturers to base research on nation’s needs

Ikpeazu wants varsity lecturers to base research on nation’s needs


Felix Ikem, Nsukka

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has urged researchers in universities to target their research towards national needs in order to fast-track development in the country.

Governor Ikpeazu said this, in Nsukka, on Monday, during the 14th Eni Njoku memorial lecture.

He said researchers should link their research on the need of the people so as to stop the country to further being a dumping ground for goods produced in other countries.

His words, “It baffles me that we import Swedish bitters from Sweden and yo-yo bitters from Ghana, does it mean that researchers in the country can not produce bitters for Nigerians,

“Must the country import every thing from abroad.

He commended the late Eni Njoku who used his knowledge to solve some national problems through his research work.

“we are celebrating Eni Njoku because he used his intellectual and research to solve problems as well as contribute to national development.

“I commend department of Biological science University of Nigeria Nsukka and family of Eni Njoku for the sustainace of the memorial lecture in honour of the scientist and intellectual icon, ” he said.

Also in a keynote address, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described research in Nigeria as ‘poorly funded’ by grant-awarding bodies in Nigeria.

She said that the situation alongside lack of research policies have affected access to international grants when the applications are made and called for institution of seed grants by universities and faculties in the country.

Prof. Adeyeye made this known her titled “Science and Science Policy for National Development” at the 14th Eni Njoku Memorial Lecture at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.


http://sunnewsonline.com/ikpeazu-wants-varsity-lecturers-to-base-research-on-nations-needs/

The Academia is proud of their man in govt house

Yesterday, Monday June 4, 2018, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu was in the University of Nigeria Nsukka to attend the 14th Eni Njoku memorial lecture and from the moment he arrived the atmosphere around the PAA venue changed.

Lecturers and students were screaming everywhere “Okezuo Abia...my Governor” and it was quite hectic for the Governor’s security aides to make way for him to enter and later exit.

Still the Governor managed to remain calm and wave all the way to his vehicle.

When we returned to Umuahia today, I thought we will just drive into Michael Okpara University Umudike and he will deliver his 2018 environment day address and we leave.

For where?

What we met at Umudike made UNN look like a rehearsal of sorts.

The ecstatic students and their lecturers were all over the common Governor who was the former Head of Biochemistry Department at ESUT Enugu. They shouted, pushed and screamed so much that it was difficult for his usually formidable security aides to literally breathe.

We only heaved a sigh of relief when he managed to enter the lecture hall with his host, Prof Otunta, the Vice Chancellor of the institution and other Principal officers of the school.
It took an elaborate decoy to smuggle him out to another state event as the students moved towards where they thought he was heading to within the school and his convoy moved in another direction.

Even then the Governor was still waving to his people from his wound down window all the way to Umuahia town.

The academia is obviously proud of one of their own who is leading the way in good governance through innovation and uncommon devotion to duty.

VC Francis Otunta apparently spoke the mind of the academia when he hilariously said: “we consider you to be on leave of absence and we are giving you 8 years plus one year sabbatical and after that you must return or we stop your salary”.

Personally, I know Governor Ikpeazu will be fully back to the classroom by the end of 2023. He loves that world and the people in that world love him too.

In all these there is a lesson: “whatever your hand findeth to do....” Dr Okezie Victor Chibuikem Ikpeazu of Umuobiakwa village in Obingwa LGA of Abia State has never failed on any mission and Abians knew that even in 2015. Most of those who didn’t support him then knew he was a natural performer but they were bitten by the “Change” bug that was ravaging the electoral world then.

But don't bet against an Ikpeazu landslide victory in 2019. He has proved himself, once more, as a real victor and performer across all sectors.

JOK

World Environment Day: Ikpeazu calls for legislation against use of plastic

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has called for legislation against use of plastic for packaging and storage, as the only way forward to beating plastic pollution in the environment.

Governor Ikpeazu spoke at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State during the 2018 World Environment Day titled: “Beat Plastic Pollution, If you can’t, re-use it, refuse it.”

“The only way forward is to opt for a refusal of the plastic option. Let us legislate against its use for packaging and storage. There are more sustainable and environmentally friendly options.”

According to Governor Ikpeazu, who is a Biochemist and former university lecturer, “plastic is an extraneous substance to the environment. It is not naturally occurring and is largely derived from the polymerization of ethylene.

“Therefore the chemical structure of plastic renders them resistant to most biodegradation processes. Indicating that they can be retained in the physical as well as biological system for longer period of time. Hence it’s accumulation which constitutes pollution to the environment.”

The Governor identified two major factors that lead to increased levels of plastics in environment as: “high level of plastic production by human who needs them for storage, packaging transportation and slow degradation processes.”

Governor Ikpeazu however decried that: “whereas it is possible to control the method of plastic handling in the developed world, in Africa and indeed Nigeria, more plastics are burnt and the rest are left to block drainages, leading to flooding and utter pollution of our water ways.

“The implication of handling plastics is far reaching. If they are allowed into the sea, it takes a long time to degrade the marine conservancy has predicted that foam will take 50 years to decompose while plastic beverage holder will take 400 years. A disposable napkin will take 450 years while fishing line will take 600 years.

“Unfortunately, a byproduct of this degradation is byphenol which also has profound deleterious impact on aquatic life, as well as consequences for human organs that encounter it.”

In his remark, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Francis Otunta thanked the Governor for making time out of his busy schedule to visit the University and to deliver the lecture on plastic pollution in the environment.

The Governor was accompanied to the University by his Commissioner for Education, Prof Ikechi Mgboji, Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Aham Uko, Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Uzo Azubuike and Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Dr Uchenna Onyeizu, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment and Climate Change, among other top government functionaries.

https://www.facebook.com/theAbiaInfo/posts/182756285776410

2019; Hon Ezenwa Onyewuchi's senatorial ambition, a collective task for the restoration of Hope and true Representation.

Episode one;
By Anyanwu Chinemerem


A people are at their best when the connection between them is strong and when a clear sense of purpose has been achieved.
Today the challenges facing Owerri Zone ,Imo and Nigeria by extension are immense. The political system has betrayed the youth and broken the hearts of the old, who in their youthful days, envisioned better days for themselves.
Our social fabric is being frayed and government continue to send States and communities into debt. 

The time has come for a break from the old ways, for the restoration of hope, ,for responsible government, true and solid representation.
These shall achieved when believed that there is no problem too great that a committed and dedicated Team cannot overcome..

The legislature is an assemblage of the representatives of the people, elected under a legal framework to make laws for the good health of the society.
Furthermore, It is also defined as “the institutional body responsible for making laws for a Nation and one through which the collective will of the people or part of it is articulated

Hon.Ezenwa Onyewuchi, the member Representing the good of Owerri Federal Constituency, a Ranking member of the Federal House of Rep, The Chairman House Representatives Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity, Who is equally the Frontline Aspirant of the IMO East Senatorial District




The National Assembly member, was Born on the 2nd of April 1968. He is an indigene of Orji Uratta owerri
North, Imo State.

In the 2011 elections, Hon Onyewuchi was the APGA candidate for the Owerri Federal Constituency seat. Despite Contesting from one of the then opposition party, his candidature was not affected, as he won the Federal House seat.

Again in the 2015 elections, he was reelected to represent Owerri Federal Constituency Under the platform of the People's Democratic Party PDP..

Lately then, there was wild jubilation in Owerri Zone by Youths following declaration of Hon Ezenwa Onyewuchi fondly called "Mr Empowerment", to Represent Owerri Senatorial Zone. This development was because of his unique qualities and numerous empowerment programmes recorded...

No doubt that a group of thoughtful and committed Youths can change the cause of History. And
Youth is the main productive class of any Community, State or Nation. Anyone in a youthful stage sees himself as one of the major parts of the engine room of any society he belongs to and they deserves tools which enables them to collaborate, solve problems, brainstorm and also reflect...

Ndi Owerri for the sake of posterity, should support An Aspirant who can create legislation that promote work programmes for Owerri Zonal youths, a project that should be able to Offer targeted, personalised help to people seeking employments
,Create various training and empowerment programmes for the the youths to further their skills, create their own wealth, and get properly equipped to meet the challenges of the contemporary time.

This Real and positive changes only comes when a community chooses from itself, the best of itself, and when representation is honest and open. When there is exchange of ideas between the elected and her electorate, so that they are governing themselves- only indirectly. This is the change that owerri zone Needs at the moment.
A project that can provide answers on how to deal with unemployment, how to deal with issues of security, how to revitalize social services, education ,health and attract infrastructural Development..
2019 election accords Owerri Zone an opportunity for new beginning's, for more harmonious communities and complete representation.

Politicians cannot have all the answers, and Representatives cannot solve all the problems, but when a representative builds a partnership with his Zone, when both parties agree to move their communities forward, communities change for the better.

Mr. Empowerment is the Answer...


#IstandwithHonOnyewuchi

To be Continued......

Ihedioha parleys with Mbaitoli LGA.

The Former Deputy speaker and a frontline Imo PDP guber aspirant , Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, CON, arrives umunoha Mbaitoli in continuation of His consolidation visit to the leaders and members of the People’s Democratic across the 305 wards in the State.

The all inclusive consultation and interaction is at the moment ongoing among members of the party in Mbaitoli, Ogbaku; Umunoha; Efeakala and Afaraeziama wards.

Chief Emeka Ihedioha was received by the member Representing the Good people of Mbaike Federal Constituency, Hon. Henry Ndochukwu Nwawuba, amongst other leaders and officials of the party.

#IhediohaConsultsMbaitoli

Fake receipts: Abia Polytechnic recovers N43m from students

Abia State Polytechnic has recovered more than N43 million from students who faked the school’s receipts, Prof. Ezionye Eboh, the Acting Rector, has said.

Eboh, while briefing newsmen in Aba, Abia, on the latest development in the institution, said that more than 700 students were involved in the act of obtaining fake receipts from unauthorised sources.

He said that the students would be punished, to serve as a deterrent to others.

Eboh also said that the Police had arrested a woman who operates a business centre near the polytechnic for allegedly issuing students with fake receipts.

He said that the woman worked for a lecturer and that she was collecting N10,000 and issuing fake stamped receipts to the students, thereby aiding them to evade payment of N50,000 school fees.

According to the rector, management discovered the forgery when it made it mandatory for students to show their school fee receipts before writing examinations.

He said that the lecturer had been suspended and that the students involved in the act were being investigated. On the issue of the redeployment 10 nurses working in the school clinic, Eboh said that the development was due to the intervention of the governor.

“If it was not for the intervention of Gov. Ikpeazu, we would have sacked them. But he said they should be retained but re- assigned to places where their services would be needed.”

He said it was mind- boggling to employ such a large number of such senior nurses earning handsome salaries, in a non- residential campus.

He said that following their redeployment, the institution was saving N34 million per annum, adding that by plugging several loopholes, the institution had paid five months of 2016 salary arrears.

Meanwhile, the Abia Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Geoffrey Ogbonna, confirmed to the Newsmen on Thursday that the name of the woman connected with the fake receipts was Caroline Augustine.

He said that Augustine had been charged to court and also identified the owner of the business centre as Mr Alwell Nwachukwu-Njoku.

GOVERNOR IKPEAZU SHORING ABIA INDEPENDENT REVENUE THROUGH AGRICULTURE; THE OKPARA EXAMPLE

By Adimchinobi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst


It is not an overstatement to say that Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has practically revived the comatose socio-economic activities in God's own State such that today, there are smiles of renewed hope on the faces of Abians. His multifold achievement is hinged on the 5 pillars of the administration viz; Agriculture, commerce and industry, SME development, education and Oil and Gas with other enablers like Health, Infrastructure etc.
Agriculture as a critical sector in the Socio-economic life of the nation is highly indispensable, considering the fact that up to 70% of the nation's population is actively engaged in and ekes out their livelihood through it. It also provides a veritable source of raw materials for our industries, hence, it is often rightly said that "no farmer no nation". It is rather disheartening that the discovery of crude oil in large quantity in the early 1970s led to the utter neglect of this very important sector which invariably fueled systemic corruption as though the discovery of oil is a cursed blessing. The fluctuating of the oil prices in the international market and the slide in the year 2015 to the ebb of $28 per barrel made it imperative for us as a nation to speedily resort to agriculture as a reliable avenue to stabilize our foreign exchange earnings.
Thus, the Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu's administration in Abia has deemed Agriculture as a workable means of hastily diversifying from over-dependence on crude oil revenue (FAAC) in order to pull the State's economy from the woods. Therefore, the oil palm revolution of the present administration is on track and only comparable to that of the premier of the eastern region, late Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okwaras era, when the Malaysians came to the eastern region to outsource palm seedlings that is today the bedrock of their metaphoric palm oil industry.
The emphasis on oil palm stems from the fact that as at the year 2015, palm oil was better priced in the global market than crude oil. This justifies why the State, having looked at its comparative advantage through the Agric ministry embarked on a massive palm plantation with over 4,000,000 Tenera species seedling grown, planted and sold across the state to help replace the old less productive species. The ministry targets to hit 7.5 million seedlings before the end of 2022 to boast the State independent revenue.
The government of the day has also made very significant effort in increasing the rice production capacity, targeted at meeting local consumption demands and for exports, hence the popularized "Abia Rice" brand. In addition, the abandoned Igu Dam is being rebuilt to make it possible for all year rice production in the State.
The good news did not end there as the ministry of Agriculture for the first time, embarked on a large scale mushroom production. What seemed as an experiment initially is now a success story as Abians and Nigerians alike are now patronizing it. Moreover, it is in tune with Governor Ikpeazu's self sustenance mantra for each of the ministries.
The Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's result-driven administration has also made extensive investment in poultry and fish production. The Nsulu poultry cluster is a laudable brainchild of this administration. Admirably, the phase 1 of 100 poultry pens of 2000 birds is now on stream, with arrangements on top gear to replicate similar farms across the two other senatorial zones of Abia North and South of the State. The State Government is also partnering with the Bank Of Industry and the Federal Government on increasing egg production.
The State government also has comparative advantages in cashew and cocoa production and has made tremendous effort in funding commercial Agriculture through grants and loans made accessible to farmers in order to create wealth for the State as there are also plans in the pipeline to establish processing plants for both in the State.
The Governor Okezie Ikpeazu led Government through the Agric ministry has also procured mechanized farming equipment, being leased to Abia farmers for seamless all year round farmland cultivation at affordable rates.
Fertilizers are critical in ensuring bumper harvests, as such, he subsidize fertilizers to the State farmers every farming season, coupled with extension services to enlighten farmers on the best and newest ways to boost crop yields.

In addition, following the payment of FADAMA 3 counterpart funds, no less than 300 young Abia farmers benefitted from N2.5 Billion Naira individual grant been part of the Farmpreneur: project of the World Bank.
With these result yielding efforts and reforms targeted at improving Agriculture in the State, increasing wealth, thus bettering the lives of Abians, our people should hinge their hopes of a better tomorrow on Dr. Ikpeazu in all spheres of governance.

COMMUNIQUÉ BY THE PEOPLE OF OLD BENDE ON THE OCCASION OF GRAND CIVIC RECEPTION HELD IN HONOUR OF ABIA STATE GOVERNOR, DR. OKEZIE IKPEAZU MADE THIS FRIDAY, 1ST DAY OF JUNE 2018 AT THE EVENT CENTRE, UMUAHIA

Whereas the People of Old Bende spanning from the ancient civilization of Arochukwu to the Warrior clans of Ohafia and Bende, the marshlands of Isuikwuato to the hills of Umunneochi, the agrarian communities of Ikwuano to the indefatigable political titans of Umuahia North and culminating in the dynamic people of Umuahia South have always shared a destiny bound by indelible history and dexterous political alignment.

Whereas titans of Old Bende extraction were in the forefront of the creation of Abia State expending financial, material and sagacious resources to guarantee the actualization of the dream of the creation of Abia State.

Whereas the Old Bende people have enjoyed a fair share of political power in Abia State and the people of Old Bende have always shared a bond of political consanguinity and affinity with their brothers from Ukwa/Ngwa.

Whereas it was this historic bond that necessitated the people of Old Bende agreeing enmasse and indeed, working assiduously to ensure that a son of Ukwa/Ngwa emerged Governor of Abia State in 2015 in consonance with the Spirit of equity

Whereas having observed the leadership strides of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu from 2015 till date, the people of Old Bende are more than impressed by the depth of dynamism and sagacity he has brought to governance in Abia State and do not have any cause to regret supporting him for the Governorship of Abia State in 2015

Whereas his massive infrastructural development drive has been a beauty to behold coupled with his indefatigable strides in other sectors of the Abia economy.

Whereas Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has taken great steps to develop the Old Bende axis with verifiable projects that have improved the living standards of the people of Old Bende.

Whereas Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has given hope to the people of Old Bende and Abians in general that as morning shows the day, his early strides have enamoured hope of a glorious future for Abia State.

Now therefore the people of Old Bende declare as follows and issue the following Communiqué;

1. That the entire people of Old Bende are satisfied with the performance of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu in the last 3 years he has presided over the affairs of Abia State.

2. That the entire people of Old Bende have resolved to and do hereby, pass a vote of unequivocal confidence in the leadership direction of the Okezie Ikpeazu administration.

3. That the entire people of Old do hereby, without hesitation, adopt Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu as their consensus candidate for the 2019 governorship election in Abia State.

4. That we urge all Governorship candidates of Old Bende origin to jettison any plans of contesting for the Governorship of Abia State in the 2019 Governorship Elections in Abia State.

5. That the entire people of Old Bende hereby assure Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu of their bloc votes at the 2019 Governorship elections.

8. That when it is time to reciprocate this gesture, we have no doubt that the people of Ukwa/Ngwa will do the needful.

In witness of which the entire peoplr of the Old Bende affirm this declaration via voice vote.

Dated this 1st Day of June in the year of our Lord 2018.

Breaking News

Abia State Commissioner for Education, Prof Ikechi Mgbeoji, has directed all public secondary schools in the state that are collecting more than five thousand two hundred naira (N5200) as school fees from students to Refund the excess within 24 hours or face sanctions.

The commissioner gave the directive after a surprise inspection visit to Awom Na Ebo Secondary Technical School Ikwuano in company of his Ministry of Information counterpart, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, in response to an invitation by an NGO “Lets Live”.

Prof Mgbeoji assured the staff and students of the school that the government will provide needed assistance to ensure improvements in teaching and learning in the school as well as a conducive environment for the students.

INFRASTRUCTURAL REVOLUTION IN ABIA; A PATHWAY TO ECONOMIC RENAISSANCE

By Adimchinobi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst.


Availability of enough infrastructural facilities is indeed one of the indices for rating the socioeconomic advancement of any society. Little wonder much emphasis is usually placed on it by serious administrations. Be that as it may, there is the need for the different tiers of government to invest heavily on infrastructure as it is sure bait to attracting investors and tourists alike.
Good road network, for instance enhances commerce, industry and Agriculture. So the agricultural produce from the far flung rural areas can be taken to the urban areas where it is better priced.
Under this Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's administration, social infrastructure is receiving the required boost. It is of note that this administration met a huge infrastructural decay; as such Governor Ikpeazu folded his working sleeves to reverse the downward trend.
Aba, the economic melting point of the East had hitherto suffered undue neglect. Today, the present administration has reversed that trend also. The Government projection on road construction kicked off with construction of adjoining roads such as Ukaegbu, Umuola and later others like MCC-SAMEK, Osusu roads among others, to ensure seamless vehicular movement to the markets and the bustling city centres, a development that has greatly alleviated the sufferings of motorists eve when there are traffic jams.
The second was the building of major roads to the markets such as Faulks and Eziukwu roads among others to enhance trade and commerce as Enyimba city is renowned for her large and busy markets. The third was the building of major entrances to the city centers such as Portharcourt and Aba-Owerri roads. The fourth was opening up the linking roads between Abia and other States such as Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Anambra States targeted at increasing the inter-state movement, trade, commerce and social relations. 

Also, the federal Government has continued in earnest to build the Enugu-Portharcourt Express road to Aba and from Aba to Portharcourt with quadruple carriage ways. That is not all. The Federal Government is building another federal road from Owerri to Aba which invariably will help people coming from the Lagos axis to have easy access to Aba city center to patronize made in Aba goods.
Even the abandoned Federal roads in the State, under the watch of Dr. Okezie ikpeazu are not being left out of this infrastructural revolution being witnessed today. With respect to that, while flagging off for construction, one of the federal roads in Abia State, the Governor stated that "it is not just the federal people in Abuja that use the road rather our people here in Abia", hence the attention being accorded to those roads by the State Government.
In addition, the present visionary administration introduced the rigid pavement technology into the construction of roads in Abia State. This is on realization of the importance of constructing very virile and durable road networks with grade ‘A’ construction companies such as Setraco, Heartland, Arab contractors etc on different sites. Thus, today in Abia, the emphasis is to construct roads that will outlast this administration.
The State Government is constructing an overhead bridge at Osisioma junction, Aba in God's Own State which is nearing completion which also is adding to the aesthetic values of that environment. It is strongly believed it will be the answer to the reoccurring traffic gridlock being experienced along that route. 
One distinctive feature of the roads constructed by this administration is that it comes with drainage and street lights. The essence of emphasizing on drainage is that flooding in Aba seemed to be intractable hence the need to channel the rainwater appropriately. The Ifeobara basin which also serves as a collation center for all rainwater within Ariaria Market is aimed at making the flooded areas free and dry even in the rainy season. With the 6 sub-pumps laid underground from the pond, the water in the pond is channeled directly to the waterside river banks. The Street lightening will engender night life and stem insecurity.

The economic implication is that such activity has, and is greatly boosting trade and commerce which the city is renowned for, with the attendant attraction of investors.
Abia is a commercial hotspot and there is the need for timely information to prospective investors so as to ease doing business in the state. This is one of the reasons the present administration established the Abia Investment House, to help facilitate business deals within a twinkle of an eye. Abia today is sure footed for investments. 
It is crucial to state that uninterrupted power supply and proper distribution, is indispensable in ensuring stability and friendly industrial cum commercial environment in pursuance of this laudable project. The State Government has entered into partnership with Geometrics and Chinese power firm to generate enough power to the State to advance the made in Aba initiative of the State Government. 
Infrastructure is very critical to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's led administration and much is been done across the three senatorial zones of the state to bring about infrastructural face-lift with its attendant economic benefits.
First, adequate infrastructural facilities in terms of roads and sophisticated edifices attract investors in the State for more cash inflow, all round growth and progress. Secondly, adequate infrastructure will help to create more job opportunities for the teeming Abia citizens since more business developments come alongside infrastructure. Added to the above is the fact that adequate infrastructure presents a leverage and a pedestal for other economic and non economic activities within the State to thrive.
Aptly put, the level of infrastructural development within a given locality determines the extent to which other State governments, non-governmental Organizations and International Organizations are willing to partner the State. This is especially so, because none of these institutions is ready to partner or deal with an entity which has no vision, progress or direction.

Above all, all hands must be on the deck to support the infrastructural revolution in Abia already championed by the current administration. That way, the dividends of democracy will never elude Ndi Abia again as was the case in the past.

Okorocha, APGA, Ihedioha fight


•Imo gov frustrated –Ex-deputy speaker

..He’s worse than prodigal son – APGA chair

…Party seeking relevance –CPS

Geoffrey Anyanwu, Awka; George Onyejiuwa, Owerri

Former deputy speaker of House of Representatives and a frontline governorship aspirant, Emeka Ihedioha, has described Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, as “a frustrated man, who has suddenly realised he has no positive footprints in the sands of history.”

Governor Okorocha had, while addressing newsmen on Democracy Day, allegedly described Emeka Ihedioha, alongside other notable politicians in the state, who had declared their ambition to govern the state in 2019, as selfish persons who have nothing to offer, but after the treasury of the state.

However, the erstwhile deputy speaker said the attack on his person by the Imo governor was ostensibly an attempt to divert public attention from his abysmal performance as governor in the last seven years.

Reacting through his media aide, Chibuike Onyeukwu, yesterday, the former deputy speaker said: “It is regrettable that Governor Okorocha, on a remarkable day Nigerians were reflecting on our democracy and nationhood, again, engaged, shamelessly, in a failed attempt to divert the attention of Imolites and Nigerians at large, from his widely acknowledged abysmal performance since he assumed office in 2011.

And while his colleagues were presenting their scorecards for the period under review, Okorocha, for the past seven years, has, absolutely nothing tangible to show, except laughable statues and shambolic projects, despite receiving trillions of naira on behalf of the state.

“Governor Okorocha’s statement is not only laughable, but a mere smear campaign and, indeed, an acknowledgement that truly, he is losing sleep over the massive goodwill, increasing popularity and overwhelming grassroots appeal the 2019 governorship bid of Emeka Ihedioha enjoys across the state.”

Onyeukwu further pointed out that it is a statement of fact that, unlike the governor who has conducted himself despicably, the former deputy speaker has acquitted himself with distinction, in all the high positions he has held over the years, resulting in the manner he has earned the respect of Imolites and, indeed, Nigerians across board.
Meanwhile, National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Oye, yesterday, said his party has rejected alleged move by Okorocha to return to APGA “because the motive was not sincere.”

Speaking for the first time on the reports that the Imo governor approached the party leaders and allegedly offered N3 billion for him to be readmitted into the party, but was rejected by APGA, Oye said he was not aware of the said monetary inducement, but, confirmed that Okorocha was rejected by the party “because he has lost credibility and worse than a prodigal son.”



Further describing the governor as an “unrepentant sinner”, the APGA national chairman said though the Imo State chief executive, who became governor with the ticket of APGA before he moved to All Progressives Congress (APC), did not approach him personally, he reliably gathered that he went to some leaders of the party.

But, in a swift reaction, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okorocha, Sam Onwuemedo, said APGA was merely using the mention of Okorocha to get relevance, stressing that the governor left with the soul of APGA.
He said as a foundation member of a mega party like the APC, Okorocha could not, by any imagination, start negotiating with a mushroom party that has no structure in Imo state for anything.

However, Oye, who spoke to newsmen in his Amawbia country home, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, said: “An Igbo proverb says a man who refused to join a ship cannot say he was chased away from the ship. Rochas chased himself away from the APGA ship, and I can tell you that he can never be a member of the party again.



“He won his governorship seat on the platform of APGA, but he took away our members and our mandate and joined APC. He started well in Imo, but immediately he left APGA, he lost vision.
“He is worse than the prodigal son, and that is why we refused to take him back. He was not sincere with his return. He is an unrepentant sinner and APGA cannot take such a man. He is only coming to APGA because his APC ship had left him.”

Oye stressed that fielding Okorocha in 2011 was a mistake by APGA because of the hasty need to change the Ikedi Ohakim government, which caused the party not to run a thorough background check on him.
He said, “He does not fit into APGA. He is not a team player; he acts like Lord of the manor. He is not charismatic, he is not credible either. That is why you see even his fellow governors rejoicing when he was sidetracked by his party men recently.”

On 2019 election, the national chairman vowed that APGA would reclaim Imo state which it won in 2011, assuring the party this time had set in place mechanisms to ensure that a credible personality emerges as candidate.
He said, “As you can see, we are already working. We will hold a very credible primary election in Imo to ensure that the best candidate emerges. We had 20 aspirants there last month, but right now we have 14 aspirants. Six of them have dropped and we are confident that the best would become our candidate.”

Meanwhile, Okorocha’s media aide, Onwuemedo in his reaction on telephone said as a foundation member of a mega party like the APC, Okorocha could not by any imagination start negotiating with a mushroom party that had no structure in Imo state for anything.

He said, “Why can’t these APGA people do their politics without calling Okorocha? You see Okorocha had become a brand in Nigeria politics that anybody who wants to get credibility must mention his name either in the positive or negative.

“If APGA does not know what to do again to be relevant they should wind up and join APC instead of trying to be busy and want to noticed by calling Okorocha’s name. Okorocha left with the soul of APGA, and that was the end of the party in Imo state.

Installation of Enyimba Stadium Pitch Begins

The contractor handling Enyimba Stadium, Monimichelle has started the final phase of the job at the arena with the installation of the pitch.

The CEO of Monimichelle, Ebi Egbe, confirmed yesterday that his Nigerian workers have started the installation job, while the expatriates would fly into the country this weekend from Italy.

“As we speak, we have moved to site to start installation of the geo-tech pitch. We have cleared the consignment from Onne Port and ready to get the job completed,” Ebi Egbe said.

He said it is his desire is to see Enyimba return to their fortress when the CAF Confederations Cup resumes after the World Cup.

Enyimba would on July 17, two days after the World Cup final host Ivorian side Williamsville FC in the CAF Confederations Cup.

Egbe commended Abia State government for its commitment to see the project realised.

“Gov Ikpeazu is keen to see Enyimba back home and we would on our part do our best to see that the job is completed in a matter of weeks,” Egbe said.

Monimichelle has been getting accolades over the job it did at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2018/05/31/installation-of-enyimba-stadium-pitch-begins/