₦airaland Forum

Hold council chairmen for payment of LG Retirees not Gov Nwifuru ... Nwonu




The Executive Secretary, Local Government Staff pension Board, Mr Emeka Nwonu says, Governor Francis Nwifiru is not owing Local Government retirees, contrary to insinuation making the rounds in some sections of the social Media as the responsibility of
payment of Local Government retirees is in the hands of council Chairmen and according to him, they are ready to commence the payments.

Nwonu, who stated this during a press briefing in his office, in Abakaliki said that the clarification became imperative owing to the misconceptions and blame game created by the enemy of the state concerning payment of gratuity and pension of retired Local Government Staff in the state..


He emphasized that the governor, Nwifuru is not in control of the local governments fund and as such, did not owe any gratuity and pension to Local government retirees.




"It has become unavoidably necessary that I update the public once again on the yet-to-be paid initial pensions and gratuities to Ebonyi State Local Government Retirees as some critics have taken to the media in the recent time to blame the Executive Governor of the State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Bildr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru , GGCEHF, FNIOB, FCAI for the non payment, thereby, attempting to discredit his government'.

"You may recall that I had before now on invitations and in different occasions appeared in different radio stations in the state to brief the public on why the Local Government retirees in our dear state between 1996 and 2023 are yet to be paid their initial pensions and gratuities. I had also in several times before now published the information on some of our local tabloids".

"Having known that the public are being misinformed by the opposition elements in the state on situational reality, it therefore, becomes imperative that I announce it to you that His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Bildr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is not owing pensions and gratuities to the local government retirees as the governor is not in control of the local government funds. As such, I wish to put the record straight".
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THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER:

" Civil servants in Nigeria are managed by three tiers of government (federal, state and local) in line with the principles of federalism that Nigeria practises as a nation. Each of these tiers of government has a Civil Service Commission trusted with the constitutional responsibilities and statutory obligations to employ and determine the salary structures and retirement benefits of the civil servants and retirees under it'.

"In lieu of the above, the salaries, wages, allowances, pensions and gratuities of the local government workers(civil servants) including UBEB workers who are in the field, and retirees in Ebonyi State are being released by the Local Government Areas to the Local Government Staff Pension Board for onward payments as determined or charted by the State Local Government Service Commission and not the state government. The workers friendly governor had long ago cleared the backlog of pensions and gratuities of the state civil servants which was up to ₦7b". .

"it pleases me to remind you in case you have forgotten that the Governor of Ebonyi state, His Excellency, Rt Hon Bldr Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru had on 1st October 2023 in his Independence Day address granted 100% financial autonomy to the Local Government Areas, a pronouncement that received expansive accolades within and outside our dear state, by implication, and significantly, the Local Government Chairmen have more powers to preside over the expenditures of their funds as being completely released to them by the State Joint Account Committee. He made the pronouncement before the ruling of the Supreme Court that granted the same'.

"Due to the financial autonomy, His Excellency the governor who believes much in the tenets of democracy and uphold the principles of rule of law does not butt into the monetary affairs of the Local Government Areas, but rather as the father of the state advises or guides the Local Government Chairmen who are also stakeholders in his administration on the presumable best way to operate, the position has held excellently well since he came on board'.

WHAT MY OFFICE HAS DONE

" I was on Thursday, 18th January, 2024 graciously inaugurated by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Bildr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru as the Executive Secretary of Ebonyi State Local Government Staff Pension Board with a charge in line with the policy thrust of his administration which is anchored on "The People's Charter Of Needs to go to the board and do total transformation for the senior citizens who have meritoriously served our dear state at the local government levels be paid their retirement benefits. His Excellency visibly frowned at the conditions of the local government retirees who are yet to get their retirement benefits and reiterated the readiness and willingness of his people-oriented administration(which the local government chairmen are part of) to pay them, and directed me to verify the extant pensions and gratuities as owed to them, collate, process and profile the pensioners for immediate payments of their benefits'.

"In compliance with His Excellency's directive, I immediately made significant steps, got some findings from the principal officers and related stakeholders that would ensure prospective and successful profiling and processes of payment of retirement benefits to the deserved pensioners. After about two weeks, I went back and presented my reports to His Excellency, having a total of N9,044,402,05.40bn to be paid to 4920 retirees and 1135 dead pensioners respectively. I was given a further directive by the governor, which we are almost through with. We also embarked on pensioners verification across the 13 LGAs'

" I and my team have done much. It may interest you to know that while my office is tiding up all the processes and coming to fruitful conclusion, several meetings have been held, committees constituted as implored and directed by His Excellency who feels the pulses of Ebonyi people. In all of these, the local government chairmen were always part of the meetings and committees as people who will pay the money, either being represented by ALGON Chairman and the Chairman Joint Account Committee and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Matters, or all of them would be involved".

WHY THE PENSIONS AND THE GRATUITIES ARE YET TO BE PAID AND WHO ACTUALLY OWES THE PENSIONERS

" Having presented the total amount to be paid to the local government retirees from 1996 to 2023 amounting to over N9 billion, the council chairmen said that the money was humongous, they gave reports from whistle blowers that their was corruption in salaries management of the local government workers, stressing that people had been retiring but salaries kept increasing. It is in the light of above that the local government chairmen agreed on table payment method which would pave way for physical verification as it's going on currently, the reason the local government workers are being owed. With this, ghost workers will be fished out and money saved. The current local government chairmen inherited the debt of pensions and gratuities from the previous administrations. The accumulation came upon the unexpected stoppage of remittance of 15% shares from the the local government workers salaries, wages and allowances".

WAY FORWARD

' As my office is putting the final touches on the processes as directed by the governor, the local government chairmen are on their own, doing a lot of things so significant. My office and the local government chairmen have agreed that the pensions and gratuities will be paid in phases, beginning from those who retired between June 2023 and December 2024. Hopefully, the payment will commence within the first quarter of next year'.

ON THE ONGOING WARNING STRIKE

'Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru does not in any form deserve distractions in the name of industrial action. The governor has shown mercy to Ebonyi workers: He is the first governor among his contemporaries to add ₦20,000 to the workers' salaries. The first time Ebonyi workers got ₦100,000 as Christmas largesse, it is under Gov Nwifuru's administration. On 1st May, 2024, the governor shared ₦10,000 each for Ebonyi workers as lunch, first of its kind in our dear state. Gov Nwifuru approved ₦75,000 minimum wage above the ₦70,000 national minimum wage which has long ago reflected on their salaries. The governor bought CNG buses for Ebonyi workers to take them to and fro their work places with a view to cushioning the effects of hike in transportation. Under the governor, the workers have gone on promotions and their benefits reflected on their salaries. To boast the workforce, the governor has employed and is still employing people into the state clCivil Service, Judicial Service, UBEB, SEB and others'.

"To that effect, Ebonyi workers should ignore their so called leaders who are federal civil servants and be mindful of and cooperate with the governor who has them at heart. They should see the need to separate themselves from the strike in their own interest. The governor is a good man and places Ebonyi people first in everything, the workers should take advantage of it and open further discussions with the governor should they need any other thing from him'. He stated.

We've Completed over 47 roads ... Ebonyi Works Commissioner





Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has completed over 47 different roads in the state within one year and six months.

The State Commissioner for Works Engr Mbam Lebechi who disclosed this at a press briefing in Abakaliki, the state capital said the governor is committed to delivery high quality projects in line with the charter of Needs Agenda of his administration.



He listed some of the completed and ongoing roads to include:1.2km mile 50 new layout internal road, Abakaliki, 2.1km main water works road with spurs, Ishielu, 7.23km section 2 Iziogo-Ndiokeda pipe production company road, 10km Ezillo -Ezzagu road, 11. 823km Oferekpe Agbaja internal road, 10.180km Obvudechi road, 12.239km Okposi-Ojigwe road, among others.


He explained that the aforementioned roads are the ones under works ministry alone stressing that there are other infrastructure projects including roads across the State being handled by other line Ministries such as Infrastructure for Concessions; Housing and Urban Development, among others.


He noted that many other roads were ongoing in different parts of the state in line with the governor's manifesto in infrastructural development.


He specifically mentioned that Governor Nwifuru’s administration is constructing 2km roads in each of the autonomous communities across the State.


The Commissioner revealed that the state will soon commence the 2nd phase of rehabilitation of internal roads in the state capital.

On the ongoing construction of overhead bridges at the popular vanco junction at the heart Abakaliki which has affected human and vehicular movements there, Mbam urged motorists and other road users to be patient and assured that the construction would be completed within 18 months in line with the project specification.

"Works are going on at vanco junction. The potholes that are there is as a result of the works there.

"You don't expect a road that is under construction to be made comfortable before it's completion.

"Let me use this opportunity to inform the general public that by Wednesday this week, we are going to divert vanco.

"The road users will not be making use of that road anymore because we are introducing next stage of work there and that is the tunnel and we are going to start excavation from the design on the already existing road.

"So, we are going to let the public know about it and the announcement will soon start so that road users will begin to use other roads that are not close to that vanco place to get to their destinations", he said.

Ebonyi govt assures Swift completion of
Vanco flyover project


The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Works Engr Stanley Lebechi Mbam has
assured that the Vanco flyover project will be completed within 18 months in line with the project timeline.

Speaking on the alleged slow pace of work at the flyover , Mbam urged the people to be patient as the project was progressing according to specification.


"This is a project that has terms and specifications such as duration and expectations. And by the terms, the project, in its metric measurement, still maintains normal/high velocity in progression".

"We have a target and we work round the clock to see that this target is met and from the progress made so far, we are very optimistic that the project will be delivered even ahead of time".

"Yes, we are aware that people's expectations are very high to see the end of this project but, it is better to see a good end in Patience than see a bad end in hastiness. And the best way to achieve a good end on this is to patiently wait".

"Let's be patient with Government and its machinery in order to see a very justifiable end".

"Works are going on at vanco junction. The potholes that are there is as a result of the construction ongoing there".

“You don’t expect a road that is under construction to be made comfortable before its completion.

“Let me use this opportunity to inform the general public that by Wednesday this week, we are going to divert vanco road.

“The road users will not be making use of that road anymore because we are introducing next stage of work there and that is the tunnel and we are going to start excavation from the design on the already existing road.

“So, we are going to let the public know about it and the announcement will soon start so that road users will begin to use other roads that are not close to that vanco junction to get to their destinations”, he said.

Ebonyi: NLC strike politically motivated... ALGON



The chairman of the Association of local governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Ebonyi State chapter, Prince Chinedu Uburu has said that the ongoing strike action embarked upon by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in the state was politically motivated.

The ALGON Boss who stated this in Abakaliki while reacting to the strike action declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC , over none implementation of the New National Minimum Wage described the action as unnecessary and falling short of expectations.

He maintained that governor Nwifuru as a worker friendly governor has not only implemented the minimum wage but has up-to-date payment of gratuity , twenty thousand naira wage award, procurement and deployment of 4 brand new CNG buses for free transportation to and fro workplaces, regular promotion and many others and wondered why labour should embark on strike action in the State

He urged the leadership of NLC in the state to toe the line of peace and dialogue to approach government, and should desist from being used by politicians to cause crisis and destabilize the existing peace and order in the state.

According to him: "I expected Ebonyi workers to be grateful to the governor, Francis Nwifuru and God Almighty for these increments they have been enjoying in the state. For me, I think that this strike is politically motivated.

"This is because I don't see any reasonable civil servants in Ebonyi state that will complain of non payments of salaries, gratuities and pension. And the state government is not owning any worker.

"I appeal to the workers to go into dialogue with the state government. For me, going into the strike is not the best. I urge Ebonyians not to allow politicians balkanize the peace and progress we are enjoying, because it won't be healthy for all of us.

In a related development, the chairman of ALGON, Ebonyi State and the Executive Chairman Ebonyi local government area, Prince Chinedu Uburu has appealed to Local government retirees in the state to be patient as necessary actions are being taken to pay over nine billion arrears of gratuity to retirees of LGAs.


"I want to urge the local government retirees to be patient with the council chairmen. Nobody is saying that they will not be paid gratuity and pension, of course, we are paying them pension every month. Their gratuity will be paid to them gradually.

"There is no way the local government system in Ebonyi state will wakeup one day and pay gratuity that ranges between nine to ten billion naria. We don't have the money. If the money is there, we pay them.

"How much is our allocation? How much do the LGAs in Ebonyi state earn in a month? Is not up to five billion, not to talk of something like nine to ten billion naria to pay gratuities. What it means is that the local government system in Ebonyi state will collapse.

"Even if you stop payment of salaries, it will not pay the gratuities. We plan to workout modalities wherein these monies will be remitted either monthly or quarterly in a year, so as to make up the money and pay the gratuities" he stated.

Ebonyi govt denies spending N1.1bn
on wildlife conservation



Ebonyi State government has denied speeding N1.1bn in nine months on wildlife conservation.

There were some social media publications that the state government has spent N1.1bn on wildlife in nine months less than Health and Water Provisions in its 2024 budget.

In a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Jude Okpor, described the report as untrue and felt short of investigative journalism.

He noted that the N1.1bn was amount meant for contingency item which the approved budget has it coded under margin for increase in cost and wildlife conservation.

"The publication is to say the least, not well researched and devoid of any iota of truth. The writer obviously failed to carry out adequate investigations necessary to authenticate his report.

"Without bearing any grudge or prejudice against the author of the publication, but in full understanding of his ignorance, we wish to clarify as follow:

"First, the amount N1.1b recorded against wildlife conservation is an amount meant for contingency item which the approved budget has it coded under MARGIN FOR INCREASE IN COST and not WILDLIFE CONSERVATION. If the author has seen it otherwise, it could probably have been a misplacement or typographic error, which the author who rightly asserted that there is no zoo in Ebonyi, should have resorted to rightful authorities for clarification in line with the ethics of journalism.

"Secondly, we wish to clarify that the Approved Budget has a different template from the Quarterly Budget Implementation Report template, and at the point of population of the Quarterly report, which the said publication particularly referred to, the economic code was erroneously imputed. In the Approved Budget which the state government spends from, the said amount is under the Contingency Fund.

"It should be clarified also that projects and programmes recorded under Contingency are projects/programmes not envisaged but which came up during budget implementation. There's no actual record in the state where such an amount as reported by the media outlet was spent on WILDLIFE CONSERVATION. That is an error in transmission.

"We therefore wish to urge the general public, particularly those that may have the need to refer to such a document as advanced by the publication to be guided as we assure that the error will be corrected to reflect the correct economic description when the state produces her Quarter 4 Budget Implementation, which would be made public in January 2025.

"We are ready and well disposed to making a copy of an extract from the state's Approved Budget available to any interested member of the public for reference purposes.

"Finally, it is important we use this medium to assure the people of Ebonyi State that the present administration led by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has remained faithful to its vow of accountability and prudence in the management of the state's resources.

"The avalanche of developmental projects scattered across the state, covering all the sectors, and the unprecedented level of human capital development and economic empowerment of citizens of the state on regular basis bear eloquent testimonies to this administration's commitment towards ensuring that the people's money work for them. It is also worthy of note that the implementation of our budget since the inception of this administration has been adjudged
worthy by an internationally acclaimed budget tracking organization (BUDGIT), ranking us highly - 5th position on
fiscal transparency league table across the Nation", he said.

Revenue:Ebonyi introduces e-tickets for tricycle, commercial motorcycle riders





In ensuring seamless result in the recovery of revenue in Ebonyi state, the board of Internal Revenue has kicked off the profiling of all tricycle riders and commercial motorcycle operators in the thirteen Local Government Areas.


The technical consultant IRS and Board of Internal Revenue Service, King Jibe made the disclosure during enlarged press briefing to newsmen in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state capital.

Jibe, who explained that the e-ticket profiling of tricycle otherwise known as Keke riders and commercial motorcycle operators, also known as Okada riders started on the first week of November, adding that the new innovation is in line with the state Executive Council meeting decision to reduce leakage in revenue collection and insecurity.

He enjoined all riders to embrace the new innovation as it would help in reducing crime while addressing harassment and abuse seen in the system.

"In streamlining the form of collection of revenue of our dear state, Ebonyi state as approved in EXCO meeting of 8th October,2024 that all the revenues in Ebonyi state has to be automated for proper accountability and avoiding leakages, and so forth.

"So, in this direction, we have come with this e-ticketing which is a form of collection of revenue using automated system against the hand to hand method and the purpose is to see that we know the number of genuine Okada and Keke riders in Ebonyi state.


"And His Excellency is also interested that all sorts of revenue are streamlined and done seamlessly, also, to make sure that security is fostered especially in this our state, you will agree with me that our Governor , His Excellency, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru since inception that Ebonyi state has relative being in peace than ever." Jibe stated.

The Technical Consultant, Jibe who noted that the staff of Internal Revenue Service are currently in the thirteen Local Government Areas urged the operators to comply with them in ensuring that they are all registered.

"In line with this, the e-ticketing will also help to address the issue of security because over time, you will agree with me that some of the crime that are committed is either related to Keke or Okada riders and we want to address this issue in a way that even the riders will have peace.

"So, know also that our Governor is a man that is full of compassion and a man that believes in human capital development, and empowerment.Therefore, when this innovation come into this sector, those people that are going to be profiled will be beneficiaries of his budget.

"All the staff of Internal Board Revenue are presently in the 13-LGAs including the International market profiling riders, so, the Okada and Keke riders are expected to go there and submit their data for capturing and that will be in our system while they are given a unique code to identify you as a genuine rider in Ebonyi state. So that when enforcement team will begin and you don't have that genuine code, we will identify you either as being a stranger or none genuine rider in the state and that will help us to sanitize the system.

"The ticket is going to be digitized, the old way of paying ticket where people will write on paper will no longer be acceptable, there will be an App you can download on your phone where you automatically pay into your account and if you don't have an Android phone can pay through POS or ATM or cash which can be done in updating your status which will be on weekly basis.

"What we are doing will not affect any union as they unionism stands, but what we are doing is in line with the directive of the state government. Meanwhile, thesame way we are giving time to pay utility bill and other bills, thesame way will be given to riders before taking action to collect the payment.

"So, we as law abiding citizen, we have the state at heart, let's support the government as what we are introducing is in existence in other states.he said.

Ebonyi Workers begin one week warning strike over non implementation of new minimum wage



The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ebonyi State, has commenced
one week warning strike over non implementation of new minimum wage

Chairman of the union in the state, Comrade Egwu Oguguo disclosed this to journalists in Abakaliki, the state capital at a press briefing said the union, commenced the strike today Sunday December 1.

He opined that governor Francis Nwifuru unilaterally pronounced a wage award of N75,000 to grade levels 1 and 2, and N40,000 across board award for
Grade levels 3-16 which according to him, is averse to the traditional procedures of implementing minimum wage no matter the magnitude of the beautiful intent.

Egwu argued that when a minimum wage is pronounced, it goes through the rigours process of consequential adjustments that will translate into an agreement which would be signed by both the government and the organised labour, stating that the pronouncement on the minimum wage by the governor was not a product of any collective bargaining agreement as the organized labour was never part of any consultation that led to the pronouncement.

"On behalf of the entire State Council, we convey a notice of a one week warning strike action by Nigeria Labour Congress in Ebonyi State beginning from 00:00 hours of 1st December, 2024.
This is in line with the directive of 8th November 2024 by our national body to all State Councils in States yet to comply with extant procedures based on collective bargaining and eventual
implementation of the New National Minimum Wage. This decision is as a result of the following
reasons:

"Recall that on the 2nd of October, 2024, through the Secretary to Ebonyi State Government, you inaugurated a Minimum Wage Implementation Committee. Just about when the
Committee was fine-tunning its presentation, Your Excellency, unilaterally pronounced a wage award of N75,000 to grade levels 1 and 2, and N40,000 across board award for Grade levels 3-16. This was done in a church service (Holy Mass in Government House Chapel) on the 27th October, 2024.

"This wage award which you christened “minimum wage” is averse to the traditional procedures of implementing minimum wage no matter the magnitude of the beautiful intent with which
you made the pronouncement. When a Minimum wage is pronounced, it goes through the rigours of consequential adjustments that will translate into an agreement signed by both the
Government and the Organised Labour.
The pronouncement made was not a product of any collective bargaining agreement as we were never part of any consultation that lead to the said
pronouncement.

"To make matters worse for Ebonyi workers, the salary chart forced on workers and currently used did not undergo any consequential adjustment and has consistently malnourished the takehome pay of workers as it lacks minimal progression. This led to our dear state being mentioned as one of those that never implemented the N30,000 minimum wage of 2019.

"Your Excellency Sir, the Implementation Committee, which we are all part of, has arrived at an acceptable salary chart with consequential adjustment and substantial progression. Even the cost implication when compared with the award of October, 2024 has been generated and discussed with you.

"Your Excellency, all efforts made by the Chairman of the Committee you set-up to bring these facts to your notice have yielded no positive results. Even our candid, civil and appealing efforts have also yielded no results as you have vehemently ignored that kind inner drive of ours to better the lives of Ebonyi Workers.

"Our last interaction with you on the 27th November, when we passionately appealed that you rescind your decision and take the path of goodwill to the people in line with your People’s
Charter of Needs mantra, appears to be an interaction that crushed the hearts of the workers most, because you unequivocally said a capital “NO” to our friendly appeal.

Your Excellency, that was strange to us, giving your fatherly disposition that has always fetched your children a good opinion. Despite the excruciating pains of a depressed economy and low income of workers, we have been informed that workers are asked to pay the sum of N2,100 to participate in a staff audit exercise, which the Government approved without any discussion and commitment from the side of workers.

"As we convey this position Sir, most workers at the Local Government Councils are yet to receive their October, 2024 salaries.

"Teachers who are being paid are paid through a different bank channel creating confusions as most statutory deductions are not effected. This is an anomaly that needs to be corrected before our poor teachers are further plunged into debilitating and abject poverty. And delays in the payment of monthly salaries of these Local Government Councils have become perennial and consistently weighed down on the psyche of the workers.

"Congress therefore met on 27th November and critically reviewed the flow of events and noted with
pains, these actions and inactions, and unanimously resolved to embark on a one-week warning strike with effect from 00:00 hours of 1st December, 2024 for Government to reconsider its stance on the issue of minimum wage as well as engage the Committee set-up for this purpose as due diligence.


"Yes, Congress noted that our wonderful relationship with your government should have been an avenue for us to resolve these issues before any form of industrial disharmony. Even as we embark on this action, we still believe in your kind disposition as a workers-friendly Governor", he said.

Just in: Court affirms suspension of Ali Odefa as Nat Vice Chairman, PDP, South East


A Federal High Court sitting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital has affirmed the suspension of Chief Ali Odefa as the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South East

Odefa was suspended from the party on October 4, 2024 by the Executive committee of the party at his Oguduokwor Ward in Onicha local government area of Ebonyi State for alleged anti-party activities.

Delivering judgement on the matter in suit no FHC/AI/CS/182/2024 between Herbert Ovuta and Odefa, the presiding Judge, Justice Hilary Oshomah ruled that the suspension was valid

The court ordered Odefa to stop parading himself as the National Vice Chairman of the party.

Governor Nwifuru presents N396bn 2025 budget to Assembly




Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has presented 2025 budget proposal of N396,589, 009,620bn (Three Hundred and Ninety-Six Billion, Five Hundred and Eighty-Nine Million, Nine Thousand, Six Hundred and Twenty Naira) to the State House of Assembly.


Presenting the budget, tagged "Budget of Economic and Social Development", Nwifuru expressed the hope that the budget proposal would guarantee industrialization, economic growth and improved standard of living in the state.

The Budget comprises N284bn for capital expenditure and N112bn for recurrent expenditure

Nwifuru reiterated his administration's commitment to education, allocating
N70,143, 386, 000.00bn as the highest followed by health with N39,012,563,000.00bn in the budget estimates.

He noted that his administration believes that educational training should be repositioned to guarantee entrepreneurial knowledge and the acquisition of skills for economic self-reliance at all levels.

"Pursuant to this, therefore, we have introduced many reforms in the curriculum of basic and secondary education sector to emphasize technology and science.

"To give credence to this, our administration has set out to rejig teaching and learning in public schools through employment of teachers with bias in technology and entrepreneurial education", he said.

In the budget estimates, Economic and social sectors are taking highest with N200, 132,170 000.00,bn and N141, 180,049,000.00bn respectively representing 50.46% and 35.60%

Administrative and law and justice sectors are taking N50.9bn representing 22.8% and N4.1bn representing 1.04% of the total budget.

CP condemns attack on journalist, teenagers in Ebonyi



The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Anthonia Adaku -Uche-Anya has condemned assaults on a journalist in the state and some teenagers by some policemen and members of the public.

Mr. Chinedu Ngwuta, the Chief Executive Officer of Abakaliki based online Television station, Direct Reporters, was recently assaulted by a policeman attached to wife of the governor of the state, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru after a road walk organized by the first lady.

Ngwuta"s camera was destroyed during the assault while he was hospitalized following the injury he sustained and was discharged from hospital after some days.

Receiving members of Correspondents'Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists(NUJ) in the state led by Comrade Uchenna Inya in her office at the police headquarters, Abakaliki the state capital, Uche-Anya described journalists and policemen as partners in progress in the task of securing the nation through effective policing and information dissemination and expressed dismay on the incident

She vowed that the matter would not be swept under the carpet and commended Inya for drawing her attention to it.

"I am not aware of this Journalist issue you just brought to my knowledge. We are employed to protect lives and properties and not to assault people.

"I thank you for bringing this matter to my knowledge and I will not sweep it under the carpet, I will surely look into it. I don't tolerate anything bad and a civilian, I don't ", the police commissioner said.

The CP also frowned at the assault on two teenage girls in Ngbo, Ohaukwu local government area of the state who were stripped and flogged with grievous injuries inflicted on them for stealing chicken and ordered that the suspects who are in police custody be prosecuted, describing it as barbaric.

"How can you naked two secondary school girls and treat them like common criminals. These are young girls and they were flogged mercilessly because they stole chicken when people committee heinous crimes and were not treated like this.

"The suspects are already in our custody. We are making efforts to get the families and others so that they can give evidence in court because matters like this, people are usually reluctant or afraid to give evidence. Once we are done, the suspects will be prosecuted", she stated.

Uche-Anya promised a hitch-free yuletide period in the state and urged members of the public to report criminal activities and the elements to the police for prompt action.

Earlier, the Chairman of Correspondents'Chapel in the state, comrade Uchenna Inya, lauded her for peace in the state and urged her to ensure that Ebonyi remains safe

He explained that the courtesy visit will strengthen the relationship between the police and the press as partners in progress and urged policemen to always see journalists as such and not as enemies.

Inya, the state correspondent of Daily Sun Newspapers, commended the Commissioner for professionalism and sanity he has brought to the state police command within the few months she came in.

Embrace Nwifuru's friendly policies, Ebonyi Commissioner tasks Youths




Ebonyi State Commissioner for Skill Development and job creation, Hon Elijah Okwu Oko-Udu has urged youths in the State to tap into the numerous opportunities available through youth focused programmes of Governor Francis Nwifuru and invest in developing their skills.

The Commissioner who gave the charge while speaking during the NASENI - Ebonyi State Youth Empowerment Workshop at REMERITONA Hotel said the State government is committed to ending the challenges facing the youths in the state as encapsulated in the charter of Needs Agenda.

"Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, Ebonyi State is committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda and the People’s Charter of Needs—a framework that prioritizes education, skill acquisition, and employment".

"This initiative perfectly complements these goals, aligning with our broader vision of creating opportunities for every Ebonyi youth".

"Today, we are not just equipping 100 young men and women with tools and technical know-how; we are igniting their dreams and fortifying their futures. The startup equipment each participant will receive is not just a gesture of support—it is a statement of trust, an investment in your ability to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society".


The Commissioner who emphasized the importance of skill development urged youths to embrace new knowledge in all its forms and seek mentorship from those who had walked the path before them.


"The world today is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Innovation and technological advancement have transformed the landscape of work, leaving those without the requisite skills at risk of being left behind".

He said: " The workshop is focused on modern methods of electrical tools installation and maintenance—is a timely response to this reality. Skill development is not just an individual asset; it is a societal investment. It is the key to unlocking opportunities, addressing unemployment, and creating a vibrant economy. When we empower our youths, we empower our communities, we strengthen our industries, and we build a state and nation that thrive on innovation and productivity".


The Commissioner while commending NASENI for its dedication to capacity-building programmes that align with the developmental needs of Ebonyi State called the beneficiaries to use the
skills acquired to build careers, businesses, and livelihoods that will inspire others.

"Your work reaffirms the importance of partnerships between governments and agencies for sustainable development.I also extend my appreciation to His Excellency for his unwavering commitment to empowering our youths. Your leadership has inspired bold and innovative steps toward skill development and job creation".


"To the beneficiaries, let me emphasize this: you are the stars of this event. This workshop is not just a training program—it is a call to action.Use these skills to build careers, businesses, and livelihoods that will inspire others. Demonstrate excellence in your craft, ensuring that the tools and training you receive today bear fruits tomorrow. Understand that your success is the success of Ebonyi State and Nigeria at large.Remember, you are not just participants; you are ambassadors of this initiative. Let the impact of your efforts ripple through your families, communities, and beyond".

Jubilation as 25,000 persons benefit from Hon. Nkemkanma free Medical Outreach







There was wild jubilation in OHANIVO,
Ohaozara/ Onicha/ Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi as over 25,000 persons benefited from this year's free medical outreach organised by the member representing the Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Nkemkanma Kama .

Speaking during the outreach at Oshiri community of Onicha LGA of the State, Hon Kama said surgeries, cancer screening and many others have been included in this year's outreach.

The Lawmaker said he would sustain the medical outreaches on his constituents to enhance their health wellbeing.

He noted that such outreaches would continue until health centres and hospitals in the constituency are functional.

"The outreaches would be conducted bi-annually as about 16,000 indigents benefitted from last year's outreach.

"We are expecting between 20,000 to 25,000 beneficiaries' this year as we have included surgeries, cancer screening, among others.

"We have already distributed 100 glasses since morning and I have directed that arrangements should be made for more 100.

Kama said complicated or severe cases are being referred to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH) for adequate medical attention.

"We don't want to be doing good and situations would arise and that is why I am shouting that we should handle the cases we can handle,".

He thanked Governor Francis Nwifuru for his support to his activities which has made him excel in the House of Representatives.

"He is only interested in whoever is working for the people and not the political party one belongs.

""We would continue doing our best for Oshiri people and other constituents and the ones we can't do, we plead with the governor to intervene,".

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Moses Ekuma commended the lawmaker for the outreach and urged the people to ensure they promote their health wellbeing.

Represented by Dr Lawrence Ezeogo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the Commissioner said the governor is interested in the people's health as whoever supplements his strides in the sector would be appreciated.

"We are here because you are on the right track by taking care of the health of your people. We have gone round and saw the caliber of Doctors engaged to undertake this outreach. They are consultants from reputable hospitals.

"What you are doing here is to complement the efforts of the State Governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon Bldr Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. The government is happy with you, that's why the Ministry of Health brought mobile X-ray to support this program.

One of the beneficiaries of the health outreach, Mrs Okike Elizabeth, said she was happy about this outreach which was why they came out in our large number to benefit.

"We thank the Lawmaker for making our health and welfare his priority and our prayer is that God will protect him so that he will continue to represent us well", she said.

Ignore PDP Utterances Against Nwifuru-APC Media Aide Tells Ebonyi People


Media Aide to the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Leonard Okosun Ibiam has come hard on the People's Democratic Party Candidate in the 2023 general elections.

Prince Ibiam's reaction follows a publication by the PDP titled:"Governor Ogbonnaya Nwifuru Profligacy is leading Ebonyi to the Golgotha: Ebonyi State is Endangered{Part1}

The APC Chairman's media aide who described the statement by the Media Aide of Ifeanyi Odi, Moses Idika Head of Media of Media Organization christined 'Anyi' Ga Emeya Movement as waggish, and haphazard work.

He said in a statement, "My attention has been drawn to the malicious and fabricated publication entitled "GOVERNOR OGBONNANYA NWIFURU PROFLIGACY IS LEADING EBONYI TO THE GOLGOTHA: EBONYI STATE IS ENDANGERED [PART 1]" which was authorised by the 2023 Gubernatorial candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chukwuma Odii.

"Moses Idika j,speaks volumes about the despicable character, level of incompetence and total ignorance of man who wants to become the governor of our dear State.

"In as much as I have vehemently vowed not to contend with political neophytes nor give them unmerited publicity, I will not accept or tolerate any unwarranted and inexcusable attack on the Ebonyi State Governor, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru whose leadership ingenuity has brought peace and development to the state and her inhabitants.

He faulted Moses Idika's knowledge of the governor's name, " Before taking on the content of the ignominious and mortifying article point by point, it is most perplexing that one who claimed to be a head of the candidate's media team in the said election does not know the name of his executive Governor and number one citizen as he wrote "OGBONNANYA" instead of "OGBONNA".The avoidable mistake in the Governor's name raises a serious question on his mental health condition.

"It is obvious that he is battling with dementia, bipolar, neuro-developmental and/or any other mental health related disorders. And this is enough reason for no one not to give attention to anything unguarded utterances from a man who needs to consult his psychiatrist urgently.

"His latest act of shame and timidity have not only proven that he is under the influence of toxic substances but also reveals his embittered heart after losing the election he participated in through the back door.

He further said that Odii shocked Ebonyians as a businessman to question the importance of building Ebonyi Airport.

"For Mr Odii who arrogates himself as an international business magnet to have unguardedly question the importance of rebuilding the Chuba Okadigbo Airport , Onueke runway leaves everyone in shock because his action has just confirmed the fact he has been nothing other than an adversary to the state and her people and requires urgent therapy.

"In view of the potential benefits of the project which has the capacity to make every business within Ebonyi and her environs to blossom, the consummate Governor has disappointed and weakened the camp of the opposition political parties, the PDP inclusive by reconstructing the Chuba Okadigbo Airport, Onueke runway.Already locals are making lots of money because the value of lands around the vicinity have skyrocketed.

"From an objective view the Governor should be commended for taking the bold step and not be criticised by people whose business is not known to be genuine and who cannot authoritatively defend their identity as bona fide citizens of the state. It is high time some of the street children are tamed to save Ebonyi State embarrassment from the outside world", he said.

Disbursement of FG's Cash Transfer commences for 5,000 Ebonyi beneficiaries



The Ebonyi State government has commenced the Federal Government Renewed Hope Cash Transfer of 25,000 for 5,000 poor and venerable persons from the 13 local government areas of the State.

The State Commissioner for Human capital development and monitoring Mrs Ann Aligwe who monitored the exercise told journalists in Abakaliki that the disbursement of the fund started on Sunday at Old government house, Abakaliki after the flag off by the wife of the governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru last week.

She said two beneficiaries selected from each local government areas in the state received their debit cards for Cash withdrawal during the flag off.


The commissioner who reiterated the commitments of Gov Nwifuru's administration to reduce poverty and sufferings amongst the citizens, said that it's not doing an audio empowerment.

She said the administration has initiated several empowerment programmes to uplift the poor standard of living of citizens, through agric training and cash empowerments, with the aim of reducing poverty and sufferings to the barest minimum in the state.

She said: "Ebonyi State government through the wife of the governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, recently flagged off the cast transfer empowerment to over five thousand women and youths in the state.

"And during the flag off, there was a distribution of debit cards for cash withdrawal where two persons were selected from each local government areas in the state, were selected.

"Each person received Twenty Five thousand naira cash to show that what Ebonyi State government is doing, is not an audio empowerment.

"This is the renewed Hope cash transfer, where the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through the former Minister of Humanitarian affairs promised Nigerians that they were going to pay them twenty five thousand naria.

"All of you knew how the ministry of humanitarian affairs had issues, and all these things came to a close, because no body to anchor it. And lucky this time around, we have been remembered, and the wife of governor, Mary-Maudline Nwifuru did the flag off.

"The distribution started fully today, and for security reasons, we had to invite the beneficiaries from the 13 local government areas of the state to come to this place (Old government house Abakaliki) for the cash transfer distribution" she stated.

Responding, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Egbe Roseline from Ohaukwu LGA, said this is the first time she is receiving palliatives from government, and however applauded the state government for showing transparency and prudence in the distribution of the federal government cash transfer in the state.

Many injured, properties looted as
Ugboenyim, a border community of Ebonyi/Benue clash over leadership tussle



Many persons were injured in a fresh power tussle between the people of Ugboenyim, a border community between Ebonyi and Benue States.

The fresh clash in the community also led to the destruction and looting of properties including domestic animals.

Recall that the community have been at war since 2006 over the control of community which has claimed lives with properties destroyed.

Ugboenyim, an Izzi speaking community is anthropologically Ebonyi State and geographically Benue State.

The people are under Ado local government area, Benue State and southern senatorial zone of the state.

Efforts were made to resolve the crisis but the people have returned to trenches with many sustaining grievous, canes, machetes and gunshots injuries when the two warring factions clashed.

Some of those injured include; Chukwuma Iboko, Bernard Ukpa and Nwofor Chukwuemeka.

They alleged that they were attacked by those who call themselves Plan B club in the community and accused one Romanus Ishiali said to be their leader of being behind the attack.

They explained that they were tied up like common criminals and flogged with canes and matches on the ground that they didn't participate in communal work in the community when according to them, there was no such work in the area.

Mrs. Obaleze Eto, one of those whose goats were looted in crisis, said her own goat which she was preparing to use and perform burial rites of his late child, was forcefully collected from her by the group.

"Romanus came and collected a goat I wanted to use for the burial of my child and left without telling me my offence.

"I waited for him to bring it back to me but he refused. I bought another goat for the burial rites. Up till now, that goat has not been returned to me", she said

Chief Omogo Ijere, village head of the community, told Our correspondent in the community that members of the Plan B club in the area have been terrorizing the people, attacking, maiming them and looting their properties which forced him to report their actions to the police in Igumali, Benue State.

"When, I was coming back after reporting the matter, I was called by one of my children and warned not to return to our place, that this Plan B club people have blocked our community and are very armed", he stated

But Romanus Ishiali denied all the allegations against him.

He told journalists that it was rather Chief Omogo Ijere faction were the ones looting domestic animals and properties and forcefully harvesting yams and other people's crops in the community.

He accused Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi of sponsoring the faction and alleged that he and some members of the community have been sacked from the community.

"Our lives are under threat, we have been marked for elimination. They have been looking for me to kill me.

"Senator Nwebonyi has been arresting our people and imprisoning them in Benue State just because we refused to follow him. He gave me monetary offers and motorcycle and I rejected it because I don't want those things and that is the cause of ordering my removal as the youth leader of our community.

"Some of us can't enter our village again and that is why you are seeing us here in Abakaliki because they said that they will kill us if we enter the village. We want governors of Ebonyi and Benue State to come to our aid before this thing cause inter-state war.

Nwebonyi, in his reaction, said Romanus Ishiali and members of his plan B group, committed a lot of crime in the community and that police is after them.

"They committed a lot of crimes; maiming some members of the community and stealing their properties and police is after them.

"They begged me to suppress the matter but I told them that what they did is evil, that even my cousin brother who is said to be among them should be charged to court

"So, they got and started paper war which I know is being sponsored by some of my political friends.

"So, they are trying to divert attention here while police is looking for them there. That place is Ado local government area, Benue State. The Chairman is looking for them and that's why they are running helter -scalter", he said

House committee lauds Ebonyi Aviation Ministry





The Chairman Ebonyi State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts and member representing
Izzi West Constituency Hon Chief Abiri Godwin Abiri has commended the state commissioner for Aviation Dr Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu for the upliftment and maintenance culture adopted at the Chuba Okadigbo international Airport, Onueke especially the reconstruction of the runway describing it as the largest Airport in sub --Sahara Africa.


Hon Abiri who gave the commendation when the Public Accounts Committee was interfacing with the Ministry of Aviation at the Assembly Complex, Nkaliki described the air Transportation as the fastest and safest means of transportation.

He commended State Governor, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonnia Nwifuru for the priority he gave for the renovation and reconstruction of the Airport, Onueke.

He equally poured a lot of encomiums on the wife of the State Governor, Chief Mrs Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru for pulling the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of the vice President and wives of the other State Governors to Ebonyi State in this year's women day celebration during which the newly runway of the airport was commissioned.

He equally commended the activities of BERWO Programmes of the wife of the Governor which he said has imparted positively on the lives of the rural women and less privileges in the society.

The Committee Chairman however called the commissioner to furnish the Committee with the challenges and the inflow and outflow of cash so as to know where interventions will come in.

Responding, the Commissioner for Aviation, Dr Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu said that to make the operations of the airport more efficient, the runway was asphalted, the leaking roof of the airport terminal building was repaired, traffic control equipments were procured and installed while the police station and the Internal prison were equally rehabilitated.

She appreciated the committee but lamented that Transportation of the workers to the office remains her major problem as very soon collaborators like Berlin and Dubai will soon send thier aircraft to the airport.

She revealed that full operations will commence at the airport by December 2024.

Ebonyi govt tackles PDP over comment on Airport runway inauguration




Ebonyi State government has tackled the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the state for criticizing the inauguration of Chuba Okadigbo Airport runway last week by wife of President Bola Tinubu, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu after it's upgrade.

PDP, through a statement signed by Moses Idika, the head of media of the 2023 governorship candidate of the party, Chief Chukwuma Odii, accused the government of wasting Ebonyi resources on the Airport by spending about N20bn to rehabilitate its runway.

But the state government in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation in Ebonyi State, Jude Okpor, said the opposition party wanted the state government not to upgrade the Airport runway when the Airport costs the past administration in the state multi-billion naira to construct

"The State Government wishes to place on record once again that as a state that is blessed with enormous natural resources, the idea of beating whatever structural impediments that hindered the commencement of flight operations in the said Airport prior to the inauguration of the present administration is a far better and progressive option than abandoning same.

"His Excellency had in several fora assured Ebonyi people that his administration will not only perfect the project from the stage he met it but finally put it to use in other to open up the state to the outside/global community towards welcoming already waiting business opportunities and other numerous global investments, hence the need for the administration of His Excellency to sustain the project to fruition.

"The Commissioning of the runway by Her Excellency, the wife of the President, Her Excellency Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, CON, which is queried by the author is therefore, not only befitting, but a right step in the right direction. We are aware that the writer is one of the enemies of the state who had expected the enormous investment of the state on the Airport to lay waste, but we will continue to disappoint them. In no distant time, when the State Government unveils their plan in the aviation sector, their nightmare will surely nosedive", Okpor said.

The Commissioner described the data of the PDP on the debt profile of the state as unverifiable and urged the public to disregard it.

He argued that governor Francis Nwifuru has refused to borrow any loan facility since he came on board and has been criticized for refusing to bow to all forms of enticing loan offers.

"Without giving credence to the author's "unverified" data and source, particularly as it relates to the debt profile of the state, it is pertinent to state that the present Administration since inauguration, had kept aloof of all forms of borrowing, and is rather criticized for refusing to bow to all forms of enticing loan offers.

"It therefore smacks of bitter incoherence on the side of the author for attributing the state's current debt status to the Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru's Administration.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the business of governance is fundamentally anchored on effective and transparent budget implementation. As we had severally made Ebonyi people to know, the unbroken and encouraging statistical reports in favour of Ebonyi State which was released by BudgiT, a globally recognised budget tracking organisation, in 2023, few months after the inauguration of His Excellency", he submitted.

'Don't be desperate to become President in 2027', Ohanaeze Youths tells Atiku Abubakar



The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has urged former President of the country, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar not to be desperate to become president in 2027 general elections.

National Youth Leader of the organization, Damian Okafor stated this in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital.

He accused Atiku of dividing the organization by allowing those he said were expelled to be visiting him and promising to deliver Igbo speaking states to him in 2027.

Okafor urged the Department of State Security Services to go after them

"Our special appeal goes to the Director of DSS to please prevail on their Enugu command to act on the complaints before them. Other sister security agencies like the Inspector General of Police should also direct their Enugu State Command to act on the complaints before them. The Governors of Southeast under the distinguished captaincy of His Excellency Sen. Hope Uzodimma should also act on the complaints before him to save ALAIGBO. Treating these criminals with kid glove will amount to raising another sect of Non-state actors that will hold ALAIGBO to ransome.

"While continue to prioritize the core values of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, we call on the general public to beware of those *SCAMMERS* who goes about masquerading themselves in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing Worldwide. Thanks Immeasurably for your kind understanding and anticipated cooperation.

"Someone as big as Atiku should not be so desperate for power to the point of entertaining criminals in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing Worldwide. He should have asked himself why an apolitical organization promising him the exalted position of Nigerian President when it is the yearnings of Ndigbo to have their turn in the position and also the southern Nigeria haven't finished their turn", he said

First lady arrives Ebonyi, commissions upgraded Chuba Okadigbo Airport runway




The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu arrived the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport Onueke, Ebonyi State for the Grande finale of Ebonyi Womens Day Celebration.


Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shetima and Wife of the Governor, Mrs Mary Maudline Nwifuru were also present to receive her.

Also on hand to receive Senator Tinubu are 22 Spouses of Governors under the Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum led by Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaqnof Kwara State who is the Chairperson of the Forum.

The First Lady on arrival commissioned the upgraded runway of the airport undertaken by the present administration of governor Francis Nwifuru.

The First Lady, while commissioning the project commended the Governor for the magnificent airport.

She also commended the Governor for being gender friendly in his appointments.

She said: "I think your testimonials have really gone ahead of you, and I am really glad to be in Ebonyi state.

" I am really glad we came, and I see how beautiful Nigeria is. You know we don't promote ourselves. What I saw today, I was even saying that we went to Burundi and I thought they did well.For a state in Nigeria, your runway was better than what I was even commending them for.

"So, we want to thank God for the good work you have been doing. It gladdens my heart when we see people that are young, that they have their hands on their work and they are doing great jobs, they have to be commended",

Earlier the State governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru thanked President Bola Tinubu for the assistance he gave the state which enabled the state to upgrade the runway.

He said: "We came in, on 29th day of May, 2023, and as of then, we used concrete to build this runway. We didn't know, as a state, that concrete is not accepted to be used to build runway.

"And when we came in, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority closed the airport, that this place is not a place that a plane can land, and we decided to start rebuilding the runway",

"Based on the support and the help of your husband, by the special grace of God, we did the runway and completed it to be one of the best runways in this country, Nigeria".

Speaking to journalists shortly after the commissioning, the State Commissioner for Aviation, Ngozi Obichukwu said the airport will commence commercial flight operations next month.

She noted that all the challenges and obstacles that would have prevented the commercial flight takeoff have been swiftly handled by the Governor Nwifuru administration


"When we started, it was as if it could not go, but the Lord strengthened him (Nwifuru) through prudence and transparency and economic wise, he was able to achieve this. Now that the Chuba Okadigbo's airport runway has been commissioned, the flight operation will fully commence by December".

"We are kicking off by December. We are bringing in a commercial flights, and recall that our own aircraft is good to go. We are already ready for the Airborne Airways, which is already on. Very soon you come back here to launch it".

Wives of governors vow to sustain fight against Gender-based violence




The Nigeria Governors Wives Forum have vowed to sustain the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.

The forum in a communique issued in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital at the end of their 2024 retreat and read by Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Chairperson of the Forum reaffirmed their resolve to keep up the fight against sexual and gender-based violence in their various states.


"It was a testament to the commitment of these remarkable women to unity, collaboration, progress and development in the service of their states and the nation as a whole. At the end of the meeting the following resolutions were made.

"The forum affirms yet again its unwavering resolve to keep up the fight against sexual and gender-based violence in their various states.

"The First Ladies have collectively endorsed the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, Gavi Initiative, committing to sustained advocacy for HPV vaccine uptake to protect our girls health.

"The next line of action is a selective sensitization of wives of local government chairman on HPV vaccine and cancer awareness.

"The First Ladies have pledged to vigorously advocate for adopting six months of paid maternity leave, engaging executive governors and state legislators to promote this policy across all states for improved maternity and child welfare", the communique stated.

Ike-River- Amaeke Bridge/Road Purely State Government Project--------Gov Nwifuru's Aide

#Commends Gov Nwifuru For Awarding the project




The Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Internal Security, Ivo Local Government Area, Hon Ike Cletus Ngah has debunked alleged claim in some quarters that the Ike-River- Amaeke Bridge/Road project is a Constituency project of any Federal or State Legislator from the area.

Hon Ike Cletus in a statement signed by him and made available to journalists in Abakaliki expressed concern over the claim and maintained that it has become imperative to categorically state that the project is an entirely a state government project alone.

"Success they say have many relatives, only failure is a barren. No wonder why some people are laying claims to these laudable projects which were graciously approved by our wonder working Governor.

"It has therefore become imperative to categorically state that this is an entirely a state government project alone. It’s not a Constituency project of any Federal or State Legislator.

"I sincerely recommend that rather than claim this project as a personal Constituency project, any Legislator who wishes to cite a constituency project in Ivo or elsewhere has a lot of projects to choose from.

"There are many projects begging for attention in Ivo, therefore, it is needless taking the glory of another project which is singlehandedly sponsored by the State Government under the leadership of Rt Hon Francis Nwifuru.

Recounting the circumstances leading to the approval of the project by the State Governor, Hon Ike Cletus said that he had before now solicited with the President of Ishiagu Community Development Union- Architect Moses Aja to initiate a memo to the Governor, on behalf of the Union, on the deplorable condition of the Amaeke bridge requesting the intervention of the Governor.

"But in line with the Governor's love for Ivo people and his avowed commitment to implementing the People’s Charter of Needs agenda, the Governor expeditiously minuted the memo to the Commissioner of Infrastructure for the measurements and design of the projects.

He commended the State Governor for approving the project which he said will impact positively to the lives and wellbeing of the people of the area adding that the project when completed will boast agricultural production and help in the movement of agricultural produce from the farms to the market.

'I Ike Cletus Ngah, the Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Internal Security, Ivo local Government Area heartily appreciates my boss and destiny helper Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for graciously approving the construction of the all-important Ike-River, Amaeke 3 span bridge with 2 box culverts and the 4km, Ike -River Amaeke road all in Ivo local government area of Ebonyi state.

Hon Ike Cletus also commended the former Senate President of Nigeria and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim for the indispensable role he played towards the actualization of the lofty project.

"Anyim Pius Anyim undoubtedly is a metaphor for all-round development in Ivo local government area and indeed the entire Ebonyi state having reached the highest echelon of leadership in Nigeria.

"We are very grateful for your fatherly role, guidance, mentorship and selfless services to humanity.

"As the highest political office holder from the Amaeke-Ishiagu autonomous community who have also served as the ICDU President and the Coordinator of Echiele Development Centre, I know the importance of these projects to our people.

"I therefore consider this project as a personal honour done to me by the State Governor and I sincerely promise to make all necessary sacrifices to ensure that the project is seamlessly done.

"Governor Nwifuru have wiped out the tears caused by the neglect of the Ike River bridge and its access roads by successive administrations in the state despite its strategic importance.

He also appreciated the Executives and Members of the Ishiagu Community Development Union led by Architect Moses Aja for heeding to the modest counsel by investing their time and resources towards the actualization of the projects. Ends.

Tinubu's wife to commission Chuba Okadigbo Airport runway




The wife of the President, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu will on Friday commission the rehabilitated runway of Chuba Okadigbo international Airport, Onueke, Ebonyi State.

Recall that the administration of governor Francis Nwifuru on assumption of office, one year ago, embarked on the rehabilitation of the Chuba Okadigbo's Airport runway to be of international standard.


The commissioner for Aviation and transport technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu, who announced this in a statement shortly after a courtesy call by DSS and other security operatives on routine surveillance of the Airport, said that the state government is fully prepared for the commissioning.

She said that the commissioning of the runway by the wife of the President, sen. Oluremi Tinubu will mark the recommencement of full flight operation at the airport.

Obichukwu said that the asphalted Chuba Okadigbo's airport runway is the longest in the SouthEast region, and therefore called on travellers to come to Ebonyi to take their flight, especially in this yuletides.

The Commissioner said: "I had an audience with the DSS on routine surveillance of the international Airport Onueke in preparation for the commissioning of the ASPHALTED Runway by the wife of the President Tinubu, Senator OLUREMI TINUBU.

"Chuba Okadigbo airport has fully recommenced flight operations and we call on the general public, travellers to come here and take their flights. This is because we have the best and longest runway in the southeast region" she stressed.

She further commended the enormous efforts of the state governor, Francis Nwifuru in ensuring that the runway is completed and being of intentional standard.

Ebonyi governor's wife promises justice for victims of gender based Violence



Wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru has
promised to pursue and secure justice for all victims of Gender- Based Violence (GBV) in the State


This is as the Ebonyi First Lady has vowed to continue to defend the girl child and fight Gender- Based Violence (GBV) in the State

She stated this in Abakaliki, the state capital when she led a road walk on Tuesday to mark 2024 Ebonyi Women's Day Celebration with the theme "Uplifting Women for Sustainable Development".

She called on the people to report any form of abuse against the girl child, women and children to her office for necessary action.

"I want to assure every member of Ebonyi State that we will continue to defend them especially the girl child and our boy child.

"We are fighting for Gender Based Violence. Ebonyi women are against any form of maltreatment be it in the home of anywhere.

"So, if you know someone who is going through any form of maltreatment, any form of abuse, don't hesitate to call on us. We are mothers and we are ready to fight against the abuses

"We are ready to fight the perpetrators of these abuse and bring them out for judgement. We have Lawyers and we are going to prosecute anyone that maltreates women, children and girls", she stated.

The First Lady implored women to value themselves in the society by making something out of themselves.

She commended her husband, the governor for giving women great opportunities in his administration.

Senator Nwebonyi flags off construction of over N400m ultra modern civic center in Ebonyi





The Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has flaged off the construction of over N400 million ultra-modern civic center in Isophumini Mbeke Ishieke in Ebonyi local government area of Ebonyi state.

Speaking on the intervention, Sen. Nwebonyi emphasized the importance of infrastructural development as it contributes to citizens well being and economic growth.

The Senate Deputy Chief Whip explained that the civic center would be a state-of-the-art facility, a multipurpose center that stands a chance of creating job opportunities and increasing socio-economic activities in the area and beyond.

He noted that he attracted the civic center in fulfillment of his campaign promises to his people, who were in dire need of both civic center, roads, electricity and other life touching projects.

The Senator reassured of his unwavering commitment towards offering his constituency a quality representation, by bringing more dividends of democracy to his constituents.


He assured that no local government area in the Ebonyi North Senatorial zone will be left out in his developmental roadmap as a Senator.

He announced that he would be flagging off a 10km internal road in Izzi local government area by December 2024, but other roads in Ohaukwu local government area, and Nnodo-Amike Aba within the Nkaliki axis of Ebonyi local government area would be kicked off soon, saying work has commenced at the 1.5km concrete road in Abakaliki council area.


Performing the foundation laying of the project, Governor Francis Nwifuru who was represented by the State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Engr Francis Ori described the project as timely and extension of the people's charter of needs.


He commended the Ebonyi North Senator for his quality representation, noting that he attracted many impactful infrastructural projects, including roads, electricity, housing for the widows, scholarships, and other empowerment programs in less than two years in office.

He said the civic center remains very symbolic, as according to him, when completed, it would be one of the best in Ebonyi state, and shall serve many generations, especially in socio-economic development wise.

Senator Nwebonyi flags off construction of over N400m ultra modern civic center in Ebonyi





The Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has flaged off the construction of over N400 million ultra-modern civic center in Isophumini Mbeke Ishieke in Ebonyi local government area of Ebonyi state.

Speaking on the intervention, Sen. Nwebonyi emphasized the importance of infrastructural development as it contributes to citizens well being and economic growth.

The Senate Deputy Chief Whip explained that the civic center would be a state-of-the-art facility, a multipurpose center that stands a chance of creating job opportunities and increasing socio-economic activities in the area and beyond.

He noted that he attracted the civic center in fulfillment of his campaign promises to his people, who were in dire need of both civic center, roads, electricity and other life touching projects.

The Senator reassured of his unwavering commitment towards offering his constituency a quality representation, by bringing more dividends of democracy to his constituents.


He assured that no local government area in the Ebonyi North Senatorial zone will be left out in his developmental roadmap as a Senator.

He announced that he would be flagging off a 10km internal road in Izzi local government area by December 2024, but other roads in Ohaukwu local government area, and Nnodo-Amike Aba within the Nkaliki axis of Ebonyi local government area would be kicked off soon, saying work has commenced at the 1.5km concrete road in Abakaliki council area.


Performing the foundation laying of the project, Governor Francis Nwifuru who was represented by the State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Engr Francis Ori described the project as timely and extension of the people's charter of needs.


He commended the Ebonyi North Senator for his quality representation, noting that he attracted many impactful infrastructural projects, including roads, electricity, housing for the widows, scholarships, and other empowerment programs in less than two years in office.

He said the civic center remains very symbolic, as according to him, when completed, it would be one of the best in Ebonyi state, and shall serve many generations, especially in socio-economic development wise.

Departure Lounge of Chuba Okadigbo Int'l Airport not converted to church service venue says Obichukwu




Ebonyi State Commissioner for Aviation and transport technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu has debunked the insinuation and rumors making the rounds that the departure Lounge of the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport Onueke has been converted to a church service venue following low patronage of the facility.


The social media yesterday went agog with a trending viral video of individuals purported to be conducting church service at the departure lounge of Ebonyi International Airport with the caption, Ebonyi Airport built by Engr Dave Umahi, has been converted to a church service venue due to low usage. Will governors ever get their priorities, right?

But, Obichukwu who described the information as false and the figment of the imagination of the purveyors
explained that the staff of the ministry usually holds monthly prayers to re-dedicate and smoothen the recommencement of flight operations at the Chuba Okadigbo international airport.


She said that the staff of the ministry held a prayer service to pray for the smooth landing and take off of aircrafts conveying prominent Nigerians who came to Ebonyi for the burial of the former first civilian governor of Abia, Ogbonnaya Onu.


She further said that activities has fully recommenced at the Chuba Okadigbo airport since after the rehabilitation of the runway, and however called for the patronage of the general public and air travellers, as a way to boost the internally Generated Revenue of the state.

Obichukwu said that the essence of the monthly prayer service by the staff of the ministry was to seek God’s presence and protection, for all travellers, especially in this season that will be plying Chuba Okadigbo airport to other locations in the country.

She described as enemies of the State Government, those who alleged that the airport lounge was converted to church service venue.

“Those carrying the false information are those who are not happy with the massive infrastructural development and enormous empowerment going on in the state by the governor, Francis Nwifuru.

Governor Nwifuru has demonstrated capacity, commitment, prudence and transparency in all his dealings in the state.

Obichukwu further described the critics as people who darken counsel without knowledge, and however warned them to desist from purveying fake news with the intent to run down the image of the state, and its numerous achievements/ programs.


“We have taken off flight operations, and we are very busy trying to. Of course we held our monthly prayers to kick off the recommencement of flight operations.

“The critics are enemies of development, peace and progress in Ebonyi. They are those who doesn’t see anything good in the current administration, but thanks to our capacity governor, Francis Nwifuru who has shamed them by delivering a quality and long lasting projects.

“You know that after the rehabilitation of the Chuba Okadigbo airport runway, and completion of the asphalting, we were even not sure, but by the Grace of God and appreciation to Governor Nwifuru, who provided all things to ensure that the airport’s runway and other facilities are ready.

“We are proud to say, and to thank all the regulatory bodies in Nigeria; the FAN, NACA, NCAA, NEMA, and the Nigeria estate management for their doggedness in ensuring that the airport recommences flight operations as usual” she stressed.

Similarly, the that National Advisory for Control of Aeronautics NACA has vowed to clampdown on the purveyor of the said fake news.

FIRC trains female prison inmates on sanitary pad production in Abakaliki



A Non-governmental organization, Female Inmates and Returned Citizens(FIRC) has trained over 50 female inmates at the Abakaliki Correctional Service Center on sanitary pad production.

The training was organized by the organization with support from Cardite Prisoners Interest Organization (CAPIO)

Loveth Effiong, a member of Female Inmates and Returned Citizens who trained the female inmates, said she was excited and that it was part of her efforts to ensure that the inmates does not go back to what took them to the prison.

She noted that training female inmates has taken her to many places in the country

“I feel happy, I feel joy training the female inmates because I don't want them to return to what took them to the prison when they are discharged. This washable pad has impacted my life in so many ways, taking me to so many places which I never expected in my life.


“Having the attention of the inmates was number one challenges I encountered because most of them never wanted to learn this skill but by the help of the Holy Spirit, they all agreed to learn it.


“We are here for God to correct us, not to corrupt us, we here for correction and not for corruption. I made these female inmates that I was the rejected person and if not for God and Female Returning citizens, I became somebody that I never believed in my life. There are many of them I taught how to sew clothes and they picked up”, Effiong stated.


Program Officer of FIRC, Godwin Ugbor described the training as a rare opportunity for the inmates and implored the inmates to make use of the opportunity to better their lives.


He said “this project is implemented by Female Inmates and Returned Citizens(FIRC). CAPIO is involved because we are bringing support because doing program involves high level of knowledge and that is what CAPIO is bringing while training FIRC members to take over the running of FERC.


“So, in 2022, we established FIRC and FIRC has been doing projects. This projects has been done in Lagos where Loveth the trainer came from, done in Enugu, Delta State, Abia State, Rivers State, Anambra State, Plateau State and other state.

“I am hoping that when next we come to Abakaliki, it will not be washable sanitary pads CAPIO is not a normal NGO, it is an apostolate meaning that we are concerned with the welfare of people. If somebody takes up this challenge and wants to run with it, we will equally be there to support you even when you have learn this work, we will always do what is within our powers to support you.

“This is a rare opportunity. I observed one of you saying "they thought they have done me bad by dumping me in the prison but they have dumped me to my place of blessing". “Loveth your trainer was once one of you. She is doing well today and has trained many female inmates since she came out of prison.

“She has been in Ebonyi since August, she went to Onitsha. From this Abakaliki, she will be returning to Lagos. She paid attention when she was learning this skill, learned very well and she is now committed to the task.

“As I see you leaving this place, I want to see you run with this vision. Don't go and begin to live on sympathy, we have seen some ex-inmates live on sympathy, they want to return to ways that are not good but that is why we do our best to encourage you, to empower you so that when you leave, you will be independent financially"

A representative of CAPIO, Rev Fr. Philip Gosimo advised the inmates to use the skill and establish themselves when they are discharged from the prison.

First aircraft lands in Chuba Okadigbo Airport after runway rehabilitation




The Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, Ebonyi State have opened for flights on Thursday one year after it was closed for runway repairs by Ebonyi State government led by governor Francis Nwifuru.

The first aircraft conveying the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Abdullahi Ganduje and other prominent Nigerians landed safely at the Airport.

The commissioner for Aviation and transport technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu who spoke to newsmen in Abakaliki, expressed gratitude to the regulatory bodies in Nigeria; the FAN, NACA, NCAA, NEMA and Nigeria air state management for approving flights operations at the Chuba Okadigbo's airport.

According to her: "Today is my happiest day, since 2024 that a landmark was made, you know after the rehabilitation of the runway and completion of the ashaphating, we were doubtful if all the regulatory bodies in Nigeria; the FAN, NACA, NCAA, NEMA and Nigeria air state management whether they will approve of it, and today by the Grace of God, it is done.

"We have received the first aircraft that brought in the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Abdullahi Ganduje to Ebonyi state for the burial of our dear son and the former minister of science and technology, Ogbonnaya Onu.

"We are very happy that the Chuba Okadigbo international Airport is now open. From next week, we will be having flights coming in and going out. The opening of the flight operation in Chuba Okadigbo airport is a welcome development and we give thanks to God and all appreciation to the workaholic governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, who doggeredly achieved this great fate.

"It has not been easy but the governor's prudence, transparency, dedication and commitment has brought this to us, and we are very grateful.

"We are expecting five aircrafts but one has landed, still expecting the remaining four other aircrafts to land" she noted.

Ebonyi: Disregard any purported PDP state Congress... Onu







A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and former chairman of the party in Ebonyi state, Barr. Silas Onu has called on the general public to disregard any purported PDP Congress organized and held in the state last Saturday at the party secretariat.


Onu in an interview with journalists in Abakaliki said that no Congress was organized in the State insisting that what happened over the weekend was a gathering of some political friends and not a State Congress.

Onu who declared the purported Congress as illegal said that the organizers has violated a valid court order that had earlier barred them from carrying out such activities.


According to him: "There is no faction in PDP. There was only an attempt by a greedy individual who think that the political party belong to him to hijack it, because he was mistakenly sent to go and represent Ebonyi in the national working committee, NWC, and all of a sudden it becomes a problem to everybody in the party.

"You don't do a Congress when there is court order, saying don't do any. Not one, not two. There are many cases in court and the court said, don't do anything until I finish hearing these case.

"Anybody who goes about saying he did a Congress, is doing so as a direct affront to a valid court order, and whatever the person purport to do, is simply wasting his or her time.

"No Congress held in Ebonyi, it was just a gathering of friends. We hear a rumour that he was given money to do that and destabilize PDP in Ebonyi. We don't know how true is that, but it will appear that he wants to retire the money that was given to him.

"This person supposed to be a national officer of the Party, although he has been suspended. What he did, was targeted to rise dust, but it's an effort in futility and will hold no water" he stated.

PDP will reclaim power from APC in 2027... Odefa



By Uka David


The PDP National Vice Chairman, South East, Chief Ali Odefa has vowed that the party will wrestle power back from the ruling APC come next general elections in 2027.

Chief Odefa who stated this in Abakaliki during the party's State congress in Ebonyi State berated the APC for misgovernance which has brought untold hardership on Nigerians .

He observed that "Nigerians are tired of APC, both its policies and styles of governance since it occupies the seat of power in the country."

He maintained that everybody in the country has felt the pains degenerated by the APC government policies and styles of governance.

"When PDP was in power, all of you know how much a bag of rice was. Somebody just told me that a bag of Abakaliki rice is now N73,000, which we used to buy for N22,000. All of us are feeling the pain, and that's why Nigerians are yearning for change, and that change is what PDP is ready to offer.

"All we are doing now is to put our house in order and wait to answer the call of Nigerians. PDP is a party with a human face.

"When Goodluck Jonathan was the President of Nigeria, the likes of the current President (Bola Tinubu) and even the former President Muhammad Buhari protested and accused Jonathan of bad leadership style, and nothing happened, but if anyone tries it now, they are going to kill you.

"He (Tinubu) will arrest you and put you in prison. Look at the innocent children paraded in the court some days back as protesters. Famished children were being paraded because they made their feelings known and this has shown that the APC doesn't like extreme opposition, the current government has no human face, and the APC leaders don't care who you are.

"But when birds learn to fly without perching, the hunter will learn to shoot without missing bullets. We are taking our time to take them out of their comfort zone, and at the rightful time, we will strike them out of the seat of power," Odefa said.

Mr. Peter Nwele, the newly elected Chairman of the PDP in Ebonyi State, expressed his commitment to restoring the party to its former glory in the State.

Nwele while addressing party members shortly after his swearing-in, outlined his primary goals to reconcile with aggrieved members, bring them back to the PDP fold, and ensure that the party regains its prominence as the leading opposition in the state.

He thanked members for their trust and promised to maintain an open-door administration.

Hon Ugonna Ogbonna, Chairman of Ebonyi State PDP Congress Committee, described the congress as a most peaceful exercise and commended the members of the party for being cordial in the state.

He said the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, security personnel, and his team, a 7-man committee for the congress from the PDP Secretariat Abuja, were on the ground to monitor the exercise.

Ebonyi NSCDC new commandant pledges to tackle vandalism, other criminal activities

By David Uka


The new Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in Ebonyi State Francis Nnadi has promised to fight vandalism and other criminality in the state.

Commander Nnadi stated this at the command headquarters in Abakaliki, the state capital while taking over from the former Commandant of the command, Dr. Willie Etim who was deployed to another state

He noted that he was in the state to assist the government to achieve reasonable peace and secure lives.

Nnadi who described his posting to the state as as new dawn, urged the people to support the command to protect lives and properties.

"My predecessor has passed through Ebonyi with some legacies, I will also pass through Ebonyi. I am one person that doesn't believe that there is anything impossible.

"In the security architecture of this country, we have come of age. I will stop at nothing to make sure that Ebonyi is safe. All hands must be on deck to make things happen.

"I am here to hit the ground running to continue from where my predecessor stopped. We have a mandate, first of all is for protection of lives and properties, it is basic.

"Federal government gave us the power and the soul authority to cover the critical infrastructure of the federal, states and local governments. I am here to make sure that these are achieved We here to also help the state government to achieve reasonable peace and secure lives here.

"NSCDC as we are know, is civil in most of their activities. We assure Ebonyi people that my coming on board is going to be a break of a new dawn and honestly, I am available round the clock to attend to the security needs of the state", Nnadi stated

Handing over the Nnadi, Etim described the new Commandant as an experienced office and expressed confidence that he will perform.

Body of Auditor Generals urges FG to intensify fight against corruption





The body of Federal and State Auditor Generals of Nigeria has urged Nigerian government functionaries to be more active in the war against corruption in the country.

The National Chairman of the body, Sunday Adegoke, made the call in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital, during a 4-day capacity building workshop for the State and local governments' auditors general in the Southeast zone of the country.

Adegoke noted that financial misappropriation and other corrupt activities have become a global challenge and called for a holistic approach in the fight against the menace in the country.

"Public finance actors, especially the key government functionaries who hold one or more responsibilities in managing public finances, they are primarily responsible parties to ensure that this menace (corruption) is brought down.

"There is a possibility, and the risk is there, that may spot a place for the managers of the public finances, need to detect each fraud - that is either to detect or prevent the fraud," he stated.

Adegoke who is Ondo State Auditor General, explained that the workshop was centered on 'enhancing public sector auditors' performance for relevance and value addition' in the country.

He said the capacity building program would equip his members with prerequisite knowledge and guidelines to ensure the sustenance of the standards requirements of the organization in the public auditing profession.

He stressed the need for the Auditor Generals to always discharge their expected duties as public auditors pertaining to financial reports to avoid fraud.

"We will just come in as reviewers to take a look at whatever report they have submitted and look at the financial management system. And where, for instance, a fraud is detected, we report it so that those places can be dealt with as provided by the laws. And what we have come here is to strengthen the capacity of the personnel,"

He maintained that the Auditor Generals should be guided by the provisions of the constitution of Nigeria while carrying out the public finance auditing before submitting the report(s) to the House of the Assembly in their various state.

He observed that no erring auditor would escape the wrath of the law as the various auditors have their codes of conduct checkmating the professional members' actions and activities.

The Head of the Sub-Supreme body in Ebonyi State, Dr. Samuel Uduma, said the four-day training program would be of great benefit to the Auditors General, especially in getting abreast with the prerequisite knowledge for the public auditing profession.

He commended Governor Francis Nwifuru, for sponsoring the program and described the gesture as the first of its kind in the country.

"There is a very big gap, most of the Auditor-Generals and their staffs, don't know a lot of things concerning current happenings in the auditing profession, public sector auditing profession.

"So, this is why we are here. We want to have a common auditing standard. We want to streamline it and not what this person will be writing this, another person will be writing that", he said