A legal practitioner has dismissed a report that his client, Hon. Obinna Oriaku, a member of All Progressives Congress in Abia State, has been expelled from the party, saying that the decision of the disciplinary committee on his client ran foul of the clear provisions of the party constitution.

He said the report was circulated by mischievous people in an attempt to smear him and his fight against injustice in the party.

Acocording to a legal document obtained by our correspondent on Wednesday, there was/is no known complaint against Mr Obinna Oriaku from any member/organ of the party and that he was not invited to appear before any panel and/or disciplinary or fact finding committee of the party before his purported expulsion from the party was announced.

His purported expulsion was faulted through Article 21 (B) of APC Constitution which is the plank upon which the State Disciplinary Committee hinged her powers and recommended for disciplinary actions against any members found culpable.

The document stated that the disciplinary committee’s failure to comply with the letters of the aforesaid Article to the extent that his client was neither invited nor given an opportunity to respond to the purported issues which formed the crux of the allegations against him tantamount to flagrant abuse of power and therefore unconstitutional and unlawful.

It added that the decision of the disciplinary committee on his client ran foul of the clear provisions of the aforesaid constitution.

The rejoinder read in part: re: EXPULSION OF HON OBINNA ORIAKU FROM APC:
DEMAND FOR YOUR OFFICE TO REVISIT AND RESCIND THE UNLAWFUL DECISION
 
The above subject refers:

We have the instruction of HON OBINNA ORIAKU of Ward 3 Isiala Ngwa South, Abia State otherwise called “our client” to address this complaint to your office as a matter of urgency.
 
Our client’s instruction to us is that in the morning hours of Sunday 23rd day of October 2022 that he read through the social media a statement signed by (i) The State Chairman (ii) The State Secretary and (iii) The Chairman Disciplinary Committee of APC Abia State purporting to have expelled him from the All Progressives Congress following reports of acts of disobedience and negligence in carrying out lawful directives of the party, unrepentant as well as unremorseful attitude despite several warnings for him to abide by the party’s Constitution.
 
Our client who was taken aback by the said publication informed us that there was/is no known complaint against him from any member/organ of the party and that he was not invited to appear before any panel and/or disciplinary or fact finding committee of the party before his purported expulsion from the party was announced.

We have read through Article 21 (B) of APC Constitution which is the plank upon which the State Disciplinary Committee hinged her powers and recommended for the discipline of our client and found that the decision of the disciplinary committee on our client ran foul of the clear provisions of the aforesaid constitution. The disciplinary committee’s failure to comply with the letters of the aforesaid Article to the extent that our client was neither invited nor given an opportunity to respond to the purported issues which formed the crux of the allegations against him tantamount to flagrant abuse of power and therefore unconstitutional and unlawful.
 
Our client’s record as a major/critical stakeholder of APC from his ward 3 in Isiala Ngwa South remains impeccable. He was a governorship aspirant of the party during the Governorship primary election conducted in May 2022 and came second. He was a member of APC National Convention Planning Committee "finance" 2022 and is currently a member of Tinubu/Shettima presidential campaign council. He was also a Commissioner of Finance in Abia State (2015 – 2019) and has used his goodwill to positively influence the membership of Abia APC.
 
Flowing from the above, WE HEREBY DEMAND that you should rescind the purported unlawful expulsion of our client from the party as your action runs contrary to the clear provisions of the party’s Constitution and regulations.
 
TAKE NOTICE that if after FOURTEEN (14) DAYS of the receipt of this letter you fail to reverse the purported expulsion of our client and restore all his rights and privileges as a party member, we shall have no other option than to take firm steps including legal redress to protect our client’s reputation which has been severely damaged by your unlawful decision/action. This shall be without further reference to you.
 
Let wise counsel prevail.
Yours faithfully,
 
C.C. Uhuaba Esq
 
Cc:
1. The National Chairman
All Progressives Congress
APC National Secretariat
Abuja.
2. The National Deputy Chairman (North)
All Progressives Congress
APC National Secretariat
Abuja.
3. The National Deputy Chairman (South)
All Progressives Congress
APC National Secretariat
Abuja.
4. The National Secretary
5. The Chairman South- East
6. The Secretary APC Presidential Campaign Council
Abuja.
7. The National Organizing Secretary
All Progressives Congress

8.The National Legal Adviser
All Progressives Congress
APC National Secretariat
Abuja.
9. The National Woman Leader
All Progressives Congress
APC National Secretariat
Abuja.

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Why Obinna Oriaku is best alternative to Abia APC Conundrum

Last week Vanguard Newspapers published 20 APC States that are enveloped in multiply legal issues and internal squabbles that have polarised the party into many divides.

Abia State before now is among the few states in South east many had expected opposition parties to grab ,basically due to the poor governance and under development of the state.

APC was the next destination as many big wigs in opposition clustered in APC until the internal crisis of congress elections which produced two major factions in the state, led by Dr Uche Ogah and Chief Ikechi Emenike

Efforts to quickly resolve these have failed as many Gubernatorial candidates like Alex Oti, Etigwe SAN and many others left for other parties.

Every day, Abia APC members keep migrating either back to PDP or other parties. Last week the State publicity secretary Mr. Okey Ezeala resigned and at the verge of joining another opposition party in Abia .

Considering the protected legal issues and associated implications on the chances of the party both at the national and state level , we are recommending that the NWC adopt political solutions which will save the party from further hemorrhage by adopting Hon Obinna Oriaku the immediate past Commissioner of finance Abia State , who incidentally came second in the chief Ikechi Emenike primary election as stated by the APC National office.

Mr Obinna Oriaku is an ex bank who demonstrated good leadership qualities while he served as Commissioner in Abia He carried out reforms that till date has become a comparative gauge for successive commissioners. His tenure is today referred as the glorious era of Okezie administration.
He is liked and adored by Abians for his bold decisions in challenging the status quo that resulted in his decision to leave the PDP for another platform that will enable him continue the rescue process of Abia .

Mr Oriaku is a nightmare to current leadership in Abia and he is a unifer as he is for all and not on any faction in Abia APC.

APC will be adding a new state in South east if the right choices are made at this critical time .

Opinion

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Op-Ed: Abia State Governorship Tussle: Federal High Court Ruling and It's Implications | Nnaemeka Ogbona

The Federal High Court sitting at Umuahia today being the 21st day of July 2022 in a pre-election matter filed by one of the gubernatorial aspirants in All Progressives Congress in Abia State, Dr. Daniel Eke, the plaintiff represented by Bar Obinna Nkume challenging the validity of the two primaries that produced Chief Ikechi Emenike and Dr. Uche Ogah granted an interlocutory application by the petitioner restraining INEC from publishing Chief Ikechi Emenike and/or Dr. Uche Ogah as the party's gubernatorial candidate pending the determination of the Substantive suit. High Chief Ikechi Emenike was represented by Fagbemi SAN and Dr Uche Ogah by Bar O.O Amuzie.

The INEC being one of the respondents in the said suit earlier in it's submission denied ever monitoring the conduct of the either of the primaries. The implication is that there's a very high likelihood of the two primaries mentioned in the said suit of being voided thereby leaving APC without a gubernatorial candidate in Abia State which a very precarious position for the party.

In view of the above and for the party to delicately navigate through this legal imbroglio, it will be in the best interest of the party to explore political solution by presenting one of the aspirants in the primary.

Obinna Oriaku, the immediate past commissioner of finance in Abia State as the party's gubernatorial candidate in Abia State have regards to his wide acceptability and the groundswell support he enjoys through out the state coupled with the fact that he's competent, fit and proper and has endeared himself to generality of the populace in Abia State during his time as the commissioner of finance.

His candidacy will energize the party, the general public and act as unifier. He has the capacity of sending PDP packing out of the office and Government House in the state.

Nnaemeka Ogbonna is a Public Affairs Analyst. He writes from Umuahia, Abia State.

Fahdiga:
Good. Our country and democracy is in danger with APC Muslim Muslim ticket.

How bro? �
Are there not other parties on the ballot asides Apc... I think we have more better choices tho

Jazakumullahu khairan. Alhamdulillah robil alamin for yet another eid. May Almighty Allah spare our lives to witness many more �

Masha Allah. Jazakumullahu khairan �

Lol.. Nawa o

Lol.. Wetin be this??

Please how does one change institution for Jamb 2022? Also, when is the period for change of institution.

Also, please does anyone know the cut off for kwasu computer science. Thank you

Masha Allah. Jazakumullahu khairan

The Choice Before Abia APC- The Mr. Obinna Oriaku Option By Nathan Elendu

In this election circle, Abia is one of the states readily mentioned as most ripe for outright takeover by the opposition and the reasons for that is not far-fetched. The internal wrangling in both the local and national PDP and the poor performance of the PDP government in Abia State definitely throws the state up for change.

The APC which parades good number of quality opposition members with character and pedigree was being positioned for the necessary takeover of Abia State. The party had quality aspirants which included Mr Obinna Oriaku who was the former Commissioner for finance during the first tenure of Okezie Ikpeazu’s administration, who had equally been the main face of opposition in Abia State until the dawn of the election circle. Dr Alex Otti former Governorship candidate of APGA , Dr Uche Ogah former APC governorship candidate and the present Honourable Minister of state for Mines and Steel, Prince Paul Ikonne the Executive Secretary of National Agricultural Land Development Authority(NALDA) Etigwe Uwa (SAN), Rt Hon Emeka Atuma etc.

With these calibre of opposition, many were looking up to the APC as answer to the yearnings of Abia people for change of the status quo that has confined the state to a vicious circle of mal-administration and under development for some years .

This opportunity is gradually drifting away and may be lost unless the APC urgently and strategically decides to save itself from going into oblivion in Abia State.

It is important to recall that the seeming downfall of APC in Abia State started with the artificial crisis created by the Buni-led Extra Ordinary Committee by its flagrant imposition of Chief Ikechi Emenike and his tiny group as the authentic faction of the party in the state. Even when the matter is before the courts, the imposition has continued to gain traction and directly leading to the dumping of the party for another by aspirants like Etigwe Uwa(SAN), Dr. Alex Oti, Dr Ijeoma and others.

However, the truth which is both sacred and exclusive is that the APC's chance of producing the next governor of Abia State will become irreversibly remote if the charade called party primaries that took place at a motor park in Umuahia on 26th of May 2022 is sustained.

Against a valid instruction from the national leadership of the party that Abia, Osun and Benue states should use DIRECT primaries in selecting their candidates, the Ikechi Emenike-led exco in collusion with the Primaries Committee from Abuja flouted the direct voting policy of the party with impunity and went ahead with INDIRECT primaries which is now exposing the party to the likelihood of multiple litigations.

This deliberate decision of adopting indirect primaries model by Chief Ikechi executive and the primaries committee from Abuja led to the withdrawal from the electoral process and stage walk out of aspirants including Mr Obinna Oriaku , Prince Paul Ikonne , Dr Uche Ogah and others

We understand that in Abia North, direct primaries was adopted in conducting the primaries for the House of Representatives and the Senate. How do we explain or imagine that a great party like APC will be adopting different models of primaries in a state . This shows how indicipline and polarized APC has become in Abia state and the need for urgent intervention by the national leadership of the party.

This self-inflicted crisis has resulted to mass exodus of genuine members of the party and withdrawal of most serious aspirants to other parties like APGA and Labour Party

As if all these are not enough, the Umuahia High court judgment declaring Chief Ikechi Emenike a non member of the APC having been suspended by the party, hangs out there like a sword of Damocles over Abia APC.

Considering the complexities of these problems and its implications on the general election ground in Abia State, we will be recommending the following options:

1. That APC take urgent steps to engage major stakeholders on adoption of consensus option in solving the problems which has become intractable.

2. Taking into cognisance the local environment, tailor the adoption of the gubernatorial candidate to what PDP did by picking its candidate from the Ngwa block of Abia central which shall definitely prove to be the best option if we are to win any election come 2023.

3 Granted APC does not recognize zoning but locally you appreciate the sensiblity/ peculiarities of our State. Sen TA Orji from Umuahia North handed over to Dr Okezie Ikpeazu in 2015 and after 8 years same Umuahia North is producing another Governor and Ikwuano is also producing senator for Abia central . This concentration of positions in one zone will spell doom for the party in general elections.

4. Adopt Mr Obinna Oriaku who is well accepted, loved and has the capacity to defeat the PDP and deliver victory to the APC as he appears as an uncompromised candidate. He enjoys the support and friendship of other APC candidates.

5. Review the acceptance level of other candidates in other positions and adjust to guarantee victory.

2023: Chief Chijioke Ikpo wins Apc Isiala ngwa federal constituency primary election.

A frontline aspirant under the platform of All Progressives Congress Chief Barr. Chijioke Ikpo Friday won the Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency primary election conducted by the Apc.

The election which took place at Ahiaba okpuala Community primary school in Isiala Ngwa North LGA of Abia state witnessed the presence of independent National Electoral Commission, INEC ,and Apc officials, including security operatives and party faithfuls as the election was conducted peacefully.

Announcing the result of the primary election, the Chairman of the electoral committee Commodore Ochulor stated that Ikpo polled 57 votes out of the 78 votes cast by the delegates drawn from the two local governments of Isiala Ngwa North and South federal constituency.

The returning officer Commodore Ochulor stated that ikpo polled the highest number of votes cast and declared him the winner of the election.

In his words, Chief Ikpo said" I want to sincerely thank the delegates and our party faithfuls for casting their votes for me. I will not disappoint you.We will secure our mandate by making sure that we win the election come February next year.

Why Obinna Oriaku Stands Out As Abia Governor 2023— Uche Nnabuihe

Today many are jostling for the Governorship seat of Abia state, a number of them are eminently qualified with both capacity and requisite experience to turn around the fortunes of Abia that has been held down for years due to poor leadership recruitment process.

Abia is blessed with the best human capital in the whole of south east as they pride with such names as Okonji Iweala , Aruma Oteh, U.K. Eke, Johnson Chukwu, Chidi Ajegbu and so many more. Therefore, 2023 avails Abians the opportunity to wisely choose from the the numbers that are presenting themselves as solution bearers of Abia leadership problem.

Today Mr Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State has become a barometer for measuring the qualities expected of leaders we need to change the narrative for Abia State and Mr Obinna Oriaku fits.

Mr Obinna Oriaku is a selfless leader just as his passion lead him to serve Abia for four years (pro bono)without being paid salary by the state as his former employers First bank paid him for the four years. His focus was on instilling financial discipline and sacrificial leadership in the state by drastically reducing the cost of governance which has been identified as major reason for poor infrastructure and general underdevelopment of Abia state

He on assumption as economic adviser to the Governor he reduced the cost of attending monthly FAAC meeting at Abuja from about N4.4m to N.9m then made up N1.6m for the Commissioner reduced to N.5m, N1.4m for the Accountant General, reduced to N.4m and N1.4m for the Permanent Secretary Finance reduced N.0m as he stopped the Permanent secretary from attending FAAC meeting since Abia was the only State that was sending three people to Abuja instead of statutory two( Commissioner & AG)This action earned him backlash as some of the affected people were related to those who believe that Abia state is theirs.

Mr Obinna Oriaku even as a Commissioner who draws authority from the Governor, was able to dismantle some of the structures that encouraged fraud in government and introduced numerous reforms that aided the State to achieve the little Abians witnessed within the first tenure of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu’s administration.

The reforms were the Civil Service Reform, the Judiciary Reform, Procurement Reform, Open Governance Reform, Local Government Systems Reform, Salaries and Pension Automation and Centralisation/Integration, etc.

It is very clear that these reforms contributed to the achievements of the administration between 2015 to 2019 understanding the recession and low receipts that characterised that era hence it is referred as the glorious era of Okezie Ikpeazu’s administration. All the major projects ranging from remodeling of Enyimba Stadium to the automated Shoe factory and major roads where done or initiated during that first tenure period and a lot was achieved even with the distraction of protracted litigations that lasted over three years.

While we give credit to the Governor that gave Mr Obinna Oriaku the authority and opportunity to carry out these reforms, the following represents the areas he touched while serving as a Commissioner:
1 Review of the overhead of the State Exco allowance from N1m to N.5m.
2 Review of Commissioners’ official cars from Prado of N18m to Hyundai IX 35 of N6.9m as at 2015.
3 Review of the SSG overhead cost from N14m monthly to N7M monthly.
4 Review of the 3% of monthly JAAC allocation to seven members of local government service commission from average N30m to N6m.
5 Review of salaries management of civil servants (automation,centralization and integration brought about a savings of about N600m monthly
6 Automation also identified and exposed ghost workers earning from different MDAs and those earning salaries as Special Advisers and Civil Servants at the same time.

7. Abolished the use of 19 sub treasuries that was a conduit for fraud and replaced it with automated pension payment which saved funds .
8. Review of the wage bill of Permanent Secretaries and eliminated a so called security vote that blew-up the salary of Abia Permanent Secretaries to be the highest in South East and beyond.

Today Abia workers remember when Mr. Oriaku was in the saddle as the “good old days”. If the state then was struggling with an average receipt of N2.9b monthly and owed secondary school teachers 5 months salary arrears etc, Why are they being owed 14 months today when current allocation averages N5.6b, yet the State’s monthly wage bill of secondary school teachers has been reduced from N470m to N200m following the disarticulation Mr Oriaku championed the reform which transferred the wage bill of JSS 1to 3 Teachers to the Local Government system.

Abia Poly and ABSUTH that were 7 months and 8 months respectively in those “good old days, have all gone up to 25 and 32 months respectively.

We know today that over 79% of Abia State monthly receipts goes into recurrent expenditure that is an express route to perdition. ABIA is God’s own State and the solution to her rediscovery starts with the fear of God and financial discipline as seen in Anambra during Peter Obi.

Mr Obinna Oriaku was able to implement the much he could under the leadership of the present Governor who takes the credit but it is regrettable that most of all those reforms which should have seen Abia grow were all abandoned when the owners of the state insisted that Mr. Oriaku will never be part of the administration.

It is instructive to note that Mr Oriaku understands the problems of Abia better than other aspirants having worked deeper in Abia as change agent . He is the only person who has come out openly to confront those who believe Abia belongs( personal estate )to them both while in and out of Government.

Many stories were peddled about his stewardship especially in the negative from those who believe Abia belongs to them but to the glory of God, they have all tuned positive. Today Abians are wiser and the God who called and sustains him knows that he remains the best choice for Abia State come 2023

If he could achieve the little as a Commissioner working under a Governor, then entrust him with the entire responsibility and see God cause Abia State to blossom.

Help me re-unite with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu— Man in Kudeti begs Nigerians

A man identified as Emmanuel Adejobi Ajani has sought the support of the general public to re-associate with his old-time brother, the APC presidential aspirant, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom they had both lived together alongside friends at some point at Kudeti, Ibadan in 1967.

While recounting the relationship he had established with the APC presidential aspirant during good old days, he narrated how it all started at "Ile Olodo" Odunjo's place, Kudeti with house number S6/56 in Ibadan.

In an exclusive interview with Mouthpiece NGR on Friday, Ajani said “Brother Bola is a good-hearterd person and he showed love and care to us while we still lived together at Odunjo's place, Kudeti, Ibadan in 1967 till 1969 before he left.

As a younger brother to Mr Odunjo's wife (Iya Ibeji) at the time, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was an epitome of love and kindness to all of us.

He pressed further by mentioning some of the names of Asiwaju's friends, with whom he had associated with and noting how he did extend love to everybody regardless of background or class.

"We all lived at Kudeti alongside some of Asiwaju's friends. They include; Brother Lekan who is Asiwaju's closest friends at the time, Brother Bode, Brother Sunday, Brother Aderemi and Brother Gbade lived together between 1967 and 1969 before Asiwaju left for Osasami.

"Even when he left for Osasami, Asiwaju didn't leave us. He still do good to us and even after he got a Volkwagen with plate number "WAD954"

While he prayed for Asiwaju over his political ambition, he lamented how he has tried all he could to get re-associated with Asiwaju but all proved abortive, and now believing that the tool of internet at this time may help to get them reconnected.

"I'm leveraging on the tool of social media in the bid to seek the support of the general public in that regards. I've tried all I could to get in touch but all was proved abortive because there was no possible ways.

"I ask the Almighty to grant Asiwaju his heartfelt desires and hope I can meet him very soon."- He expressed optimism.

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2023: Kasarachi Enyinna declares for Abia governorship

Oyedeji Ahmed

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Kasarachi Enyinna has publicly declared to contest the 2023 governorship election in Abia state, vowing to change the fortune of the state by bringing on board purposeful, credible, resposnive and people oriented leadership that will meet the yearnings and aspirations of Abians.

Enyinna who made the declaration on Sunday at Ukwa West Local Government said Abia state, which is known as God's own state, has been deprived of the dividends of democracy not by the governed but the government at the state level, due to poor and weak leadership.

He lamented that the PDP-led government in the state had not done anything with the huge resources of Abia state while promising to change the narrative of leadership.

According to him, “Based on the foregoing and after extensive consultations across board, I have decided to succumb to pressure from my constituents and Abians in general, to contest for the position of Governor of Abia state. I see it as a clarion call to serve.”

The gubernatorial hopeful stressed that It is worthy to note that over the years, having served in various capacities in the private and public sectors beyond the shores of Nigeria, he has robust experience to steer the affairs of God's own state, if given the opportunity.

“ I have sustained my contributions to women and youth empowerment across the state through various humanitarian initaives, including the Micheal Eyinnaya Kasarachi Foundation, which has sponsored sporting activities and provided free medical outreach to indigents across the state. I have equally facilitated projects to my constituency.”

“I am connected to the people at the grassroots and do understand their pains. Without understanding the problem, you cannot profer solutions. With a good understanding of the challenges faced by Abians, I am equipped with the right skills to improve the common lots of the people.”

“It is on this note, that I stand before you all today, in a bid to build a prosperous state, to declare my interest to contest as Governor of Abia state in the forthcoming 2023 general election under the platform of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

“I am optimistic that collectively we shall build Abia state of our dream, he said.

Our correspondent reports that the declaration was witnessed by party leaders, supporters and host of others.

BREAKING: 2023: Abia is not Beyond Redemption Oriaku as he declares for 2023 Abia governorship

A former Commissioner of Finance in Abia State, Mr Obinna Oriaku has joined the Abia Governorship race under the All Progressive Congress APC, declaring that Abia State is not beyond redemption.

Oriaku who made his intention known on Tuesday at his residence in Owerrinta, Isiala Ngwa LGA of Abia State while declaring interest to run for the number one Abia seat, assured that if elected, he will reclaim the state and institute an Abia devoid of clannish or primordial sentiments.

He revealed that Abia under his watch, will not promote ethnic divisions, but will be one indivisible State where the citizenry will share common values and relegate to the background, parochialism and unnecessary sentiments that have held sway for years.

Oriaku pledged to ensure that everyone's voice is heard. "We will change the paradigm and rejig both our cultural and social values and it is not in doubt if Obinna has the wherewithal to achieve it, my antecedents will speak for me".

He said his administration will be run with honesty, sincerity of purpose, adding that with him, Abia shall be great while soliciting the support of all Abians to enable him take decision to enthrone a sincere and passionate leader come 2023.

Oriaku who recalled how he initiated reforms on Civil service; Judiciary; Procurement reforms; Local government system reforms, State owned parastarals reforms like ABSUTH, Abia Poly, HMB among others, pointed out that most of these reforms have capacity of repositioning Abia for growth and development but have remained unimplemented till date.

The ex-Abia Commissioner for Finance, emphasized that the government under his guidance will dig deeper into the challenges that hamper development in the state in addition to the identified problems cum challenges, stating that he will ensure that mediocrity is uprooted for excellence.

Oriaku also promised to facilitate sustainable, enduring and people oriented programmes and policies that will touch the lives of Abians in general.

He said his own kind of opposition politics, is for all irrespective of party affiliation, to come together and liberate the State from bad leadership that has cost Abia her development all these years, adding that he doesn't believe in criticising party in power but engages in constructive criticism on how to make things work.

Oriaku reeled out his achievements while in office, stressing that his records are still intact and speak for him, reiterating that there were a whole lot of government interventions, revealing that things have worsened in the state which was never before under his watch as Abia Finance Commissioner.

Also speaking, Hon Acho Obioma, (Chomen), appreciated the Governorship aspirations of Hon. Obinna Oriaku, noting that as former Finance Commissioner in the State, he garnered enough experience that Abia needs at this critical time.

He said he has pledged to support the governorship ambition of any of the aspirants in the APC, expressing optimism that come 2023, APC will produce the next Governor of the State.

Correspondent reports that the occasion attracted APC faithful both at ward, LG and State level including : Bar Chibuike Nwokougwu, Bar Nnaemeka Otagburuagu among other dignitaries.

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2023: Bishop Emeka Nwankpa turbaned ‘Masun Jihar Yamma’

His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr.Mal.Haruna CON today TURBANED the founder of Emeka Nwankpa foundation Amb. Bishop Emeka Michael Nwankpa as the "masun Jihar Yamma" in the occasion of his 41st Anniversary on the throne.

Turbaning Bishop Nwankpa, His Royal Highness Alhaji Haruna said " in recognition of your numerous philanthropic efforts in bettering the lives of the indigent people, widows and youths across the length and breath of Nigeria, I, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Mal. Haruna Mai Yasin Katsina CON Turban you " Masun Jihar Yamma " ( A Giver & philanthropist Arewa in the 17 Southern states of Nigeria Nigeria) today the 12th Of March 2022.

Also speaking, the Eze Ndi Igbo in Oyo state His Royal Highness Dr. Alexander Anozie said" I am privileged to be part of the 41st Anniversary of my dear Friend today and most privileged to be part of the turbaning of my brother and philanthropist Ambassador Bishop Emeka Nwankpa. His many philanthropic contributions East of the Niger cannot go unnoticed.
He is kind hearted and the kind of people we need in leadership positions. I wish him good luck and pray that God will perfect his plans in his life.

Responding, Bishop Nwankpa said" I am delighted to be Turbaned today. This will spur me to do more for the society. The reward for hard work is more work and I promise to affect the life of my people continuously.

This is the 17years anniversary of my foundation. We formed this foundation to enable us reach the widows, the indigent members of the society and to empower the youths. We have tried our best and I promise to do more.

We are not running for government position to enrich ourselves. But to offer the needed service to our people.

We have asked Abians to look at our pedigree, track records, our capacity and knowledge in 2023 Governorship, I believe that when compared to others, we will have the mandate of our people God willing.

Others TURBANED included the Executive Governor of Oyo state H.E. Eng. Seyi Makinde, former Governor of Zamfara state, H.E. Abdullaziz Yari, former Governor of Imo state, Distinguished Senator Rochas Okorocha, and immediate past commissioner of police Oyo State, Alhaji Atahiru Isa among others.

2023: Abia Governorship Hopeful Bags Second Degree in Philosophy from MIU University, USA

A Governorship hopeful in Abia State, Philanthropist and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, has bagged a Doctorate Degree in Philosophy making it his Third Doctorate Degree.

The Certificate and Decoration was done by the Chancellor of the university Professor Leonard Bature in Abuja,Nigeria on thursday 3rd March 2022 at a mini convocation of MIU University after completing a course in "Peace and Conflict Management".

Also speaking, the Registrar of MIU university in Abuja Dr.Sam Aduviere during the mini convocation said that Bishop Nwankpa Michael Nwankpa was diligent, and came out tops in both character and learning and deserved his Doctoriate Degree.

Bishop Nwankpa, who was in happy mood after receiving the certificate, said age will not be a barrier as he is poised to bag more Degrees.

He said that his passion for education led to the formation of Ambassador Bishop Emeka Nwankpa foundation to use the foundation to help the indigent members of the society. He reiterated his resolve to always contribute his quota in education as his foundation has trained over three thousand indigent students and has over three hundred students currently studying in different institutions of Learning in Nigeria.

Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa used the opportunity to reiterate that 2023 Abia Governorship race is for people that have capacity, service driven, stressing that it will not be business as usual as Abia is in dire need of people with capacity, character content, service delivery to reposition the State.

Recall that this is the 3rd Degree the Philanthropist and Politician has bagged over the years.

2023: PDP already shaking in Abia-Oriaku

...says State now APC dominated

...adds Under my watch, IGR collections will not be used to settle political boys

...says I was not on payroll for 4 years as Commissioner for Finance

...asks Sen. Abribe to give youth chance

Mr. Obinna Oriaku is a former banker and Abia State Commissioner for Finance from 2015 to 2019. He has declared interest to run for 2023 governorship election in the State. In this interview, he told Sunday Vanguard what Abians stand to gain from his government if given the opportunity, recalling that he served the state on pro bono.

By Levinus Nwabughiogu-Abuja

The end of your tenure as Commissioner for Finance was marred by controversies arising from some contracts. At some point you were a guest to EFCC. How did that play out?

Towards the end of the 2015 to 2019 in the administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, some vested interest vowed that I will never be part of the next administration. Everything was deployed to achieve that aim including false allegations and propaganda. They were not just happy that I held on to my position that we must move away from those negatives that have defined us as Abians. A lot of petitions were written just to paint negative pictures but we are happy today that Abians now understand who has their interests at heart. EFCC investigated a unit under ministry of finance for about N3m only, a unit saddled with the responsibility of salary payment. It had no direct bearing on me as a person as I served Abia state Pro bono. I was not on the pay roll of Abia for the four years. Most people are suprised that all the media noise about EFCC was just for N3m when we have issues concerning N576 billion belonging to Abia that has been in the cooler for years. The matter has been dispensed with as those involved are already in court.

What lessons did you learn from your experience with EFCC?

The key lesson is that it's good to be transparent in all you do while in Government. However, the experience was a blessing in disguise because this particular issue of EFCC petitions exposed my stewardship to Abians as most of them never knew I served Pro bono and that the state never spent a kobo on the biometric capture/verification of civil servants. Under my watch we ensured that our bankers handled these projects as part of their CSR without cost to Abia state. This particular project saw to the refencing of the database of Abia workers to avoid fraud and savings of about N600m was made from salary payment figure.

Now, you are nursing governorship ambition, will the EFCC probe not work against you?

The civil servants and entire Abians now understand better what our intentions were at that time. Many believe that we had genuine intention to reform and restructure some of those fundamental issues that have held us down as a State. Many are wishing that some of those truncated reforms are concluded which will guarantee a better future for Abians. I can say that many Abians are wishing for positive change especially when they see what is going on in Ebonyi and what Soludo represents in Anambra. Even among those in present government, they believe that we can do better as a people. We are not cursed as Abians. Leadership has been our challenge and Abians are yearning for good governance and effective leadership.

As a Commissioner who had the ear of your principal, what advice did you offer to him that helped advance the cause of the State?

At inception, we had as a small group led by then late Chief of Staff, Chjioke Nwakodo whose responsibilities included reviewing all policies and actions of government. His death was a big blow to the administration and his time represented the glorious era of that administration. His death opened doors and brought those that never believed in our ideas and the paradigm changes we planned and the rest is history. I enjoyed and still have good cordial relationship with my Governor, and he gave listening ears to our suggestions while in office. His support gave rise to all those reforms like Civil service reforms, Judiciary reforms, procurement reforms, IGR reforms, Parstarals reforms and local government reforms. The recommendation of some of the reforms are yet to be implemented as these reforms brought some backclash from civil servants who joined the anti Obinna war. That's my strength, ability to take hard decisions and that's what Abia needs at this time to resolve our age long issues of bad governance.

Tell me the projects you attractracted to your community as a key cabinet member?

My community had fair share of government presence while I served. I am also grateful to the Governor who made those projects realised. The government provided two major roads that serve as by pass for those going to Port Harcourt through Ngor Okpuala in Imo state. They also reconstructed our local market that was forgotten due to perennial flooding. About three primary school blocks were constructed, transformers and rural electrification of villages, etc. Some graduates were offered jobs at the state and local government levels. The Mbutu/ Owerrinta people in Isi ala Ngwa south felt the impact of government while I served.

Why did you then leave the PDP that provided you with all the infrastructure for the APC?

Well, I have appreciated the government that made those projects possible but our problems as a State goes beyond provision of those infrastructure in my area. Our problems are fundamental/systemic and must be addressed for sustainable and guaranteed development of Abia state in general.

Your party APC doesn't seem to be on the ground in Abia state owing to internal crises. How would you surmount that obvious obstacle to win elections in Abia state.

It is good to be underrated in politics. I laugh wide when people say APC is not on ground in Abia. A party that has completely taken over a senatorial zone out of the three zones long before the election. A party that parades members who are in leadership positions in the national assembly. These members include the former Governor and current Chief Whip of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Oji Uzo Kalu. The Deputy Whip in House of representatives, Rt Hon Nkiru Onyejiocha, the Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu including over three State House of assembly members, a party whose representatives have redefined representation in Abia state. We have not had it this good before from our representatives. Today, Abia North APC can boast of 70% of the entire votes if election is held today. We are now only focusing on the two outstanding zones and you know performance is infectious, we believe that the two zones of Abia central and Abia south will follow suit in our drive towards reclaiming Abia State. Already, Abia central is in the kitty as Rt Hon Onuigbo is redefining representation in Ikwuano/ Umuahia. APC is on ground in Abia and is poised to surprise many doubting their strength. What you call internal crisis is something that can be resolved in days, so we are not much disturbed. It's better we address these issues now than during the party primaries. Be assured that any internal issues in Abia APC will be resolved and it will make us stronger as a party. Already PDP is shaking because many see APC as a veritable option in Abia.

People say you joined APC to avenge your oust from position of authority. Are you on a revenge mission? If not what motivates your ambition?

Remember, I was seconded from First Bank of Nigeria to serve as Commissioner of Finance in Abia and my bank (FBN) paid my salary for the four years ,credit goes to our former GMD UK Ekeh who is an Abian. I am not a regular politician that will focus on vendetta instead of keeping the eyes on the ball from day one. I served as Commissioner for Finance for unbroken four years even when State executive council were desolved on two occssions. I was about the only Commissioner left in government. I understand the problems of Abia state better. The natural thing would have been to go back to First Bank after the contract ended in 2019. However these four years opened my eyes to the level of rot in our State and I also observed how deeply entrenched these forces are. I decided that I will not go back to the bank but be part of those ready to take the hard decisions in liberating Abia from these forces. I also noticed that the changes we want will be difficult to achieve working from inside as most of these people are already deeply entrenched in the system. The holistic change can only be guaranteed by fighting/working from outside the current party in the state. We have example of changes that came fighting back from outside. Anambra state during Ngige and Obi, Oyo State under Makinde, Ebonyi under Dave Umahi, all these people brought changes fighting from outside and we all are witnesses to what is going or what went on in those states under the leadership of these people. My motivation is that I did a research on what our problems are as a people. Remember, I have all my time worked with states governments under Public sector in my banking career. I served as offical banker to Enugu State government under the administration of Governor Chimaroke Nnamani of Enugu and Suilvan Chime and was embedded in works of these governments. I came to the conclusion that with right leadership, Abia can regain lost grounds. I strongly believe that a new Abia is possible and that our Abia state is not beyond redemption.

Politics is said to be a game of patience and intrigues. How can you be trusted with power when it's alleged that you easily jump ship at the slightest provocation?

I fell out with the powers that be in Abia, the assumed owners of the state because I resisted all they wanted to do while in government. My uncompromising position on those major issues did not help matters which I don't regret till date. They went further to humiliate themselves by insisting that the guy that won the local congress in my ward will not be accepted because he has "ORIAKU" as his surname. I did not start talking about the rot in the system now that I am out of government. I have always been an advocate of good governance even while in government. If you have gone through my resignation letter from the party, I said "with what I have seen, tangible development cannot be guaranteed if we continue to run that state the way it is. I left the PDP because of fundamental issues which cannot be corrected. Recall that this group has been in power since democracy and they have their own way of doing things which has truncated our growth as a State. It is the quest for good governance which cannot be guaranteed under the current system that encouraged my search for another platform as I am convinced that the holistic change we all clamour can only be guaranteed under a new platform that has no appendages of old order.

There is a common belief that Abia is retrogressive because of its inability to harness the potentials in IGR collection. How would you boost IGR in Abia should you become the next governor?

A new Abia will guarantee sustained reforms in IGR that will engender developments of our state. We have huge IGR potentials in Abia but a lot needs to be done by the government and the people. These reforms were started and maybe abandoned but what is sure is on our conviction that all these are achieved under a focused leadership. Fundamental changes or reforms are needed just like in other states that are doing well in IGR. Leadership is also key in driving these changes. IGR collections will not be used to settle the political boys and enforcement will be 100%. The political will to do all these will be guaranteed. "If Oshodi in lagos can be reformed, then note that we can achieve all if the willingness is there". Under our watch, Abia IGR will grow to the extent that we can plan with it.

How's your relationship with your former boss and colleagues now?

I enjoy robust relationship with colleagues and my Oga, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu especially when you remember the close relationship that existed between us while in Government. We did not quarrel, just that circumstances especially some vested interests made things difficult after the first tenure. There is no regret working with him in that first term and am grateful for that opportunity to serve our people and it made me understand our challenges better. I have had cause to apologise to our colleagues that served during the first term. Most of them served under very difficult circumstances. That service was sacrificial as most were focused towards paradigm change championed by then leadership. They are worried how things have changed as some of those reforms were truncated hence my decision to call them in that regards.

What's your disposition corruption in the past, present and how will you tackle it now that is almost endemic?

Corruption in government is becoming endemic by the day even as government is coming up with strategy to reduce fraud in government at all levels. In Abia, a lot was done to introduce automation of processes which reduced fraud but you find out that structures are not in place to support these reforms, no wonder they have almost gone back to Egypt. I have always believed that fish rots from the head. We will ensure that our heads are straight. We have been tested in this regard and I am sure alot more will be done to discourage fraud including consequence management which is lacking in government. Some jokingly say if I am in the saddle, that hunger will kill them. I assure them that whoever works will be paid but Abia money will not be shared under my watch.

Abia is seen as one of the states under the control of political godfathers. Who is your God father?

God and entire Abians are my god fathers. We are going to work together to achieve our desired goals. This does not take away the fact that we have elders that we may consult or seek their understanding in some major policy decisions. This is normal even in immediate family circle. There won't be that kind of godfather you are referring where every approval must be sought. We will together deliver Abia for Abians.

People in Abia North want power return to them after Governor Ikpeazu's tenure. But at the same time, the people of Abia south, majorly the Ngwa/Ukwa clan where the present governor hails from still want to retain it arguing they want to be at par with old Bende zone in terms of years. How do you think this will play out eventually?

While we appreciate that equity in zoning political offices engenders peace in polity but we must note that Abia state needs leaders that have all it takes to take them out of where they are presently. We will not encourage any zone clamouring for the office to throw away integrity, competence for zoning. Today, both sides are laying claim to which zone should produce the governor. Depending on the prism you are, Abia needs competent leaders that have been tested with local experience and are passionate of delivering. Ukwa la Ngwa strongly believes that 16 years and 16 years is equity while years and 8 years and 24 years is unfair. For me, we need a leader that has competence, integrity, zero tolerance to corruption and passionate about Abia fast development but garnished with equity which will guarantee development of our State.

Aren't you afraid of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe who has since declared his ambition to run for the same office as you?

Senator Abaribe is one of our respected elders in Abia and beyond. Senator Abaribe has been consistent and we all adore him in Ukwa la Ngwa and amongst Igbos in general. Dee, as we fondly call him, is eminently qualified to run and has got experience too. However, we the youths that have distinguished ourselves are only asking to be given a chance as our own generation is already beclouded by the present leaders. When will we showcase our leadership skills after undergoing mentor/mentee training?

Innoson Motors MD commends Obinna Oriaku on High Integrity Quotient

Fraudulent procurement practices have become the bane of governance in recent times. Neglect of due process, price padding and abuse of the procurement acts are preponderant in daily procurement of goods and services among states.

Owing to the forthcoming general elections in 2023 and the pace seemingly set by the yet to be inaugurated government of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, opinions are rife as to the minimal standard of governance expected, especially, by the south east leaders.

Latent and manifest qualities no doubt abounds but equally important is the credibility of leaders in procuring goods and services . Of course that is the drain pipe through which funds are siphoned .

Statistics has shown that so much funds are embezzled through a blatant,albeit deliberate, disregard to procurement rules .As a result, values of goods and services are falsified giving room for a mindless increase of the overhead and capital costs.

These common abuse of power and procedures came to the fore recently when the MD of Innoson Motors Chief Chukwuma commended the former Commissioner of Finance of Abia State Chief Obinna Oriaku for his forthrightness in procurement of vehicles from his company while he called the shots as the Finance Commissioner in Abia state.

According to Innoson Motors Chief, Abia state procured vehicles worth millions through Oriaku without him ( Oriaku) asking for any form of gratification or encouraged padding of invoice. Although he had alluded to this in the most informal way,at his Nnewi home, during an interaction with couple of friends that came to condole with him on the death of his mother Mama Martina Chukwuma who will be buried on 25th of Feb 2022 , however, some of those present ,including myself, picked up the message of integrity and honesty of public office holders evident in the dispositions of Oriaku,as an agenda worth setting for aspiring public office holders. The testimony of Chief Chukwuma about Obinna Oriaku was also instructive as it added credence to some stories I have heard and read about the same Oriaku and all he brought to bear as the Commissioner of Finance in Abia state from 2015 to 2019.

For instance, the civil service reforms where he canceled the highly fraudulent analogue payment system that encouraged fraud for a more synchronized automated payment structure. Other cost control mechanisms that he put in place like the closure of the 19 sub treasuries for manual payment of pensions,The biometric/centralization of the state salary payment system saved about N600m from the wage bill , the reduction of the monthly FAAC travel allowance to Abuja , beneficial to the Commissioner himself drastically from whooping N1.6m monthly to N500.000 Naira.

Stories has it that part of Obinna' s problem with the powers that be resulted from his insistence to procure 32 pieces of Pajero SUV at the cost of N16m from Vision cars ltd Lagos against the quoted price of N24million naira each, thereby saving about N258m naira for the government. He replicated the same cost cutting measures with the state legislators as they procured about 14 units of 2018 Hilux at the company(Vision cars Ltd ) price of N16million naira against the quoted price of N22million naira per unit in the open market .

Therefore, as the race towards 2023 gathers momentum, certain qualities are a must- have for- a-would- be contestant of the governorship seat in Abia state or any other state in the south east,one of such should be his track record especially in the adherence of due process. Another is his integrity quotient.

Because Abia has had it's unfair share of mal- administration occasioned by mediocre leadership and consumptive tendencies of some stakeholders, who sees governance as " come shop" instead of building legacies, it is therefore expedient that candidates for governorship seats should be duly interrogated and cleared in line with the values they advance especially in their PAST offices other than because of who their godfather's are.

In Anambra an obvious wind of change is blowing and it's really hot hence all other Igbo states are encouraged to queue behind in order to harvest the expected transformations that the Soludo team has inadvertently triggered .

We will rather get it right now or forever remain in servitude to those that have held us bondage.Thus honesty and integrity are key offerings that must be looked out for in any contestant for the seat of a Governor come 2023, and that can be ascertained through due diligence of the fellows antecedent .

There is this wise saying " Never brag about humility until you are blessed with wealth " Oriaku can brag about honesty as we have many stories to reinforce our belief in him.

With the likes of Obinna Oriaku in the saddle, Abia is sure of total redemption from the past as we can now predict what the future holds for us Abians.


Mr Division kalu is a public commentator based in Nnewi Anambra state.

Abia 2023: I am still in Governorship race— Bishop Emeka Nwankpa debunks rumour

The president of Ambassador Bishop Emeka Nwankpa foundation has debunked rumours of stepping down from governorship race in 2023.

In a statement issued by the coordinator of his foundation, Mr. Larry Chinesom Egbe, flagged the claims, stating that the rumor is an handiwork of mischief makers.

“The attention of Ambassador Bishop Emeka Nwankpa foundation has been drawn to a fallacious Rumour making the rounds that Bishop Emeka Nwankpa is nolonger in the race to provide the much needed leadership to Abia state come 2023.”

“This rumour is the figment of the imagination of those peddling it. It has no locus and is only aimed at deceiving the members of the public.”

“To set the record straight, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa is the most concerned Abian when it comes to the leadership failure in the state. He has decided at this time to provide the much needed leadership to the state.”

“The rumour that he is running as a foreman to another aspirant is baseless, unfounded and most unfortunate.”

“The public is hereby advised to disregard such rumours as it is the handiwork of mischief makers.”

2023: Abia Group Drums Support For Gov. Kayode Fayemi

A group under the aegis of Grassroot Development Movement has expressed its readiness in support of the Executive Governor of Ekiti State Dr.Kayode Fayemi should he decide to declare interest for the Nigerian President in 2023.

In a statement made Available to newsmen in Umuahia the State capital on thursday after the January stakeholders meeting of the Association, Hon. Maduabuchi Ogbonna reiterated the need for Nigerians to support a man who can unite the country.

In his words" what Nigeria needs in 2023 is a president who will truly be a Nigerian President. Gov. Fayemi fits into this circle, check his antecedents, He is the only man who can enthrone unity, togetherness and fairness in the polity.

President Buhari has done considerably well in infrastructure, but Nigeria today is divided along ethnic lines and this has hindered development in this country today.

Gov. Fayemi has the experience, the knowledge, the tact to return Nigeria to where a man from Benue can truly claim that he is a Nigerian, a man from Enugu or Abia here will say yes we are not marginalised unlike today.

“I am the president of Grassroot Development movement and you can see my state executives round about me,today is our first stakeholders meeting for 2022, we will support Gov Fayemi, he has the magic wand in governance.
His achievements both as Hon. Minister of Mines and steel Development and as a two term Governor speaks volume.”

“We call on the All progressives Congress to look the way of Governor Fayemi, he is young, vibrant, Knowledgeable and will be the President Nigerians will be proud of”.

Is Obinna Oriaku the solution to Abia Leadership problem?

In the past weeks, we have been profiling many Abians that have either shown interest or are being thrown up as likely candidates of different parties in the coming elections 2023.

We have also agreed that Abia needs urgent positive intervention as anything short of that will spell doom for Abians and Igbos in general as all eyes are focused towards Abia

Locally, we have identified ineffective leadership as the major problem confronting the State among other issues. It is no longer in doubt that Abia State has not been lucky with leadership as most successive Governors have come to leadership unprepared and lacking the basic qualities needed to tackle Abia problems. Below are the FOUR MAJOR qualities identified as prerequisites for anybody interested in rescuing Abia from the present situation
1. Political will
2. Integrity and zero tolerance to corruption
3. Passion and knowledgable of Abia peculiar issues.
4Technocrat with knowledge of local comparative advantages and interpersonal skill to connect with the people.

Mr Obinna Oriaku, former Regional Business Manager at First bank and immediate past Commissioner for finance to Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu (2015 -2019) who served Abia State government Pro- bono(without earning salary from Abia) comes to mind as someone with these inherent (mandatory) qualities needed to rescue Abia from its present state.

WHAT TYPE OF LEADER DOES ABIA STATE NEED NOW?

A Leader with Political will to take hard decisions.

Political will is the determination of a political actor to do and say things that will produce a desired outcome without pandering to political correctness or falling for threats of likely political consequences from cliques. This important element has been lacking among our present and past governors and this has contributed is stagnating Abia's development. Hon Oriaku demonstrated this attribute as the Commissioner for finance when he championed most of the reforms which included; Civil service reform, procurement reforms, and Local government reforms that helped in identifying Ghost workers and workers with dual emoluments. He championed the automation, centralization of salary payment system and biometric capturing of entire civil servants which helped to guard the database of civil servants with attendant reduction in salary fraud of about N600m. Obinna also brought the innovation that led to the closure of the Nineteen (19)sub treasuries which was used as manual payment point for pensioners, a cash cow for state sub treasurers in Abia prior to his appiontment in 2015 Etc.

Mr Obinna Oriaku demonstrated these qualities by speaking truth to power even while in government as he was often heard on radio stations in Abia, giving updates on the reforms and the benefits. He implemented reduction in cost of governance and practiced what he preached by reducing then monthly allowance of his office as Commissioner from N1.6m that was used by his predecessor to N500, 000.00 not minding that he never earned salary from the state while he served. His reign as Commissioner saw the uprooting of all those stories of foundational problems of Abia which is still unfortunately being used to justify the current state of underdevelopment of Abia.
He was a total reformist as fraud in governance/government businesses, salary management were reduced to the minimum, though many beneficiaries of this rot celebrated his exist from Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu administration in 2019.

PASSION AND GOOD KNOWLEDGE OF ABIA SITUATION

Passion for the job should be an important ingredient in choosing the next Governor of Abia state, come 2023. The Governors of Ebony, Oyo, Rivers and Delta states demonstrated passion for the office before they became governors. This has also reflected today in what these governors have achieved in their different states. Abia needs a passionate leader that can sacrifice time ,energy and pleasure for Abia development. Mr Oriaku showed this all important quality as the coordinating Commissioner of that era that saw to the few visible achievement of Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu in first term, which today serves as legacy of his administration viz; Enyimba Stadium, the 30 Abian artisans trip to China, major roads that are still standing till today, Planting of Terena palm trees,construction of Enyimba shoe factory were all done during the first term which is now termed the glorious era of Okezie administration.These were not affected with the recession of that era 2015/ 2015 and protracted litigation of Alex Oti, Uche Ogah and FN Nwosu that lasted almost throughout the four years.

The passion shown by the then team saw to the achievements even in the salary management of the State as Abia State was receiving average of N2.8b within the period due to recession of that period but was only owing salaries of 5 and 8 months for secondary school teachers and Abia Poly respectively .Today Abia receives average of N5.6b and teachers are being owed 15 months and 20 months for ABSUTH workers.

The local knowledge of Abia is very important as there are peculiarities which the four years of Mr Oriaku as finance commissioner has taught him. He is not detached from the behavioral pattern of civil servants and the politicians in Abia. Mr Oriaku will not learn on the rope but will hit the ground from day one because of his hands on experience on Abia issues

INTEGRITY AND ZERO TOLERANCE TO CORRUPTION

Mr Oriaku has shown that one can serve a government without being entangled and that we still people with integrity around. He served Abia as Commissioner for finance and till date nobody has accused him of bribe taking or corruption , abuse of office etc which is a common phenomenon among public office holders.

We, for the first time have seen a public officer who openly challenged anybody with any proven corruption issue against him while in and out of office to make it open or report him to regulatory agencies. Mr Oriaku demonstrated this by openly taking on the cabal of Abia state during the Paris club refund saga where he stated how he saved N11b (Eleven billion) from being siphoned through fraudulent means, rather he rejected their offers and decided to be on the side of Abia civil servants, the major beneficiary of the Paris club refund .
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He demonstrated that you can still work in a government without being entangled with the proverbial banana peels as no issue has been recorded against him even when he has openly fought against the ills of a government he served for four years even while in office .

Corruption and fraud which has held us down as a state will surely be reduced if he is given the opportunity. He demonstrated zero tolerance to corruption as Commissioner as many were surprised with his attitude towards fraud which is uncommon. Mr Oriaku is a firm believer that fish rots from the head, hence as a leader, you must strive to be above board. Abia state is in dear need of those that have been tested in managerial positions with requisite skills and not those that will learn on the job as Abia is in a hurry to catch up with our peers..

A TECHNOCRAT WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Abia today needs a technocrat that will be development driven. A technocrat that will balance his theories with local peculiarities of Abia. Hon Oriaku was quick to dust Abia among development partners like World Bank, AFDB and others. This resulted to the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) getting a whopping $54m USD, Rural Access Mobility Project (RAMP), $60(Already in)USD and African Development Bank (AFDB), $200m(being awaited )USD. He defended the $200m loan request before the Senate committee on foreign and local loans and also committee on appropriation

Before 2015, Abia was declared a pariah state as no partner wanted to have dealings with the state due to the inability of the state to fulfill her own terms and conditions for business partnership which was largely as a result of lack of focus, transparency and outright corruption.

Under Mr. Oriaku's watch, Abia image was turned positively as many of these partners were willing to join the campaign to save Abia from threatening infrastructural decay and economic comatose. That zeal is still burning in these partners till date .

Knowledge of Local operating environment is key as no two states are same. Mr Obinna was able to identify the areas that needed intervention while he served as commissioner. He understands the comperative advantages of Abia which when improved upon, would mutually reinforce other sectors into productivity like ( Critical Infrastructure, Trade and Investment, commerce and industry, SME). No wonder Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) that had over 6 years unassessed funds before 2015 were cleared during his tenure and today Abia is proudly up - to - date with other states.

CONNECTING WITH THE PEOPLE

Mr Oriaku is at home with his people. He was never carried away with the paraphernalia of office hence he was able to get the state government to execute many developmental projects in his local community within the first two years of that administration. This has endeared him more to his people of Isiala Ngwa south. The two major road of Umuojima and Owerrinta were attracted by him. Three schools were remodeled, electricity transformers were given to different communities. Apart from that, rural electrification, building of markets, and drilling of water boreholes were all provided by the state government through his proactive intervention while serving as the commissioner for finance. As a banker of meritorious standing, he is in sync with the principles of financial inclusion as a Sine qua non to wealth creation/ job creation and he has the network of relationships that could be leveraged to create peculiar financing options to local businesses in order to accentuate citizen Income growth and overall GDP of Abia State.

Now, with the verifiable profile above, many Abians are asking, is Mr. Obinna Oriaku, popularly called EKWE DIKE NDE NGWA the solution to Abia leadership challenge?

Maduabuchi Sunday
A public Affairs Analyst writes from Aba

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Re: Jackson Ude’s Malicious Tweeter Publication on Tunnel End Investment Company

Our attention has been drawn to a series of tweets you released on your official tweeter handle @ jacksonpbn on the 27th of December,2021- where you amongst other several false and malicious allegations published our business account numbers with the First Bank of Nigeria and United Bank of Africa. You alleged with these tweets that our company is complicit in the looting of the Abia treasury.

Specifically, you concluded with your injurious and false tweets by alleging and inferring that Three(3) Billion Naira has been paid to either or both of the accounts from the 18 billion Naira released to Abia recently- from intervention from the Federal government

Whist we concede to your rights as a journalist include the impeded publication of your journalistic and investigation endeavours, however, we believe that it is a trite and cardinal principle in journalism to always seek the truth in your stories by availing parties in your story the opportunity to respond to information at your disposal for a balanced and professional portrayal of your publications. Unfortunately, these referenced tweets fall short of the rigours of this time tested professional standard and have caused injurious harm and reputational damage to us.

Our Company-Tunnel End and Investment Limited is a top tier construction and engineering company with a major bias on road construction and turnkey projects across Nigeria. We have embarked on major and landmark engineering and construction projects that predate the present Abia government and has equally been involved in major construction contracts with the Federal Government that predate the present Abia Government.

We are a corporate responsible company with a strong emphasis on ethical governance of our operations as can be gleaned from our tax records and other records with the Nigerian law enforcement agencies. We do not have a single record in ……years of our operation. We have been involved in the construction of roads in Abia as in other states based on these strong track records on timeous, ethical and qualitative delivery of our contractual mandates.

Our contractual relationship with Abia State has been based on our professional reputation and our engineering feats on record. Whilst we have delivered on these contractual specifications and handed over to the government on most of these jobs, the government of Abia, on record, is indebted to us in Billions of Naira from some of these delivered jobs to date.

Therefore, we are piqued to have come across your libelous publication where you recklessly published our account numbers while alleging that 3 billion was paid into the account when our company has not received any 3billion Naira in either or both of the published accounts from interventions released to Abia or any other fund released as alleged.

This false and malicious story being retweeted on your handle by your thousands of followers being false and unfounded was calculated to lower the esteem of the company in the public’s perception of us and damage our professional reputation. And has indeed put our numerous workers on-site in Abia in harm’s way by endangering their lives from Abians who believed your story.

We believe your mendacious publication was actuated by malice and deliberately orchestrated to portray us as a fraudulent company and complicit in the so-called looting of Abia treasury.

In the light of the foregoing, we demand an unqualified apology together with a retraction of the libelous publication in your tweeter handle within 48 hours while we review other viable legal options available to us to redress these damages.

Yours faithfully,

Dinne Okpara

For:Tunnel End Investment Company

2023: I am better placed to reposition Abia, succeed Ikpeazu— Amb. Emeka Nwankpa declares

A philanthropist and the founder of Emeka Nwankpa foundation. Amb Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa has declared that this is the time experience Abians show interest in repositioning of the state which has been unlucky since the advent of 4th republic in 1999.

In his address during the 16th edition of “Widows Must Smile” held on 28th December 2021, the cleric declared that he is better placed and have the experience at this point to lay a foundation for the Abia of our dreams.

“I am contesting for the post of governor come 2023. Experienced Abians like us cannot continue to allow neophytes to make mockery of our state.”

“This is the time to lay a solid foundation and I am presenting myself for the Abia top Job.”

The philanthropist declared that with him as the governor, Abia Internally generated revenue will increase drastically as he will approach governance with experts.

He informed his supporters and party members that he has what it takes to improve the human capital Development of the state if given the chance.

He further said that he is working very hard with the party both at state and National as he will in weeks ahead officially notify the party his intention immediately INEC flags off campaigns.

Highlights of the event is the empowerment of widows, artisans, youths across Abia.