₦airaland Forum

The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Abia State, Hon. Don Norman Obinna, has expressed profound appreciation to party members across the state following the successful conclusion of the party's primary elections.

In a statement made available to newsmen, the State Chairman described the primaries as a significant step in the party's march towards victory in the 2027 general elections.

Hon. Obinna commended members of the Screening Committee, the State Executive Committee, the State Working Committee and all officials whose dedication, professionalism and sacrifices ensured the smooth and credible conduct of the exercise.

He also appreciated party members across the state for their various contributions to the success of the primaries, noting that the peaceful outcome of the exercise reflected the unity, discipline and democratic spirit that define the ADC.

The Chairman further thanked all aspirants who participated in the process, describing them as committed democrats whose confidence in the party's internal mechanisms has strengthened the ADC in Abia State.

While acknowledging that political contests often come with differing expectations, he appealed to any aspirant or member who may feel dissatisfied with the outcome of the primaries to explore the party's established dispute resolution channels, emphasizing that responsible democrats pursue lawful and institutional means of addressing grievances.

He reminded aspirants who did not emerge as candidates that they remain highly respected stakeholders whose contributions, influence and experience will continue to play a vital role in the growth and success of the party.

"No one who participated in this process should be defined solely by the outcome of the primaries. Every aspirant has earned the respect of the party and remains an important part of our journey. I therefore urge everyone to rally behind our candidates and contribute their strength, ideas and experience towards ensuring victory for our great party."

Hon. Obinna congratulated all candidates who emerged from the primaries and urged them to remain humble, inclusive and committed to carrying party members along as they prepare for the task ahead.

"The mandate secured at the primaries is both an honour and a responsibility. Our candidates must strengthen grassroots engagement and work closely with party members whose sacrifices have sustained the ADC over the years."

The ADC Chairman called on members to close ranks and move beyond the contests of the primaries, stressing that the collective success of the party remains the ultimate objective.

He noted that while the primaries have come and gone, the responsibility of presenting a credible alternative to the people of Abia State has only just begun.

"We must remain united in purpose and focused on our shared vision. Our success in 2027 will depend on our ability to work together and place the interest of the party above individual ambitions."

Hon. Obinna also appealed to the people of Abia State to support ADC candidates in the forthcoming elections, maintaining that the party remains the most credible platform for progressive leadership founded on transparency, accountability, social justice, prudent management of public resources, economic empowerment and people centred governance.

"The people of Abia State deserve leadership that listens, serves and places public interest above personal ambition. ADC offers that promise and is fully prepared to deliver a government that promotes development, creates opportunities and restores public confidence in governance."

The State Chairman expressed confidence that with unity, discipline and commitment, the ADC is well positioned to record significant victories across Abia State in 2027.

- CEEJAY OJI
(Media Aide to The Chairman African Democratic Congress, Abia State)
(Deputy State Publicity Secretary, African Democratic Congress, Abia State)

For:
- HON. DON NORMAN OBINNA
(Chairman African Democratic Congress, Abia State)

Where truth often trembles at the altar of power, and silence is polished until it masquerades as wisdom, there rises, from the quiet furnace of conviction, a voice that will not bend. Not with noise, not with spectacle, but with a steady, luminous insistence that truth must stand. Like dawn that does not argue with the night but simply outshines it, so emerges the figure of Hon. Don Norman Obinna, resolute, unyielding, and profoundly necessary to his time.

This recognition as a Hero of Our Time is not an ornament of prestige, it is a moral affirmation. It echoes a national philosophy that true greatness lies not in visibility, but in impact, not in titles, but in the enduring force of character. It aligns with a broader call to recognise individuals whose courage, service, and transformative contributions sustain the very architecture of society, especially in moments when nations grapple with uncertainty, institutional strain, and the urgent need for reform.

In this light, Don Norman Obinna stands as a living embodiment of that ideal. His career in investigative journalism has not merely chronicled events, it has interrogated them. He has consistently amplified truth in an age where narratives are contested and facts are often obscured. With intellectual rigour and moral clarity, he has illuminated the fault lines of governance, challenged opacity, and demanded accountability with a fearlessness that has become both his signature and his burden.

His work reflects the highest calling of journalism, not passive observation, but active engagement in shaping a more just society. At a time when the role of the media is evolving from simple reportage to a more dynamic force of influence and reform, he has stood at the forefront, using storytelling not only to inform, but to inspire, to provoke thought, and to ignite a culture of excellence and responsibility.

Even in the face of personal risk, including moments of direct confrontation with the machinery of power, his resolve has only deepened. Such experiences have not diminished his voice, they have refined it, reinforcing his place as a steadfast advocate for press freedom, transparency, and democratic integrity. His courage is not impulsive, it is principled, anchored in an unwavering belief that governance must remain accountable to the people.

Beyond the newsroom, his transition into political leadership as Chairman of the African Democratic Congress in Abia State represents not a departure, but an expansion of purpose. Here, his lifelong commitment to truth and public service finds institutional expression. He champions participatory governance, reform driven leadership, and a vision of politics that is accountable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the people.

His intellectual footprint further deepens this legacy. Through his writings, he has offered piercing critiques of systemic governance failures while articulating pathways toward reform and institutional strengthening. His work does not merely expose problems, it constructs frameworks for solutions, engaging both the conscience and the intellect of the nation.

Equally significant is his investment in the future. Through mentorship and initiatives aimed at nurturing emerging journalists, he is cultivating a generation equipped not only with skill, but with ethical grounding. In doing so, he ensures that the values of courage, integrity, and excellence will continue to shape public discourse long after the present moment.

To honour such a figure is to affirm a deeper national truth, that societies advance when they recognise and uphold those who operate, often quietly, at the frontlines of progress. It is to acknowledge that the strength of a nation is reflected not only in its institutions, but in the character of those who challenge, refine, and sustain them.

Don Norman Obinna represents that strength. He is not defined by visibility, but by impact, not by acclaim, but by consequence. His life’s work speaks to a rare convergence of courage, intellect, and service, a combination that not only influences the present but shapes the future.

In celebrating him, one does more than recognise achievement, one reinforces a standard. A standard that insists that truth must be told, that power must be questioned, and that excellence must be lived. And in that insistence lies the enduring significance of this honour, not merely as recognition, but as a call to sustain a culture where integrity remains the highest form of leadership.

ADC STABILISATION MOVE GAINS MOMENTUM:
STATE CHAIRMEN UNVEIL INTERIM LEADERSHIP AS OLD POLICE CASE IS REVIVED

by: Ceejay Oji

On April 7, 2026, State Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress ADC met in Abuja and took decisive steps to address a growing leadership crisis within the party.

For anyone just hearing about this issue, the situation did not start suddenly.

Over the past few months, the ADC has been drawn into a broader political realignment as it emerged as a potential coalition platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. This development brought increased attention and competing interests into the party, leading to disagreements over leadership and control.

The crisis deepened when multiple factions began laying claim to the party’s national leadership. This resulted in internal disputes, legal battles, and uncertainty over who truly holds authority within the party structure.

The situation became more complicated when the Independent National Electoral Commission declined to recognise any faction pending the outcome of ongoing court cases. This created a serious risk for the party, as the absence of a clearly recognised leadership could affect its ability to organise primaries and field candidates in future elections.

Faced with this reality, State Chairmen across the federation moved to act.

At their Abuja meeting, they announced a series of decisions aimed at restoring order and preserving the party.

First, the Chairmen rejected the factions associated with David Mark and Nafiu Bala, stating that both groups lack legitimacy within the party’s constitutional framework.

They also disassociated the ADC from external political interests linked to the disputed leadership arrangements, maintaining that the party remains under the control of its established structure.

On Nafiu Bala, the Chairmen stated clearly that he does not hold the office he claims, effectively dismissing his position within the ongoing dispute.

They further aligned with the stance of the electoral commission in withholding recognition from the conflicting factions until legal clarity is achieved.

The Chairmen also affirmed that Dumebi Kachikwu remains a member of the party, describing his earlier removal as invalid.

In addition, they dismissed circulating claims that their actions were influenced by the ruling party, describing such suggestions as baseless and unsupported by any credible evidence. They maintained that their intervention was driven solely by the need to preserve the party’s structure and ensure its continued functionality.

Most importantly, they announced the constitution of an interim leadership committee to oversee the affairs of the party pending the conduct of a national convention.

Members of the committee include Ogga Kingsley as acting chairman, Odion Kennedy as secretary, Muhammad Jidda as deputy chairman, Kabiru Hussaini as assistant secretary, Charles Omidji as national organising secretary, Johnny Derek as deputy organising secretary, Stella Chukwuma as treasurer, Don Norman Obinna as publicity secretary, and Samuel Gyang as financial secretary.

This structure is expected to ensure continuity, maintain party operations, and protect the interests of members and aspirants nationwide.

However, shortly after this intervention, attention began to shift away from the substance of the crisis.

Narratives started circulating on social media targeting some of the key figures involved in the Abuja meeting, including Don Norman Obinna, who is the Abia State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress. A resurfaced police bulletin dating back to 2019, linked to Don Norman Obinna, has been widely circulated across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), drawing renewed attention to an already established public matter.

Central to these narratives is the resurfacing of a 2018 police bulletin.

For clarity, that incident is not new. It has long been in the public domain.

Observers note that the renewed focus on this past issue appears aimed at diverting public attention from the central matter of the party’s leadership crisis. By introducing an unrelated and previously resolved incident into current discourse, the narrative risks clouding understanding of the actions taken by the State Chairmen, which were directed at resolving internal challenges and stabilising the party.

In 2019, Obinna, known at the time for his outspoken criticism of the Abia State government, was arrested during a live radio programme at Flo FM in Umuahia. The incident attracted attention from media organisations and civil society groups, particularly around issues of freedom of expression.

It was widely reported, openly discussed, and has remained part of the public record since then.

At its core, the situation is straightforward.

The ADC is dealing with a leadership crisis that created uncertainty about its future. State Chairmen intervened to prevent breakdown and ensure the party remains functional. At the same time, unrelated past events are being brought back into conversation.

Understanding these two developments separately is key to making sense of everything currently unfolding.

By,
Ceejay Oji
Media Aide to The Chairman
Abia ADC.

‎FROM PRESENCE TO PURPOSE, TRACING THE GRADUAL CONSOLIDATION OF ABIA ADC
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‎In politics, there are moments that announce themselves loudly, and there are those that speak in quieter, more deliberate tones, yet carry far greater meaning. What the Abia State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress ADC has continued to demonstrate in recent times belongs to the latter.
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‎The Members and Stakeholders’ Meeting held on Friday, the 20th day of March 2026, at the Kolping Society Event Centre, World Bank Housing Estate, was one such moment. On the surface, it was a convergence of party leaders, members, aspirants, and grassroots mobilizers. In substance, however, it reflected something deeper, a party gradually aligning its internal compass and settling into a clearer sense of purpose.
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‎Across Abia State’s political environment, where uncertainty and shifting loyalties have become almost routine, the significance of structure is often underestimated. Yet, it is precisely this structure that appears to be taking shape within the ADC. The meeting itself, widely reported and followed, including coverage by Arise News, did more than gather people in one place. It revealed a growing willingness among members to think beyond immediate interests and towards collective stability.
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‎The presence of aspirants seeking various political positions added another layer of meaning. It suggested not just participation, but belief. In a system where political platforms are often tested by their ability to attract serious contenders, such presence is rarely accidental. It points to an emerging confidence in the party’s processes and its potential as a viable political vehicle.
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‎Perhaps the most telling moment of that gathering was the unanimous vote of confidence passed on the State Chairman, Hon. Dr. Don Norman Obinna. In many political settings, such gestures can be perfunctory. In this instance, it carried a different tone. It spoke to a leadership that, while operating in a complex environment, has managed to inspire a measure of trust, enough to hold together varying interests under a common direction.
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‎His address at the meeting reinforced this trajectory. By placing unity and discipline at the center of the party’s future, he was not merely outlining ideals, but responding to a broader political reality. Parties do not weaken from external opposition alone. More often, they fracture from within. The insistence on order, coherence, and respect for structure therefore was both timely and necessary.
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‎What is emerging from these developments is not a sudden transformation, but a gradual consolidation. Stakeholders who spoke echoed a shared understanding that growth must be intentional, and that "relevance cannot be claimed without internal alignment". Their voices, taken together, reflected less of rhetoric and more of a quiet resolve.
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‎It is within this context that the meeting should be understood. Not as an isolated event, nor as just another entry in the cycle of political gatherings, but as part of a broader pattern. A pattern that suggests that the Abia ADC is moving, steadily, away from the uncertainties that often define smaller political formations, and towards something more structured, more deliberate, and perhaps more consequential.
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‎In a political landscape that often rewards noise over nuance, the party appears to be choosing a different path. One that prioritizes coherence over chaos, discipline over disorder, and long term positioning over immediate gratification.
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‎In the end, politics does not reward intention alone. It rewards structure, timing, and the discipline to stay the course when distractions arise. The Abia State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress ADC appears to be inching towards that understanding. And while many may still be watching from a distance, history has often shown that movements are not defined at the point of noise, but at the point of quiet consolidation.

The difference, as always, is in those who recognize it early, and those who realize it too late!

Hon. Chijioke Chukwu is a Nigerian politician, legislative leader, and grassroots political mobilizer whose career has been defined by active engagement in opposition politics, institutional advocacy, and party organization within Abia State. Known for his assertive voice on governance issues and his deep connection with grassroots political structures, he rose to prominence through legislative service in the Abia State House of Assembly and has since emerged as a strategic figure within the leadership architecture of the All Progressives Congress APC in Abia State.
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‎Over the years, Chukwu has established himself as one of the notable political actors within Abia’s evolving democratic landscape, combining legislative experience, community engagement, and party leadership in shaping political discourse within the state.
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‎EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND
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‎Hon. Chijioke Chukwu hails from Ugwueke in Bende, located in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Bende remains one of the historically significant political regions of the state and has produced several notable public figures who have played important roles in the political development of Abia State and the broader Southeast.
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‎Growing up within this politically conscious environment, Chukwu developed an early awareness of civic responsibility and community leadership. His formative years were shaped by close interaction with grassroots community structures and the social realities of life within rural and semi urban communities in Abia State.
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‎During his early educational years, he attended Igbere Secondary School, where he served as Senior Prefect, demonstrating early leadership ability and organizational discipline. These early experiences helped lay the foundation for the leadership trajectory that would later define his public life.
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‎EMERGENCE IN POLITICS
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‎Hon. Chijioke Chukwu’s entrance into the political arena was driven by a strong desire to contribute to governance and development within Abia State.
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‎As political conversations intensified across the state during the late 2010s, he became actively involved in political organization and public advocacy. Joining the All Progressives Congress APC, he quickly emerged as one of the vocal participants in debates concerning governance performance, infrastructure development, fiscal responsibility, and public accountability.
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‎Through grassroots engagement, public commentary, and party mobilization activities, he gradually built a reputation as a committed political organizer and advocate for responsible governance.
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‎POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND LEADERSHIP VISION
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‎Hon. Chijioke Chukwu’s political philosophy is rooted in grassroots mobilization, institutional engagement, and the belief that sustainable political success must be built upon strong community based structures.
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‎He has consistently emphasized that effective leadership must be anchored on accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of the people. For him, politics is not merely a pursuit of office but a framework for advancing community development and strengthening democratic institutions.
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‎His leadership outlook reflects a conviction that political parties must function as platforms for representation and policy engagement rather than mere electoral vehicles. This perspective has shaped his approach to political organization and public service throughout his career.
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‎LEGISLATIVE CAREER
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‎Hon. Chijioke Chukwu achieved a major political breakthrough in 2019 when he was elected as the Member representing Bende North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly under the platform of the All Progressives Congress APC.
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‎His election marked a defining moment in his political career and placed him among the emerging generation of political actors representing the interests of their communities within the state legislature.
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‎During his tenure in the Assembly, Chukwu distinguished himself as an active participant in legislative debates and policy discussions on governance, development, and issues affecting the welfare of the people of Abia State.
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‎In 2021, he rose to become the Minority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, a position that placed him at the forefront of opposition leadership within the legislature.
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‎As Minority Leader, he coordinated the activities of opposition lawmakers and played a significant role in articulating alternative viewpoints on governance and public policy. The role demanded strategic engagement, political coordination, and legislative oversight, responsibilities which he carried out within the framework of democratic accountability.
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‎Constituency Representation and Grassroots Engagement
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‎Throughout his legislative career, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu maintained strong connections with the people of Bende North Constituency.
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‎His approach to representation emphasized accessibility, grassroots interaction, and sustained engagement with community stakeholders. He regularly visited communities within the constituency, interacting with traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, and community development associations.
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‎Through these engagements, he sought to understand local challenges while promoting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
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‎His interventions also included empowerment support and assistance to vulnerable members of the community, further reinforcing his reputation as a representative closely connected to the grassroots.
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‎POLITICAL ADVOCACY AND PUBLIC COMMENTARY
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‎Beyond legislative activities, Chukwu has remained actively engaged in the broader conversation on governance and political development in Abia State.
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‎Through media engagements, political discussions, and community forums, he has consistently advocated for transparency in governance, responsible leadership, and stronger democratic institutions.
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‎His political commentary often emphasizes the importance of accountability in public office and the responsibility of political leaders to remain responsive to the needs of the people.
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‎NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND APPOINTMENT
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‎In recognition of his growing influence in public affairs and his experience within legislative and political circles, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu was nominated by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a member representing the South East in the North West Development Commission.
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‎The appointment formed part of a broader federal initiative aimed at promoting regional development and addressing infrastructure and socio economic challenges across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
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‎His nomination reflected national acknowledgment of his political experience, legislative background, and growing relevance within Nigeria’s public leadership space. It also expanded his public profile beyond state level politics into a broader national policy environment.
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‎EMERGENCE AS APC CHAIRMAN IN ABIA STATE
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‎A defining moment in Hon. Chijioke Chukwu’s political journey came when he emerged as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress APC in Abia State following the party’s state congress.
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‎His election into this strategic leadership position marked a new phase in his political career and placed him at the center of the party’s organizational and strategic direction within the state.
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‎As State Chairman, he assumed responsibility for coordinating party structures, strengthening internal cohesion, mobilizing grassroots support, and preparing the party for future electoral contests.
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‎His emergence also signaled a generational shift within the party’s leadership structure in Abia State, positioning him to oversee party consolidation and strategic mobilization ahead of future electoral cycles.
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‎Hon. Chijioke Chukwu represents a generation of political leaders whose influence is grounded not only in public office but also in sustained engagement with grassroots political structures and community development.
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‎From his early leadership experiences in school to his rise as a legislator, Minority Leader, and eventually Chairman of the All Progressives Congress APC in Abia State, his career reflects a steady progression built on organization, participation, and political commitment.
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‎His journey illustrates the enduring importance of grassroots mobilization and institutional leadership within Nigeria’s democratic system.
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‎As Abia State continues to navigate its political future, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu stands among the political actors actively shaping the conversation on governance, party development, and democratic participation within the state.
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‎Through his evolving role in party leadership and public service, he remains part of the broader narrative of political transformation and institutional engagement in Abia State and beyond.

On 14/2/26, Chidi Anselem Odinkalu posted an article captioned “Fraudsters-In-Law; The Conspiracy Against Abia State.” In it, he fed the reading public with an odious diatribe concerning Uche Ihediwa and Chibuzo Aguocha. He claimed, inter alia, that the Attorney General of Abia State, Hon. Justice Uche Ihediwa (as he then was), failed to prosecute Paris Refund criminals despite a suggestion to that effect by Odetoyinbo J. (as he then was). He equally claimed that Hon. Justice Uche Ihediwa entered into a consent judgment with them wherein 5% of their fee was to be paid to his ally, Friday Chibuzo Aguocha, for his benefit.
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‎I have tremendous respect for Odinkalu and his perceived moral crusade, but in this instance, he obviously goofed and went off the mark. His write-up was not fact-checked in line with the golden principle of journalism, and I think the proper thing to do is to place facts on both sides of the divide and draw his conclusion, while allowing the public to draw theirs too. As a Professor of Law, he woefully failed to give us a fair hearing despite the fact that he could have contacted the relevant parties whose names may be tainted, knowingly or unknowingly, by his article, unless he set out to do a hatchet job. Unlike Odinkalu, I will be mindful of the fact that the matter is sub judice and refrain from a media retrial.
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‎In 2012, the Government of Abia State, led by Sen. T. A. Orji, entered into two (2) contracts with Ziplon Concept to recover its share of the Paris Refund from the Federal Government. The first contract put the consultancy fees at 15%, and 1% of the recovered sum was to be paid to the Ministry of Justice. The second contract put the consultancy fee at 24%. That Government also entered into another recovery contract over the Paris Refund with Mauritz Walton. The Governors’ Forum equally entered into a contract with Ned Nwoko for the same purpose. In 2018, the Government of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu entered into a contract with Zilcon Higgs Int. Ltd. to recover money from the Federal Government.
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‎In 2017, the Federal Government paid Abia N16,347,000,000, and these contractors separately claimed to be instrumental to the recovery of the said sum. Four of them dragged Abia State to court. Ned Nwoko later withdrew from the matter. For clarity, I shall deal with these cases and those by Zilcon Higgs Int. Ltd. seriatim.
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‎1. SUIT NO. – FCT/HC/2470/2017
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‎Between MAURITZ WALTON NIG. LTD. v. ABIA STATE GOVT.
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‎This company filed this case to recover its fees at the same FCT High Court. It proceeded at a frenetic speed. When Uche Ihediwa SAN became the Attorney General in June 2019, he strenuously fought an obvious attempt by Mauritz Walton to obtain judgment against the State in this case.
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‎It is important to note that the FCT High Court foreclosed the defence of the Defendants and adjourned for the adoption of the Claimant’s Written Address. Ihediwa rushed to the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, with an application to stay proceedings, which was granted.
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‎For this obstruction, Mauritz Walton wrote the petition referred to by Odinkalu but withdrew the same by a letter to the Governor dated 8/12/23, which Odinkalu suppressed in his diatribe.
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‎2. SUIT NO. – FCT/HC/CV/0175/2017
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‎Between ZIPLON CONCEPT v. GOVT. OF ABIA STATE & 2 ORS.
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‎Mauritz Walton filed an application to be joined as a party in this suit. In refusing the application, Odetoyingbo J. (as he then was) opined obiter, that when four people claim to have done the same job, then there is an obvious crime. He advised Abia State to report the matter to the Police. The Attorney General then reviewed that advice and took a decision in the best interest of the State.
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‎Under my watch, the issue of who recovered what was investigated by EFCC Enugu Zonal Command. Mauritz Walton and Ziplon can confirm that fact.
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‎While this matter was in court, the Government of Abia State paid N100,000,000.00 to the Company as part payment of the debt, without the knowledge of the Attorney General at that time. In law, this part payment was an admission of debt, irrespective of the State’s claim that it was paid under a mistake of fact.
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‎The Company subsequently approached the State Government with a new proposal. That Company retained the professional services of Chibuzo Aguocha, Esq., and not Abia State as alleged by Odinkalu (see letter from Ziplon to Chibuzo Aguocha dated 8/11/22). Odinkalu is challenged to produce a letter of instruction from the Government to Chibuzo Aguocha.
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‎Ziplon informed the Government that they would recover more funds for Abia State. They wanted Government to agree to pay them the balance of what they were owed on the Paris Refund together with their fee on the new recovery. After negotiation, the Governor of Abia State approved the proposal (see letter dated 26/8/22). The parties then entered into the consent judgment with Ziplon Concept Nig. Ltd.
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‎The agreement provided that if Ziplon Concept recovered any other money, they were to be paid the owed N3,923,301,694.19 as “agreed consultancy fees… subject to the terms below.”
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‎The terms, which Odinkalu deliberately mischaracterized as retention fees, were that the sum of N830,000,000.00 and about $5.7 million should be deducted from their fee to offset the claim of Mauritz Walton if he succeeds in court. The Government was also expected to contribute the same sums. Five percent (5%) of their fee was to be paid to Chibuzo Aguocha, whom they retained.
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‎The million-dollar question that should worry Odinkalu is whether Ziplon Concept Ltd. has recovered any money to warrant a recourse to the terms of settlement. The answer is a resounding NO.
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‎Ziplon did not pay a dime to me for the four years I served as Attorney General. Odinkalu, or anyone, is challenged to prove the contrary. Odinkalu’s assertion that Ziplon had me in their pocket is strenuously challenged.
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‎3. SUIT NO. – FHC/ABJ/CS/686/2022
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Between (1) GOVT. OF ABIA STATE (2) ZILCON HIGGS INT. LTD. v. RMAFC & 2 ORS.
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‎The records show that on 26/5/18, the Government of Abia State also entered into a recovery contract with this Company. They recovered N8,173,397,587.14 and took their commission upfront. They now sought to garnish the Abia State Government account for the money owed to Ziplon (as stated above).
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‎They contend that Zilcon Higgs Int. Ltd. is a partner/consortium of Ziplon as provided in Clause 3 of the consent judgment. The Court would have to resolve whether Zilcon Higgs Int. Ltd. is a partner and/or in consortium with Ziplon, having regard to the meaning of both concepts.

‎I shall not venture further because, unlike Odinkalu, I know that matters that are sub judice should not be discussed in the media.
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‎IN CONCLUSION:
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‎1. Uche Ihediwa, as Attorney General of Abia State, did not allow a kobo to be paid to Ziplon, Mauritz Walton, or anybody who claimed to recover any money for Abia State during his tenure as Attorney General, i.e., 2019 to 2023. He did not receive any money from them. He was authorised to enter into the terms of settlement, which was then considered in the best interest of the State. Chibuzo Aguocha acted as attorney to Ziplon in the negotiation, and his fee is to be deducted from Ziplon’s fees if it materialises. He did not act as a front for Mr. Ihediwa, as unfortunately alleged by Odinkalu.
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‎2. No money has been paid to Ziplon on account of the consent judgment and cannot be paid on account of a recovery of money by Zilcon Higgs Int. Ltd. Odinkalu and the lawyers should study the meaning of partner and consortium in company law and fight to protect Abia’s money. Chidi Odinkalu saw a petition by Mauritz Walton to the Governor of Abia State. He did not see the retraction and withdrawal of that petition dated 8/12/23 by Mauritz Walton.
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‎3. It is unfortunate that our names are being destroyed and maligned without allowing us to be heard. Where is the doctrine of fair hearing before this odious diatribe? This reaction shows he did not even fact-check his information.
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‎4. I remain ready to face any complaint made against me at any forum. I will leave him to his conscience. His piece adds to the list of hot air articles he has authored. People now gloss over his pieces because they are, at times, factually incorrect.
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‎- Chief Uche C. Ihediwa, SAN

DON NORMAN OBINNA: THE INTELLECTUAL FORCE BEHIND MEDIA ACTIVISM, VOICE OF ACCOUNTABILITY, AND VANGUARD OF DEMOCRATIC RENEWAL

By: CEEJAY OJI.


‎Don Norman Obinna, also known as Agu Ibeku, is a Nigerian investigative journalist, media executive, author, political activist, and public affairs commentator. He currently serves as the Abia State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress ADC, recognized by the David Mark led National Working Committee of the party. He is also the Founder and Head of Realm Media.
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‎Don Norman Obinna holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. His academic training focused on investigative journalism, media law and ethics, political communication, research methodology, and public affairs reporting. His postgraduate education deepened his analytical engagement with governance systems, public accountability, and media responsibility, areas that would later define his professional and political career.
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‎He began his professional journalism career in mainstream media and rose to become Associate Editor at New Telegraph, a national Nigerian newspaper. In this role, he participated in editorial leadership, newsroom management, political reporting, and public affairs analysis. His experience in institutional journalism exposed him to the operational dynamics of the Nigerian media landscape and sharpened his editorial and investigative competencies.
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‎Following his tenure in mainstream journalism, Obinna founded Realm Media, where he serves as Founder, Publisher, Chairman, and Editor in Chief. Under his leadership, The Realm News emerged as an investigative digital media platform focused on governance accountability, public finance scrutiny, and political analysis, particularly within Abia State. He remains actively at the helm of Realm Media. In addition, he founded the Realm Journalism School, where he serves as Chairman, mentoring and training emerging journalists and strengthening professional media development initiatives.
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‎On March 1, 2019, Obinna was arrested while participating in a live radio program in Umuahia. He was charged under Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act and related state laws in connection with allegations of cyberstalking and defamatory communication tied to his criticism of political figures. This episode was widely regarded by observers as an attempt to intimidate a critical voice calling for accountability and good governance in Abia State. During this period, the Committee to Protect Journalists publicly condemned the arrest, describing it as part of a broader pattern of attempts to suppress critical journalism in Nigeria. The incident positioned Obinna within national conversations concerning press freedom and the application of cybercrime legislation against journalists.
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‎Don Norman Obinna is also a renowned author of intellectually rigorous and thought provoking works. One of his notable books, Raped and Enslaved, Abia’s Era of Kleptocracy, is a political and governance critique examining corruption, systemic mismanagement, and elite capture in Abia State. The publication reflects his longstanding advocacy for transparency, institutional reform, and public accountability.
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‎Over time, Obinna transitioned from journalism into partisan political leadership and currently serves as the Abia State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress ADC, a frontline opposition party in Nigeria. He is officially recognized in this role by the David Mark led National Working Committee, with no valid dispute over his position. In his capacity as State Chairman, he oversees party restructuring efforts, grassroots mobilization, coalition building, and strategic preparations toward future electoral cycles, including the 2027 general elections. He has publicly articulated ADC’s commitment to political reform and alternative governance in Abia State.
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‎Beyond print and digital journalism, Obinna frequently participates in live radio discussions and political analysis programs. He maintains active engagement on social media platforms, where he comments on governance issues, party activities, and national political developments.
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‎Don Norman Obinna represents a rare convergence of intellect, courage, and institutional vision in Nigeria’s contemporary public life. In an era where many retreat into comfort or compromise, he has consistently chosen scrutiny over silence and responsibility over rhetoric. His journey from investigative journalism to political leadership is not a departure from principle but a logical expansion of it.
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‎What distinguishes Obinna is not merely the offices he occupies, but the clarity of thought and moral conviction that animate his work. Whether in the newsroom, in the classroom mentoring young journalists, on the airwaves dissecting public policy, or within the strategic corridors of party leadership, he remains anchored to one enduring philosophy, that governance must answer to the people and that institutions must serve the public good rather than private ambition.
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‎His intellectual formation in media law, ethics, and political communication finds practical expression in his fearless interrogation of power structures. His stewardship of Realm Media reflects not only entrepreneurial foresight but an unwavering commitment to investigative rigor and civic enlightenment. His authorship demonstrates depth of research and analytical courage, offering readers frameworks through which to understand systemic decay and envision reform.
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‎As Abia State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress ADC, Obinna embodies a generation of political actors determined to reconstruct systems rather than inherit their dysfunction. His leadership style combines strategic patience with bold articulation. He understands that transformation is deliberate, organized, and sustained.
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‎Above all, Don Norman Obinna stands as a testament to what happens when scholarship meets conviction and when media consciousness evolves into structured political action. His career is defined not by noise but by impact, not by mere participation but by principled intervention.
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‎In the unfolding story of governance reform and democratic accountability in Nigeria, his name resonates among those who choose to build rather than bow. His trajectory reflects present relevance and signals enduring influence in the chapters yet to be written.
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‎Don Norman Obinna remains a voice, a force, and a vision.

Written By:
CEEJAY OJI

The release of the 2027 general election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, marks the formal commencement of Nigeria’s democratic cycle. Timetables are not merely administrative schedules; they are constitutional signposts that remind both leaders and citizens that sovereignty ultimately resides with the people.
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‎However, a timetable alone does not guarantee credibility. Credibility is built deliberately through institutions, political actors, and an alert citizenry.
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‎First, what must be done to ensure the credibility of the 2027 elections?
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‎INEC must deepen transparency at every stage of the process. This includes timely publication of guidelines, strict adherence to the Electoral Act, transparent management of voter registration, and open demonstration of technologies such as BVAS and result transmission portals well ahead of election day. Procurement processes, recruitment of ad hoc staff, and distribution of sensitive materials must be insulated from partisan influence. Real time communication with the public is essential to prevent misinformation and distrust.
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‎Security agencies must operate with visible neutrality. Their constitutional duty is to protect voters, not intimidate them. Election security must prioritize deterrence of vote buying, ballot snatching, and violence, especially in historically volatile areas. Professional conduct on election day is not optional; it is foundational.
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‎Political parties also bear responsibility. Internal democracy must be strengthened. Candidate selection processes must reflect merit, competence, and broad consultation rather than imposition. When primaries are flawed, the general election is already compromised. Parties must sign and genuinely respect peace accords, avoiding inflammatory rhetoric and ethnic or religious mobilization.
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‎Civil society organizations, media institutions, and observer groups must intensify voter education, fact checking political claims, and monitoring campaign finance compliance. An informed electorate is the strongest firewall against manipulation.
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‎NOW, WHAT MUST THE ELECTORATES DO?
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‎Democracy is not sustained by complaints but by participation. Citizens must ensure they are properly registered and that their details are accurate. They must collect their Permanent Voter Cards early and resist inducements. Vote buying thrives where poverty meets political cynicism. Rejecting financial inducement is not merely moral; it is strategic. A sold vote mortgages four years of governance.
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‎Voters must go beyond party symbols and personalities. The central question should be, who has demonstrable competence, integrity, and a verifiable track record? Examine past public service, policy clarity, consistency of values, respect for the rule of law, and ability to unite rather than divide. Scrutinize campaign promises. Are they costed? Are they realistic? Do they address structural issues such as economic diversification, security reform, education, healthcare, and institutional strengthening?
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‎A credible candidate is not necessarily the loudest or the wealthiest. Credibility rests on character, competence, courage, and commitment to constitutionalism.
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‎HOW CAN CITIZENS PROTECT AND MAKE THEIR VOTES COUNT?
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‎First, show up early and remain patient. High voter turnout reduces the statistical impact of manipulation. Second, insist on due process at polling units. Ensure that accreditation is properly conducted and that results are openly counted and recorded. Third, document irregularities responsibly through lawful channels. Fourth, follow the results through official portals and cross check published figures with polling unit records, where legally accessible.
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‎Citizens must also protect their votes long before election day by engaging in policy conversations, town halls, and issue based debates. Democracy is weakened when elections are personality contests devoid of ideological clarity.
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‎Beyond election day, vigilance must continue. Democratic accountability does not end at the ballot box. Elected officials must be engaged, questioned, and evaluated consistently. The culture of four year silence between elections must end.
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‎Finally, Nigeria’s 2027 elections must not be framed merely as a contest for power but as a referendum on institutional maturity. If conducted credibly, they can strengthen public trust, attract investment, stabilize governance, and renew national confidence. If mishandled, they risk deepening cynicism and disengagement.
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‎The timetable is now out. The clock has started ticking. Institutions must act responsibly. Political actors must rise above narrow ambition. Citizens must remember that democracy is not something that happens to them; it is something that depends on them.
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‎The integrity of 2027 will not be determined on election day alone. It will be determined by what all stakeholders choose to do between now and then.

I am a history enthusiast with a strong interest in Africa, its history, political systems, democracy, and the broader forces that have shaped the continent. I am particularly interested in sources that go beyond simplified or sanitized narratives and engage honestly with Africa’s complexities, including pre colonial governance, colonial disruption, post independence politics, and contemporary challenges.
Can anyone recommend credible books, academic resources, archives, documentaries, or scholars that present Africa’s history and political development with depth, balance, and intellectual honesty? I am looking for rigorous, well sourced materials rather than propaganda or overly romanticized accounts.

‎“Africa’s struggle is no longer for independence, but for authorship. Until Africans write their own economic rules, secure their own territories, educate their own consciousness, and defend their own resources, freedom will remain a ceremony rather than a condition. History will continue to repeat itself, not because it is forgotten, but because it is allowed to govern the present.”
‎- Ceejay Oji

History is meant to teach, not to trap. Yet for Africa, history often feels less like a lesson and more like a shadow that refuses to lift. The story of colonization is not merely a distant memory of foreign domination; it is a living structure whose consequences continue to shape political choices, economic systems, security conditions, and even the psychology of African societies. This reality compels a troubling question: are Africans truly free, or merely well controlled?
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‎Colonization did not end simply because flags were lowered and independence declared. While formal political rule by Western powers ceased, the deeper architecture of control remained intact. Borders were drawn without regard for ethnic, cultural, or economic coherence, deliberately planting the seeds of internal tension. Economies were engineered to export raw materials rather than develop local industries, ensuring permanent dependence. Educational systems rewarded imitation over innovation, while governance models emphasized authority over accountability. Independence, therefore, became symbolic, political in appearance but structurally incomplete.
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‎Beyond what is commonly discussed lies a more complex and unsettling truth: Africa’s continued subjugation is sustained by systems so normalized that they are rarely questioned. One such system is monetary control. Several African countries remain tied to foreign controlled currency arrangements that limit monetary sovereignty and restrict policy flexibility. This prevents industrial expansion, weakens local manufacturing, and places economic destiny beyond domestic control.
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‎Debt dependency represents another quiet mechanism of domination. Under the language of development and aid, African nations are locked into borrowing cycles that prioritize repayment over human development. Infrastructure projects often enrich foreign contractors and lenders while leaving African states with long term financial burdens. Development, in this context, becomes extractive rather than transformative.
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‎Equally underexplored is the role of insecurity as a strategic tool. Conflict in Africa is frequently explained away as ethnic rivalry or poor governance, yet research points to patterns of arms flows, proxy conflicts, and destabilization linked to external economic interests. Resource rich regions are disproportionately plagued by violence, weakening state authority and enabling cheap, unregulated access to minerals. Insecurity, therefore, is not accidental; it is functional.
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‎The continued looting of Africa’s mineral wealth stands as one of the clearest examples of modern colonialism. Africa supplies a significant share of the world’s critical resources, yet remains economically marginalized. Raw materials are extracted with little value addition, exported cheaply, and reimported as expensive finished goods. This system ensures Africa remains a supplier, never a competitor.
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‎Internal complicity deepens these challenges. Some African leaders and elites act as intermediaries for foreign interests, trading national welfare for personal enrichment. Weak institutions, corruption, and suppressed civic dissent allow exploitation to persist without foreign occupation. Control has been internalized.
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‎Perhaps the most damaging legacy of colonization is psychological. A dependency mindset persists, where African solutions are undervalued and foreign approval is treated as legitimacy. This intellectual subordination shapes policy, education, and ambition, reinforcing external dominance without coercion.
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‎Confronting these realities demands more than awareness; it requires deliberate structural reform. First, Africa must pursue economic sovereignty by prioritizing local value addition, regional manufacturing, and intra African trade. Exporting raw materials while importing finished goods must be replaced with industrial policies that reward processing, innovation, and technological development within the continent.
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‎Second, monetary and financial autonomy must be strengthened. African states should gradually renegotiate restrictive currency arrangements, deepen regional financial cooperation, and build institutions capable of independent fiscal and monetary decision making. Debt must be approached strategically, with transparency, regional bargaining power, and a shift from consumption based borrowing to productivity driven investment.
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‎Third, security architecture must be African led. Dependence on foreign military presence often reinforces instability rather than resolving it. Regional security cooperation, intelligence sharing, and locally accountable armed forces are essential to breaking the link between insecurity and exploitation.
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‎Fourth, leadership reform is non negotiable. Strong institutions, not strong individuals, must become the foundation of governance. Anti corruption mechanisms, independent judiciary, and active civil societies are essential to dismantling internal collaboration with external exploitation.
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‎Equally important is intellectual and psychological decolonization. African education systems must prioritize critical thinking, local research, and indigenous knowledge alongside global learning. Development should be measured by social impact and self reliance, not external praise or rankings.
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‎Finally, Africa must reclaim its narrative power. Who tells Africa’s story influences how Africa is treated. Research, media, and policy discourse must increasingly originate from African perspectives, grounded in lived realities rather than external assumptions.
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‎The question of freedom, therefore, is not merely whether Africa is controlled, but whether it is willing to confront the full architecture of that control, both external and internal. Until Africans reclaim ownership of their resources, currencies, security systems, institutions, and narratives, freedom will remain fragile and conditional. History must be remembered honestly, but it must also be transcended. Only then can Africa move from being well controlled to truly free.

- Ceejay Oji

In Nigeria’s ever-shifting political chessboard, one name that has constantly stayed at the center of intrigue is Chief Nyesom Wike. From being a Local Government Chairman in 1999 to currently serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Wike’s career has been nothing short of a power marathon. But the question Nigerians are now asking is simple: is President Tinubu about to outgrow Wike politically?
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‎FLASHBACK TO 2023: In the heat of the 2023 elections, Wike broke ranks with his party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and allegedly worked behind the scenes to deliver Rivers State to President Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Many political watchers believe his actions greatly weakened PDP’s chances, especially against Atiku Abubakar.
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‎For his efforts, Tinubu appointed him Minister of FCT, a position typically reserved for APC loyalists. That move wasn’t just reward, it was strategy. Wike, allegedly, was expected to use the power of The FCT to secure Rivers (and perhaps the South-South) for Tinubu in 2027.
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‎BUT HERE'S THE TWIST: Recent developments suggest a different narrative.
‎Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Wike’s former political godson turned archrival, is reportedly in talks with Tinubu for reconciliation. If the deal pulls through and Fubara pledges allegiance to the President, Rivers might go to Tinubu in 2027 without needing Wike at all.
‎This changes everything, because the reason Wike was valuable was because of his control over Rivers. If that power slips through his fingers, what then would be his bargaining chip?
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‎For the benefit of President Tinubu's bigger Game Plan, APC is Expanding. Across Nigeria, governors and power blocs are defecting to APC like it’s the Noah’s Ark. From the North to the East, politicians are abandoning ship and pledging loyalty to Tinubu. It’s no longer about just winning 2027, it’s about dominating it.
‎So here’s the blunt truth, Tinubu 'MAY' NOT NEED WIKE ANYMORE.
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What Wike offered in 2023, that is, alleges disruption of PDP and control of Rivers is gradually becoming irrelevant. Tinubu already has what he needs. PDP as at today is a shadow of itself, majority of the Governors are with him, the APC has the majority in the National Assembly. Also, "behind the scene" power players are obviously behind him. So what will be the role of the owner of 'Rivers state political structure?'
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‎Wike is not new to political storms. He’s been in government non-stop for 26 years. But his current situation demands reinvention:
‎Will he try to reclaim control of Rivers and challenge Fubara?
‎Will he accept a reduced national role and stay loyal to Tinubu?
‎Or
‎Will he pull a surprise move and realign again before 2027?
‎‎Time is ticking, Tinubu’s inner circle is expanding, and there may soon be no seat left at the table for those who are no longer useful.
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‎‎Chief Nyesom Wike may still wear a ministerial title, but in Nigerian politics, relevance is never about the office you hold, it’s about the influence you command.
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‎One thing is clear: President Tinubu is known for rewarding loyalty. His political journey has always reflected a keen sense of compensation for those who stand by him when it matters. Wike’s current position as Minister of the FCT is arguably a testament to that reward system. But the lingering question is: how long can Wike remain loyal?
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‎Given his long history of strategic repositioning, defiance of party structures, and preference for power over party loyalty, it is fair to ask: Will Wike stay the course with Tinubu—or chart a new path if the winds shift?
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‎If Rivers is truly slipping from his grip, and Tinubu continues consolidating power without him, is Wike still an indispensable political ally, or gradually becoming expendable?
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‎Time will tell. But one thing remains true: Tinubu rewards loyalty, but he also plans ahead. And in that plan, only the truly useful remains relevant.
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Imagine a football match where only one team is allowed on the field. No opposition. No competition. Just one team, kicking the ball around, scoring goals uncontested, and declaring themselves champions every time. Sounds ridiculous, right? Yet, that’s exactly what Nigeria risks becoming under a one-party system.
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‎Recently, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, boldly predicted that by December 2025, the PDP will "cease to exist." To him, this was good news—an opportunity for APC to stand as the only political force in Nigeria. He even attempted to justify this, arguing that APC’s dominance is a sign of national alignment and political maturity. But make no mistake: this is not progress. It’s a dangerous detour from democracy.
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‎Democracy is built on competition—of ideas, of visions, of policies. It thrives when leaders know they can be voted out. When people have real choices. When dissenting voices are not just tolerated but valued.
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‎But look around: opposition figures are being co-opted or silenced. Political defections are celebrated as trophies, not red flags. Dissent is branded as disloyalty. And slowly, a one-party reality creeps in—disguised as political success.
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‎If we lose opposition, we lose accountability. We lose the pressure that keeps leaders on their toes. We lose debate. We lose innovation. Worst of all, we lose the soul of democracy.
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‎Nigeria doesn’t need a ruling party that crushes all others. It needs a ruling party that’s held accountable by a bold, vibrant, and constructive opposition.
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‎To every Nigerian: don’t be blinded by the illusion of "unity" through political monopoly. True unity comes from inclusion, dialogue, and a balance of power.
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‎We must resist the slide into authoritarianism masked as democracy. One-party rule isn’t the future. It’s a return to the past we struggled to leave behind.
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‎Let Nigeria remain a country of choices, not a stage for just one political actor.

Chijioke Nwoke Oji
18/05/2025

I, Prof Gregory Ibe, the Abia state governorship candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2023 election, extend my warmest congratulations to Barr Sly Ezeokenwa on his validation by the Supreme Court as the authentic National Chairman of our great party.

The Supreme Court's landmark reaffirmation of Barr Ezeokenwa as the validly elected National Chairman is a testament to the authenticity of the National Convention that produced him as leader of the National Working Committee of APGA last year. I therefore commend the judiciary for being the last hope of the common man and for upholding the truth.

I urge Chief Edozie Njoku to refrain from further actions that could factionalize our party and instead embrace this moment as an opportunity for rebuilding, strengthening, and repositioning our party for greater exploits in future elections.

In these challenging times, APGA must seize this moment to reinvent herself and present a credible platform for providing better political leadership. I enjoin Barr Ezeokenwa to be magnanimous in victory by reaching out to Chief Njoku and exploring avenues for healing through the establishment of a national peace and reconciliation committee.

I call on all APGA faithful across the nation to support the Barr Ezeokenwa-led National Working Committee in ensuring the emergence of a people-centric political platform that could subsequently lead to the emergence of a true people-driven Nigerian government, as envisioned by our party's founding fathers.

Once again, congratulations to Barr Sly Ezeokenwa on this well-deserved validation. May this milestone mark the beginning of a new era of growth and success for APGA.

Prof Gregory Ibe, PhD, OFR(Enyi Abia)

Barr. Etigwe Uwa SAN, has expressed his deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and loved ones of Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, who passed away on 5th November 2024.

Etigwe Uwa described the late Chief of Army staff as a dedicated public servant whose selfless service to the Nation and exemplary leadership will be missed. In his words, "I mourn the loss of a distinguished and dedicated public servant, whose selfless contributions to the Nigerian Army and our nation will be deeply missed. General Lagbaja's exemplary leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service left an indelible mark on our country and he will be greatly missed".

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria went ahead to console the Governor of Osun state, Gov. Ademola Adeleke and the citizens of Osun state, praying that God will grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. "I pray that Almighty God grants his family, friends, colleagues and the entire people of Osun state, the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations".

Rest in peace, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Etigwe Uwa, SAN

The Resident Pastor of Assemblies of God Church, Gregory University Uturu chapel, Pastor Victor Dimoji has appreciated God for the life of the proprietor of Gregory University Uturu, Prof Gregory Ibe.

Speaking on Sunday 10 December while leading the congregation in prayers of thanksgiving for the 60th birthday ceremony of Prof Ibe, Pastor Dimoji thanked God for the vision of Gregory University Uturu.
He enjoined the congregation to remain steadfast in rendering fervent intercessory prayers, both for the good health of Prof Ibe and sustenance of the vision of Gregory University Uturu.

Addressing the congregation, GUU's Deputy Registrar, Communication, Rev. Sleek Ogwo averred that Prof Ibe has achieved so many landmarks before attaining the milestone age of 60 and encouraged the church members to emulate the good examples of the university founder.

Testifying about the tangible impacts of Prof Ibe, Nnanna Nnate, a 300 level student of the institution described Prof Ibe as a gift to humanity and role model, stressing that his entrepreneurial grace has continued to rub off on many within the university community. Continuing, Nnate hailed Prof Ibe for providing a serene and conducive environment for academic pursuit in Uturu and prayed God to richly bless him with many more years in good health and prosperity.

Similar sessions of intercessory prayers were held in celebration of Prof Ibe's 60th birthday in many chapels within GUU, including, St Gregory the Great Catholic Chapel and the Anglican Chapel of Peace.

The event was spiced with a colourful night party. The event which was held at 'Country club', the hometown residence of Prof Gregory Ibe in Uturu was attended by friends and well wishers of the entrepreneurial guru. The highlight of the night event was cutting of birthday cake, to the glory of God.

Prof Gregory Ibe, the proprietor of Gregory University Uturu, was born into the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe on 10th December 1963 in Kaduna State.

Member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council and Abia state Governorship candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Prof Gregory Ibe, has congratulated Hon. Joseph Boakai on his recent emergence as President of Liberia.

Speaking through a congratulatory message personally endorsed by him, Prof Ibe applauded Liberians for successfully conducting a free, fair and credible polling exercise that led to the emergence of a worthy Pan African Leader as President.
Recalling how Hon. Boakai graciously accepted to deliver the maiden convocation lecture of Gregory University Uturu in 2014 while serving as Liberian Vice President, he prayed for a productive Presidential tenure that will impact positively on every sector of the Liberian economy.

Part of the message reads thus, "I have received with immense joy your victory at the recently conducted Presidential election in Liberia and subsequently wish to convey my warmest felicitation to you. While thanking God for this gladsome development, I want to appreciate the Liberian electorates for successfully conducting a free, fair and credible election which has resulted in the emergence of a true and worthy Pan African Leader as President".

Continuing he said, "I recall with nostalgia how you graciously accepted to deliver the maiden convocation lecture of Gregory University Uturu in 2014 while serving as Vice President to Africa's first elected female President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Your humility in accepting to honour our invitation ultimately resulted in the delivery of an impactful scholarly lecture which in turn led to the naming of our college of Social and Management Sciences after you".

In conclusion Prof Ibe said, "Knowing your political pedigree, wealth of experience and vast diplomatic assets, I am convinced you will surpass the performance of your predecessors. I therefore pray for a fruitful and productive administration that will impact positively on every sector of the Liberian economy".

Correspondents report that Hon. Boakai emerged as Liberia’s new leader after his rival and sitting President George Weah conceded a tight election to mark a peaceful transfer of power. Liberia's elections commission said on Friday that 78-year-old Boakai managed to secure a narrow victory with 50.9 percent of the vote to Weah’s 49.1 percent.

- Sleek Ogwo ,ANIPR

Member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council and governorship candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance(APGA) Prof Gregory Ibe has commiserated with the government and people of Abia state on the tragic accident that occurred on Tuesday at Waterside Aba, which claimed many lives.

Speaking on the heels of the unfortunate incident, Prof Ibe, who consoled Governor Alex Otti and members of the bereaved family, expressed deep concern over the worrisome preponderance of road crashes on the bridge axis of waterside in Aba and called for an immediate solution to the perennial traffic challenge in the area to prevent further loss of lives.

According to Prof Ibe, "I received with sadness news about the tragic road crash on the waterside axis of Aba which claimed many lives and wish to commiserate with our Governor, Dr Alex Otti and members of the bereaved families over the painful loss of their loved relations. While not approving of death in any form, I think dying through a road crash is a harsh and brutal way of signing off from this earth. It is a black Tuesday as i deeply mourn the unfortunate victims of this accident".

Continuing, he said, "I believe this is one fatal incident too many on this same waterside bridge and therefore presents a worrisome traffic challenge that must be urgently addressed to prevent reoccurrence and subsequently avoid further loss of precious lives".

Tragedy struck when a trailer carrying a container of goods lost control while descending Ogbor Hill in Aba in the early hours of Tuesday and consequently crashed into some vehicles at the waterside bridge killing many people in the aftermath.

It will be recalled that a similar incident that equally claimed many lives occurred at the same waterside bridge in February 2022, leading to the closure of the popular Ahia Udele market by the previous administration.

- Sleek Ogwo, ANIPR

The Abia state candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2023 governorship election, Prof Gregory Ibe has congratulated Chief Alex Ikwechegh( Onye ocha N'Aba) on his recent court of appeal victory affirming his election to the House Representatives.

Speaking through a congratulatory message, Prof Ibe commended the sheer determination, tenacity of purpose and doggedness which characterized the political engagements of Chief Ikwechegh from the party primaries stage through the polling phase and down to the litigation processes.

While commending Chief Ikwechegh for his steadfastness in fighting to enforce his electoral mandate, Prof Ibe enjoined the incoming law maker to work to sustain and surpass the legislative legacies of late Hon Ossy Prestige, whose representation of the good people of Aba North and South in the National Assembly remain legendary.

The court of Appeal sitting in Lagos had on Thursday declared Chief Alex Ikwechegh of APGA winner of Aba North and South Federal Constituency thereby reaffirming the earlier judgement of the National Assembly Tribunal which disqualified Emeka Nnamani of Labour Party over certificate forgery.

- Sleek Ogwo, ANIPR

Member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council Prof Gregory Ibe has lamented the death of elder statesman Prof Ben Nwabueze.

Speaking through a press statement released in Umuahia on Tuesday, Prof Ibe described Prof Nwabueze as a leading light, pioneer educationist and prominent legal luminary whose legacies will remain evergreen.

According to Prof Ibe, "Having received the shocking news of the death of our very distinguished leader and icon of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof Ben Nwabueze, I write to convey my deepest condolences first to the Nwabueze family of Atani and the entire people of Anambra state".

Continuing he said, "Prof Ben Nwabueze was a leading light, pioneer educationist and prominent legal luminary whose legacies will remain evergreen within Nigeria and Africa". Recalling how the late education icon collaborated with other stalwarts to form the Ohanaeze Ndigbo socio-cultural organization, Prof Ibe praised the sterling pioneering spirit of Prof Nwabueze which according to him characterized his entire life tenure and endeared him to many.

He said, "Part of the lasting legacies of Prof Nwabueze include his pioneering role in the formation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo which he collaborated with such notable stalwarts as Dr Akanu Ibiam, Dr Michael Okpara, Chief Kingsley Mbadiwe and Prof Joe Irukwu to establish Oha-na-Eze Ndi Igbo in 1976 as a pan-Igbo Organization. He would later serve as our pioneer Secretary General under the leadership of our late father Chief Jerome Udoji".

Speaking on how Prof Nwabueze's legacies impacted directly on him, Prof Ibe narrated how he was challenged by the late icon's record of emerging the first academic Senior Advocate of Nigeria strictly on the basis of his published works.

In his words," Prof Nwabueze was not just a role model who mentored me in the area of social entrepreneurship, but also a major source of inspiration. For instance when I read that he published his way to emerge the first academic Senior Advocate of Nigeria I was challenged to delve into the world of publishing. Now I have many titles on different subjects and themes".

While calling for sustenance of the legacies of the late legal luminary, Prof Ibe promised to immortalize such fallen Igbo heroes as Raph Uwechue, Col. Joe Achuzie, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, Prof George Obiozor, Prof Joe Irukwu and Prof Ben Nwabueze through a colloquium that will climax with the symbolic etching of their names in the Igbo Hall of Fame at the Centre for Igbo Renaissance of Gregory University Uturu.

In conclusion, Prof Ibe prayed for peaceful repose of the soul of Prof Nwabueze while enjoining the public to bear the irreparable loss with soberity.

News on the death of Prof Nwabueze, one time Nigeria's Minister of Education was announced on Monday by a spokesperson of the family, Eni Nwabueze, who confirmed that the elder statesman died on Sunday at the age of 94.

- Sleek Ogwo, ANIPR

The Management of Gregory University Uturu has released a comprehensive calendar for the 2023/2024 academic session.
According to a press statement by the Registrar of the institution Dr Chukwuemeka Mpamah, students are expected to return to the campus on Saturday 28 October 2023.

Interesting highlights of the calendar include, Orientation Programme for Freshmen, Public Lecture on the topic "Harnessing Opportunities in Block Chain Technology and Digital Economy" by Archbishop Prof Sam Zuga and Induction Programme for the institution's pioneer medical doctors.

Other features captured in the calendar include the 8th Inaugural Lecture of the university on the theme " Communicating Life and Death in our Atomistic Conflict Prone Society; Media Role in Resolving the Albatross", a thought provoking treatise to be delivered by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Prof Uche Uwaoma, the 12th Matriculation event and activities marking the 8th Convocation ceremony.

Adding that the calendar has been designed to guarantee the attainment of the institution's goal of "advancing the cause of developing the total man while delivering technologically powered knowledge, skills and competencies to students", the statement sued for strict compliance and participation by members of the university community.

- Media & Public Relations Unit

Fellow Nigerians na Umunnem Ndi Abia, as we come together to commemorate Nigeria's 63rd independence anniversary I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you.

This momentous occasion reminds us of the remarkable journey our great nation has traveled since gaining independence in 1960. It is a time to reflect on our shared history, the progress we've made, and the challenges we continue to face. Let us renew our commitment to unity, peace, and progress as we work tirelessly to build a better Nigeria for all.

Let us remember that our diversity is our strength, and together, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our path towards a brighter and more prosperous future. Coming at a time our nation is experiencing excruciating economic challenges, let me encourage all Nigerian Christians and Muslims to be steadfast in prayers of intercession soliciting for divine intervention to our problems, while joining hands in the spirit of unity and cooperation, working towards a Nigeria that embodies the ideals of justice, equality, and prosperity for all.

Finally, I want to specially felicitate my brothers and sisters from Abia, God's Own State, who have through the ingenuity of innovation, industry and enterprise continued to commit their blood, sweat and tears to the growth and advancement of our dear state in particular and Nigeria as a whole. As long as God remains the Lord over our state, I want to assure you that your labours for the good of our land will not be in vain.

Happy Independence Nigeria!

Yours in unity and progress,

Prof. Gregory Ibe,PhD, OFR(Enyi Abia)
Member, Presidential Advisory Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

Executive Governor of Imo State Sen. Hope Uzodinma on Wednesday 23 August 2023 will inaugurate Skills 87.7FM station in Okigwe, the first of its kind in the local government.

The station is proudly owned by Abia born Chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Member, Presidential Advisory Council of the body, Prof. Gregory Ibe.

This was contained in a statement issued by media aide to Prof. Gregory Ibe, Rev. Sleek Ogwo on Thursday.

According to the statement, the Skills FM is currently testing the strength of its signals on the frequency of 87.7 in the FM band.

The statement reads,"All is now set for official commissioning of Skills FM, the first radio station sited in the ancient town of Okigwe in Imo state.

According to a press statement from Gregory University Uturu, owners of the broadcast outfit, the new station will be commissioned by the Executive Governor of Imo State Senator Hope Uzodinma on Wednesday 23 August 2023, in the presence of many distinguished personalities.

Part of the statement reads thus:
"Pursuant to the vision of our Founder Prof. Gregory Ibe to consistently vanguard the good delivery of quality knowledge to all sundry, we are pleased to announce the planned commissioning of our commercial radio station, aptly named Skills FM, by the Executive Governor of Imo State Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, in the company of many other distinguished personalities, on Wednesday 23 August 2023".

Licensed to Prof Gregory Ibe, Founder and Proprietor of Gregory University Uturu, Skills FM is currently testing the strength of her signals on the frequency of 87.7 in the FM band. With the promise of "Adding Value" to her numerous listeners, the station parades many notable On Air Personalities (OAPs) who are poised to entertain, enlighten and educate the large demography of her listening public in Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu and Anambra States.

The statement therefore invites the general public to attend the epoch making event".

Member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe has felicitated with the Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo on his 63 birthday.

In a goodwill message released over the weekend, Prof. Ibe, who contested the 2023 general elections as Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance(APGA) in Abia State, congratulated Gov. Soludo for bequeathing humanity with a plethora of achievements at a relatively young age.
According to Prof. Ibe, "On this auspicious occasion of commemoration of your 63 birthday, I want to specially congratulate you for achieving the feat of bequeathing humanity with a plethora of impacts even at a relatively young age".

While appreciating God for sustaining the health of the Governor and enabling him to serve the public in various capacities, including Chief Economic Adviser to the President, Governor of the Central Bank and Anambra State Governor, Prof. Ibe earnestly coveted the release of a fresh season of divine strength on Prof. Soludo.
In his words, "While thanking God for giving you good health and vigour that enabled you to function as Chief Economic Adviser to President Obasanjo, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and now Anambra State Governor, it is my unrelenting intercession that as you mark this 63rd birthday, heaven releases a fresh season of divine strength on you for the journey ahead".

Prof. Ibe used the message to enjoin Gov. Soludo to deploy his current position as National Leader of APGA in rebuilding, strengthening and extending the frontiers of the party to other parts of the nation.
He said, "This sexagenarian birthday anniversary that is coming at a time you are occupying the exalted position of National Leader of our great party APGA, affords you the golden opportunity of working assiduously with the NWC in rebuilding, strengthening and extending the frontiers of our party to every region and state in Nigeria".

Born on 28 July 1960, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo is currently serving as the 9th democratically elected Governor of Anambra State in the South East of Nigeria.

- Sleek Ogwo , ANIPR

In response to the prevailing economic challenges arising from removal of Fuel Subsidy by the Federal Government, management of Gregory University Uturu has rolled out comprehensive palliative measures to cushion the effects of the policy on her staff members.

According to an internal official memo addressed to the university community and signed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, "the development is the outcome of a special intervention by the Founder of the institution, Prof. Gregory Ibe, aimed at supporting members of staff who have tirelessly contributed to the successes of the university".

The palliative measures include:

1. Transport Allowance Support -
The university has approved the provision of special monthly transport allowances to all staff members for the next three months, in the first instance.

2. Provision of interest free loans to interested members of staff - Before now, such loans were only given to most vulnerable members of staff.

3. Immediate distribution of free food items to all staff members- Before now, such largesse was only restricted to festive periods.

4. Subsidized Transportation Services- To ease the financial burden of daily commuting, the provision of subsidized bus services has been introduced to enable conveyance of staff members to and from strategic location and the university.

5. Free Accommodation at the University Guest House for academic staff members from far locations, to enable them to undertake conference marking of examination answer scripts and prepare results for the just concluded Rain Semester Examinations.

6.Free Feeding, including Food and Drinks at the University Canteen for all academic staff members involved in conference marking of the Rain Semester Examinations.

While contending that "this landmark decision reflects the commitment of the management to fostering a supportive and inclusive community of all its members".

The memo concludes by enjoining staff to reciprocate the gesture through enhanced commitment to their duties.

- Ebubechi Iwuh
(Ag. PRO, Gregory University, Uturu)

©️ Public Relations Unit, GUU

The MBBS programme of Gregory University Uturu has received final clinical accreditation by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria(MDCN).

According to a letter signed by the Registrar of MDCN, Dr T.A.B Sanusi, which was made available to journalists in Umuahia on Friday, the development is sequel to a satisfactory accreditation visit to Gregory University Uturu by the council earlier in the year.
The letter reads in part, "I am to convey provisional approval for your MBBS programme to be granted the final accreditation with effect from May 2023.

While congratulating the management of Gregory University Uturu for this laudable achievement, the letter enjoined the institution to ensure "progressive development of the MBBS programme" in order to guarantee maintenance of standards and quality assurance.

Education correspondents report that MDCN is the professional health regulatory agency that is constitutionally vested with the task of assessing, verifying and accrediting academic programmes of private and public higher institutions in the fields of Medicine, Dentistry and Alternative Medicine across Nigeria.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has reportedly resigned from his position.

The party’s National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore, also allegedly followed the decision of his principal.

Since the party’s contested presidential election victory on February 25, 2023, Adamu has been facing multiple challenges.

"It Wasn't Easy" - APC National Chairman Opens Up On How Akpabio, Abbas, Others Emerged.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has reportedly resigned from his position.

The party’s National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore, also allegedly followed the decision of his principal.

Since the party’s contested presidential election victory on February 25, 2023, Adamu has been facing multiple challenges.

Main opposition parties, along with their candidates, including Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are disputing the election results.

Leading figures within the APC have been calling for Adamu’s and Omisore’s resignations.

Insiders in the APC and the Presidency, speaking anonymously, confirmed to Prime Business Africa on Sunday night that Adamu stepped down at the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Adamu, whose tenure has been marked by conflict, had organized a National Working Committee (NWC) meeting for Monday, July 17, as a prelude to Caucus and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings set for July 18 and 19. It is now unclear what will become of these meetings.

Main opposition parties, along with their candidates, including Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are disputing the election results.

Leading figures within the APC have been calling for Adamu’s and Omisore’s resignations.

Insiders in the APC and the Presidency, speaking anonymously, confirmed to Prime Business Africa on Sunday night that Adamu stepped down at the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu..

Sources said the NWC and the President had no clear agenda for these meetings, leading to their postponement. This lack of direction is allegedly due to Adamu.

Reports also indicate a unanimous agreement within the NWC supporting the mandatory resignations of both the National Chairman and his Secretary.

Additionally, there is purported discontent over alleged ambiguity in the party’s 2022 account audit, which was reportedly “concluded and submitted without any of the members reviewing it.”

Sequel to speculation in some quarters that the current power outage in the female hostel of Gregory University Uturu is as a result of neglect by the school authorities, the university management has risen to describe the insinuation as false and baseless.

In a press statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the university, Ebubechi Iwuh, the management stated that the institution has since inception in 2012 relied on generators and solar systems to seamlessly supply power to over 3000 members of the university community.

According to the statement, "It is an established fact that the Gregory University Uturu, management has for the past 10 years of the institution's corporate existence been constrained by the absence of power from the National grid, so the institution resorted to supplying light to the campus with different capacity ranges of generator sets and solar systems. This burden, the management has continued to bear even in the face of sky rocketing prices of petroleum products".

She stated however that trouble began when a 500 KVA generator deployed to supply power to the entire campus broke down and efforts to repair the equipment was stalled by inability to secure parts and skilled workmanship due to threats of lockdown in the entire South East which made movement between Uturu and other towns very difficult.

According to Ebubechi Iwuh, concerted efforts had been made to restore light to parts of the campus through alternative means but unfortunately the deployed equipment began supplying more voltage of power than required and had to be shut down to avoid causing further damage to students' appliances.

While reasserting the commitment of the university management to the wellbeing and academic advancement of the students, the statement appealed for understanding especially as, "the unfortunate development is currently being holistically addressed to ensure realization of a permanent solution. Even as the management, while prioritizing the welfare of students, again reassures that very soon normalcy will be restored".

The public is hereby alerted of the fraudulent activities of one Dr. Mrs. Stella B Dennis, who is currently deploying telephone number 09125210477 and email address Academicsesession.edurepresentative@proton.me, to defraud innocent people of various sums of money in exchange for fake admission letters to Gregory University Uturu.

Sequel to this ugly development, Management of Gregory University Uturu wishes to reinstate the obvious fact that, in keeping with our established tradition, all protocols for admission into the institution for the forthcoming 2023/2024 academic session will be conducted either in person at the university campus, which is located at Amaokwe Achara Uturu, or via our official portal www.gregoryuniversityuturu.edu.ng.

Subsequently, members of the public are advised to disregard all solicitations from faceless individuals, groups and organizations whose stock in trade is to fraudulently obtain monies from unsuspecting people, but rather, report such activities to law enforcement agents.

Management has therefore petitioned appropriate security agencies on these nefarious activities as arrangements are being completed to formally open the admission window for the 2023/2024 academic session.

PLEASE BE PROPERLY GUIDED.

- Sleek Ogwo, ANIPR
(Deputy Registrar, Communication & Strategy)

Sierra Leone’s main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) has rejected results of the 24 June 2023 general elections and called on Sierra Leoneans “to play their part in resisting tyranny and fight for the restoration of democracy, civility and good governance” in the country.

Sitting President Julius Maada Bio of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has since been sworn in for a second term of five years after the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) declared him winner of the presidential poll with 56.17% of the votes.

The Commission said Dr Samura Kamara, the APC candidate came second with 41.16%.
In its latest statement issued on Friday in Freetown, “the APC unequivocally rejects the announced results of the recently concluded multi-tier elections in Sierra Leone, given the glaring irregularities and violations of established electoral procedures.”

“We demand the resignation of (Chief Commissioner) Mr. Mohamed Konneh and all the other commissioners of the ECSL based on demonstrated bias and failure to conduct their duties impartially,” the APC said, adding: “We insist on a rerun of the elections within six months to be overseen by credible individuals and institutions who will ensure a fair and transparent process.”

The party also “declares its non-participation in any level of governance, including the legislature and local councils, as the results have already been tampered with to give the SLPP an unjust majority at all levels.”

It further “demands the resignation of the following: Fayia Sellu, the Inspector-General of Police; Major General Patrick Lavahun, the Chief of Defence Staff; Abdulai Caulker, the National Security Coordinator; Francis Langumba Keili, the Chief of Staff of the Office of the ONS; and Desmond Babatunde Edwards, the Chief Justice,” alleging that “these individuals have shown a clear disregard for their constitutional duties and have instead aligned themselves with the undemocratic aspirations of (President) Julius Maada Bio.”

The APC also “urges international development partners to impose travel bans on key individuals who have played instrumental roles in stealing the mandate of the Sierra Leonean people,” including re-elected President Maada Bio and his wife, ministers of foreign affairs, information, internal affairs, Chief of defence staff, Inspector General of Police, Coordinator of the Office of National Security, deputy justice minister and the deputy Speaker of parliament.

Professor of Entrepreneural Studies and Founder of Gregory University Uturu, GUU, Professor Greg Ibe, has identified lack of visionary leadership as a major impediment to youth empowerment in the South East.

Ibe who stated this while featuring as the Keynote Speaker in this month's IkengaOnline townhall meeting Thursday night, regretted that political leaders in the zone are bereft of the needed ideas and political will to drive skills acquisition among Igbo youths.

Professor Ibe who spoke on the topic: "Navigating the Challenges of Youth Entrepreneurship: Strategies for Success", reeled out his various efforts to engineer entrepreneurship among Igbo youths.

Other challenges confronting entrepreneurship in the South East, according to the 2023 Abia State governorship candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, include; inadequate entrepreneurial education and support, limited access to capital, and poor infrastructure.

He further identified high operational cost, limited access to market, corruption and bureaucracy, insecurity among others.

Ikengaonline monthly town-hall meetings are meant to discuss topical issues affecting the South-East zone of Nigeria in particular, and the Nigeria state in general.

Professor Ibe is the proprietor of Gregory University, Uturu, a fast growing private university with special interest in core professional courses often not available in any public tertiary institution in the South East.

The philanthropist has through his foundation, IYKE IBE FOUNDATION, provided free medical attention to over 12,000 patients in 2022 alone.

The Chairman, World Igbo Congress (WIC), Professor Anthony Ejiofor, featured in the May edition where he spoke on: Insecurity in the South-East: The Role of Nigeria Diaspora.”

Former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, was the guest on the April edition where he handled: “Improving Regional Economy in the Homeland.”

World famous Economist and Nigeria’s two-time Minister for Finance, Kalu Idika Kalu, featured in the March edition wherein he did justice to the topic: “Nigeria’s incoming Government: Prospects & Challenges.”

Former Education Minister, and the current Chairman, Board of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Mrs Oby Ezekwesili, was the guest speaker of the February edition. She spoke on “Women in Politics, East of the Niger.”

Other eminent Igbo personalities have featured on the monthly event since its debut in 2022.

The maiden edition of Ikengaonline town-hall featured the immediate-past Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, in July 2022; while the second edition featured a renowned Political Economist, Professor Pat Okedinachi Utomi, in August.

Former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo; US-based academic, Professor Okey Ndibe; West African Regional Director, Ford Foundation, Dr Chichi Aniagolu-Okoye; as well as multi-award-winning actress and Director of Communications, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Monalisa Chinda Coker, had all featured at different editions of the explosive 90 minutes show.

Ikengaonline is a South-East-focused online media outfit which aims at giving voice to citizens of the South-East, parts of Rivers and Delta states, and highlights the challenges facing the region.

Ikengaonline is a publication of Ikenga Media and Cultural Awareness Initiative (IMCAI), a non-profit entity that seeks to promote positive socio-cultural values, accountability and good governance through media and public education.

It is part of the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development Inclusivity and Accountability Project, a multi-level intervention for media independence and government accountability, managed by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and supported by MacArthur Foundation.

Professor of Entrepreneural Studies, and UN consultant, Greg Ibe, will deliver this month's IkengaOnline townhall meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 29, 2023.

He will speak on the topic:"Navigating the Challenges of Youth Entrepreneurship: Strategies for Success".

According to a press release by the Editor-in-Chief of the on-line newspaper, Uche Ugboajah, the two-hour virtual meeting scheduled for 7:00 pm West African Time (WAT), will be co-anchored by Dr Osmund Agbo; and Dr Chido Onumah.

The release gave the zoom link as: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88054855769?pwd=YThvbTk1UlRLUHRJeUxiaml0ZFVHdz09

It also gave the meeting ID as: 880 5485 5769 ; and passcode as: 150017.

According to the release, the meeting will be transmitted live via Urban FM Radio Enugu; Ikengaonline Facebook; YouTube and other social media platforms.

Ikengaonline monthly town-hall meetings are meant to discuss topical issues affecting the South-East zone of Nigeria in particular, and the Nigeria state in general.

Professor Ibe is the proprietor of Gregory University Uturu, a fast growing private university with special interest in core professional courses often not available in any public tertiary institution in the South East.

The philanthropist has through his foundation, Iyke Ibe Foundation, provided free medical attention to over 12,000 patients in 2022 alone.

The Chairman, World Igbo Congress (WIC), Professor Anthony Ejiofor, featured in the May edition where he spoke on: Insecurity in the South-East: The Role of Nigeria Diaspora.”

Former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, was the guest on the April edition where he handled: “Improving Regional Economy in the Homeland.”

World famous Economist and Nigeria’s two-time Minister for Finance, Kalu Idika Kalu, featured in the March edition wherein he did justice to the topic: “Nigeria’s incoming Government: Prospects & Challenges.”

Former Education Minister, and the current Chairman, Board of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Mrs Oby Ezekwesili, was the guest speaker of the February edition. She spoke on “Women in Politics, East of the Niger.”

Other eminent Igbo personalities have featured on the monthly event since its debut in 2022.

The maiden edition of Ikengaonline town-hall featured the immediate-past Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, in July 2022; while the second edition featured a renowned Political Economist, Professor Pat Okedinachi Utomi, in August.

Former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo; US-based academic, Professor Okey Ndibe; West African Regional Director, Ford Foundation, Dr Chichi Aniagolu-Okoye; as well as multi-award-winning actress and Director of Communications, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Monalisa Chinda Coker, had all featured at different editions of the explosive 90 minutes show.

Ikengaonline is a South-East-focused online media outfit which aims at giving voice to citizens of the South-East, parts of Rivers and Delta states, and highlights the challenges facing the region.

Ikengaonline is a publication of Ikenga Media and Cultural Awareness Initiative (IMCAI), a non-profit entity that seeks to promote positive socio-cultural values, accountability and good governance through media and public education.

It is part of the Collaborative Media Engagement for Development Inclusivity and Accountability Project, a multi-level intervention for media independence and government accountability, managed by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and supported by MacArthur Foundation.

Member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council and Abia State Governorship Candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the last general elections, Prof. Gregory Ibe has enjoined Muslim faithfuls to emulate the sacrificial lifestyle of Prophet Ibrahim by extending charity to the less privileged.

Prof. Ibe, who gave the admonition in an Eid El Kabir goodwill message, encouraged all followers of Islam to demonstrate their love for Allah by engaging in charitable acts of almsgiving, by extending their blessing to others in order to make the world go round.
According to Prof. Ibe, " While congratulating our Muslim brothers on the commemoration of Eid El Kabir, I want to use this occasion to enjoin them to emulate the sacrificial lifestyle of Prophet Ibrahim by freely extending their blessing to the less privileged members of the society and thereby make the world go round".
Contending that promoting the lifestyle of distributing to the needs of the indigent members of the community guarantees a better society, Prof. Ibe counselled Muslims to use the Eid El Kabir festival to counter the worrisome hike in the spate of criminality by reaching out and touching the lives of others.

In his words, " It is against the backdrop of the worrisome hike of criminality in Abia state that I want to enjoin our brothers to emulate the sacrificial virtues exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim in keeping with the Islamic law of Zakat by reaching out and touching the lives of the less privileged members of the society".

The federal government had declared Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th of June as public holidays in celebration of the 2023 edition of the Muslim festival of Eid El Kabir.